The Absolute Newbie’s Guide to Boondocking

A lot of folks reminisce about the spontaneity of loading up their car, driving anywhere, and just camping—free of the hassles of reservations, crowds, and noise. A little secret: You can still do that. It’s called boondocking. This type of camping is free, allows you to explore new places, and can inject some adventure into your trips. That said, you’ll need to put in more work and accept that some trips won’t go according to plan.

With the increased demand for a limited number of campsites, many are exploring alternatives to standard parks and campgrounds. Here at Campnab, our mission is to help people go camping. Although our app isn’t built for boondocking, we wanted to share some information about this type of camping as it represents another opportunity for campers like you.

I hope this article offers you some helpful information and fills in any questions you have about boondocking.  In the future, I’ll return with some more detailed posts on this topic. I should also note that I sometimes repeat certain points as the topics in this article overlap a bit. As much as I tried to avoid doing this, some repetition is inevitable.

An introduction to boondocking

What is boondocking?

Boondocking involves camping in your RV on public land (for free), without any hookups. This requires boondockers to be self-contained and bring their own water supply, power system, and waste water management. Fun fact: The term boondocking comes from the word “boondocks” (remote rural areas), which is based on the Talalog word for mountain: “bundók”.

There are a few different terms related to this type of camping. I’ll speak to each of those in a moment. The word boondocking tends to be used to reference RVing. If you do this sort of camping in a tent, you might call it wild camping. There’s also dry camping, but that term is more about hook-ups. (Camping without hookups in a campground is considered dry camping.) Don’t sweat this one, though. There’s no test for this stuff.

When I was a kid, we didn’t say boondocking. We just called it camping. The fun part about it was the freedom. We weren’t driving to a set location to find ourselves sandwiched between two other full campsites. We got in the Chevy van, drove in some direction, and found a place to set up. (Admittedly, the vastness of B.C.’s interior made this easier.)

Another neat aspect of camping in this way is the opportunity to explore places you otherwise might not have known of. Sometimes it won’t work out, and you’ll spend the night in a not-so-great spot. Other times, you’ll have a beautiful slice of nature all to yourself. Boondocking requires you to be a little more adventurous, self-reliant, and willing to adapt. That’s part of the fun!

What are the benefits of boondocking?

Let’s face it, camping isn’t cheap. Fuel and gear costs are one thing, but campground and RV park fees also add up. With boondocking you can avoid these fees altogether. Plus, you can typically stay in one spot for a while, which reduces fuel costs. I figure that the cheaper I can travel, the more frequently I can go. If you share this mindset, boondocking might work out nicely for you.

Boondocking isn’t fancy, nor is it expensive. You can boondock in a vast number of places, with even a primitive rig. Some fancy-schmancy RV parks prohibit campers with older rigs from entering their campgrounds. This isn’t the case with boondocking, so, almost anyone can camp in this way. Plus, when you let go of luxuries like full hookups, you gain a whole lot of freedom to camp as to when, where, and for how long (the lack of campsite fees helps with this) you choose. You can reallocate all the dough you saved to other activities, trips, or beer. 😉

The further I get from structure, the more I tend to appreciate nature for what it is. Some campgrounds are essentially just forested parking lots. These are fine, especially if good trails are nearby. That said, pulling up to a remote spot with no one in earshot is different. These experiences are free of the guide rails and rules that are seemingly inescapable in our “civilized” world.

Breaking out of the confines of structured campgrounds helps you see what you can achieve on your own. You learn that you can manage without flush toilets, a park ranger, or a manicured camping surface. You can scout an area for yourself and set up where you’d like. For those who enjoy their privacy and independence, boondocking offers up a simple alternative to crowded RV parks.

I remember one undeveloped riverside spot we stayed in, 30+ years ago, in Northern BC. It was just the four of us camped by the side of a river for the night. (The bear-to-human ratio there was probably 10:1.) The name of the place escapes me but that time out in the middle of nowhere is with me for life. As you travel further, you start to see animals living as they should, and the stars pop from the night sky. It’s sort of like seeing nature in high def.

Update: My parents remembered the name of this place. It’s Racing River. Turns out that those clever folks at Google drove their Steet View car past it. Curious? You can check it out here.

Where do people go boondocking?

Unlike sold-out campgrounds near large cities, there’s a whole lot of uninhabited land you can camp at, which you needn’t book six months in advance. I’m in Canada, but I appreciate that you might be camping in the United States. For this reason, I’ll provide some info on boondocking in both.

In the United States a number of national forests and areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) are open to campers for boondocking. Their georeferenced PDF maps will help you scout areas where you might be allowed to stay. Just keep your eyes peeled for level spots that’ll accommodate your rig, and avoid areas with “no camping” signs. Note: These lands are more common in the U.S.’ western half.

Some state and national parks also contain designated dispersed camping areas. In the U.S. you can generally boondock for up to 14 days. Some areas have limits of less than a week, though. So, do your research, download some boondocking apps, and try to verify what the area’s duration restrictions might be—and try to be flexible if the destination doesn’t work out as you had hoped.

Roughly 90% of Canada’s land is public and considered “crown land” (in reference to the monarchy). Canadians can camp on crown land for up to 21 days in one place. Non-residents need to buy a camping permit to do so. These are typically inexpensive. You can see what areas are crown land by viewing official province/territory maps. (I’ll post an article with links to these in the future.) In B.C., you can also camp at many Rec. sites for free, for up to 14 days.

In a pinch, you can boondock in the city at rest stops and visitor information center’s parking lots (this is also referred to as lotdocking). Just steer clear of ones that specify “no overnight parking”. Truck stops sometimes allow for bookdocking but are generally intended for commercial truckers, not RVers. If you’re unsure, just ask. Also: Try to arrive late and leave early.

Businesses like Walmart, Cracker Barrel, Cabela’s, and Camping World often allow you to boondock in their parking lots overnight. Check in advance that the location allows for you to stay, honor any sign-in procedures, and spend a few bucks there to spread some goodwill. To me, though, camping in a parking lot isn’t really the point of boondocking. It’s just a stop-gap measure until you can get where you want.

How to prepare for Boondocking

Self-contained RV requirements

At home, you probably don’t give your toilet bowl, sink, or power outlets much thought. Many campgrounds also offer these amenities. When boondocking, this is not the case. So, you’ll need to determine your needs and come up with a strategy to meet them. Admittedly, these can vary a fair bit depending on your rig.

Most boondockers will have a campervan, motorhome, or trailer with fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks. These allow you to make a cup of tea, wash your hands, and flush your turds. All important things! The capacity of your tanks will affect the duration of your trips, and how much you can indulge your comforts. Remember to keep an eye on tank levels, functions, and leaks.

Power is another matter that will affect your ability to keep food from spoiling, watch a movie, or run an onboard washer/dryer. On the light end, you might just pre-charge a Jackery for your trip. (I consider this a luxury.) If you require more capacity, a generator or solar system can help replenish your batteries as you travel. What you choose is up to you, just think through your requirements. Then build out a system that matches your expectations.

We all have different requirements and expectations when it comes to camping. Most will bring fresh water for cooking and drinking. That said, some skip the grey water and black water tanks altogether and opt for a bucket and bag. Electricity is another matter of preference. Some insist on it; others can do without. I can’t tell you the “right” way to set up your systems. You’ll need to plan, test, and refine your approach until it works for you.

Water, power, and sewer management

As you extend your boondocking trips you’ll establish a rhythm for critical tasks and when they must be performed. The following points offer up some initial thoughts for consideration. Over time, some of these tasks will become second nature.

You should leave for trips with adequate fresh water. The word “adequate” is open to interpretation. My truck and trailer setup is small. If I know that I can refill along the way, I don’t carry excess water—just to avoid any added weight. If you’re on a longer trip, without access to potable water, you’ll probably fill your fresh water tank to capacity. Taking propane? Top up those tanks before any bigger excursions. Conversely, you’ll want to empty your gray and black water tanks before you hit the road.

The longer you can get out of your fresh water supply, the better. Install a low-flow shower head. Shower less frequently than at home—and make your sessions brief. Consider filling a basin for hand washing and use this water a few times before refilling. I like to wipe excess food off my dishes before washing, so I can clean more dishes with minimal water use. This stuff might seem like overkill, but little habits add up.

Pay close attention to power use. The more you conserve on this front, the longer you can boondock—and maintain access to modern conveniences. This begins when outfitting your RV with energy-efficient appliances. After that, it comes down to establishing power-smart habits. Put simply: Shut down lights, appliances, and anything else that draws power when it isn’t in use. If something you use offers an energy-saving setting, use it. You can even plan activities around daylight to avoid unnecessarily tasking systems after hours.

Solar panels, batteries, and generators

If you plan to use electricity for lighting, charging electronics, or running appliances, you’ll need to bring along some kind of power source. Generators are handy and dependable but require fuel and can be noisy. Conversely, a solar system is more sustainable and silent—but requires the presence of that glowing orb with a 696,340 km radius that we all know and love.

Solar power systems come in a variety of configurations and sizes depending on your needs and budget. I wish I could give you a quick and easy answer for how to set yours up, but this one is quite personal. You need to inventory what devices you’re using, determine their power requirements, and then select a system accordingly. This can be daunting at the outset but there are lots of online resources to assist in your research and planning.

Some systems involve a portable battery and a movable (often foldable) set of solar panels. Others hard mount panels to your RV’s roof to charge a hard-wired battery bank located within your rig. Your energy requirements, rig type, and to some extent your boondocking locations, will inform which option is best suited to you.

The size of your solar panel array will inform how quickly you can replenish your batteries. Deep-cycle batteries (AGM or lithium) designed for RV use are commonly recommended. Try to replenish your system on sunny days so you have energy on hand for overcast days. Regular cleaning of your solar panels, and suitable positioning, will help you get the best performance from your panels.

Composting toilets

I’d like to start this section with some potty humor but all of my jokes are crap. (Bazinga.) Anyway, I’ll keep this one brief. Some rigs aren’t set up with full black water systems. The size of your RV and your personal camping style will probably shape whether you opt for one of these or perhaps a bag and bucket (icky but functional).

A nice in-betweeny option is a composting toilet. This unit offers an alternative to traditional RV toilets as it breaks waste down into compost. This means there’s no need to empty your black water tank at sani-dump stations, which are also pretty gross.

Composting toilets aren’t all roses, though. You’ll need to select one that is appropriate to your RV size and usage needs. Additionally, you’ll have to learn how the thing operates and its maintenance requirements. You’ll also need to monitor compost levels, add bulking material, empty compost material, and deal with said material. So, compositing toilets don’t offer a free ride but they are an option to consider.

Types of Boondocking

Wild camping

The term wild camping is largely synonymous with boondocking in that it refers to free camping on public land. You take care of your own water and power needs and go off-grid to places where you might not even see another camper. Wild camping is often tent-based, whereas boondocking tends to be done in an RV.

Moochdocking

Somewhat closer to civilization is moochdocking (sometimes called “driveway camping”). This activity involves camping on someone’s private land for free, with their permission. You might do this on a friend’s land, or through a service that connects you with other like-minded RVers. Moochdocking is often done by RVers who’re traveling through an area and need an inexpensive or free place to stay the night. Leaving a gift for those who let you stay on their land is a nice idea.

Lotdocking

Let’s say you find yourself on the road and unable to reach your destination for the night. You have options and one of them is lotdocking. This form of boondocking isn’t particularly memorable but it’ll work in a pinch. Walmart, Cabela’s, and Cracker Barrel tend to be friendly to lotdocking, but you’ll need to check this with the one you intend to stay near. Ask permission in advance and abide by any rules they set forth. If you need supplies, head inside and stock up as a way to say thanks.

Dispersed camping

Similar to boondocking, dispersed camping involves setting up camp for free on public land. Dispersed camping isn’t limited to RVers. You might camp in this way in your tent, or, you might go cowboy camping. With dispersed camping there are no bathrooms, no water on tap, nor any amenities. Dispersed camping happens on public lands including state and national parks.

Dry camping

Admittedly, many of these boondocking-related terms are pretty similar. The last term on our list is no exception. Dry camping describes camping without hookups (water, sewer, or electricity), which requires the camper to be self-sufficient for the length of their stay. Unlike boondocking, dry camping can also be done at commercial campgrounds and isn’t necessarily free. It tends to be inexpensive, though, as hook-ups aren’t provided.

Legal Aspects of Boondocking

Obtaining permission

Boondocking is a great alternative to more structured camping but is only sustainable if we do it respectfully. One part of this involves getting permission to stay on land. Sometimes this will be implicit. For example, if you check the region’s official maps and see that the area is public land that’s approved for camping in, you’re probably good to go. Still though, if you see a “Private Property” or “No Trespassing” sign, you might want to move along.

Do some research and learn about any rules associated with camping in a particular area. Could be that the state/province requires boondockers to buy a permit. Or, there might be certain regulations or restrictions associated with camping in a place. Some of these will relate to the environment or wildlife in the area, and might affect conservation initiatives. Take time to find out in advance so you can prevent uncomfortable—and avoidable—conflicts.

You shouldn’t ever camp on private property without the owner’s consent. (You might get fined for unauthorized camping, or make someone angry.) If you wish to camp on private property, ask for permission. A lot of folks are cool about this sort of thing, but recognize that it’s the landowner’s right to say “no”. If they do, be polite and don’t push the matter. As an RVer, your actions reflect on the entire community.

Camping on public lands

As noted earlier in this article, public lands often allow boondocking. These areas might include national forests, crown land, BLM lands, rec areas, and other public lands. Given the vast amount of space and variety of areas to experience, boondocking on public lands offers a lot of amazing camping opportunities.

Again, I’ll mention this notion of respect. You and I need to do our best to keep these public lands pristine. Learn about the Leave No Trace program and abide by it. Anything you bring into nature should return with you. If you spot trash left by others, pack it out. Keep an appropriate distance from wildlife and avoid feeding or interfering with them. Put simply: Leave these spaces better than you found them.

Stay limits and designated spaces

Public lands offer a lot of freedom for boondockers to explore. That said, there are often some rules in place, even if it appears that no one is present to enforce them. (So, you and I will continue to follow these rules because it’s the right thing to do.)

In the U.S. there’s commonly a 14-day limit in any one place. In Canada, this extends to 21 days. Please note: These durations vary from one place to the next. Check for yourself and abide by what you discover. Stay limits help move folks around so that areas remain natural and don’t get overused. Such limits also ensure that others get a chance to visit these places.

Some parks identify designated dispersed camping areas. If you find one in the area you’re boondocking, be sure to use it. Doing so helps minimize the impact on the area you’re visiting. In areas in which there’s no designated camping area, suss out the area and work to avoid setting up camp in areas that might cause damage to the local ecosystem.

How to find places to go boondocking

Online resources and apps

Folks like me still turn to printed map books like the Backroad Mapbooks and Milepost Travel Planners which are great travel companions. (They’re also a good backup plan in case your travel apps are inaccessible.) I still have a Milepost from the ’80s floating around that’s fun to look through. It’s a nice reminder of my family’s travels in Northern BC and into the Yukon.

If you’re at your work computer and a little uninterested in the task at hand, you’ll find countless websites that allow you to scout out potential boondocking locations. I spend a lot of my time on the B.C. Rec. Sites map, but you’ll likely choose one specific to the area around you, or where you plan to visit. These tools often take a little more work to use than national/state park websites. This bit of friction means that fewer folks tend to visit the contained locations.

Web-based camping platforms like Allstays, FreeRoam, and Campendium contain information on campsites all over Canada and the United States—including boondocking locations. Such resources commonly contain location information, photos, and member reviews. As they’re web-based, the information tends to be (but isn’t always) up-to-date. Some include forums that allow you to interact with other boondockers and share experiences with one another.

There are also some apps designed specifically for free camping and boondocking. The upside to these is that they typically work even when disconnected from the internet and out of cell range. This means you can refer to their maps, location information, GPS coordinates, and directions when navigating and exploring remote locations. (Psst… I’ll post a link to some useful boondocking apps in the weeks ahead.)

Word of mouth and campfire conversations

Start a conversation with me while out in nature and you might never get me to shut up. I don’t think I’m unique in this respect. It seems that RVers and campers like to share their experiences (even if they keep some of their favorite spots secret). So, strike up a conversation with your friends who camp—or someone you just met—and you’re bound to get an earful of useful recommendations.

Whenever I’m outside working on my sauna trailer someone walks by and strikes up a conversation. Similarly, when I see a cool campervan in a parking lot I often ask a question or two. In this respect, we’re all like a sort of extended outdoor family. When we find like-minded folks it’s pretty fun to swap stories, talk about the places we’ve been, and maybe get a tip on a new place to explore.

You can also drop by RV shows, outdoor events, or local meetups. Your local MEC or REI might have a workshop where you can connect with other campers. Any time you have an opportunity to meet a more experienced boondocker, you’re bound to learn something.

Shy? Uncomfortable talking to those you don’t know? No problem! Search Facebook for groups in your area and join them. You’re bound to find groups dedicated to boondocking, in which folks will share their recommendations and welcome you to their communities. Or, check out the Bookdocking subreddit. It’s that easy!

Boondocking Etiquette

Leave No Trace principles

I already mentioned Leave No Trace, but this topic deserves added attention. So, I’d like to speak to this matter in slightly more detail. Let’s start with waste. Empty your grey and black water tanks at proper dump stations. Check your tanks for leaks and repair them immediately if you spot one. Separate your trash and recycling, and dispose of it properly once you return to an area with facilities. On a broader note, work to reduce waste by choosing reusable items over single-use ones.

When in nature, be a good guest. Keep your distance from wildlife and avoid encroaching on their spaces. Store your food in safe containers inside your vehicle, and never leave anything out that emits an odor that might attract animals. Use established trails while hiking to avoid trampling vegetation, which can sometimes (especially in the alpine) take years to restore.

Nature only remains pristine if we do our part. Leave rocks, trees, and branches untouched. Fill any holes you create before leaving. If you assemble any kind of structure, dismantle it before leaving. If your campsite has a fire ring, use it. Alternatively, bring a portable fire ring that contains waste and can help prevent forest fires. Practice fire safety measures and respect fire bans. It only takes one spark to destroy countless acres of forest and habitats.

Respecting private property and local regulations

Before setting up camp on public land, ensure that you’re permitted to do so. Doing so requires you to do some research, check maps in advance, and obtain any required permits. Most areas have maximum stay lengths that you should comply with. Request permission before setting up camp on private land and adhere to any rules or requests they make.

Stay abreast of local restrictions relating to camping, fires, firewood (transfer between areas can spread disease), fishing limits, and so on. These sorts of restrictions are typically in place for good reason, and you respecting them can make a big difference for public lands and our collective ability to enjoy them.

As boondocking gains in popularity, some previously quiet areas are seeing more campers. Just as you would at home, be a considerate neighbor. Keep your noise level down so others can peacefully enjoy their time in nature. Keep music to a reasonable volume and turn it—and your generator—off as the evening winds down. Keep your campsite tidy and make room for those who arrive after you.

Supporting businesses offering lotdocking

Lotdocking is possibly the least pleasant form of boondocking—but it sure is great when you need to quickly catch some z’s. Most businesses don’t approve of lotdocking in their parking lots. As such, it’s wise to make a big deal of those that do, because it’s a real gift.

When you stay the night in a business’ parking lot act like a good house guest. Ask permission to stay. Park out of the way, and as unobtrusively as possible. Don’t make any noise (no generators here, baby!), keep your gear (including chairs) in your rig, and avoid leaving any trash. If you engage with management or staff, thank them for their generosity.

While you’re at it, be sure to buy some food, fuel, or other goods from these businesses. Got an extra moment? Leave a positive review of them on Google Maps or your preferred camping app. This is doubly helpful as it gets them new customers and highlights a good find for your fellow boondockers.

Sharing boondocking spots responsibly

Remote boondocking can sometimes add risk to one’s travels. Additionally, some public lands can only handle a certain amount of activity. For these reasons, it falls on us boondockers to act as stewards. This involves helping others safely visit the places we discover, while being mindful of the potential impacts of increased traffic from visitors.

When talking with other boondockers, or those trying boondocking for the first time, consider their skill level and ability to safely access and return from the location. How are the roads? Is their vehicle equipped for the journey? Are they bear aware? Are there any risks or considerations you need to share with them? Are they aware of Leave No Trace principles? Being mindful of such considerations can help you steer your fellow camper so they make safe and responsible decisions.

Some areas are more vulnerable than others and can’t handle as much traffic. Be selective with who you share such locations. Avoid posting photos of these locations to social media, as they can attract many who want an “Instagram moment” but don’t respect the lands that made such beauty possible. Plenty of remarkable places are at risk due to over-use and carelessness.

Boondocking Safety Tips

Weather considerations

Taking extra time to prepare can make your boondocking safer and more enjoyable. While most developed campgrounds are near paved highways with access to certain amenities, boondocking locations are further away and may be quite primitive. You could experience flash floods that wash out a road, rising river levels that destabilize riverbanks, or icy roads that make mountain passes dangerous.

Check the weather forecast before you head out to help identify potential risks. In some instances, this information might just require you to pack some extra clothes, select a different route, or choose a sheltered or elevated campsite location. If the weather is severe and presents risks, you might want to change your plans altogether.

It’s wise to understand the seasonal norms within a region. This knowledge will help you prepare your vehicle to work within the season’s temperatures. It will also help you select an appropriate location for camping with elevation and exposure in mind. Having a radio or app that can supply accurate weather reports and alerts during your boondocking trip is a wise safety measure.

Wildlife awareness

You should make a point of researching the wildlife within your chosen boondocking area. Are there specific types of animals you might encounter? For example, black bears and grizzlies behave quite differently. Knowing if one or the other will be present can help you know how to act while on site.

For the most part, though, you should practice safe habits around animals regardless of your boondocking location. A big part of safety relates to food storage and disposal. Anything with an odor should be housed in a solid, protected area. When backpacking food lockers, bear hangs, and bear-resistant containers are essential. I put not only our food but our dishes, toothpaste, and waste in these. Boondockers are lucky to have big ol’ rigs to store such items in. Obviously, you should maintain a safe distance from animals. Carrying bear spray (and knowing how to use it) is a wise precaution.

You won’t become a wildlife expert overnight. Nevertheless, expanding your knowledge in this area is wise. Watch some YouTube videos, read some books, or take a workshop. Sometimes these are made available free of charge, so, there’s little reason to not seek out this guidance. They can teach you how to spot signs of animal activity, ways to can respond in the case of an encounter, and how different species behave.

Emergency preparedness

You might boondock in areas that are far from assistance. As such, you’ll need to take certain precautions. Pack a well-stocked emergency kit with first-aid supplies and essential medications. (I go everywhere with one of these, just in case.) Sign up for some basic first aid training and learn CPR skills, so you can respond in the event of a medical incident.

Keep your vehicle stocked with more (non-perishable) food than you need, in case you get stuck at your location for longer than expected. Bring extra drinking water and a means of purifying water if the need arises. At ~$50, a Katadyn is a cheap tool that might save your bacon if things go wrong. Extra clothing and blankets are also helpful in case of rapid temperature change.

Inform a friend before you leave, noting where you intend to go and when you plan to return. If your plan changes or goes awry you can notify them via text message if you’re in cell range. A satellite communication device like the Garmin InReach (with an active plan) enables you to send an emergency message when out of cell range. Bring a spare battery bank just in case your device needs a charge.

Planning can save crucial minutes should an emergency occur. Take time to learn where the nearest emergency services location is and document the associated contact information. Familiarize yourself with alternate routes and consider contingency plans should things go pear-shaped.

It’s a good idea to learn some basic troubleshooting skills for common RV issues. This knowledge doesn’t come to you overnight, but a willingness to read and learn now might get you out of a pinch later. Similarly, vehicle recovery techniques can be useful. Don’t sweat this stuff, though. Start with smaller trips to areas not too far out. As your skill level increases you’ll be better equipped to venture out further.

Personal safety and security

I generally feel pretty safe when camping. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to maintain the same sort of caution out boondocking as you do in the city. Research prospective boondocking sites and avoid ones with high crime rates. Facebook groups for certain locations often contain current notes on such risks.

Traveling with other boondockers can be reassuring, as there’s safety in numbers. Having friends along can help in the event of an unruly visitor. Bringing multiple rigs also gives you a backup in case of mechanical failure. Even when with others, suss out the location on arrival. Is something out of place? Are there signs of previous break-ins? If the spot feels wrong, move along.

Seek out well-lit locations when lotdocking. Thieves don’t like to work in highly visible locations. Lock your doors and shut your windows while away from your vehicle and while sleeping. Although it’s unpleasant to think about, RVs do sometimes get ransacked while their owners are out enjoying the trail. Anti-theft devices are useful, but not foolproof. It’s a good practice to leave valuables at home or hide them in areas thieves aren’t likely to search.

Boondocking Tips for Beginners

Gradual transition from traditional camping

As a kid, my dad used to take us camping to some pretty rough spots. I remember one trip in particular down an abandoned logging road with big mud holes surrounded and steep, silty hills. If it weren’t for the winch I don’t know how we would have gotten his Datsun King Cab to the campsite. An RV or Sprinter in that spot? Forget about it!

I paint this picture for one reason: To remind you that you needn’t go to extremes when boondocking. Sure, those off-road folks go all over in their lifted 4x4s, but they build up to navigating that sort of terrain. You can boondock in all kinds of spots that require limited risk or even adventure. Heck, you might boondock just off the side of the highway.

To start, you could take your RV to a campground that doesn’t offer any hookups. See how you fare with only your onboard power and water. Try adjusting your use so you conserve these finite resources. Go a little while without a shower, or just freshen up with a swim. Wear the same clothes for a few days. As you do, you’ll grow more comfortable traveling beyond those full-hookup campgrounds.

Then start researching where you might try boondocking for the first time. Not sure where to start? Invite a fellow camper over and do some research together. Identify a few viable destinations, research any rules/regulations in the area, and plot your course. Download some maps and GPS apps in advance of your trip You might also want to double-check your packing list to ensure you have all of the required supplies and gear for your trip.

Test boondocking setups during shorter trips

You can watch a thousand videos about boondocking. These will teach you a lot, but you’ll probably learn even more by trying it for yourself. Hands-on experience is golden! So, test different power sources and determine whether they’re sufficient for your needs. Monitor energy consumption, find ways to reduce your draw, and tweak your system accordingly.

You can use the same approach with water and waste management. Keep an eye on your water consumption and identify which activities deplete your reserves most. On the other end, you can see how far you can go with your gray and black water tanks before they need to be emptied. Locating nearby dump stations or ones that are along the way is also worthwhile.

Short trips are great as the consequences are limited. Forgetting a key item at home isn’t a show-stopper and you can typically find a workaround. I highly recommend creating a list of items for your camping trips. Rely on this list to check that you have the essentials. You can also use it to identify items that don’t work, or that you rarely use, and find alternatives for them—or remove them from your kit.

Boondocking with Pets

Safety considerations for pets

If you don’t have any pets, you can skip this section. In my experience, though, folks who camp tend to have furry friends. That’s why I wanted to take a moment to talk about some of the basics relating to boondocking with pets.

Check your pets’ vaccinations to ensure they’re up-to-date. Ticks are increasingly common in the outdoors, so, you’ll want to protect them from parasites and diseases that might be present in the area you visit. You should also set aside any of your pets’ medications—and add them to your packing list.

My black lab is pretty good around wild animals. My dameranian? Not so much. He thinks he’s a real tough guy. So, we keep him close and on a leash at all times, whereas, our lab gets a lot more freedom. I don’t do this to be cruel to the little guy; I just want to keep our dogs safe from wildlife.

Be aware of predators in the area. Bears, snakes, and large birds can present a threat to domestic animals—especially small ones. Bring pets indoors at night, in the early morning, and around dusk, when visibility is poor. You might also consider bringing a first-aid kit just for your pets, in case of injury. Ensure your animals are wearing collars with ID tags, so they can be returned to you if they go missing. I like Dog iD as they print your contact information on a metal plate for your dog’s collar.

As we tend to camp in warm weather, consider how your pets will adapt to such temperatures. In the summer, your pet should have access to spaces that are shaded and have adequate ventilation. RVs get hot fast, so, don’t leave your pets in them unattended. In colder temperatures, you should find ways to offer them added insulation.

Leash laws and pet etiquette

It’s fun to let Fido run with abandon in the wild. This isn’t always the best idea, though. Some areas contain predators that might come after your dog, potentially resulting in a terrible outcome. Aggressive dogs might also be in the area and ready to attack. Additionally, some seemingly wild areas still have leash laws in place. So, do your research, abide by the rules, and potentially leash your animal—even if not required—for their safety.

If you’re in the deep wilderness, your dog is bound to poop in places you won’t see. Fair enough. It’s still important to clean up after your dog as best possible. Bag those turds and take them home to dispose of properly. Or, bring along a shovel and bury their deposits far from any water sources to avoid contacting them.

I don’t like yapping dogs, despite one of mine (the little one) often doing this. I bet that those nearby dislike this noise even more. As such, I work on curbing this behavior to avoid bothering those around me. I also do so when out camping, and encourage you to do the same with your furry friends. It’s important to be considerate of those who boondock near you.

Let’s wrap this thing up

The unique appeal of boondocking

For campers who’d like to bypass stressful booking processes or just travel more casually, boondocking is a welcoming option. It allows you to escape everyday life entirely and fully embed yourself in nature. From here you can see wildlife firsthand, gaze at epic night skies, and access hiking and fishing areas that might only have a handful of visitors each year.

Boondocking helps one gain an understanding of their skills, as they need to be self-sufficient. This starts with creating a plan for accessing and managing water, power, and waste. Such skills develop over time and often lead to more confidence with equipment, RV systems, navigation, and recovery methods. Those who enjoy problem-solving often find that these requirements are part of the fun.

Embracing the RV lifestyle and freedom

Flexibility is a requirement and benefit of boondocking. Unlike traditional campgrounds, there’s no 11 AM check-out time. You can typically stay in one location for a couple of weeks, and move along when a spot no longer suits you. This might involve moving to another site recommended by a fellow boondocker. Or, you might just head further down the gravel road in search of hidden gems.

Along the way, you’re bound to meet a few fellow boondockers. Some might camp in ways you don’t like (that’s life). Others might become part of your boondocking family. You might find that your time together around the campfire teaches you more about boondocking than any article could. Sometimes folks even meet up in areas for large get-togethers. That isn’t my bag, but it might be yours.

Boondocking will likely push you out of your comfort zone. You’ll navigate sketchy roads (ask my wife about bottoming out her VW Golf on the drive to 20 Mile Bay). Items in your rig will break loose and make a mess. You might find yourself unable to stand outside given a recent mosquito hatching. (Sound familiar, Eric S. and Kim?) These experiences will expand your horizons, open you up to new adventures, and help you appreciate the journey.

Exploring different types of boondocking experiences

You might spend one night at the oceanside enveloped by a coastal forest. Another might be in an arid desert wrapped in a blanket of glimmering stars. Perhaps you’ll navigate a windy mountain pass and wake up to alpine meadows and brisk morning temperatures. In time, the variety of settings and environments boondocking takes you might make traditional campsites seem downright boring.

Some trips will be less thrilling. You might lotdock on your way from one place to the next. No biggie. That’s a good opportunity to fill your tank, stock up on goods, and get a nice early start the next morning. Then there’s moochdocking, which isn’t out in the backcountry but does make for a nice way to reconnect with friends.

Given my support work at Campnab, I can’t get away for prolonged durations. So, my adventures are mostly limited to weekends. (I’m hoping that Starlink helps me take some longer trips.) Some boondock for extended periods. Others combine boondocking with stays at traditional RV parks. This allows them to top up their fresh water, empty their grey and blackwater tanks, recharge their batteries, and perhaps take a nice long shower.

How you boondock isn’t the important part. It’s that you get outside with your family and friends, and explore this beautiful place we call home for a short while. Safe travels! 👋

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Looking for a helping hand in planning your boondocking trips? Check out our round-up of boondocking apps (coming soon). You might also find our outdoor app roundup (coming soon) helpful.

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