Friday, November 21, 2014

A Slice of Quartzsite

Government Wash on Lake Mead reminded me of a miniature version of Quartzsite, without the town. Lots of gravel, open views, and folks parked where they find a level spot. I stopped by for a couple days on my way home from the Arizona Strip trip and easily found a spot that didn't require me to unhitch to get level. The next morning I caught this shot as the sun started to rise.

While I didn't have a view, there were spots that did. There were some really primo spots but I think I would have wanted 4 wheel drive just to make sure I could get back out once I'd gotten in. That may be why those spots were open...

There was one recognizable camp. The folks from Aluminarium had their Campendium flag flying. They'd scored a really neat hilltop spot with good views and room for several friends, one of whom was nicely positioned to provide a wind break for the serious winds that came up over night.

I counted 27 different RVs scattered around the area. (That's me on the far left.) Not at all crowded but not a solitary experience either. There is no fee for camping, but would be a fee for the National Recreation Area if the entrance you come through is staffed and you don't have some form of National Lands pass.

There are a few more spots like this, with fewer people, scattered around Lake Mead and Lake Mohave.

7 comments:

  1. That's the kid of camping I would love to try. I especially loved that last photo.

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  2. Government Wash was my first boondock. I was scared outta my wits that first night. It looks a whole lot more communal than it did on my first night!

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    1. There are a couple things I like to do in a situation like Government Wash. Further from the entrance is usually better and away from the road to the destination - in this case, the main road to the boat launch. The party crowd, if any, tend to stay to what's easiest. I didn't see any parties this time.

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  3. Thanks for the info...will add this to our boondocking destinations!

    Doing a lot of thinking about Arizona! Can't wait to get back into the warmth!

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    1. Oops! Just realized this is in NV! Maybe we will still try it out!

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    2. Yes, it is in Nevada, but just barely. The other side of the lake is Arizona. :-) We were out for a hike today along the Salt River - I've got to get out more - lots of hikes that don't have the crowds of the Superstitions but that are just as close to us. Time for some exploration.

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