Long time subscriber..1st time commenting...Have thoroughly enjoyed watching your personal growth throughout the years. I truly enjoy your insights on all things van life and life in general. you are a kind, well spoken individual that has finally hit his stride after questioning a lot of life's travails. Bless you Brian and continued safe travels.
Never been to Quartzsite. Maybe one day I will get there. However, towards the end of the video you mentioned about not making negative videos and I have to say one of the reasons I subscribed to your channel years ago is the lack of drama. You share your life in your videos and it is the "Real" life. No drama, no manufactured drama for views just sharing and telling it like it really is. Thank you.
I full-timed with my husband for 12 years. Enjoyed it tremendously. He died in 2015, I bought a teardrop trailer and have traveled with my dog since then though only a couple of years doing it full-time. As much as I love traveling I find it's more about the people I meet and have stayed in close contact with over those last 8 years. Bring an old lady of 80 years I'm always having many offers of help, invited for meals, wonderful conversation. I'll be heading to Q in a couple of weeks, meeting up with two old friends. It's a long drive for me but I'm anxious to head out. Thanks for letting people know more of the positive aspects of Q and living the life. It definitely is a wonderful life!!!!!
I can totally relate to how you were feeling when you first hit the road. Since we moved back to TX at the end of 2017 I have been feeling lost, stuck, isolated and long to break free. I am still working on our 1985 van, it's coming along, but slowly because I do most of the work alone. I wanted to be here for my mom, as my grandmother was getting to the end of her life, leaving my mom alone in her home. My grandmother passed two weeks ago, so my work here is just beginning. I long to get out on the road, but it seems that will have to wait for a while so I can be here to support my mom in her last few years. I will continue to work on the van, anyway. I will find local places to take it to and camp once in a while in the mean time.
You’re a fine son to take care of your mom like that, especially considering the recent loss of your grandmother. Sounds like you have your priorities straight so know that your life will open up again and you’ll be very happy that you supported your family in their time of need
Family first! Sorry to hear of your grandmothers passing. That will be what takes me off the road. Best wishes to you April. Hope to meet up once again one day.✌🏼
Thank you Brian for your civility and honesty. Kudos to you and Kelly for being there for Hobbs!! Now in our mid 70’s, we fondly look back to when we were 20 and traveling the southwest with two sleeping bags on our motorcycle. We had a blast! We are still together and still cruising most of the year, but now more comfortably in a pusher tugging a Jeep. We relive our youth watching how and where you camp. Can’t fit into all (or even most) of your camp sites, but we adapt where possible. We still love to boondock (we enjoyed a stay out on BLM land outside of Quartzsite the past two December’s). What you do is valued and appreciated. Thanks. Safe travels.
I feel freer boondocking in Quartzite desert than most places. No real close neighbors to "spy" on you while working on projects. You can start walking in any direction and keep wandering anywhere.. for hours if you want while listening to podcasts or just the wind.
It is about community, connection, and being around like minded people. That's the vibe I want to be a part of. I will be headint to Quartzsite soon for the first time. I'm excited and scared but I'm looking forward to it. I've been a subscriber for years. I've learned a lot from you. Slow down, be intentional. Remain present and teachable. Thank you for sharing your life experiences so candidly. Peace & love to you, Kelly, and Hobbs. Hope to see you down the road someday.
I’m a retired trucker. I started following Cheap RV Living before I retired so I already knew what I wanted to do next. I’ve been living in a Ford Transit van for almost four years now.
Ya know, sometimes the people who understand that doing nothing, being responsible to no one, and being able to exhale all your worries are the lucky ones. That sandy gravel pit has everything you need. Indepence and freedom.
Hey bud. You hit the nail on the head For us it's taking our little teardrop and finding a nice quiet place to camp and enjoy the sunsets. The people we've come across are super friendly. We had a woman come up to us in a quad and informed us where we were going to Camp was a day use only we never saw the sign until she Intel she pointed it out It's the little things that people do that are missing in today's world. Stay safe my friend
Hey Brian ..been watching yr awesome videos fr yrs....tday u brought tears to my eyes...I'm good judgement of characters n I have observed many male attitudes...You r truly a warm hearted humble sincere genuine person.. hopin to travel n my van someday...that's the plan! From One Introvert to Another!... Happy Safe Travels 😊
A lot of wisdom! I love your videos. I could look at your video tonight and see you standing in your truck and call it quits. But your wisdom states that it’s not just what you see on RUclips, you could be smelling cinnamon rolls or coffee and enjoying a perfect temperature, and just finished a wonderful lunch with some friends. You cannot just go on what you see on a video there’s so much more inside your soul. Hope that made some sense. Love you God bless love from Colorado.
This is why we live in America. So we can all be semi-free and choose our own destiny. You did a good job explaining the positives and negatives of Quartzite. It would be a lonely world if we all thought the same and wanted the same things.
A lot of people want a guarantee that it will be a good experience for them. Just take a chance and find out if it works for you. Thats what makes it an adventure.
Brian, you're such a good man. I don't know how long I've been following your adventures, but you were doing van life videos from San Diego and I think you were doing landscaping or something similar back then. It's been a few years anyway. I am grateful for your honesty and humility. I'm an introvert and have a lot of social anxiety too, so, while our paths many never cross, I'll always be glad to see you on RUclips. Happy trails.
There are people of all "financial means" that camp. There are the rich and there are those that live on wheels because they cannot afford to purchase a home or to rent a home, and then there are the very poor. It's imperative to help each other no matter what part of the financial spectrum you are.
I volunteer building and maintaining hiking trails. We have all types come out and help. Tents, car and back of truck sleeping, full RVs. Everybody has their own style!
Some German world traveler in a camper told me the western US is the only place in the world you can boondock for free almost anywhere. Public lands. Thankyou US government!
Your perspective is always appreciated. I have followed your channel for years now and consider your channel a staple of living a nomatic life. Your honest and caring personality helps so many people to broaden their understanding of how other people enjoy life. As I said in your other video, I love the charm of Quartzite. Not everyone goes because they have to have fun. I love to relax and sit in a chair and watch the sun come up from the mountains and go down. And I love what you said about the community and how quickly people lend a hand and support one another is genuine and unconditional. It makes it comfortable to know your surrounded by people who you know care. No place is perfect but I found Quartzite perfect for me. Brian, you are beloved and I hope I get to say thank you to you during my stays anywhere!
RV'd for a couple years and the "old timers" walking up and giving you a hand is pretty consistent no matter where you go. I say "old timers" but I was one of those people, and I'm in my 30's.
Today was the most beautiful day here in the Q. You are correct about the vibe here. I always laugh when people say there’s nothing to here. Oh well it’s there loss. You guys have a great Christmas!
Seems like you got some blowback from that last video. First of all, you're entitled to your opinion about anything. Secondly, that video was objective. You stated why some people might not enjoy it there and why some people would enjoy it. It's up to each person to know themselves and decide what their values are and make a decision. You did a great job of explaining everything about Quartzsite from multiple points of view. No one could have done a better job.
I haven't been there in years I enjoyed it but ...I don't know if I'll ever be back during the gatherings to me it's just not the same anymore..but I do get why people go there ..nice video brian
Hey Brian Ron here again, I love traveling around in my van or now my motorhome and always loved going to Quartzsite. I took my wife there one time and didn’t get to stay long because it wasn’t anything she liked in fact, she hated it. So all 5 times I went to Quartzsite I went alone and always enjoyed it. If I was single I wouldn’t own property I’d be traveling around in my motorhome seeing and enjoying the country. In my opinion sir you are a very lucky man. Safe Travels and Happy Holidays.
Ok, here’s (my) TRUTH 🥴 on Quartzite- I hate the landscape, my soul craves trees and bodies of water. But I HAVE TO ADMIT, the sunsets there can’t be beat! Also, I tell people all the time that it is simply THE BEST place for nubies! I mean between the RTR, the Big Tent event, and meeting so many other nomads who just love to help and mentor, the place is BEYOND COMPARE! And so I go there most years, because I agree wholeheartedly with Brian, you don’t go for the the town, you go there for the people - those you have connected with in the past and the all the new ones who will become future friends!!
Great video! Again, I've done the Quartzsite thing several times and fully agree with your assessment of the community there. I have found over the years that I preferred the Imperial Dam area. Same overall vibe but I liked being near Yuma, (I like bigger towns). Thanks again.
I was confused at first but I think I understand now. I spent a couple days there but not much going on at that time. I am still looking forward to my first WRTR and RTR. Getting the chance to meet some of the RUclipsrs I have watched for years. Merry Christmas ❌⭕❌⭕, Iris & Little One 👋🐾🙏
I also listed some of the negatives in the last video from my stay this past winter. Definitely some positives though. It’s one of the least expensive ways to stay in one place legally for up to seven months. Some people have been coming back year after year and try to get there early to grab their favorite spot. One old timer said he’s gotten there early enough to get his favorite spot every year for the past 20+ years in the LTVA North area. He did trail creation and maintenance in the washes and made some impressive site development over the years with local rocks and vegetation. One of the first things I noticed when I parked my Class C far away from the crowds was that it was very quiet and peaceful. Felt a deep sense of peace and calm for the first time in months. Stayed at LTVA North for five weeks, moving to an RV park for another four weeks while I was going back-and-forth to have work done on my coach in Brenda. Once you’re past January the RV parks get very affordable. Even though I had to pay for electricity, my bill was only $30 for the whole month as I didn’t have to run the heat or AC. Overall a nice stay but probably wouldn’t stay as long if I ever go back. Wouldn’t even bother with the RV or tent shows
Brian, I love that you do life different than what I do. I am a farmer and very tied to place and land but also have a camper van and my husband and I aspire to a nomadic time with retirement. Have a fun winter!
Very nice video. I actually did stay there last week for about 5 days. have been there before and I enjoyed kicking around the town. At one point I will make stay longer and immerse myself in the community aspect of it. Perhaps I will wait until you do a meet up again because I like your style and I figure the people that also watch you are like-minded like me and I can make some friends. Take good care of yourself this year and thanks for the videos.
Right on. People that don't see it I just feel bad for them. You have no idea how many people I have asked if they have smelled Lake Superior? Sadly most are just befuddled. Maybe my best dive was in the winter on a shipwreck you can do from shore. For those that don't know it is very rare for the big lake to freeze over. Anyway we came up from the dive and it was like a blizzard. I just put a little extra air in my dry suit and bc and just floated for five minutes.
Great videos about QS. Followed you at the recommendation of @StaticCamperVan. Glad I found you. He said you may have some info on camping in Florida. Going to search for those now. :) PS. Merry Christmas.
We full-timed RV for 7 years and have yet to visit Quartzsite. Really not our lifestyle but get it that some folks really enjoy the social aspects, ability to save a few bucks, and snowbird. We all have different styles of RVing and none is better than the other. Just need to have an open mind and do what you enjoy. Thanks for what you are sharing and positive attitude.
I don't think you were being negative. You were showing the pros and cons of Quartzsite. There is nothing wrong with that. Merry Christmas and please be safe. Keep enjoying your life.
I've recently come to Quartzsite after having to start my vanlife journey city camping, and even though I never thought of myself as a desert person, I am loving it here!!! All the camping options, the sunshine, easy access to laundry, etc. It's heaven. Looking forward to meeting folks at the RTR! I can see how it wouldn't be some folks' cup of tea, but for me, it's a little paradise right now. ❤
Cindy and I stopped in Quartzsite last March for Gas. The gas station was super busy and we were glad to find a less busy place to relax. I enjoyed both of your videos. Thanks for all the info. Hobs is a great addition to your life on the road.
Totally get it, Brian. I saw your previous video as a "rocks and shoals" kinda public service announcement. Good on you for facing the nabobs of negativity in your usual caring way.
Always so informative Brian. I always appreciate your content. Thanks for sharing long time subscriber here from Australia 🦘🌏 and I'm so excited to see your almost at 1M subscribers. Keep well and safe 🙏🏾
Hey Brian! Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and yours. Love that you added Hobbs to your "crew" 🐶 I haven't commented in a while but wanted you to know and to let your subscribers know that RUclips has been unsubscribing me from channels I've been subscribed to for years like yours that I've been subbed to for at least 8 years! Also, in doing so, they removed my likes and ns about comments. I'm angry about this because I don't want your channels to suffer. I know you all work very hard to provide valuable content. Myself and my husband will be launching our own channel shortly, so I know the tip of the iceberg on how stuff works. Hopefully, this gets sorted out quickly! Anyhow, be blessed, full of joy and peace, and safe travels to you and all you adventurers out there! Joining you all soon, God willing! ❤
I've been saying I'm gonna make it for the RTR next year, for like 5 years now. Ha! I bought my campervan project 4 years ago, but then I bought a rotten old mobile home on property that needed a complete rebuild as well, so the van only got about 70% done in these years so I haven't been able to go as the house has taken priority. Getting the house closer to done so... This summer I WILL get this van running so I can get out of my grey SAD inducing Washington winter weather NEXT year for sure! I feel like folks that go there are 'my people'. Something I've been missing most of my adult life.
😂 lol, that comment that you read from your phone is hilarious. And some people may feel that way. I don’t feel that way, but, for me I just don’t enjoy being around that large number of people especially if there are numerous dogs. Okay I said it, dog loves go ahead an crucify me.
Brian I thought you made some good points on both videos. Wish I could come out and visit with you sometime. I’m retired now and have been thinking about coming out to quartsite.
Thank you Brian for your channel Ive followed you since 2017. Ive longed to connect to this life style but its been a work in progress. Thank you for giving people like me more encouragement to make that connection and start living this life.
If you’re in Quartzsite for the winter and need something to do join the gem and mineral club. You can meet people, learn new skills, and come away with nice items for yourself or others.
Hey Brian, I've camped with you and other group meetups a couple times over the years and had a lot of fun. You have always been a gentleman and a prince to people at your meetups. Perhaps again next year if the stars line up. Be well...
be grateful you can have such a life. i am retired. most months i run out of money before the end of the month. (have not been out of this house in over 2 weeks, waiting on my ss check in another week). i am smothered under bills just trying to keep this house. can not sell at this time. my mom is in a care home...finely. and as long as she is alive i can go nowhere. i know sounds bad. but i do care for my mom. she suffers from dementia. i would love to go someplace. i would like to see other parts of the USA. but for now it is just to where she is at 70 miles away (states choice), or to a train club i am in. i have done nothing, been nowhere in over 6 years. everything here is breaking down. and no moneys to fix them.
The will for modern man to help, respect and be at peace with his opposite is a rare thing these days Brian, we all need to get along and be a help, not a hindrance to our kind!
I wouldn't try to sell people on any particular place. Everyone is different. Whether a person likes or dislikes Quartzsite doesn't bother me either way. It's there if you want to see it and if you don't want to see it then don't go. If everyone liked the same place the place would be too crowded to enjoy.
Another good video and perspective, Brian, I will never understand why other people need to tear others down to make themselves feel better, to each their own, I wish more humans would just let people be, as always keep the rubber side down bud 😎✌️
It seems very similar to my Florida RV park where I am in my Class B. Many friends and activities, but I do own my lot and love the ocean, tropical foliage and climate.🪴🌊🌴🌺🌊
@@AdventureVanMan You've visited so many towns and heard local feedback this could be a popular series. People like yourself can benefit hearing the pros and cons of places before deciding to visit so you just might have an idea and boost views in the process.
A good place to stay in town in a low dollar RV park is desert edge. 160.00 a month plus electric. Free water and sewer. It's really close to Tyson Wells. Can walk to it. For 1900.00 a year you can leave your RV if you make a long drive. It's a community of people like those that dry camp. I dtay the winter in Quartzsite and show low in the summer 🌞⛱️.
I agree completely! I meet amazing people there every year and enjoy reuniting with now old friends from previous years. The community is what keeps me coming back. Even the brand new arrivals I’ve met get it! But I also don’t care for the huge crowds, so I’m wandering a bit until February. As you say, there are plenty of other places nearby to explore with similarly good weather.
I think the draw to Quartzsite, particularly in January showtime, is the meetup aspect, both with old friends and new people. The snowbird aspect of it is different. If you compare Quartzsite to the area around I-8 west of Yuma, where the activity is mainly on the California side, the people that go there go for a completely different reason, recreation. They have the dunes and a lot of activity on the river and the lakes in the area. That area also has the Top of the World historical museum, the Cloud museum, etc. Quartzsite at times other than January doesn't have a lot of recreational, cultural, or scenic draw. Both areas have long term camping area which appear to be priced by the BLM. The one at Pilot Knob is very close to Top of the World where you could pay $40 for two weeks and see all of the things there are to see there. And the one at the Imperial reservoir is very close to the recreational activity. So different strokes for different folks and snowbirds. The recreational activities are more noisy and crowded. Quartzsite has more tranquility and sociability. Both have extensive camping areas.
True. Some folks just will not step foot in California though. I grew up riding and camping in the dunes with my family. Some of the best times of my life.🤙🏼
Hey Brian, I just wanted to wish you and Kelly and Hobbs and your families a wonderful Christmas and I hope 2024 will be a great year for you all and for all of us too. 🎄🌞☮
I want to say thank you for sharing your life on RUclips. I see campsites that I will never be able to see otherwise. Plus I want o thank you for a brilliant monolog on a recent video. I could hear your heartfelt sincerity. It was well written and well spoken!
That's why Trolls exist. They crave drama and negativity. You won't find them out doing things. You'll find them home alone in their mother's basement doing drugs and yelling at people on You Boob. Love your videos and your life style Brian. Keep it up.
Thank you Brian. I totally understood where you were coming from in that first video and thank you for making this follow up video. If some people could only consider putting their brain into gear, before firing off the way they do at times. It just astounds me. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, whatever you do and wherever you may be Brian. Take care there 🎄 🐶 🚶♀️🚛 🚶♂️🚚 🙋♀️ 🚐 🌏 🧭 🗺 🌐
Hi Brian, hope you and Kelly are keeping well. As an anxious introvert I couldn't tolerate the sheer number of people. I think the best thing about the campers/vanners is the wiilingness to help others who may not have 'fixing' skills. I've seen videos of groups set up to help with electrical issues, solar panels, woodworking, etc., and particularly for those who may be less well off. The community looks amazing and long may it continue. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work.
I'd love to have the opportunity to go to Quartzite, just to experience it once and meet others like you. Have a wonderful Christmas with Kelly and Hobbs ❤😊 and happy 2024🎉
Concerning that nasty comment about Quartzsite: "MISERY LOVES COMPANY!" What a jerk. P.S. I'm sure that Hobbs voted "NO" to Quartzsite! He's such a precious boy...likes his OWN people and his privacy...can't blame him for that!
I've never been to Quartzite, but I have boondocked in Parker, attended a Jaime Van Build. But I think I'm going to pull my small TT out there next month. Sorry you won't be there Brian, it would have been nice to meet you. Anyway I hope you and your small tribe have a great Christmas and a Happy and safe 2024.
We've been living an "RV Lifestyle" since 1993. It started out as a short term experiment to escape the Montana Winters...but we loved it. My work allowed us to work as Contractors in 50+ National Parks and Monuments over the course of 15 years all over the Western US. We eventually sold our house and bought property in AZ which we can park our big rig on. Now retired, we also have a Class B camper for shorter term adventures. We've never considered ourselves "homeless".
I'm only starting my 4th winter in Quartzite. I agree with you about the Quality people that winter here too. We all need to give the Yuma BLM Field Office much credit for their efforts to make all the land available for the public use. "Only in America". People seeing all our banter about the southwest can't understand what they've never experienced themselves. All I can say to you, Brian is: 👍 Rock on 🙂
Dude! LOVE the shirt!!! I gotta get me one like that! Really liked these last couple videos -- exactly the kind of things I would want to know before I get there, so I can be prepared for what might be a minor issue, as long as it's not coming at me unexpected, like a rude surprise. Didn't think you were being negative at all -- just clear and specific. Appreciate such candid and straight-forward info. From a fellow introvert who also loves social connection. Also not on Facebook / social media. Cheers!...from North Vancouver
Thank You once again for your real content! And your real comments on what to expect at Quartzsite. Thay didn't come off negative to us (my wife and I). Just realistic! Thanks for ALL you do! Merry Christmas to you and Kelly! Be Safe
Interesting T-shirt! I like it even though I'm not a big skull fan. ✌️ I went to the RTR once in 2018. It was very large at that point, and I ended up leaving early and returning to Ehrenberg for the remaining time. It was my 1st year. I do wish that I had been to one when they were still small. Now that they have it in a Fairgrounds, I won't be attending again. I may return to the area during that time period but only to meet up with any friends and groups that are around. I agree that the vibe of being surrounded by so many like-minded people is an amazing experience that every traveler should think about checking out. It's so true how mundane chores are actually fun when I'm there! 😅 And that isn't my normal 😂
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Long time subscriber..1st time commenting...Have thoroughly enjoyed watching your personal growth throughout the years. I truly enjoy your insights on all things van life and life in general. you are a kind, well spoken individual that has finally hit his stride after questioning a lot of life's travails. Bless you Brian and continued safe travels.
I agree . He’s a great ambassador to the movement
Never been to Quartzsite. Maybe one day I will get there.
However, towards the end of the video you mentioned about not making negative videos and I have to say one of the reasons I subscribed to your channel years ago is the lack of drama. You share your life in your videos and it is the "Real" life. No drama, no manufactured drama for views just sharing and telling it like it really is. Thank you.
Same here, I love the drama free zone Brian has upheld for years.
Same here. Thanks for being real!
I full-timed with my husband for 12 years. Enjoyed it tremendously. He died in 2015, I bought a teardrop trailer and have traveled with my dog since then though only a couple of years doing it full-time. As much as I love traveling I find it's more about the people I meet and have stayed in close contact with over those last 8 years. Bring an old lady of 80 years I'm always having many offers of help, invited for meals, wonderful conversation. I'll be heading to Q in a couple of weeks, meeting up with two old friends. It's a long drive for me but I'm anxious to head out. Thanks for letting people know more of the positive aspects of Q and living the life. It definitely is a wonderful life!!!!!
I can totally relate to how you were feeling when you first hit the road. Since we moved back to TX at the end of 2017 I have been feeling lost, stuck, isolated and long to break free. I am still working on our 1985 van, it's coming along, but slowly because I do most of the work alone. I wanted to be here for my mom, as my grandmother was getting to the end of her life, leaving my mom alone in her home. My grandmother passed two weeks ago, so my work here is just beginning. I long to get out on the road, but it seems that will have to wait for a while so I can be here to support my mom in her last few years. I will continue to work on the van, anyway. I will find local places to take it to and camp once in a while in the mean time.
You’re a fine son to take care of your mom like that, especially considering the recent loss of your grandmother. Sounds like you have your priorities straight so know that your life will open up again and you’ll be very happy that you supported your family in their time of need
take care
Family first! Sorry to hear of your grandmothers passing. That will be what takes me off the road. Best wishes to you April. Hope to meet up once again one day.✌🏼
Isn’t it also about connecting with nature ?
Thank you Brian for your civility and honesty. Kudos to you and Kelly for being there for Hobbs!! Now in our mid 70’s, we fondly look back to when we were 20 and traveling the southwest with two sleeping bags on our motorcycle. We had a blast! We are still together and still cruising most of the year, but now more comfortably in a pusher tugging a Jeep. We relive our youth watching how and where you camp. Can’t fit into all (or even most) of your camp sites, but we adapt where possible. We still love to boondock (we enjoyed a stay out on BLM land outside of Quartzsite the past two December’s). What you do is valued and appreciated. Thanks. Safe travels.
I feel freer boondocking in Quartzite desert than most places. No real close neighbors to "spy" on you while working on projects. You can start walking in any direction and keep wandering anywhere..
for hours if you want while listening to podcasts or just the wind.
The freedom is unparalleled. 🤙🏼
It is about community, connection, and being around like minded people. That's the vibe I want to be a part of. I will be headint to Quartzsite soon for the first time. I'm excited and scared but I'm looking forward to it. I've been a subscriber for years. I've learned a lot from you. Slow down, be intentional. Remain present and teachable. Thank you for sharing your life experiences so candidly. Peace & love to you, Kelly, and Hobbs. Hope to see you down the road someday.
I’m a retired trucker. I started following Cheap RV Living before I retired so I already knew what I wanted to do next. I’ve been living in a Ford Transit van for almost four years now.
Ya know, sometimes the people who understand that doing nothing, being responsible to no one, and being able to exhale all your worries are the lucky ones. That sandy gravel pit has everything you need. Indepence and freedom.
Well said!👍🏼
Hey bud. You hit the nail on the head For us it's taking our little teardrop and finding a nice quiet place to camp and enjoy the sunsets.
The people we've come across are super friendly.
We had a woman come up to us in a quad and informed us where we were going to Camp was a day use only we never saw the sign until she Intel she pointed it out
It's the little things that people do that are missing in today's world.
Stay safe my friend
Hey Brian ..been watching yr awesome videos fr yrs....tday u brought tears to my eyes...I'm good judgement of characters n I have observed many male attitudes...You r truly a warm hearted humble sincere genuine person..
hopin to travel n my van someday...that's the plan!
From One Introvert to Another!...
Happy Safe Travels 😊
A lot of wisdom! I love your videos. I could look at your video tonight and see you standing in your truck and call it quits. But your wisdom states that it’s not just what you see on RUclips, you could be smelling cinnamon rolls or coffee and enjoying a perfect temperature, and just finished a wonderful lunch with some friends.
You cannot just go on what you see on a video there’s so much more inside your soul. Hope that made some sense. Love you God bless love from Colorado.
This is why we live in America. So we can all be semi-free and choose our own destiny. You did a good job explaining the positives and negatives of Quartzite. It would be a lonely world if we all thought the same and wanted the same things.
We felt the same about Quartzite! Loved camping there did many rally’s and also did RTR and camped at the Long term area. Wonderful experience !
A lot of people want a guarantee that it will be a good experience for them. Just take a chance and find out if it works for you. Thats what makes it an adventure.
Brian, you're such a good man. I don't know how long I've been following your adventures, but you were doing van life videos from San Diego and I think you were doing landscaping or something similar back then. It's been a few years anyway. I am grateful for your honesty and humility. I'm an introvert and have a lot of social anxiety too, so, while our paths many never cross, I'll always be glad to see you on RUclips. Happy trails.
There are people of all "financial means" that camp. There are the rich and there are those that live on wheels because they cannot afford to purchase a home or to rent a home, and then there are the very poor. It's imperative to help each other no matter what part of the financial spectrum you are.
I volunteer building and maintaining hiking trails. We have all types come out and help. Tents, car and back of truck sleeping, full RVs. Everybody has their own style!
It doesn't cost anybody anything to be KIND, nice and respectful of others.....
Quartzsite is the Walmart of Boondocking.
Some German world traveler in a camper told me the western US is the only place in the world you can boondock for free almost anywhere. Public lands. Thankyou US government!
Your perspective is always appreciated. I have followed your channel for years now and consider your channel a staple of living a nomatic life. Your honest and caring personality helps so many people to broaden their understanding of how other people enjoy life. As I said in your other video, I love the charm of Quartzite. Not everyone goes because they have to have fun. I love to relax and sit in a chair and watch the sun come up from the mountains and go down. And I love what you said about the community and how quickly people lend a hand and support one another is genuine and unconditional. It makes it comfortable to know your surrounded by people who you know care. No place is perfect but I found Quartzite perfect for me. Brian, you are beloved and I hope I get to say thank you to you during my stays anywhere!
Thank you for sharing and the kind words. Best wishes to you durning the holidays. ✌🏼
Thank you for this conversation. I've always been intrigued by the nomadic lifestyle. Sadly, I will probably never experience such freedom.
Sounds like a very unique and special place!
I just happened to meet you and Kelly in the big tent I'm from Maine
RV'd for a couple years and the "old timers" walking up and giving you a hand is pretty consistent no matter where you go. I say "old timers" but I was one of those people, and I'm in my 30's.
Great video Brian. thank you
Today was the most beautiful day here in the Q. You are correct about the vibe here. I always laugh when people say there’s nothing to here. Oh well it’s there loss. You guys have a great Christmas!
It is like Burning Man, some love it and some don’t. I inherently don’t care for crowds. Ppl may be nice and friendly, I still get stressed out :(
Same. I like people fine. I just like staying in places there aren't any. Enjoy my silence.
Seems like you got some blowback from that last video. First of all, you're entitled to your opinion about anything. Secondly, that video was objective. You stated why some people might not enjoy it there and why some people would enjoy it. It's up to each person to know themselves and decide what their values are and make a decision. You did a great job of explaining everything about Quartzsite from multiple points of view. No one could have done a better job.
I haven't been there in years I enjoyed it but ...I don't know if I'll ever be back during the gatherings to me it's just not the same anymore..but I do get why people go there ..nice video brian
Hey Brian
Ron here again, I love traveling around in my van or now my motorhome and always loved going to Quartzsite. I took my wife there one time and didn’t get to stay long because it wasn’t anything she liked in fact, she hated it. So all 5 times I went to Quartzsite I went alone and always enjoyed it. If I was single I wouldn’t own property I’d be traveling around in my motorhome seeing and enjoying the country. In my opinion sir you are a very lucky man. Safe Travels and Happy Holidays.
Ok, here’s (my) TRUTH 🥴 on Quartzite- I hate the landscape, my soul craves trees and bodies of water. But I HAVE TO ADMIT, the sunsets there can’t be beat! Also, I tell people all the time that it is simply THE BEST place for nubies! I mean between the RTR, the Big Tent event, and meeting so many other nomads who just love to help and mentor, the place is BEYOND COMPARE! And so I go there most years, because I agree wholeheartedly with Brian, you don’t go for the the town, you go there for the people - those you have connected with in the past and the all the new ones who will become future friends!!
You got it right. For the most part, It is a convergence of like minded good people.
Great video! Again, I've done the Quartzsite thing several times and fully agree with your assessment of the community there. I have found over the years that I preferred the Imperial Dam area. Same overall vibe but I liked being near Yuma, (I like bigger towns). Thanks again.
I was confused at first but I think I understand now. I spent a couple days there but not much going on at that time. I am still looking forward to my first WRTR and RTR. Getting the chance to meet some of the RUclipsrs I have watched for years. Merry Christmas ❌⭕❌⭕, Iris & Little One 👋🐾🙏
I also listed some of the negatives in the last video from my stay this past winter. Definitely some positives though. It’s one of the least expensive ways to stay in one place legally for up to seven months. Some people have been coming back year after year and try to get there early to grab their favorite spot. One old timer said he’s gotten there early enough to get his favorite spot every year for the past 20+ years in the LTVA North area. He did trail creation and maintenance in the washes and made some impressive site development over the years with local rocks and vegetation.
One of the first things I noticed when I parked my Class C far away from the crowds was that it was very quiet and peaceful. Felt a deep sense of peace and calm for the first time in months. Stayed at LTVA North for five weeks, moving to an RV park for another four weeks while I was going back-and-forth to have work done on my coach in Brenda.
Once you’re past January the RV parks get very affordable. Even though I had to pay for electricity, my bill was only $30 for the whole month as I didn’t have to run the heat or AC.
Overall a nice stay but probably wouldn’t stay as long if I ever go back. Wouldn’t even bother with the RV or tent shows
Brian, I love that you do life different than what I do. I am a farmer and very tied to place and land but also have a camper van and my husband and I aspire to a nomadic time with retirement. Have a fun winter!
Brian, I have felt a bit hopeless when van traveling too. I am glad you have found your people.
Very nice video. I actually did stay there last week for about 5 days. have been there before and I enjoyed kicking around the town. At one point I will make stay longer and immerse myself in the community aspect of it.
Perhaps I will wait until you do a meet up again because I like your style and I figure the people that also watch you are like-minded like me and I can make some friends.
Take good care of yourself this year and thanks for the videos.
I like hanging out at the airport with the other retired aviators
Your videos are always helpful and informative, and beautiful.
Right on. People that don't see it I just feel bad for them. You have no idea how many people I have asked if they have smelled Lake Superior? Sadly most are just befuddled. Maybe my best dive was in the winter on a shipwreck you can do from shore. For those that don't know it is very rare for the big lake to freeze over. Anyway we came up from the dive and it was like a blizzard. I just put a little extra air in my dry suit and bc and just floated for five minutes.
*100% AGREE with your outlook. The community you experience far out weighs the small negatives. I hope to back at SOON!* 💛
Thanks Brian for another GREAT video. Hope to meet you someday. Have nice Christmas.
Great videos about QS. Followed you at the recommendation of @StaticCamperVan. Glad I found you. He said you may have some info on camping in Florida. Going to search for those now. :) PS. Merry Christmas.
We full-timed RV for 7 years and have yet to visit Quartzsite. Really not our lifestyle but get it that some folks really enjoy the social aspects, ability to save a few bucks, and snowbird. We all have different styles of RVing and none is better than the other. Just need to have an open mind and do what you enjoy. Thanks for what you are sharing and positive attitude.
I don't think you were being negative. You were showing the pros and cons of Quartzsite. There is nothing wrong with that. Merry Christmas and please be safe. Keep enjoying your life.
Great video. Both of them 👍
2016 was when we first met at RTR. Thank you for this video, Brian. 💯 agree. Blessings, and happy and safe travels. KOKO, d
Great video and I really do appreciate your videos. Your freedom on the open road is intoxicating, I’m not there yet but see it in my future!🎉
I've recently come to Quartzsite after having to start my vanlife journey city camping, and even though I never thought of myself as a desert person, I am loving it here!!! All the camping options, the sunshine, easy access to laundry, etc. It's heaven. Looking forward to meeting folks at the RTR!
I can see how it wouldn't be some folks' cup of tea, but for me, it's a little paradise right now. ❤
Thanks for another great video…I didn’t find your last video negative. Rather just listing the realities that can make it a bit difficult at times.
Thanks, Brian! I appreciate your honesty and integrity. 🙏
Cindy and I stopped in Quartzsite last March for Gas. The gas station was super busy and we were glad to find a less busy place to relax. I enjoyed both of your videos. Thanks for all the info. Hobs is a great addition to your life on the road.
Totally get it, Brian. I saw your previous video as a "rocks and shoals" kinda public service announcement. Good on you for facing the nabobs of negativity in your usual caring way.
Always so informative Brian. I always appreciate your content. Thanks for sharing long time subscriber here from Australia 🦘🌏 and I'm so excited to see your almost at 1M subscribers. Keep well and safe 🙏🏾
Great Information! Good to see you
Hey Brian!
Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and yours. Love that you added Hobbs to your "crew" 🐶
I haven't commented in a while but wanted you to know and to let your subscribers know that RUclips has been unsubscribing me from channels I've been subscribed to for years like yours that I've been subbed to for at least 8 years! Also, in doing so, they removed my likes and ns about comments. I'm angry about this because I don't want your channels to suffer. I know you all work very hard to provide valuable content. Myself and my husband will be launching our own channel shortly, so I know the tip of the iceberg on how stuff works. Hopefully, this gets sorted out quickly! Anyhow, be blessed, full of joy and peace, and safe travels to you and all you adventurers out there! Joining you all soon, God willing! ❤
good video love Hobbs
I've been saying I'm gonna make it for the RTR next year, for like 5 years now. Ha! I bought my campervan project 4 years ago, but then I bought a rotten old mobile home on property that needed a complete rebuild as well, so the van only got about 70% done in these years so I haven't been able to go as the house has taken priority. Getting the house closer to done so... This summer I WILL get this van running so I can get out of my grey SAD inducing Washington winter weather NEXT year for sure! I feel like folks that go there are 'my people'. Something I've been missing most of my adult life.
😂 lol, that comment that you read from your phone is hilarious. And some people may feel that way. I don’t feel that way, but, for me I just don’t enjoy being around that large number of people especially if there are numerous dogs. Okay I said it, dog loves go ahead an crucify me.
Brian I thought you made some good points on both videos. Wish I could come out and visit with you sometime. I’m retired now and have been thinking about coming out to quartsite.
Thank you Brian for your channel Ive followed you since 2017. Ive longed to connect to this life style but its been a work in progress. Thank you for giving people like me more encouragement to make that connection and start living this life.
If you’re in Quartzsite for the winter and need something to do join the gem and mineral club. You can meet people, learn new skills, and come away with nice items for yourself or others.
Hey Brian, I've camped with you and other group meetups a couple times over the years and had a lot of fun. You have always been a gentleman and a prince to people at your meetups. Perhaps again next year if the stars line up. Be well...
Maybe too much drugs and alcohol activities involved!
be grateful you can have such a life.
i am retired. most months i run out of money before the end of the month. (have not been out of this house in over 2 weeks, waiting on my ss check in another week).
i am smothered under bills just trying to keep this house. can not sell at this time.
my mom is in a care home...finely. and as long as she is alive i can go nowhere. i know sounds bad. but i do care for my mom. she suffers from dementia.
i would love to go someplace. i would like to see other parts of the USA. but for now it is just to where she is at 70 miles away (states choice), or to a train club i am in. i have done nothing, been nowhere in over 6 years. everything here is breaking down. and no moneys to fix them.
The will for modern man to help, respect and be at peace with his opposite is a rare thing these days Brian, we all need to get along and be a help, not a hindrance to our kind!
For $175 a season what do people expect?…a beachside resort ? Seems like a deal
I wouldn't try to sell people on any particular place. Everyone is different. Whether a person likes or dislikes Quartzsite doesn't bother me either way. It's there if you want to see it and if you don't want to see it then don't go. If everyone liked the same place the place would be too crowded to enjoy.
Life is too short and precious to be working all the time. ~ AdventureVanMan
Another good video and perspective, Brian, I will never understand why other people need to tear others down to make themselves feel better, to each their own, I wish more humans would just let people be, as always keep the rubber side down bud 😎✌️
It seems very similar to my Florida RV park where I am in my Class B. Many friends and activities, but I do own my lot and love the ocean, tropical foliage and climate.🪴🌊🌴🌺🌊
Hi Brian just a quick question... so was the purpose of these two videos to show that folks both like and dislike Quartzsite?
I just wanted to address both sides of the coin.
@@AdventureVanMan You've visited so many towns and heard local feedback this could be a popular series. People like yourself can benefit hearing the pros and cons of places before deciding to visit so you just might have an idea and boost views in the process.
A good place to stay in town in a low dollar RV park is desert edge. 160.00 a month plus electric. Free water and sewer. It's really close to Tyson Wells. Can walk to it. For 1900.00 a year you can leave your RV if you make a long drive. It's a community of people like those that dry camp.
I dtay the winter in Quartzsite and show low in the summer 🌞⛱️.
You make me wanna go there, sounds like a blast. MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY NEW YEAR, to you Kelly and Hobbs. And away we go. 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻
I agree completely! I meet amazing people there every year and enjoy reuniting with now old friends from previous years. The community is what keeps me coming back. Even the brand new arrivals I’ve met get it! But I also don’t care for the huge crowds, so I’m wandering a bit until February. As you say, there are plenty of other places nearby to explore with similarly good weather.
I'll send you a message through Instagram after the holidays. Would be cool to connect and go for a ride! 🤙🏼
@@AdventureVanMan I’d love that! I’m in Los Angeles now but returning to the desert by New Year’s. We’ll be in touch!
went to the van build in parker one of the best 5 days meet some great people and got to help and learn from others
I think the draw to Quartzsite, particularly in January showtime, is the meetup aspect, both with old friends and new people. The snowbird aspect of it is different. If you compare Quartzsite to the area around I-8 west of Yuma, where the activity is mainly on the California side, the people that go there go for a completely different reason, recreation. They have the dunes and a lot of activity on the river and the lakes in the area. That area also has the Top of the World historical museum, the Cloud museum, etc. Quartzsite at times other than January doesn't have a lot of recreational, cultural, or scenic draw. Both areas have long term camping area which appear to be priced by the BLM. The one at Pilot Knob is very close to Top of the World where you could pay $40 for two weeks and see all of the things there are to see there. And the one at the Imperial reservoir is very close to the recreational activity. So different strokes for different folks and snowbirds. The recreational activities are more noisy and crowded. Quartzsite has more tranquility and sociability. Both have extensive camping areas.
True. Some folks just will not step foot in California though. I grew up riding and camping in the dunes with my family. Some of the best times of my life.🤙🏼
Hey Brian, I just wanted to wish you and Kelly and Hobbs and your families a wonderful Christmas and I hope 2024 will be a great year for you all and for all of us too. 🎄🌞☮
I want to say thank you for sharing your life on RUclips. I see campsites that I will never be able to see otherwise. Plus I want o thank you for a brilliant monolog on a recent video. I could hear your heartfelt sincerity. It was well written and well spoken!
Good Job
That's why Trolls exist. They crave drama and negativity. You won't find them out doing things. You'll find them home alone in their mother's basement doing drugs and yelling at people on You Boob. Love your videos and your life style Brian. Keep it up.
It's the Journey.
Great pro and con on Quartzsite, AZ.
With all the negative stuff in the world, people being mean to others for no reason, TV news, etc. Its good to hear something positive for a change.
From what I've seen it doesn't seem like a trip there would be fun for me
I don’t think you were negative at all on your last video, I think you were being honest, it’s great to see both sides of it, thank you!
Agreed. He presented a balanced picture.
That T-Shirt 😂
Petroglyphs
Thank you Brian. I totally understood where you were coming from in that first video and thank you for making this follow up video. If some people could only consider putting their brain into gear, before firing off the way they do at times. It just astounds me. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, whatever you do and wherever you may be Brian. Take care there 🎄 🐶 🚶♀️🚛 🚶♂️🚚 🙋♀️ 🚐 🌏 🧭 🗺 🌐
Hi Brian, hope you and Kelly are keeping well. As an anxious introvert I couldn't tolerate the sheer number of people. I think the best thing about the campers/vanners is the wiilingness to help others who may not have 'fixing' skills. I've seen videos of groups set up to help with electrical issues, solar panels, woodworking, etc., and particularly for those who may be less well off. The community looks amazing and long may it continue. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work.
I'd love to have the opportunity to go to Quartzite, just to experience it once and meet others like you. Have a wonderful Christmas with Kelly and Hobbs ❤😊 and happy 2024🎉
Concerning that nasty comment about Quartzsite: "MISERY LOVES COMPANY!" What a jerk.
P.S. I'm sure that Hobbs voted "NO" to Quartzsite! He's such a precious boy...likes his OWN people and his privacy...can't blame him for that!
No thanks! Did go in October though...it was peaceful...Dome rock...out...
I've never been to Quartzite, but I have boondocked in Parker, attended a Jaime Van Build. But I think I'm going to pull my small TT out there next month. Sorry you won't be there Brian, it would have been nice to meet you. Anyway I hope you and your small tribe have a great Christmas and a Happy and safe 2024.
We've been living an "RV Lifestyle" since 1993.
It started out as a short term experiment to escape the Montana Winters...but we loved it. My work allowed us to work as Contractors in 50+ National Parks and Monuments over the course of 15 years all over the Western US. We eventually sold our house and bought property in AZ which we can park our big rig on. Now retired, we also have a Class B camper for shorter term adventures.
We've never considered ourselves "homeless".
I'm only starting my 4th winter in Quartzite. I agree with you about the Quality people that winter here too.
We all need to give the Yuma BLM Field Office much credit for their efforts to make all the land available for the public use. "Only in America".
People seeing all our banter about the southwest can't understand what they've never experienced themselves.
All I can say to you, Brian is: 👍 Rock on 🙂
Dude! LOVE the shirt!!! I gotta get me one like that!
Really liked these last couple videos -- exactly the kind of things I would want to know before I get there, so I can be prepared for what might be a minor issue, as long as it's not coming at me unexpected, like a rude surprise. Didn't think you were being negative at all -- just clear and specific. Appreciate such candid and straight-forward info. From a fellow introvert who also loves social connection. Also not on Facebook / social media.
Cheers!...from North Vancouver
Thank You once again for your real content! And your real comments on what to expect at Quartzsite. Thay didn't come off negative to us (my wife and I). Just realistic! Thanks for ALL you do! Merry Christmas to you and Kelly! Be Safe
Interesting T-shirt! I like it even though I'm not a big skull fan. ✌️
I went to the RTR once in 2018. It was very large at that point, and I ended up leaving early and returning to Ehrenberg for the remaining time. It was my 1st year. I do wish that I had been to one when they were still small. Now that they have it in a Fairgrounds, I won't be attending again. I may return to the area during that time period but only to meet up with any friends and groups that are around.
I agree that the vibe of being surrounded by so many like-minded people is an amazing experience that every traveler should think about checking out. It's so true how mundane chores are actually fun when I'm there! 😅 And that isn't my normal 😂