How To Avoid RVs While Tent Camping: Embrace Dispersed Sites

How do you avoid RVs while tent camping? The best way to avoid RVs while tent camping is to embrace dispersed camping, also known as boondocking or primitive camping. This involves camping on public lands outside of designated campgrounds, offering more seclusion and a greater chance of escaping the RV crowd. This article will delve into how to find, prepare for, and enjoy RV-free tent camping experiences.

Image Source: files.nc.gov

Why Seek RV-Free Tent Camping?

For many, the appeal of tent camping lies in its simplicity and connection with nature. However, the presence of RVs can sometimes detract from this experience. Here’s why you might want to seek out RV-free options:

• Noise Reduction: RV generators, air conditioners, and televisions can create unwanted noise in a natural setting.
• Crowd Avoidance: Designated RV campsites are often densely populated, diminishing the feeling of solitude.
• Light Pollution: RVs frequently use bright lights, disrupting the natural darkness and impacting stargazing opportunities.
• Enhanced Privacy: Tent camping privacy strategies are easier to implement when you’re not surrounded by neighboring RVs.
• True Wilderness Experience: Many tent campers seek a deeper connection with nature, which can be difficult to achieve in RV-dominated campgrounds.

Discovering Dispersed Camping Locations

Dispersed camping offers a sanctuary from RVs, but finding the right spot requires some research and planning.

Public Lands are Key

The vast majority of dispersed camping opportunities exist on public lands managed by agencies like:

• The Bureau of Land Management (BLM): The BLM oversees millions of acres of land, primarily in the western United States, offering abundant dispersed camping options.
• The U.S. Forest Service (USFS): The USFS manages national forests and grasslands, also providing numerous dispersed camping areas.

Utilizing Online Resources

Several online resources can help you locate dispersed camping sites:

• Freecampsites.net: A user-generated website that lists free camping locations, including dispersed sites.
• Campendium: A website and app that provides information on campgrounds and dispersed camping, including user reviews and photos.
• Allstays: A comprehensive camping app that includes information on various camping options, including dispersed sites.
• Gaia GPS: A mapping app popular among backpackers and off-roaders, useful for identifying public lands and potential campsites.

Contacting Local Land Management Agencies

The most reliable way to find dispersed camping is to contact the local BLM or USFS office. They can provide information on:

• Designated Dispersed Camping Areas: Some areas have specific guidelines or restrictions for dispersed camping.
• Road Conditions: Access roads to dispersed campsites can be rough; inquire about road conditions before you go.
• Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions are common in dry areas, especially during the summer.
• Permits and Fees: While dispersed camping is typically free, some areas may require permits for certain activities or lengths of stay.

Reading Maps Carefully

Topographic maps and land ownership maps are invaluable tools for finding dispersed camping sites.

• Topographic Maps: These maps show the elevation and terrain of an area, helping you identify potential campsites and assess the difficulty of access.
• Land Ownership Maps: These maps clearly show the boundaries between public and private land, ensuring you camp legally.

Exploring Unpaved Roads

Many dispersed campsites are located along unpaved forest service roads or BLM roads. Drive slowly and carefully, looking for established pull-offs or clearings that have been used as campsites before.

Preparing for Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping requires more preparation than camping in a designated campground. Since you’ll be without amenities, you need to be self-sufficient.

Essential Gear

• Water: Bring plenty of water, or a reliable water filter or purification system. A general rule is one gallon per person per day.
• Food: Pack all your meals and snacks, ensuring they are easy to prepare and store.
• Shelter: A sturdy tent is essential for protection from the elements.
• Sleeping Bag and Pad: Choose a sleeping bag appropriate for the expected temperatures, and a comfortable sleeping pad.
• Cooking Supplies: Bring a portable stove, cookware, utensils, and fuel.
• Navigation Tools: Carry a map, compass, and GPS device, and know how to use them.
• First-Aid Kit: A comprehensive first-aid kit is crucial for dealing with injuries or illnesses.
• Waste Disposal: Pack out all your trash, including food scraps and toilet paper.
• Toiletries: Bring biodegradable soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items.
• Lighting: A headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating in the dark.
• Fire Starter: Matches, a lighter, or fire starter cubes are necessary for building a campfire (if permitted).
• Shovel or Trowel: For burying human waste.
• Bear Canister: In bear country, use a bear canister to store food and scented items safely.

Water Considerations

Since you won’t have access to potable water, you need to plan accordingly.

• Carry Enough Water: Calculate your water needs based on the length of your trip and the number of people in your group.
• Water Filtration/Purification: If you plan to collect water from natural sources, use a reliable water filter or purification system to remove bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
• Water Storage: Use durable water containers to store your water safely.

Waste Management

Proper waste disposal is crucial for protecting the environment.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Carry out everything you carry in, including trash, food scraps, and toilet paper.
• Bury Human Waste: Dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. Bury your waste and cover it with soil.
• Use Biodegradable Soap: When washing, use biodegradable soap and do it away from water sources.

Camping Security Tips

Camping security is paramount. When venturing into remote or unfamiliar environments, taking proactive measures to protect yourself and your belongings becomes essential.

• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Always let someone know your itinerary, including your destination, planned route, and expected return date.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any potential hazards, such as wildlife or unstable terrain.
• Store Food Properly: Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it from a tree to prevent attracting animals.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables out of sight and lock your vehicle when you’re away from your campsite.
• Carry a Communication Device: Bring a cell phone, satellite phone, or personal locator beacon (PLB) in case of an emergency.
• Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, leave the area.

Enjoying RV-Free Tent Camping

Once you’ve found the perfect dispersed campsite, it’s time to relax and enjoy the experience.

Leave No Trace Principles

Follow the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll be visiting.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Use established trails and campsites whenever possible.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, food scraps, and toilet paper.
4. Leave What You Find: Leave natural objects as you find them.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camp stove for cooking and only build a campfire when permitted. Keep fires small and contained.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect the peace and quiet of the wilderness.

Quiet Tent Camping Near RVs: Minimizing RV Noise

Even when dispersed camping, you might occasionally encounter RVs nearby. Here’s how to minimize the impact of RV noise:

• Distance: Choose a campsite that is as far away from potential RV camping areas as possible.
• Natural Barriers: Look for campsites that are shielded by trees, hills, or other natural barriers that can help block sound.
• White Noise: Use a white noise app or a portable fan to create a background noise that can mask the sound of RV generators or other noises.
• Earplugs: Wear earplugs at night to block out unwanted noise.
• Politely Communicate: If the noise is excessive, politely ask your neighbors to keep it down.

Tent Camping Privacy Strategies

Maximize your privacy while tent camping:

• Choose a Secluded Campsite: Look for campsites that are hidden from view of roads or other campsites.
• Use Natural Barriers: Position your tent behind trees, bushes, or other natural barriers to create a visual screen.
• Hang Tarps or Screens: Use tarps or portable screens to create a privacy barrier around your campsite.
• Be Mindful of Noise: Keep your voices down and avoid making unnecessary noise.

RV Campsite Etiquette (Even When Avoiding Them)

Even when trying to avoid RVs, it’s helpful to know basic rv campsite etiquette, in case you do encounter them, to maintain peaceful co-existence:

• Respect Quiet Hours: Most campgrounds have quiet hours; respect these hours to avoid disturbing other campers.
• Keep Your Campsite Clean: Keep your campsite clean and tidy to avoid attracting pests or creating a mess.
• Be Mindful of Generator Use: Run generators only during designated hours and avoid running them near other campsites.
• Control Your Pets: Keep your pets on a leash and clean up after them.
• Be Considerate of Others: Be respectful of other campers’ privacy and space.

Stealth Camping Near RVs

While not recommended as a primary strategy, stealth camping (camping discreetly in areas where it may not be explicitly allowed) can be an option in certain situations. Always prioritize legality and safety.

• Research Local Regulations: Before stealth camping, thoroughly research local regulations to ensure it’s not prohibited.
• Choose a Hidden Campsite: Select a campsite that is well-hidden and out of sight from roads and trails.
• Arrive Late, Leave Early: Set up camp late in the evening and pack up early in the morning to minimize your visibility.
• Minimize Your Impact: Leave no trace of your presence.
• Be Prepared to Move: Be prepared to move your campsite if you are asked to do so by a park ranger or landowner.

Important Disclaimer: Stealth camping carries inherent risks. Always prioritize legality and safety, and be prepared to move if necessary.

Alternatives to Dispersed Camping

If dispersed camping isn’t feasible, consider these alternatives for avoiding crowded campgrounds:

• Off-Season Camping: Camp during the off-season (spring or fall) when campgrounds are less crowded.
• Weekday Camping: Camp during the week when campgrounds are less busy than on weekends.
• Smaller Campgrounds: Choose smaller campgrounds that are less likely to attract large RVs.
• State Parks: State parks often offer more secluded campsites than national parks.
• Private Campgrounds: Private campgrounds can be a good option if you’re looking for amenities and don’t mind paying a fee.

Fathoming RV Generator Avoidance

RV generators can be a major source of noise pollution. Understanding how to avoid them can significantly enhance your camping experience.

Generator-Free Zones

Seek out campgrounds or dispersed camping areas that have designated generator-free zones. These areas are specifically designed to provide a quieter camping experience.

Solar Power

Consider using solar power to charge your electronic devices instead of relying on a generator. Portable solar panels are a lightweight and eco-friendly option.

Battery Packs

Invest in a portable battery pack to power your devices. Battery packs can be charged at home or in your car and provide a silent source of power.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is dispersed camping always free?

A: Yes, dispersed camping on BLM and USFS land is typically free. However, some areas may require permits for certain activities or lengths of stay.

Q: Can I have a campfire while dispersed camping?

A: Campfires are usually allowed, but fire restrictions are common, especially during dry seasons. Check with the local land management agency for current fire restrictions.

Q: What is rv campsite etiquette?

A: RV campsite etiquette includes respecting quiet hours, keeping your campsite clean, being mindful of generator use, controlling your pets, and being considerate of other campers’ privacy and space.

Q: What is tent camping privacy strategies?

A: Tent camping privacy strategies involve choosing a secluded campsite, using natural barriers, hanging tarps or screens, and being mindful of noise.

Q: What is secluded tent camping locations?

A: Secluded tent camping locations are often found in dispersed camping areas on public lands, away from designated campgrounds and roads.

Q: Is stealth camping near RVs safe?

A: Stealth camping carries inherent risks. It’s essential to research local regulations, choose a hidden campsite, minimize your impact, and be prepared to move if necessary. Prioritize legality and safety at all times.

Q: What are remote tent camping near RVs options?

A: Remote tent camping options near RVs might involve dispersed camping near established campgrounds, where you can find secluded spots away from the main RV areas. Look for areas with natural barriers or designated generator-free zones to minimize noise.