Join a Geogypsy Journey–Sharing the Kofa Light

I may have retired as a Park Ranger, however I’ll never stop loving the chance to share a place with others.  I’ve been wracking my brain how to do that and came up with Geogypsy Journey, at least for now.  Tell me what you think.  The idea is to join with others in nature, immerse in the environment, and share a landscape experience.  Honestly, this could be done all over the world.  However, I’d like to start with a place dear to me during winter months when I’m boondocking in my truck-camper.  The Kofa National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 665,400 acres of wild and wonderful Sonoran Desert at least partially surrounded by BLM (Bureau of Land Management) managed public lands.

Only light dares to touch the Cholla cactus

Right now, holidays are keeping people busy yet many are thinking of a vacation getaway after the first of the year. I love to see people traveling safely and would like to suggest a winter camping runaway to the apricity—warmth of the sun in winter—in the southern Arizona desert. Time to connect with nature. As the temperatures drop in the north, that’s where I’ll be and you should join me for a Geogypsy Journey.

Sunrise over the Kofa Mountains

The rugged Kofa Mountains provide an amazing backdrop to the Sonoran Desert plus comfortable winter temperatures (60/40° averages), and amazing light from sunrise to after sunset, plus under the moon. Sometimes clouds enhance the mid-day shadows in this unique environment and even the tiniest life in the desert holds intrigue. After many years of exploration, I’d like to share this piece of desert and what I know about the cultural history, geology/rockhounding, ecology, wildlife, birdwatching, and light for photography.

Arizona Palms, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

I propose meeting in the BLM desert south of Quartzsite, Arizona, Sharing the Kofa Light with a landscape immersion over 3-5 days using our senses and creative juices to experience the awe of this place.  A campout, desert walkabout, Palm Canyon hike, and other possible local attractions. We will enjoy a safe place to camp* on public lands under dark skies.  Donation $100/day/person, refundable up to $100, for coordinating this experience over no more than five days. Group size will be limited to six people. Cell signal is not reliable in camp.

Participants are responsible for their own food and beverage, transportation, and accommodation onsite or offsite (tent, RV, Quartzsite 30 minutes north, Yuma 60 minutes south, Blythe 45 minutes west, Phoenix 2 ½ hours east). Camp will be free off-grid *boondocking on public lands, show respect and Leave No Trace. You will need to provide a contact’s information and sign a waiver as I am not responsible for accident, injury, or theft.  I do encourage you to be careful.

Sunset over the Sonoran Desert

Bring your stories, camera, paints, journal, musical instrument, dancing shoes and hiking boots, imagination, or whatever you choose. Mostly, bring yourself with an open fresh perspective on life, eager to learn and share.

Full moon rise over the Kofa Mountains

If you are interested, please let me know, and pass the word. I will answer questions and provide more information. I am currently thinking mid-January (full moon 17^th) and mid-February (full moon 16^th), but am open to additional dates and suggestions.

Beware the Jumping Cholla cactus

Be aware: The Big Tent RV Show Quartzsite, January 22-30 draws a crowd.  Plus there are many activities going on in Quartzsite.

Reverse sunrise Sonoran Desert and Chocolate Mountains

I’d also like to take Geogypsy Journey further when I camp in other places along my travels and include presentations about a variety of topics, mostly nature, national parks, or RVing, because that’s my thing as you know.  I might travel in your neighborhood and would love to see your favorite natural places.  I am working on a plan for summer travels north and east.  Some of you are already on my list and hopefully more will be added.

Light and shadows on the New Water Mountains

In the meantime, think about joining a Geogypsy Journey in the Sonoran Desert Sharing the Kofa Light in January or February 2022.  Let’s go camping and explore the land and the light.

*Boondocking – defined as camping off the grid without being plugged into city water, sewer, and electricity, however, that does not necessarily mean going without those things and instead using propane, holding tanks, solar power, and conservation. Also known as “dispersed camping” on public land means up to 14 days in the same location. This gives you a bit of time to get to know a place.

I have no affiliation to the US Fish & Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, or any other public lands agency.  This is just me sharing with you as I dearly love to do.

Happy Solstice!
Yea the days get longer and there will be more light!