Boondocking is camping overnight in a remote area without any hook-up facilities. It means venturing off the beaten track and choosing a location away from a traditional campsite or RV park. This means you’ll have no access to hook-ups such as water, electricity, or sewerage facilities.
What Is Boondocking?
Boondocking is camping in a remote area without any hook-ups. Boondocking in an RV means parking your vehicle overnight in a location without access to electricity, water, or sewer facilities. You have to be completely self-sufficient and rely on your own resources.
It is also known as “dry camping” and is a more adventurous way to camp overnight. Boondocking is often free. You pitch your tent or park your RV in a remote area away from a traditional campsite facility. However, you need to be prepared to be completely self-sufficient.
Is Boondocking Legal?
In the US, Boondocking is legal in certain locations. But, often with restrictions that need to be abided by. It all depends on where you choose the camp overnight, the type of land you stay on, and the restrictions placed by the landowner. Let’s take a closer look.
Public Land
Boondocking is usually allowed on public land in the US. However, you may have to park your vehicle or pitch your tent in a specific area designated for boondocking. This includes land owned and managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service. Check with the land authority for specific restrictions in your area before setting up camp.
National Forests
Boondocking is often permitted in national forests. They often contain designated areas for dry camping and for parking vehicles overnight. There may be restrictions in place. For example, you may only be permitted to stay in the area for a limited number of nights.
Private Property
Private property is a simple one. It all comes down to the wishes of the landowner. If the landowner gives you permission to camp on their property overnight, then it’s perfectly legal. And if not, then it isn’t legal.
Truck Stops & Parking Lots
Many truck stops and rest areas allow overnight parking. However, this varies by state and location. Similarly, some retail stores allow overnight parking while many others do not. You’ll need to check with the lot owner to determine feasibility.
Top Tips on How to Boondock Safely
Is boondocking safe? It is if you know what you’re doing. The key to staying safe is performing careful research when choosing your location, planning your route, checking weather forecasts, and taking basic security measures. Here are our top tips on how to boondock safely.
1: Research Your Location
The most important tip for staying safe when boondocking is – research your location. Do your homework and familiarize yourself with the area you plan to camp in before you arrive there. This way you can avoid encountering any nasty surprises.
Find out where the designated boondocking spots are located. Ask some questions on the online boondocking forums. Check the reviews and learn from others who have already stayed there. And, make sure you have permission to stay overnight in the area.
2: Plan Your Route
Want to boondock safely? Then, plan your route. How are you going to get there? Map out your journey ahead of time. The best approach is to plan a best approach route, but have a backup in case there is a problem. Road closures can be an issue in remote areas. Pay attention to road restrictions for larger vehicles.
3: Check Weather Forecast
Always check the weather forecast. The last thing you want to do is pitch your tent in the middle of a wind and rain storm. Look out for weather warnings. Have yourself prepared for whatever weather conditions you anticipate you’ll encounter during your stay. And, have a backup plan.
4: Security
Boondocking involves staying overnight in remote areas. Often in locations without other people or fellow travelers. This means security is key. If possible, park in a well-lit area. Make sure you lock all doors and windows on your vehicle. Survey your surroundings before settling in for the night and if something feels ‘not right’ move on to another location.
5: Communications
Reliable communication is critical when boondocking. If something goes wrong and you need help, you need to be able to use your phone. Also, many bookdockers need to get online to access their workplace. If you’re working from home or working on the road a reliable phone signal is crucial. Check the cell service in the area before you commit to stopping in a location.
6: Food & Water
Don’t forget about food or water. You’re going to be camped or parked up off grid. There’ll be no service stations or convenience stores in the area. And, you’re going to need to eat and drink. Non-perishable food works well. This way you don’t need a fridge to store it. Keep your food in sealed containers to avoid attracting animals. And, make sure you bring plenty of water.
7: Power Supply
There’ll be no electricity hook-up, so make sure you bring your own power supply. RV Solar panels, generators, and batteries are the best options. This you can power your essential electrical devices. If you have an RV you should consider installing a solar power kit. And, when boondocking you should conserve your energy consumption. Only consume what you need.
8: First Aid Kit
If you are camping or RV’ing you should always pack a first aid kit. Especially when boondocking. Forst said is essential for treating minor injuries and accidents. You should also brush up on your first aid skills before heading out. Familiarize yourself with how to use it. Preparation is key.
9: Wildlife Research
Are you planning on staying in an area that contains dangerous wildlife? You need to do some research to educate yourself on the potential dangers and the precautions you need to take. Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife in the area. What animals might you encounter and what should you do to avoid them? Bears, lions, snakes, and wolves are the primary concerns.
10: Navigation Tools
How do you plan to map out your journey? What will you do if you get lost? Make sure you bring some reliable navigation tools with you. A GPS device is essential. And a backup power supply to ensure you can keep it running, You should also pack some offline maps. Whether downloaded onto your phone or the old-school paper type. Learn how to use a compass and navigate a map using easily identifiable landmarks.
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About the Author
John McTominay
- B.S. Electrical Engineering
- Solar Power Expert
Meet John McTominay, a solar energy pro with an electrical engineering degree from Arizona State University. With over 30 years in solar, John loves blending tech smarts with nature.
Outside work, he’s all about RV adventures, hiking, and cheering for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. John shares his solar wisdom on RV Solar Power Hub, helping others light up their RVs.
A travel buff, he’s on a constant quest for new horizons and scenic spots, making the solar journey as exciting as the destination. Explore the world with John, where green energy meets the great outdoors!
