Hey there, fellow roadtrippers and wanderlusters, welcome to the wild and wonderful world of boondocking! If you’ve ever dreamed of living life on the open road, and sleeping under the starlit sky, this post is for you. We’re going to take you on a trip through the ins and outs of boondocking, sharing insights based on our experiences with #vanlife thus far. So buckle up and prepare to learn Everything You Need to Know About Boondocking.
What Is Boondocking?
Let’s start with the basics. Boondocking, a.k.a. “dispersed camping,” “wild camping,” “dry camping,” is the art of camping without the comforts of campgrounds or RV parks. The appeal of boondocking is pretty straightforward: it’s all about freedom, self-sufficiency, and a genuine connection with nature. When you go boondocking, you’re not tethered to amenities like electrical hookups, water, or sewage facilities. It’s the kind of off-grid living that speaks to the adventurous types who prefer the sounds of rustling leaves and wildlife and the twinkling of stars to the sights and sounds of cities or towns. You’re out there in the great wide open, exploring off-the-beaten-path areas, and taking a walk on the wild side!
Is Boondocking Always Free?
The short answwer is no, boondocking isn’t always free – but more times than not, it is. Frankly, when most people consider boondocking, the expectation is that there’s no cost for living “in the wild” with no ammenities. You might come across some private land owners that charge a small fee to access their boondocking spots, but there many spots on public lands, such as Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas or national forests, that are 100% free. At the same time, some of those BLM or national forests may also charge a small fee of $10-15, or have some spots with a small fee and other more dispersed spots for free – it just varies, especially by region. For instance, in the western part of the U.S. you’ll find a lot more boondocking opportunities than in the east. Ultimately, even if you find yourself payng a small fee, it’s certainly more budget-friendly compared to RV parks or campgrounds. In essence, you’re paying for the freedom to camp wherever your heart desires. The price is a small one to pay for the unbeatable experience of waking up to a serene sunrise in the heart of Mother Nature.
How Do I Find Boondocking Spots?
So, you’ve got the hankerin’ to give boondocking a try, but where to you start? Don’t sweat it, we’ve got a treasure trove of resources for you to keep in your back pocket.
Boondocking Apps To the Rescue!
These are a few of our favorite apps for finding boondocking spots. Some are completely free, and some have memberships but also offer a free version with some limitations on what information is avaialble to see. Our suggestion is to download all of them (that part’s free!), experiment, and see which work best for you and whether or not you feel the need to subscribe. Tbh, we use them all, because sometimes what one has, the other doesn’t. Or, you can use them all to get a consensus on a spot from different reviewrs. So keep your options open! Here are a few apps you should use:
- Campendium
A beloved app in the boondocking community, Campendium offers a vast database of boondocking spots, along with reviews, photos, and detailed information to help you make informed choices. It’s one of our two most go-to apps, and we even splashed out on the annual subscription, which has been invaluable thus far.
- iOverlander
This community-driven app is our second most-used resource for finding our boondocking spots. It’s a fantastic resource for finding off-the-grid campsites, free or otherwise, and offers user-generated reviews and ratings.
- FreeRoam
Designed specifically for boondockers, FreeRoam lets you search for free camping sites and provides essential information about each spot.
- Gaia GPS
With Gaia GPS, you’ll have access to an extensive library of maps and navigation tools, making it easier to plan your boondocking adventure and navigate through the wilderness.
- Google Maps
That’s right. Don’t underestimate the power of good ol’ Google Maps. You can find many boondocking spots by searching for “dispersed camping” or similar terms in whatever area you’re interested in.
BLM Lands
One of the crown jewels for boondockers is Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. BLM is a federal agency that manages vast tracts of public land in the United States – over 245 million acres! These lands are often free to camp and prime locations for boondocking, offering scenic views, wildlife, and that sense of pure freedom that’s hard to find anywhere else.
To find boondocking spots on BLM lands, visit the BLM’s official website and check their interactive maps or download their maps and brochures. Keep in mind that regulations and rules vary from one BLM area to another, so always check for specific guidelines before setting up camp. But be a responsible boondocker. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment. The idea is to leave the wilderness just as you found it, so others can enjoy it too.
What To Know Before You Boondock
Boondocking can be a great way to experience the outdoors and get away from it all, but it is important to be prepared before you go. You will need to have a self-contained RV or camper, and you will need to bring all of your own water, food, and supplies. You will also need to be aware of the rules and regulations in the area where you are boondocking, as some areas may have restrictions on where you can camp.
Road Conditions
When you’re boondocking, the road less traveled is often your destination. So, make sure your rig is up to the task. The apps above usually give specifics on road types and conditions, and the user-reviews with firsthand accounts are an even bigger help. Check the road conditions, and make sure you’ve got a suitable set of good tires and perhaps even a GPS designed for off-road adventures. If one of those is out of your budget, you can download maps for offline use, prior to heading for that sweet spot in the middle of nowhere. Also, when checkig out boondocking spots, pay attention to how far off the main roads the actual boondocking spots are. Sometimes it’s several miles of varying degrees of rough road before getting to the boondocking sites. Consider how much sense it makes for your situation. If you’ll only be there one night, that’s a long, rough drive in and out. If you plan to stay for week or so, then maybe that’s ok. It’s really up to you and what your needs and tolerances are.
Water and Waste Management
Since you won’t have hookups, you’ll need to manage your water and waste. You’ll need a freshwater tank and a gray water tank (or carry containers for each, if you’re not in a van or other rig with mounted tanks). Additionally, consider a composting or compost toilet (there’s a difference!), which is a game-changer in remote locations. With regard to both your water and toilet, it helps to have a good sense of your usage. How much water do you go through in a day? How long can your toilet situation go before needing to be dumped? Is your gray water tank smaller than your fresh water tank, and how many days before that needs emptying? You probably need to spend some time boondocking to have the real-life answers to those questions, but it’s really important. It would be a good idea to make your first boondocking adventure anywhere from 1-3 days, depending on your setup. A test run like that can give you some sense of your usage, without committing to a longer off-grid stint than you can handle.
Solar Power
To keep your gadgets charged and the lights on, a solar power setup is a wise investment. Generating electricity from the sun allows you to live off the grid more comfortably – that is, assuming you get sunny days. there are different options for solar, from a roof-mounted, hard-wired setup to portable panels hat you can set out in the sun at your camp site.
Proper Gear
This depends on what your lifestyle is like, and how you’ll be boondocking. Do you have a campervan, RV, car, or other vehicle, or will you be full-on camping under the stars? Whatever your camping style, don’t forget to pack the appropriate essentials. Things like a good tent, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and clothing suitable for changing weather conditions come to mind. Being as prepared as possible is everything, for both your comfort and safety. And if you’re looking to boondock in your campervan like us, this is a great resource for boondocking essentials: 15 Van Build Must-Haves for Living Your Best #Vanlife
Boondocking vs. RV Parks and Campgrounds – Which Is Better?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: why should you choose boondocking over a nice, cozy RV park or campground? Well, this is up to you to decide what you consider “better ” for your situation, and there’s no right or wrong answer. But there are some very solid reasons why boondocking is better than an RV Park or campground:
Freedom
Boondocking screams freedom. You’re not tied to a reservation or schedule, and you can change your location as you please. The world (of available boondocking options) is your oyster.
Cost-Effectiveness
RV parks and campgrounds can be expensive. Even inexpensive, $10-20 sites add up fast if you’re out on the road for long stretches. Boondocking on the other hand is budget-friendly, and the experiences it can offer are priceless.
Peace and Quiet (usually)
Boondocking allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Much less chance of noisy neighbors – usually, less crowds (if any), just you and the wilderness.
Adventure
If you crave adventure – and let’s face it, if you’re reading this you do – boondocking is your jam. You’ll explore remote, untouched areas, uncover hidden gems, and create stories that’ll last a lifetime.
What Are the Perks of Boondocking?
Boondocking is not just about “surviving” off the grid, it’s thriving outdoors, in nature! Here are some of the awesome perks that come with boondocking:
Wildlife Adventures
This is number one for us. Spotting new wildlife that we haven’t seen in person before. Bison, moose, elk, eagles, prairie dogs, pronghorn, the sky’s the limit. You’re bound to have unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Stargazing
Under the vast, unpolluted skies of boondocking locations, you’ll have a front-row seat to the cosmos.
Tranquility
The hustle and bustle of towns and cities melts away as you take in the stillness of the great outdoors. That is, unless you’ve got that boondocker who loves to bring their loud music with them into the wild. Don’t be that boondocker.
Unique Locations
Boondocking spots are often tucked away in unique locales – near rivers, lakes, mountains, or even the beach. Or maybe the desert is more your thing. Sometimes it’s as simple as a trailhead, but with the possibility of bison showing up in the field, like a spot we had in Coloroado (they didn’t show up). No matter, you’ll wake up to stunning scenery every day.
Sustainability
Boondocking encourages a greener lifestyle. You’ll use fewer resources and have a lower carbon footprint, making it an environmentally friendly choice. And please, practice the principals Leave No Trace.
What Are the Downsides To Boondocking?
Real talk – boondocking isn’t all unicorns and sugar plums. There are some negatives to consider:
Limited Amenities
Without the comforts of places like RV Parks, you’ll have to fend for yourself.
Finding the Perfect Spot
While there are many great boondocking spots, finding the ideal one can be a bit of a treasure hunt. Sometimes, you’ll need to compromise on certain amenities or surroundings. And sometimes, you might not get a spot, as they can be limited.
Internet Access and/or Cell Service (Often a Lack Thereof)
The struggle is real. If you rely heavily on the internet, you might face connectivity issues in remote boondocking locations. However, this can also be seen as a digital detox opportunity!
Limited Stay Durations Sometimes Exist
Many boondocking spots have time limits, often to prevent overuse and protect the environment. While many BLM lands have a 14-day max, that’s not always the case. Be prepared to move on after a few days, just to be safe, unless you know otherwise.
In Conclusion
Boondocking isn’t just a way to travel, it’s a way of life. It’s about embracing the unknown, immersing yourself in nature, and living life on your own terms. If you’re a newbie, this guide should give you everything you need to know about boondocking. So, go for it! Get out there and let the road guide you. Happy boondocking, fellow wanderer, and may your journey be as exciting as your next spot!
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