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There is an scattering of old landmarks around Quartzsite, but the big attraction is the grave of Hadji Ali (Hi Jolly), the Arab camel driver. In 1935, the Governor of Arizona dedicated the pyramid, which marks his gravesite. This pyramid is one of the most visited spots in the southwest.

Hi Jolly (that is now the foreign name sounded to the desert people) came here from his native Syria during the mid 1850's with score or more of North African camels. They had been ordered by the U.S. Army for a desert experiment, and Hi Jolly was hired as the chief camel driver.

The Army hoped that the camels would make excellent beasts of burden in this desert country. But, camels were not compatible with the Army's mules, and the entire plan was junked in 1864. The animals were auctioned off and Hi Jolly kept a few for his own use. His freighting operation failed and in 1868 he became a 'sometime' guide and prospector in the Quartzsite area. Hi Jolly died in 1902, and his grave is now the centerpiece of the Hi Jolly Cemetery in Quartzsite. When you visit you will find a large pyramid made of the stones from the area, and topped by a copper camel.

The Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce holds it's annual "Hi Jolly Daze" each January to honor Hi Jolly. The celebration includes a town parade, barbeque, games and music.

Attractions and Upcoming Events


Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1939 and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge encompasses 665,400 acres of pristine desert that is home to the desert bighorn sheep and the California palm, the only native palm in Arizona.

Quartzsite, AZ Wildlife Refuges

Palm Canyon Trail

Perhaps the only native palm trees in Arizona are tucked away in narrow, rugged canyons on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. The Palm Canyon Trail is a short hike and takes you near a stand of these unique plants, called California fan palms, Washingtonia filifera.

Quartzsite, AZ Natural Attractions

Grave of Hi Jolly

There is an scattering of old landmarks around Quartzsite, but the big attraction is the grave of Hadji Ali (Hi Jolly), the Arab camel driver. In 1935, the Governor of Arizona dedicated the pyramid, which marks his gravesite. This pyramid is one of the most visited spots in the southwest.

Quartzsite, AZ Cemeteries

Tyson's Well Stage Station Museum

The original abode stage station was built in 1866

Quartzsite, AZ Museums

Things to do near Quartzsite, AZ

Yuma Golf & Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 1 days...

Yuma River Tours

A narrated jet boat tour is a great way to learn about the history of the Colorado River, as well as sight a variety of birds...

Quartzsite Gem and Mineral Club

The Quartzsite Gem and Mineral Club is the largest Gem and Mineral Club in the United States. It has a club house, workshop ...

Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) Museum and Library

The Colorado River Indian Reservation is unique in the sense that it is occupied by four (4) distinct tribal groups: Mohave, ...