The geologic history of Quartz Mountain, as with the wichita mountain region, began with the deposition of late Precambrian to early Cambrian sandstones. These sandstones were intruded by coarse gabbro sills of about 575 million years ago as the region began to rift apart in a failed continental breakup. The gabbro intrusion was followed by erosion and further intrusion of granite accompanied by volcanic eruptions of rhyolite lava and explosive volcanic breccias some 50 million years later. Following these igneous episodes the region subsided and shallow sea sediments were deposited over the area consisting of sandstones and limestones.

During the Pennsylvanian Period (330-290 million years ago) the region was subjected to intense pressure during the continental collision. This resulted in faulting and folding along with up to 20,000 feet of local uplift. This uplift created rugged mountains which have been reduced to their present state by subsequent erosion.

Climbing using modern techniques at Quartz Mountain began in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Between 1978 to 1982 the majority of climbing routes were established. The property where the mountain is located was privately owned by Ted and Margaret Johnson, who had allowed access the mountain for several decades. In an effort to ensure the area was preserved, it was purchased in 2001 and donated to the State of Oklahoma. In 2002 the area was designated Quartz Mountain Nature Park.

Coordinates: 34°54′25″N 99°19′24″W / 34.90694°N 99.32333°W / 34.90694; -99.32333