roadnotes banner image

Boondocking

Updated September 15, 2021

Boondocking, in a nutshell, is camping for free without any utility hookups or amenities. Boondocking can be done in remote places deep within a forest far from civilization or it can occur in a parking lot, although many call this dry camping. Dispersed camping is another term used and is often the official term used by public land agencies (think U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management).

Marais des Cygne Wildlife Area
Marais des Cygne Wildlife Area camping spot.

Boondocking is becoming increasingly popular, in part, perhaps, because commercial RV parks and campgrounds are getting crowded. It’s not just commercial parks like KOA but state and national parks are becoming more crowded, too. In some cases, people are making campsite reservations a year in advance.

Montrose Lake near Clinton, Missouri
Montrose Lake near Clinton, Missouri

Boondocking Resources

Boondocking Database

  • This website has been around a while. You can search for boondocking locations based on your current position or download the entire database for use in a GPS device. More than 1,100 locations are included in the database. Link to website.

Free Campsites Website

RV Camping Website

  • There is a nice article on this website that describes what boondocking is, how to do it, and where to camp and other helpful information. Link to website.

Leave a Comment