PRIDE in the desert

January 8-12, 2026

Quartzsite, arizona

Vanlife Pride's annual gathering in the desert in Arizona is our FREE community-driven event. This gathering brings together queer folks at the beginning of the year with the intention for new connections to form and grow throughout the year. Join us at the beginning of each year for a safe space to be your most authentic self!

2027 registration will open fall of 2026

*To read the full Event Terms and Conditions, please click here

**To read the Vanlife Pride Community Guidelines, please click here

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please check your email a few days before the event. We will send out a welcome email, which will include all event details, including exact location coordinates, a finalized schedule, and more.

Where is the event? 

The exact location will be emailed to registered attendees the week of the event. For planning purposes, it is near Quartzsite, AZ. 

How much does this cost?

Pride in the Desert is a community-driven FREE event. That being said, Vanlife Pride is entirely volunteer-run and exists with your help. We ask that all attendees who are able donate $10 or more to help us continue hosting safe spaces for our queer nomadic community. Donations help cover technology costs, event supplies, campgrounds for smaller meetups, mutual aid, and more. Historically, we have given 5% of all Pride in the Desert donations each year to Indigenous organizations and the LandBack movement; in 2026 we sent the 5% to relief efforts in Palestine. 

Do I have to live in a van to attend?

No! All rigs are welcome, including skoolies, RVs, cars, etc. You don’t even have to live in a rig (tents welcome!). The only requirement is that you do have to be self-contained, as we do not provide toilets, water, trash, or any other amenities/services. 

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, but we have a STRICT leash policy. We pride ourselves on hosting a very inclusive and safe space. Having dogs on leash allows those who own cats or reactive dogs the opportunity to safely participate in this event. You are welcome to take your dogs away from the event on a walk off-leash if you wish!

Is this event open to allies?

Yes! Please be aware of the energy you bring to the event and the space you take up, as this is a queer-focused event. All allies are asked to please attend the scheduled workshop about allyship.

We strongly encourage allies to sign up to volunteer, as this is a great way to put your allyship into action!

Are 40+ Welcome

Absolutely! We welcome attendees of all ages! There is an Elder Queers meetup early in the event every year to help connect this demographic. 

Do I have to be on camera?

By attending this event you agree to possibly be on camera. If you do not wish to be on camera, we ask that you park further from the main camp, but please note that whenever you are in community spaces there is always the possibility of being filmed. 

Are kids allowed to attend?

Yes, all ages are welcome!