Guide to Free Camping in the USA

What Should I Know About Dispersed Camping?

Dispersed camping, also known as boondocking, can be summed up by “roughing it.” If you are choosing dispersed camping, you are most likely going to need to prepare for dirt roads, no amenities such as picnic tables, garbage cans, running water, dump stations, fire pits, restrooms, or cell service. If you are dispersed camping in a popular spot or a parking lot, then you may have access to a toilet. What you will have while dispersed camping is little to no neighbors, hiking trails into the backcountry, and solitude under the stars – the real camping in nature experience.

Before you head out on your dispersed camping adventure, make sure you research the areas you are heading too. Check into road conditions, weather, fire regulations & restriction (you may need a permit), and download the Red Cross First Aid app ahead of time. You will be without cell service, so preparing for all potential situations is essential.

Pro Tip: Look for signs that say “no camping overnight,” “no camping,” or “day use only.” When in doubt, check with a park ranger, or a manager of the business whose lot you plan to park in. Make sure you don’t just park on the side of a road as it is illegal in most places, and you can not boondock or free camp anywhere inside of a developed campground or recreation area.

Where Can I Find Free Campgrounds in the USA?

National Forest Public Lands and Grasslands Free Campsites

Don’t confuse National Forests with National Parks. Although they are both public, protected lands, they are managed very differently and by two separate government organizations. You can camp in both; however, a majority of National Parks have mostly developed campsites with amenities, campground fees and don’t allow for dispersed camping or pets. Outside of US national parks is where will find National Forests and grasslands.

National forests do allow for dispersed camping for up to 14 days at no cost, aka free camping. These sites are off of the main roads, usually a dirt road, pull off, or access road. There are fewer regulations in US National Forests than in US National Parks, but there are some unspoken rules to follow. When dispersed camping in our national forests, or anywhere, rule of thumb is to be at least 100-200 feet away from any water source, main road or trail, and to leave no trace.

Leave No Trace Principles

• Bring a trash bag and leave no trash behind. When you’re free camping, there are no trash cans in the forests, so come prepared to pack out whatever garbage you bring in.
• Do not cut down trees or branches for firewood. Find dead branches and leaves that are already on the forest floor, or bring wood with you. Remember, these are the “leave no trace” principles, which include campfires. Make sure you know the fire danger and if fires are permitted in the area. Bring a shovel to extinguish any fire you build, and possible, use a fire pan or cookstove instead. Dispersed camping sites typically do not provide fire rings.
• Try and find a camping area where others have camped before instead of creating a new site.
• Leave the national forests the way you found them. There is so much beauty in our forests, so please leave it for others to enjoy.
• Respect wildlife! Remember, you’re on their turf! Whether you are in a national forest, national park, or on the side of the road – respect the animals. If you’re lucky enough to see them – leave it at that. It is not time to take a selfie, see if you can pet them, or try and harass or harm them.

You can learn more about the Leave No Trace Principles at Int.org.

Pro tips: State parks are like our US National Parks. They can be pricey to camp in and typically do not offer any free camping or dispersed camping options.

Where can I locate these National Forests and free campsites?

There are 154 national forests managed by the United States Forest Service (USFS). You can pick up a USFS map at nearly all local convenience stores, so make sure to pick one up when you fill-up the gas tank.

You can also go online and check out the Forest Service’s Interactive Visitor Map (https://www.fs.fed.us/ivm/), freecampsites.net or download the Ultimate US Public Campgrounds app.  There is a $3.99 fee for the app, but it is worth the money. If you’re really on a tight budget, Campendium – RV & Tent Camping basic app is free but does have in-app purchases available.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Free Camping

BLM public lands are mostly found in the western part of the United States, such as Montana, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Arizona, Wyoming, and Alaska. BLM lands have similar rules for camping as US National Forests. BLM lands are managed by the US Department of the Interior, which is different than US National Forests and US National Parks, so make sure you know the specific dispersed camping guidelines for BLM lands.

The Bureau of Land Management allows camping for up to 14 days in a 28 day period. However, the 14-day rule is not consecutive days, but 14 total days in a 28 day period. The count begins on the first day the camper occupies a site. Once you’ve met the 14-days, either collectively or consecutively, you can’t set up camp anywhere on BLM lands within a 25-mile radius of your previous spot until day 29.

Make sure and follow the Leave No Trace principles, and keep your eyes open for “No Camping” signs.

Pro Tip: Dispersed camping sites are typically best for campervans, small RV camping, tent camping, or car camping. The spots generally are smaller are more difficult to fit or maneuver larger RVs or motorhomes.

Where Can I find the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Free Camping sites?

Much like National Forests, you can find BLM Regional or state maps at most convenience stores.  The Bureau of Land Management also provides online interactive maps, both nationally and state-specific. Make sure you prepare and Google ahead of time, because you may not have cell service when you’re dispersed camping.

If you are willing to spend 99¢, the United States Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have joined together to provide the USFS & BLM Campgrounds app. With over 5800 free or low-cost campgrounds on this app, you’re bound to find your perfect free camping spot for your dispersed camping adventure.

Pro tip: National Forest and grasslands and BLM lands are public lands.  Typically you can not disperse camp on private lands unless you have permission.  There are some free camping opportunities on private lands. *Check out Hipcamp.com and Boondockerswelcome.com. (access or booking fees may.)

Free Camping or Boondocking in Parking Lots like Walmart

Yes, you read that correctly. There are businesses all over the United States that allow you to park your RV or Campervan in their parking lot. Some of the most well-known spots are in the parking lots of Walmart, Cabela’s, Camping World, and Cracker Barrell. Other options to consider are truck stops like Flying J, casinos, and rest stops along highways.

What do I need to know about camping in parking lots?

Always ask. Don’t assume that because you stayed at one Walmart without issue, you will be able to park overnight at any Walmart. Make sure to go inside, or call ahead, and find out their camping policies. Usually, places like Cracker Barrell, Costco, Walmart, and Flying J don’t want you to set up a full campsite and are merely allowing overnight parking, so don’t overstay your welcome.

Rest Stops

Rest areas provide a pull off for tired drivers to rest to help keep people alert and awake on the road.  Rest stops have bathroom facilities with sinks and toilets and trash cans and are intended for travelers to pull over to rest or use the facilities.  Although rest areas don’t necessarily follow the Leave No Trace principles, they’re still great rules to follow.  Make sure your trash makes it into the bins, and you’re respectful of the restroom facilities.

Truck Stops

Truck stop parking lots are the “glamping” of parking lot camping.  Most truck stops not only have restroom facilities that they allow you to use but also showering facilities. They may charge a small fee, so make sure you go in and ask before scrubbing down. Truck stops are great because they’re also an opportunity to stock up on food, water, supplies, and fuel before you head to your next destination.

Casinos Parking Lots

Some casinos will allow you to park in their lots for free, but make sure to ask the front desk before you settle in for the night. Casinos may not be a significant money-saving option should you decide to try your hand at the slot machines or tables!

Keep in mind that these business owners are allowing you on their property for the night, so be respectful of their property and other boondockers, patrons, and truck drivers who are visiting.

Pro Tip: Parking lots, especially at truck stops, are not unusually quiet. If you aren’t a deep sleeper, you may want to consider packing a pair of earplugs. 

Dispersed camping is a perfect way to explore the wildlands and beauty of the United States backcountry. Reserve a campervan today, and have an excellent road trip around the US!

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