How To Find Free Camping: Secret Spots & Tips for Budget Adventures

How to Find Free Camping? Free camping, also called boondocking or dispersed camping, involves finding places to camp without paying fees. It usually happens on public lands like those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or National Forest Service. You can use free camping apps and online resources to locate these spots, keeping in mind that there may be rules and restrictions you’ll need to follow. This guide will show you how to find free camping, including secret spots and tips for budget adventures.

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The Allure of Free Camping

Free camping offers more than just savings. It is a chance to connect with nature in a more intimate way. Away from crowded campgrounds, you can enjoy peace and quiet. It is also a great way to explore new areas without spending a lot of money.

• Save Money: The most obvious benefit. Campground fees can add up quickly, especially on long trips.
• Privacy and Seclusion: Dispersed camping locations often provide more privacy than developed campgrounds.
• Flexibility: You’re not tied to reservations or specific campsites.
• Adventure: Finding your own spot adds an element of excitement to your trip.

Where to Look: Public Lands are Key

Most free camping happens on land owned by the public. These lands are managed by government agencies.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Camping

BLM land is a great place to start your search for free campsites. The BLM manages millions of acres across the United States, mostly in the western states.

• What to Expect: BLM land often has few or no amenities. This means no restrooms, picnic tables, or trash cans.
• Rules and Regulations: BLM camping usually allows stays of up to 14 days in a 28-day period. Check local rules on the BLM website or at a local BLM office.
• Finding BLM Land: Use the BLM’s online maps or their “Land Management Locator” tool. You can also use free camping apps that show BLM boundaries.

National Forest Camping Free

National Forests also offer many free camping options. Like BLM land, these areas are usually less developed than formal campgrounds.

• What to Expect: Similar to BLM land, expect minimal amenities.
• Rules and Regulations: National Forest Service (NFS) camping usually allows stays of up to 14 days in a 30-day period. Check local NFS office for area-specific rules.
• Finding National Forest Land: Use the NFS website or their Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs), which show roads open to vehicles. Free camping apps can also help.

Other Public Lands

While BLM and National Forest lands are the most common, other options exist:

• State Trust Lands: Some states allow camping on State Trust Lands, often for a fee, but sometimes free with a permit.
• Water Management Districts: In some areas, you can camp for free near lakes or rivers managed by water districts.

How to Find Free Campsites: Tools and Techniques

Finding free camping requires research and a willingness to explore. Here are several tools and techniques to help you.

Free Camping Apps

Several apps are designed to help you find free campsites. These apps use crowdsourced data and maps to show potential locations.

App Name	Features	Cost
FreeRoam	Maps, filters, offline access, user reviews.	Free / Paid
iOverlander	Campsites, water sources, dump stations, user reviews.	Free
Campendium	Campsites, reviews, amenities, cell service info.	Free / Paid
The Dyrt	Campsites, reviews, photos, trip planning tools.	Free / Paid
Allstays (iOS Only)	Filters for free camping, RV parks, and more.	Paid

Online Resources

Websites and forums can provide valuable information about free camping.

• BLM and National Forest Service Websites: These sites have maps, regulations, and alerts about closures.
• Campendium: A website with user-submitted reviews and information about campsites.
• Freecampsites.net: A crowdsourced website dedicated to listing free camping locations.
• RV forums and blogs: Many RVers share their free camping experiences and tips online.

Maps

Paper maps and online maps are essential for finding and navigating to free campsites.

• BLM and National Forest Maps: These maps show land boundaries, roads, and points of interest.
• Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs): These maps show which roads are open to vehicle traffic in National Forests.
• Google Maps and Satellite Imagery: Use satellite view to scout potential campsites and access roads.

Talking to Locals

Don’t underestimate the power of local knowledge.

• Visit local ranger stations or visitor centers: Rangers can provide information about free camping in the area.
• Talk to people in nearby towns: Locals may know about hidden gems and little-known camping spots.

Boondocking Tips: Making the Most of Free Camping

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, requires some preparation and self-sufficiency. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Planning and Preparation

• Research: Before you go, research the area and potential campsites. Check for any restrictions or fire bans.
• Tell Someone Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your itinerary and expected return date.
• Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, food, and supplies. You won’t have access to amenities like stores or water sources.
• Check the Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Water Management

• Bring Enough Water: Calculate how much water you’ll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Water Filtration: Consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets as a backup.
• Conserve Water: Be mindful of your water usage. Take short showers and avoid wasting water.

Power

• Solar Power: Solar panels can be a great way to generate electricity for lights, charging devices, and running small appliances.
• Generator: A generator can provide more power, but be aware of noise restrictions and impacts on other campers.
• Battery Bank: A battery bank can store power from solar panels or a generator.

Waste Management

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Leave no trace of your visit. Pack out all trash and waste.
• Proper Sanitation: Dig a cat hole (6-8 inches deep) for human waste and bury it away from water sources.
• Grey Water Disposal: Dispose of grey water (water from washing dishes or showering) responsibly. Avoid dumping it near water sources or campsites.

Safety

• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of local wildlife and take precautions to avoid encounters. Store food properly and never feed animals.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know how to use it.
• Communication: Cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Consider bringing a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies.
• Fire Safety: Be extremely careful with fire. Check for fire bans and clear a wide area around your campfire. Never leave a fire unattended.

Free Overnight Parking RV

Finding free overnight parking for RVs can be tricky, but it’s possible with some planning.

• Rest Areas: Some rest areas allow overnight parking for RVs, but check local regulations.
• Truck Stops: Truck stops often have designated areas for RV parking, but be prepared for noise and crowds.
• Big Box Stores: Some stores like Walmart and Cabela’s allow overnight RV parking, but check with the store manager first.
• Casinos: Many casinos allow free overnight RV parking, hoping you’ll spend money inside.
• Harvest Hosts/ Boondockers Welcome: Memberships that allow RVers to stay overnight on private property, often for free or a small fee.

Considerations for Free Overnight RV Parking

• Noise: Be prepared for noise from traffic, trucks, or other RVs.
• Security: Park in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings.
• Amenities: Don’t expect amenities like hookups or restrooms.
• Regulations: Always check local regulations and get permission before parking overnight.

Cheap Camping Alternatives

If free camping isn’t for you, here are some cheap camping alternatives:

• State Parks: State parks often have lower camping fees than private campgrounds.
• County Parks: County parks can be even cheaper than state parks.
• Discount Camping Clubs: Clubs like Passport America offer discounts at participating campgrounds.
• Workamping: Workamping involves working at a campground or RV park in exchange for free or discounted camping.

Key Takeaways for Finding Free Camping

• Research is Key: Thoroughly research potential campsites and regulations.
• Be Self-Sufficient: Boondocking requires self-sufficiency. Bring all the supplies you need.
• Leave No Trace: Protect the environment by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact.
• Safety First: Prioritize safety by being aware of wildlife, carrying a first aid kit, and having a communication plan.
• Embrace the Adventure: Finding free camping can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is dispersed camping?

Dispersed camping is camping outside of developed campgrounds, usually on public lands like BLM or National Forest land. It’s free but typically offers no amenities.

Can I have a campfire when dispersed camping?

It depends. Check for fire restrictions in the area. If fires are allowed, clear a wide area around your campfire and never leave it unattended.

Who is responsible for waste disposal during dispersed camping?

You are! Pack out all trash and waste. Dig a cat hole for human waste and bury it away from water sources.

What are some free camping resources online?

Great resources include the BLM and National Forest Service websites, free camping apps like FreeRoam and iOverlander, and websites like Freecampsites.net.

What are some cheap camping alternatives if I can’t find free camping near me?

Consider state parks, county parks, discount camping clubs, or workamping opportunities.