Finding free camping in the U.S. is not only a budget-friendly option for travelers and campers but an opportunity to connect with nature in a more secluded and authentic way. From the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest to the sprawling deserts of the Southwest, this country is dotted with hidden gems where you can set up camp without a fee.

Unlike established campgrounds that often come with amenities and designated sites, free camping (aka dispersed camping) allows you to choose your spot in the wild, far from the crowds. Having spent countless nights nestled in secluded spots across the country, I’ve come to appreciate the magic of these hidden gems.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to find free camping in the United States, so you can set up your tent, hammock, van, or RV without reaching for your wallet. From National Forests to Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, there’s a vast expanse waiting to be your next campsite.

Let’s dive in, and I’ll share some of my favorite tips and resources to help you find that perfect spot.

What is “Free Camping”?

Free camping is the act of setting up camp outside of established campgrounds or recreational areas, typically without amenities like bathrooms, picnic tables, or water sources. This form of camping is free of charge, and many experienced outdoor enthusiasts prefer this method because it offers a more secluded and immersive nature experience. However, it also requires campers to be self-sufficient, following Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment and ensure these areas remain pristine for future visitors.

Types of Free Camping

There are a few different types of free camping, so let’s break them down and explain each one. No matter which type of free camping you choose, there’s likely to be no manicured tent sites, no picnic tables, no bathrooms, and no metal fire rings (although primitive rock rings are common).

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping is perhaps the epitome of the free camping experience in the U.S., and it most directly matches what most people consider to be “free camping.” This form of camping is done on public lands managed by agencies like the United States Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The term “dispersed” is the official term used by both the USFS and BLM, so use that term when searching their websites or asking their rangers for information.

Boondocking

Boondocking is a term often used within the RV, “van-life”, and road-tripping communities. It refers to parking and camping in public places for free. These places come without the standard hookups for electricity, water, or sewer, which is also called dry camping. This could be in a remote wilderness area or even a Walmart parking lot. Boondockers rely on their vehicle’s systems – such as onboard water storage or solar panels – to sustain them during their stay.

Primitive Camping

Primitive camping, also known as undeveloped camping, has many similarities to dispersed camping. However, the distinction lies in the slight infrastructure that might be present. These can be areas designated by authorities as free camping zones or “primitive campgrounds”. While they lack the amenities of developed campgrounds, some might offer basic facilities like a vault toilet. It’s a midpoint between dispesed camping and established campgrounds.

Stealth Camping

Stealth camping is a unique form of free camping, mainly practiced in urban or suburban settings. Typically done in vehicles, it involves camping discreetly in public areas such as parking lots, commercial properties, or residential neighborhoods. While this can be a way to save on costs during travels, it’s essential to be mindful of local regulations and etiquette, ensuring you’re not trespassing or causing any disturbances.

Backcountry Camping

Backcountry camping is for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. This entails hiking into remote areas, carrying all your camping gear on your back, and setting up camp far from roads or established sites. These spots can sometimes require permits, but they’re typically free or have a minimal cost. It’s an immersive experience, offering solitude and the chance to explore untouched landscapes, but also demands preparation, fitness, and knowledge about the wilderness.

Wild Camping

Wild camping is a term more familiar to campers outside of the USA. It refers to camping in non-designated areas, much like dispersed camping. Apps like iOverlander, popular among international travelers, use the term to help users locate spots for free camping. While it’s the standard term in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, the principles remain the same: respect for the environment, understanding local regulations, and leaving no trace.

Benefits of Free Camping

There’s a lot that goes into free and dispersed camping, and it’s one of our favorite things to do! There’s countless benefits to getting out there and exploring a more pristine form of camping, but there are also some downsides as well. We’re going to cover the main pros and cons, that way you can decide if this type of camping is right for you.

1. Free!

One of the most apparent benefits of free camping is right there in the name – it’s free! In an era where outdoor recreation often comes with a high price tag, free camping offers a reprieve for the budget-conscious adventurer. By eliminating the costs associated with established campgrounds, you can extend your travels, allocate funds to other essential gear or experiences, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of a cost-effective outdoor experience. The allure of saving money combined with the intrinsic benefits of nature makes free camping an attractive choice for many.

2. Solitude & Seclusion: Fewer People Around

For many, the tranquility and solitude that free camping offers is its biggest draw. Moving away from the crowded campgrounds means fewer neighbors, less noise, and a heightened sense of privacy. The experience becomes not just about camping, but about immersing oneself in the landscape, connecting with nature on a more profound level, and enjoying the therapeutic qualities of solitude. For those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle, the serenity found in these isolated spots can be a rejuvenating experience.

3. Simplicity: Back to Basics

Free camping offers an unmatched simplicity, allowing you to truly embrace the back-to-basics approach to outdoor living. Without the amenities that come with developed campgrounds, you’re nudged to rely on basic camping skills. Whether it’s setting up shelter, sourcing and purifying water, or cooking over an open fire, free camping often becomes an immersive lesson in self-sufficiency. This minimalist style can be a refreshing contrast to our often-complicated modern lives, providing a momentary escape and a genuine connection to the environment.

4. No Reservations: Perfect for Spontaneous Adventures

In a world driven by schedules and appointments, free camping presents an opportunity to embrace spontaneity. Without the need to make reservations months in advance (as is often required in popular campgrounds), you can take to the road or trail on a whim. This flexibility is perfect for those who might find an unexpected free weekend or are inspired by a sudden urge to explore. The lack of a structured plan can also lead to some of the most memorable adventures, where the journey itself becomes the highlight.

5. Flexibility: No Timeline to Stick To

Building on the point of no reservations, the flexibility inherent in free camping is a boon for travelers. Without check-in/check-out times or specific site assignments, you have the freedom to shape your trip as you see fit. Want to stay an extra day at a picturesque site? No problem. Felt like moving on earlier than anticipated? That’s okay too. This autonomy allows for a more organic, less pressured experience, letting the landscape and your mood dictate the pace.

6. Views: Natural Beauty Up Close

Many dispersed and free camping sites boast some of the most stunning views you won’t typically find in established campgrounds. Nestled on mountain ridges, beside pristine lakes, or in expansive deserts, these sites offer an unobstructed connection to nature’s grandeur. Waking up to a sunrise over an untouched valley or watching the stars without the glow of neighboring campfires is a magical experience. In many instances, the natural beauty and unique vantage points of these locations can rival, if not surpass, those found in popular tourist spots.

Downsides of Free Camping

Just how we can embrace the beauty of free camping, there are some challenges we must embrace as all. We think the pros outweigh the cons, but it’s still worth considering the downsides before determining if this type of camping is right for you.

1. Lack of Reservations: A Challenge for Weekend Warriors

While the spontaneity of free camping can be appealing, the lack of a reservation system can be a double-edged sword, especially for those constrained by regular weekday commitments. Weekend campers might find it challenging to secure a prime spot, given that others with more flexible schedules might have already set up camp. The uncertainty can be particularly stressful if you’ve driven a long distance, only to find that most spots are already taken. This unpredictability, while exhilarating for some, might deter those who seek a guaranteed spot after a long work week.

2. Popular Areas: A Game of Spot Hunting

The allure of free camping has grown significantly, thanks to the rise of social media and outdoor-focused communities sharing their favorite locations. Consequently, renowned free camping areas can often be saturated with campers, especially during peak seasons. Navigating crowded areas, particularly when spots aren’t clearly marked, can turn the serene experience of camping into a frustrating hunt for a decent place to pitch a tent or park an RV.

3. No Creature Comforts: Embracing the Wilderness Fully

Free camping often means foregoing the amenities that many are accustomed to in established campgrounds. The absence of restrooms can be daunting for some, necessitating the use of portable toilets or digging cat holes. Similarly, the lack of facilities like electrical hookups, dump stations, and trash bins means campers need to be self-sufficient, carrying out all waste and relying on their resources. While some relish this back-to-basics approach, others might find it cumbersome, especially during longer trips.

4. Road Conditions: A Potential Hurdle

The journey to a free camping site can sometimes be an adventure in itself. Many dispersed camping areas are accessed via dirt roads or trails, which can be rough, muddy, or even impassable, depending on weather conditions and maintenance. Those with low-clearance vehicles or larger RVs might find certain spots challenging or downright inaccessible. It’s crucial to research the specific area beforehand, be prepared for variable conditions, and always have a backup plan.

5. Uneven Terrain: The Art of Picking a Spot

Not all free camping sites are created equal. While some might offer flat, grassy expanses, others could be rocky, sloped, or interspersed with tree roots. Picking the right spot can become a balancing act, ensuring your tent or vehicle is level for a comfortable night’s sleep. This unpredictability is part of the charm for many but can pose challenges for those unprepared or new to the free camping experience.

6. No Cell Service: A Blessing in Disguise?

In an age of constant connectivity, the absence of cell service in many free camping areas can be both a drawback and a blessing. For those used to being a call or click away from information or emergency services, the disconnection can be unsettling. However, newer technologies like StarLink are bridging this gap, providing internet access in remote areas. On the flip side, many cherish the enforced digital detox, finding joy in the silence and the chance to be present, free from the incessant pings and notifications. After all, being unreachable for a while can be the ultimate luxury

How to Find Free Camping

There are several ways to find free camping in the United States, but the main ones involve BLM land and National Forest land. Both agencies have great websites with interactive maps that let you explore what they have to offer. There’s other kinds of public lands to camp on as well, plus there are some awesome apps to help you find the perfect free campsite.

In the sections below, we’ve explained each of these ways, plus some more options to help in your search for free camping.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

One of the simplest ways to find free dispersed camping is through the Bureau of Land Management. If you’ve ever heard anyone talking about “BLM land”, this is what they mean. Most BLM land is open, flat, desert landscapes, but not always.

The Bureau of Land Management manages public lands in a variety of ways. They may have established campgrounds, but most of their camping is in the form of free dispersed camping. The campgrounds they do have are usually quite affordable, so if you want more amenities then we recommend giving them a try.

As long as you can safely get to a camping area, this type of camping is open to all forms of campers, whether you’re in a tent, an RV, a van, or whatever else. Sometimes the roads can be rougher to travel, meaning larger rigs and smaller vehicles may have a tough time navigating the terrain. Read up on an area before attempting the road.

Before you can camp on BLM Land, it’s important to know the rules. You must be respectful of this right so that we can continue using it for generations to come. This is a brief description, but you can find more information on the BLM website.

• You can camp on BLM Land for up to 14 days in one spot but cannot exceed 14 days on BLM land within a 28 day period.
• Follow local regulations according to the area. For example, places in Utah require that you pack out your waste, while much of Colorado allows you to bury it in a cat hole that’s at least 6-8 inches deep.
• Try to camp in pre-established areas where it’s obvious someone has already camped. Many of them will have a primitive fire ring that marks the site.
• BLM land generally allows dispersed camping in all places besides areas where it’s posted “closed to camping.”
• To find dispersed campsites, drive along secondary roads and look for places you want to camp. If you want to research ahead of time, play around with the interactive map. You can also use some of the apps below to find sites where people can report the exact location they have successfully camped (like iOverlander).
• No matter where you are, always make sure you are at least 200 feet from any water source.

To find free campsites on BLM Land, you can use their interactive map here.

National Forests and Grasslands

The United States Forest Service (USFS) is another really popular way to find free camping. This agency manages public lands in National Forests and National Grasslands across the country, but like BLM they have much more land in the western states than the eastern states. National Forests are typically heavily treed, have streams and rivers for water sources, and are more mountainous.

Here are some guidelines for camping on USFS land. You can find more information on their website here.

• You can camp in one spot for up to 16 days, at which point you must move at least 5 road miles somewhere else. You cannot spend more than 16 days in a 30 day period in the same dispersed area.
• Campsites must be at least 100 feet from any water source.
• Many national forests are home to bears, so make sure you know how to camp in bear territory.
• Campsites should be within 150 feet of a roadway and should be in sites that have already been used.
• To find sites, do research ahead of time. Drive down Forest Service roads (usually marked as “FSR [number]” for Forest Service Road) and look for the tell-tale signs of campsites.
• Forests in the western US are frequently prone to wildfires and will have fire restrictions in place most of the summer (depending on the weather). Check with the Forest Service office before heading out.

If you have questions, you can contact the local forest service office you wish to camp in. For example, Breckenridge, Colorado, is home to the White River National Forest. I searched “Breckenridge National Forest” in Google and the first result was this Forest Service webpage. It shows all the activities in that area with an interactive map that includes a list of all the dispersed camping in that area. If you still have questions, the contact number and address for the office are on the bottom of the page. What a great tool!

Backcountry Camping

If you’re willing to part with the comfort of a vehicle and hike into the wilderness to find free camping, then consider yourself awesome. This section is more geared towards hikers, thru-hikers, and backpackers, so skip on down if you want to stay on the road.

To put it simply: finding backcountry camping is based 100% on your location. Our #1 tip is research, research, RESEARCH.

Some areas allow camping anywhere, others require that you camp in designated areas, while some even require reservations for their backcountry sites (like Great Smoky Mountains National Park). For example, when hiking the Appalachian Trail, it’s suggested that you camp near the established shelters, and some northern parts of the trail require that you stay in certain spots in huts. On the other end of the spectrum, we’ve had many instances where we just hiked up a trail, found an already established site, and camped there.

Take the time to do the proper research on your destination and learn as much as you can about the backcountry camping regulations in that area.

Public Parking Areas

If you have a hard sided vehicle you can sleep in (like an RV or van) then you can spend one night at a time in some public parking areas. This is a type of boondocking. Business like Walmart and Cracker Barrel openly offer free one night stays, although some Walmarts do not allow overnight parking (but most do).

Some other ideas may require more research, but can still be great options if overnight camping is allowed. Here are some ideas to try:

• Camping World
• Home Improvement Stores like Lowe’s & Home Depot
• Costco & Sam’s Club
• Casinos (see CasinoCamper.com)
• 24 Hour Fitness Center (like Planet Fitness & Anytime Fitness)

Even if these companies generally allow overnight camping, some cities may not allow it. Check with both city regulations and specific store regulations before staying the night.

Rest Areas & Truck Stops

Most rest stops don’t allow tent campers, but if you need a quick rest in your vehicle, van, or RV, you may be able to stop at a rest stop for a short period of time. Not all rest stops allow overnight parking, so it’s important to do research ahead of time. You can find a map of all the interstate rest areas on InterstateRestAreas.com. You can read more about truck stop camping here: Can You Pitch a Tent at a Rest Stop?

Stealth Camping in Neighborhoods

Stealth camping isn’t for everyone, but is can provide a safe place to park in areas like residential neighborhoods and backstreets. You have to be quite stealthy and have the right vehicle for this so make sure you’re ready. It also takes a lot of “feet on the ground” research in the form of driving around and finding areas you could possibly stay the night.

Websites & Apps to Find Free Camping

Here are some apps (or online websites) you use to find free campsites across the entire country.

Campendium is a trusted resource among the camping community, providing comprehensive listings of campgrounds across the United States. For those on the hunt for free camping spots, Campendium’s intuitive search filters allow users to quickly pinpoint cost-free sites, making it a go-to platform for savvy campers looking to save on accommodation.

iOverlander is a favorite among road-trippers and overlanders, offering a global database of camping spots, including a plethora of free sites. Apart from traditional campgrounds, iOverlander also lists informal sites, wild camping spots, and other essential points of interest for travelers. The collaborative spirit of the app ensures that the latest hidden gems of free camping are just a tap away.

Dubbed as one of the most extensive campground databases in the U.S., The Dyrt offers campers a user-friendly platform to explore both paid and free campsites. The added bonus of user reviews, photos, and videos lends authenticity to the listings, ensuring you know what to expect before setting up camp.

FreeCampsites.net is dedicated to helping campers discover cost-free camping opportunities. This community-driven platform offers a wide array of listings, from roadside rest areas to remote wilderness spots. For campers looking to exclusively focus on free options, this platform is a goldmine of information.

Designed with nomads and boondockers in mind, Free Roam is an app that amalgamates various resources to aid in finding the ideal camping spot. Along with listing free camping areas, it provides useful overlays like cell coverage maps, public lands boundaries, and weather forecasts.

Outly is a comprehensive map tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. While it caters to various outdoor activities, its detailed public lands mapping makes it a great resource for campers looking for free spots. By distinguishing between different types of public lands, Outly ensures that campers are aware of land usage rules, aiding in responsible and legal camping.

Harvest Hosts & Boondockers Welcome: Both of these websites allow self-contained vans and RVs to stay for free on private land. That being said, it’s not technically “free” since both require yearly membership to use the app. However, these can be great options for people who travel full-time or a majority of the year.

Other Methods

One of the other ways we frequently find dispersed camping is by word of mouth. Don’t worry, you don’t have to know a ton of people to learn this way. Simply join Facebook groups and Reddit forums that are specific to your area. For example, there’s a Facebook group for dispersed camping in Colorado, and that is one of the ways we find great sites all over the state.

We also frequently just search an area and “dispersed camping” in Google (e.g., dispersed camping near Breckenridge). This will pull up websites like USFS, BLM, local travel blogs, and trip reports from people who have already done the same thing you’re trying to do!

What to Bring Free Camping

To put it simply, you must be completely self-sustaining in order to successfully dispersed camp for free. Beyond the normal camping essentials, here are some ideas of things you should have on hand at all times.

• Clean drinking water: You should have lots of clean, potable water on hand for drinking, washing dishes, and personal hygiene. Bring extra water and make sure you have a filtration system so you can filter more water if needed.
• Safety items: Beyond the normal first aid kit, you should also have anything you need for self-rescue. This includes a GPS messaging device with SOS activated (since there’s limited cell phone service to call for help) and vehicle tools for changing tires, basic fixes, getting unstuck in bad road conditions, etc.
• Tools to deal with human waste: Plan on packing out or burying your human waste. If you’re burying it, always have a spade (like The Deuce) on hand, as well as toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Trash Bags: bring garbage bags so you can pack out all your trash.
• Hygiene plans: Have an idea of how you want to tackle personal hygiene. Is your trip short enough that you’ll shower when you get home? Do you want to have a shower tent and shower setup? Will body wipes be enough for now? Learn about all the ways you can shower while camping.
• Camp furniture: When you would normally have a picnic table and fire ring at a campground, you won’t have those comforts while dispersed camping – at least not most of the time. Make sure you pack a table so you can prep food, chairs to sit in, and a canopy for shade.
• Washing Dishes: A simple yet commonly overlooked problem in the backcountry is what to do with dirty dishes. Have a plan for how to wash them (including enough clean water) and make sure you’re properly disposing of waste. If you’re camping in bear country, make sure you don’t leave food scraps around camp or you’ll attract unwanted critters of all shapes and sizes.

Tips for Successful Free Camping

Safety is always #1, no matter what kind of outdoor adventure you’re pursuing. Dispersed camping is quite safe, but there are some tips to follow so you can stay safe and have fun while dispersed camping in the great outdoors.

• Plan like crazy. If there’s anything you should have learned from above, it’s that this kind of camping takes lots of planning. Spend the time beforehand getting to know the area, learning about local regulations, understanding 2WD vs. 4WD roads, and finding multiple campsite options.
• Have a backup: Always have a backup plan in case your first choice spot is taken or closed. We always make a list of our favorite spots, then put them in order of where we want to camp ideally. That way if any spot is taken or closed, we have other options where we can go.
• Trust your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, leave. You can always find another spot, book a hotel, or sleep in your car somewhere else.
• Always let someone know your location. Have a trusted friend or family member that’s off-site who tracks where you are and when you’re expected back. Make sure they have the contact information for local authorities in case they need to call for help if you aren’t back by your designated time.
• Leave valuables at home: Don’t just hide away your valuables in your vehicle, just leave them at home so it’s not an issue in the first place. Make your vehicle look as un-appetizing as possible (don’t drive your new Mercedes) and you’ll have lower chances of attracting shady characters.
• Only change spots early in the day. At all costs, avoid trying to find a site in the evening or at night. This adds unnecessary stress to an already stressful task. Trust us, only move early in the day, then you have the rest of your daylight hours to have fun and setup camp.
• Be flexible: Just how free camping can add flexibility to your plans, you must be flexible with it. Sometimes it can be tough to find a good site and there will be times that you drive far along a dirt road just to find that all the sites are occupied. You have to have an open mind and an adventurous spirit in order to truly make the most of free camping.

The Importance of Leave No Trace

For those of us who cherish the untamed beauty of nature, the principle of “Leave No Trace” (LNT) is not just a guideline but a commitment to preserving the wilderness for future generations. Dispersed camping, given its nature of being off the beaten path and away from established facilities, makes adhering to LNT principles even more crucial.

Without designated waste facilities, trash bins, or regular maintenance crews, the responsibility falls squarely on the camper to ensure that their stay doesn’t impact the environment adversely. Every piece of trash left behind, every campfire scar, and every disturbance to the local fauna and flora can have lasting repercussions, potentially spoiling these pristine areas for others.

By strictly following LNT practices, dispersed campers play an active role in ensuring that these untouched landscapes remain as nature intended, allowing countless others to experience their splendor in the years to come.

FAQ’s