What Is Boondocking (Dry Camping)?
Boondocking means camping in your RV without hookups—no electricity, no water, and no sewer connections. You’re relying entirely on your RV’s onboard systems. This type of camping is necessary for remote, off trail locations, most national park campgrounds or for short overnighters at truck stops or other rest areas.
Dry camping and boondocking are often used interchangeably, though some people use “boondocking” to describe camping in remote areas, while “dry camping” can also include places like parking lots.
Most Common Places to Boondock
1. Public Lands
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land – Found mostly in the western U.S. Great for scenic, remote boondocking.
- National Forests & Seashores– You can often camp up to 14 days in many National Forests for free.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) – Some allow dispersed camping—check local rules.
2. Walmart & Retail Parking Lots
- Many Walmart stores allow overnight stays (always ask the manager first!).
- Some Cabela’s, Cracker Barrel, and Camping World locations are RV-friendly.
3. Truck Stops & Rest Areas
- Locations like Love’s, Pilot, or Flying J often welcome overnight RVers.
- Check state laws—some rest areas have time limits or overnight restrictions.
4. Harvest Hosts & Boondockers Welcome
- Stay at farms, wineries, and private properties (membership required).
- Great for unique, safe overnight stays—no hookups but lots of charm.
Top Websites & Apps to Find Free Boondocking Spots
- FreeCampsites.net – User-reviewed boondocking sites across the U.S.
- Campendium – Great for reviews, cell coverage, and finding free camping.
- iOverlander – Popular with vanlifers and international travelers.
- The Dyrt (Pro version) – Includes public land maps and offline access.
- US Public Lands app – Helps you find legal camping on federal land.
Boondocking Tips
- Conserve water and power – Take navy showers, switch to LED lights, and monitor your battery levels.
- Use solar panels or a generator – To keep your battery charged.
- Pack out trash – Leave no trace. Always clean up your campsite.
- Know your limits – Most public lands have a 14-day stay limit.
- Check local fire restrictions – Especially in dry or wildfire-prone areas.
- Have a plan for waste disposal – Use dump stations and stay sanitary.
Popular Free Boondocking Locations in the U.S.
Western States
Location | State | Why It’s Great |
Mojave Desert BLM Land | California/Nevada | Wide-open desert views, stargazing |
Coconino National Forest | Arizona | Near Sedona, pine forests and red rock views |
Alabama Hills | California | Movie-like scenery with mountain backdrops |
Grand Staircase-Escalante | Utah | Remote desert beauty, hiking galore |
Badlands National Park (Dispersed) | South Dakota | Free camping just outside the park entrance |
Magnolia Beach | Texas | Free beach camping right on the Gulf Coast |
Valley of the Gods | Utah | Mini Monument Valley with epic views |
Popular Free Boondocking Locations in the U.S.
Western States
Location | State | Why It’s Great |
Mojave Desert BLM Land | California/Nevada | Wide-open desert views, stargazing |
Coconino National Forest | Arizona | Near Sedona, pine forests and red rock views |
Alabama Hills | California | Movie-like scenery with mountain backdrops |
Grand Staircase-Escalante | Utah | Remote desert beauty, hiking galore |
Badlands National Park (Dispersed) | South Dakota | Free camping just outside the park entrance |
Magnolia Beach | Texas | Free beach camping right on the Gulf Coast |
Valley of the Gods | Utah | Mini Monument Valley with epic views |
Boondocking can really open up options for camping and provide a sense of freedom while on the road. So fill up your water tank, charge your batteries, and hit the road.
