What Is Boondocking | Your Guide to Free RV Camping

What is boondocking? Walmart camping. Wild camping. Dispersed camping. Dry camping. Boondocking. Off-grid camping. No matter how you choose to say it, it’s all just a way for RV campers to park their rig overnight at free camping sites. It usually means no cable, no water, no electricity, no sewer, no dump station – no full hookups of any kind. Just you and the great outdoors, or you and a bunch of cars in a parking lot. It’s a boondocking adventure!

Boondocking in a rural area may seem like a horror of horrors to some RVers, but it is perfection to others. No matter which ‘camp’ you are in (see what I did there?), boondocking is the best way to save money on site rental fees, even if just for a night or two. Plus, sometimes you can explore otherwise inaccessible areas off the main road and get back to nature in a big way. 

Whether you like to be alone in the woods or are the ultimate penny pincher, if you are intrigued by the idea of boondocking, here’s a complete guide to what you need to know.

Benefits of Boondocking

Boondocking is not for everyone. However, if you’re curious about what is boondocking, know that there are plenty of benefits.

Flexibility. One of the biggest draws of boondocking is the freedom it offers RVers. When you’re camping off-grid, you don’t have to worry about reservations or check-out times. Additionally, since there are no campsite fees, you can save money and explore more of the country for less. 

Solitude. When you choose to boondock in remote locations in the middle of nowhere, you won’t be bothered by noisy neighbors or crowded campsites. Instead, you can sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Additionally, since many boondocking spots are off the beaten path, you’ll often have amazing views and natural surroundings all to yourself.

Adventure. Boondocking offers RVers the chance to truly explore and experience the great outdoors. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, kayaking in a nearby lake, or simply sitting around the campfire, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and amazing wildlife. 

Conservation. Boondocking can also be a great choice for RVers who care about sustainability and conservation. When you’re camping off-grid, you’re not using traditional RV parks that offer electricity, sewer, and water hookups. Instead, you’re relying on your own resources and taking care to preserve the land around you. Practice a ‘Leave No Trace’ policy, meaning leave your campsite exactly as you found it.

Camaraderie. Finally, while boondocking may seem like a solitary lifestyle, there’s actually a thriving community of RVers who love to boondock together. Many RVers connect online or through RV clubs to find nearby boondocking spots and meet up with others who share their love of adventure. And since boondocking often requires a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, RVers who love this lifestyle tend to be a close-knit and supportive group.

Preparing for Boondocking

There are two types of boondocking: quick overnights in a parking lot with zero prep and off-grid adventures that require some forethought. 

Whether you are planning to overnight in a parking lot to save money or your planned destination is booked up solid, this kind of camping lot will work for the night with very little prep on your end. You can usually stop at:

• Walmart and Sam’s Clubs
• Costco
• Home Depot
• Lowe’s
• Truck Stops, including Love’s
• Rest Stops/ Rest Areas
• Gander Mountain
• Cabellas 
• Bass Pro Shops
• REI
• Dennys
• IHOP
• Cracker Barrel
• Camping World
• Menard’s 
• 24-hour grocery stores

Phew! That’s a lot of places allowing you free overnight RV parking to crash for the night. Free is always good, but please realize that there are a few caveats! 

Rest areas allow people to stay anywhere from 2 to 24 hours. It varies by state. However, they all say, ‘No Camping.’ So, what does this mean? What is boondocking mean in this case? It means you can use the bathroom and sleep. 

Don’t use your slides. 

Don’t set up any fire rings.  

Don’t set up lawn chairs. 

Don’t be walking around in your pajamas outside. 

Don’t decide to sleep in until 11 a.m.

Get a quick sleep and move on. Capeesh?

Similarly, don’t set up camp at Walmart or any other store that is nice enough to let you stay. Head inside, confirm that it is ok with the store manager, and, if possible, make a purchase to share the love. Park in the back, out of the way. In other words, don’t take the good parking spots. And, please. Clean up after yourself. Don’t be ‘that’ guy.

One final caveat: don’t take big rig spots. Semi-truck drivers work long, hard hours. The last thing they want to do is pull into a rest area or truck stop and see an RV parked in a spot clearly marked for trucks. Just don’t. 

Now, the other type of RV boondocking trip, the kind where you plan to spend some time down a dirt road, out in nature, and off the beaten path, takes a little more prep. You need all the necessary equipment and supplies for boondocking, including:

Proper gear for weather conditions. Maybe it’s a mom thing or an I-don’t-like-to-be-cold thing, but pack extra blankets and warm clothes. I grew up in Michigan and live in (waaayyy) northern Minnesota now. I’m used to bringing a sweater or hoodie everywhere I go, even in the summer. In fact, I am pretty sure a hoodie is the required uniform for anyone under the age of 25 in Minnesota, dontcha know!

First aid kit. We’re all adults here. Everyone knows to pack a basic emergency and first aid kit whenever they leave to go camping, RVing, or boondocking, right?! I personally love these from My Medic. Everything is color-coded, so it’s easy to see exactly what you need when you need it. Plus, you can use your HSA funds!

Plenty of food. Even if you have elaborate meals planned, bring some emergency backup food that doesn’t rely on fire pits or propane, just in case. Mountain House is available at Amazon – just add water. Again, I’m a Midwesterner and fully believe that you can never pack too much food when camping, boondocking, or just running up to the mall.

Full freshwater tank. Generally, you will have little, if any, access to water when boondocking. Make sure your RV’s tank is full, your Berkey is full, and you have some additional potable water containers with backup water.

Full propane tank. Whether you cook in your RV kitchen or outside on a grill, you’ll need some propane. Boondocking on BLM land or federal land does not always allow for fires, especially in recent drought conditions, so propane will be essential.

Working generator. While some campgrounds limit generator hours, when you are boondocking, you generally do not have neighbors to worry about. 

Empty black and gray tanks. Some dispersed campsites have latrines nearby, but most don’t. In other words, you’ll be using a composting toilet or whatever you have in your RV so make sure your black tank is empty before you head out into the woods.

Phone charger. We can’t live without our phones, but if you are down dirt roads on a camping trip, you need the ability to charge your phone in an emergency. Pack a portable charger, power bank, or some sort of portable power station. 

Safety and protection equipment. Bring bear spray or whatever you need to feel safe. Random side note: I live so far up north that there is a black bear IN my neighborhood. Like, IN in! He hangs out by the wild blackberry patch 2 streets over. Here’s his pic from a neighbor … 

Boondocking Sites

There are so many ways to boondock in nature, but most still require an entrance fee or pass. 

America the Beautiful Pass

This is an interagency pass that gets you access to federal land and a boondocking location, including:

BLM land. The Bureau of Land Management is a government agency responsible for managing thousands of acres of public land throughout the United States. Typically, the land is undeveloped and allows for free camping, making it an ideal spot to boondock.

National Forests. National forests are managed by the United States Forest Service, part of the U.S.D.A., and like BLM land, they provide some of the best spots for free camping opportunities. Just be sure to check for any fire bans or restrictions that may be in place before you settle in for the night. 

National Grasslands & Rangelands. There are 17 National Grasslands in the U.S., and all our managed by the U.S.D.A. Forest Service. Many have dispersed camping but may not have a reliable water source.  

Fish & Wildlife Service.  The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manages many refuge, recreation area, and wildlife preserve throughout the United States, some of which allow for free camping in designated areas.

National Parks Service. NPS sites typically require an entrance fee, but many offer free camping opportunities. Just be sure to check for any restrictions or closures before you set up camp.

Army Corps of Engineers. The Army Corps of Engineers maintains thousands of acres of public land for recreational use. Many have camping areas, although these may require a fee. 

Bureau of Reclamation. This federal agency manages water and power resources, and some of those federal lands are open for camping. 

State Passes

Each state also has its own park systems with dispersed camping and boondocking opportunities. You have to buy a pass for each state you travel to, however. 

Favorite Boondocking Apps

If you are still wondering, “What is boondocking?” then try these boondocking and dry camping apps.

Allstays

Boondockers Welcome

Harvest Hosts

Road Trippers

Roadpass Pro

Campendium

Best Practices for Boondocking

Proper waste disposal. Respect the land you are camping on. Leave no trace. Like, literally, clean up every speck of trash, food waste, and sticky stuff on picnic tables. You name it. Just be considerate to the next person and clean up after yourself.

Respect your ‘neighbors’. Most campgrounds, unless you are dispersed deep into the woods, have ‘quiet hours,’ meaning no loud noise, partying, or barking dogs, and no running a portable generator after a certain time, usually 9 or 10 p.m. and not until at least 7 a.m. No one wants to wake up at 5 a.m. to the sound of your RV beep-beep-beep backing up.

Respect wildlife. I do not know what is wrong with people lately harassing animals in state and national parks and thinking they can pet them or something crazy. These are wild animals. Stay away for your safety and theirs! 

Fire safety. Forest fires are usually (accidentally) started by careless campers. If there is not a fire ban in your area, be very attentive and make sure you put the fire out completely.

Access. Don’t block roads, trailheads, walkways, sidewalks, parking lot entrances, or anything else.  

Challenges of Boondocking

Boondocking is not easy. If you like 5-star resorts and silk sheets, this type of camping may not be for you, and that’s ok. However, if you like overnight stays in a remote area or the adventure of free parking lot camping, it’s a good idea to give it a try!

Top 10 Ultimate Boondocking Destinations

Boondocking with an RV, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, can provide a unique and adventurous way to experience natural beauty for free, especially while staying by the ocean or a Great Lake. I mean, free oceanfront spots? It doesn’t get any better! What is boondocking if not a fantastic way to save money while still nabbing a great campsite?! Here are some of the best places in the US and Canada for boondocking:

Boondocking with an RV, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, can provide a unique and adventurous way to experience natural beauty, especially when you can nab an ocean or lakefront spot. Here are five great places in the US and Canada for boondocking:

United States:

1. Outer Banks, North Carolina: The Outer Banks barrier islands along the Atlantic Ocean offer various boondocking opportunities. Many beachfront areas are accessible for camping with incredible ocean views, particularly Cape Lookout National Seashore.
2. Magnolia Beach, Texas: While much of Texas’ coast is boondocking territory, Magnolia Beach is a particularly wonderful addition to this list of places for boondocking with an RV. Located along the Gulf Coast of Texas, Magnolia Beach offers camping right on the beach.
3. San Luis Wildlife Area, California: Located in a vast area in California’s Central Valley, the San Luis Wildlife Area provides opportunities for boondocking along the San Luis Reservoir. The location offers stunning views of the reservoir and is known for bird-watching and outdoor activities. Boondocking here can be a unique and tranquil experience. 
4. Buffalo Gap National Grassland, near Wall, South Dakota: This is another fantastic location for boondocking with an RV. While it’s not a coastal or lakefront spot, it offers a unique and picturesque landscape with expansive grasslands and rugged terrain. This remote area provides opportunities for solitude, stargazing, and experiencing the natural beauty of the Great Plains. Plus, you’re so close to the iconic Wall Drugs store! 
5. Cook’s Chasm, near Yachats, Oregon: Another stunning coastal location that’s well worth adding to your list is located along the beautiful Oregon coast. Cook’s Chasm offers breathtaking ocean views, tide pools, and unique rock formations, such as Thor’s Well. Boondocking here provides a unique opportunity to camp by the Pacific Ocean and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Oregon coast. 
6. BLM Land south of Joshua Tree National Park, California: This vast area in the southern California desert offers a unique landscape with stunning desert views, rock formations, and proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. Boondocking here allows you to experience the tranquility of the desert while being close to the park’s attractions. 
7. Coconino National Forest near Sedona, Arizona: Offering a unique and picturesque desert landscape surrounded by beautiful red rock formations, this area provides opportunities for outdoor exploration, hiking, and experiencing the stunning scenery of Sedona. Boondocking here allows you to enjoy the vibrant town of Sedona and its many attractions without having to pay for it.
8. Grand Portage State Forest, near Grand Portage, Minnesota: This state park is just off the Voyageur Highway at the north-easternmost point of Minnesota, along the shores of Lake Superior. They offer dispersed camping along the gorgeous North Shore.

Canada:

Boondocking in Canada is slightly different than in the United States. You are looking for ‘Crown Land’ rather than BLM or federally-owned land. 

1. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia: Located on Vancouver Island, this park offers several areas suitable for boondocking near the Pacific Ocean. Green Point Campground, near Long Beach, provides a rustic coastal camping experience.
2. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador: This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning fjords, lakes, and coastal landscapes. While not traditional boondocking, many areas allow for remote and scenic RV camping experiences.

Before boondocking, research the specific regulations and permits required for each location, and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve these beautiful natural areas. Be prepared with self-sustaining resources, as boondocking typically lacks utility hookups and services.

What Is Boondocking FAQs

1. Is boondocking legal?

Boondocking is legal on most public lands, including national forests, Bureau of Land Management lands, and some state parks. However, it is important to check local regulations and restrictions before setting up camp.

2. What equipment do I need for boondocking?

Basic equipment for boondocking includes a self-contained RV or camper, solar panels or a generator for power, water storage tanks, and a portable toilet. Additional gear may be required depending on the location and weather conditions.

3. Can I boondock with a tent?

Yes, boondocking can be done with a tent, but you will need to ensure you have the necessary supplies and gear for an off-grid experience.

4. How long can I boondock without hookups?

The length of time you can boondock without hookups depends on your fresh water and waste capacity, as well as your power source. Most RVs and campers can last a few days to a week without needing to refill or dump tanks.

5. What are the benefits of boondocking and dry camping?

Benefits of boondocking and dry camping include cost savings, freedom to choose your location and schedule, and a deeper connection with nature.

6. What are the challenges of boondocking/ dry camping?

Challenges of boondocking and dry camping may include a lack of amenities, safety concerns, bad weather, and difficulty finding suitable locations. I look at it as a glass is half-full situation …

7. How do I find boondocking and dry camping locations?

There are several resources for finding boondocking and dry camping locations, including public land websites, camping apps, and online forums dedicated to off-grid camping.

8. Can I have a campfire while boondocking or dry camping?

Campfires may be allowed at some boondocking and dry camping locations, but it is important to check for local fire restrictions and use responsible fire safety practices. Obviously, you can’t light a fire and start singing kumbaya in the local Walmart parking lot, but some BLM sites allow it — the fire, not the singing.

9. What should I do with my waste while boondocking?

Proper waste disposal while boondocking or dry camping is important for maintaining the environment and avoiding health risks. Portable toilets and waste bags should be disposed of according to local regulations. Black and gray water should be disposed of once you reach sewer hookups again.

Ready to Try Boondocking?

Check out these great boondocking sites: