Winter recreation surges in La Paz County; plan for crowds
Winter events and river recreation are drawing heavy crowds across La Paz County. Residents should expect traffic, limited campsites and basic safety needs.
La Paz County's winter season brings a steady stream of outdoor recreation and large-scale events that change how residents and visitors move and use public resources. Boating and riverfront camping along the Parker Strip at Buckskin Mountain State Park, Colorado River tubing and fishing near River Sands and River Island, and the seasonal shows around Tyson Wells and Quartzsite all drive heavy visitor traffic and demand for services.
Buckskin Mountain State Park remains a focal point for river recreation, offering day-use areas, boating and riverfront campsites. Campers are advised to reserve sites ahead of high visitor weeks and to check park hours, which can vary during peak periods. River users should pack life jackets, monitor river conditions and be prepared for cold mornings despite often comfortable daytime temperatures.
Quartzsite's Tyson Wells area hosts gem and mineral shows, the Big Tent RV show and vendor markets in January and surrounding weeks, bringing major RV and day-visitor flows to the region. The Hi Jolly Parade and Camelpalooza honor the town's camel corps history and are family-oriented draws that also increase local parking pressure. Expect congestion on Highway 95 and near showgrounds; drivers should fill fuel before leaving major highway exits and allow extra travel time.
Public lands surrounding Quartzsite include large areas of dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management land. Visitors must follow BLM permit rules, fire restrictions and leave-no-trace pack-out requirements. Alamo Lake State Park, just outside La Paz County, offers winter fishing and wildlife viewing but may have seasonal access and hours that visitors should verify before heading out.
Emergency and health logistics factor into planning. La Paz Regional Medical Center in Parker is the county's primary acute-care hospital. Residents and visitors should know local clinic locations and hours for routine care, and consider emergency response times when choosing remote campsites.
Practical gear and safety take priority: layers for cold nights and warm days, sun protection, plenty of drinking water, life jackets for river use and adequate fuel for long distance travel. Traffic and parking challenges during winter events also affect local services and businesses, so plan deliveries, appointments and volunteer activities with extra buffer time.
The takeaway? Plan ahead, pack smart and respect public-land rules to keep La Paz County's winter season safe and enjoyable for everyone. Our two cents? Reserve campsites, top off fuel, bring floatation devices and give yourself extra time on Hwy 95 so your winter weekend goes off without a hitch.
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