You might hear a lot of people talking about camping for free on public lands, but what does that mean exactly? While plenty of national park campgrounds are scattered throughout the United States, it’s important to note that most – if not all – don’t have specific boondocking areas for camping.
And there’s a reason for that. Can you imagine once word gets out that a free camping area is hidden within the state parks or national parks?
Pretty soon, you’d have acres of land suddenly turned into a random camp spot for thousands.
The good news is that there is a way to get around this stress – and find free camping areas in remote areas very, very near some of the national parks.
Read on to find out the best way to boondock while visiting the National Parks.
National Parks with Nearby Boondocking Options
Speaking from experience, we’ve only had one location that offers an amazing boondocking option, right outside the National Park.
While I could pretend to know more, I figured I’d just put out what I know to be fact, and then give you tools to help you research to find other options.
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park in South Dakota provides boondockers with limited but super fun camping options. While there are no designated camping areas, dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas right outside the park.
We actually looked up on one of our boondocking apps and found private land that was a good spot for camping. It was literally right outside Badlands National Park, and it’s called Nomad View Dispersed Camping.
It was pretty awesome – but a few tips to know is that it’s BUSY and gets crowded fast. You can’t really see it from the road, so you do need to look it up and pay attention to the directions.
We had to drive across like a teal cattle gate on the ground, and once we peaked the hill, there was probably 30-40 other campers there. The later the day got, the more people started spilling in.
You can literally be there for day use or park for free for the night. It was a great resource for us to explore the area and rest our heads at the end of the day. We had cell service, and we were able to camp right along the rim.
Word to the wise – pay attention to weather forecasts. We were caught in a HORRIBLE storm, and the wind was 60+ mph, and shaking the camper, and I actually had my husband get up twice in the night to move our rig because I just knew we were going to topple over the edge.
You’re literally out in the open, with no trees and nothing blocking any wind or storms that might come up in the night.
Also, the road can wash out easily, and many people talk about getting stuck. We were in a small Class C RV, but it was such a great experience overall for us. I think it was such a fun rare find, and we loved the view and sunsets.
They ask that no campfires be started and that the area be cleaned up, as it is private property. It’s a great way to explore the area and save money on your camping trip – and it’s one of the coolest places that we “stumbled” upon.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
You’ll find that many National Parks have Public Land or BLM areas that are very close to the parks. BLM land is a great way to camp for free, and most times, you can locate some great camping options in and around National Forests.
Stop and ask questions if there is a visitor center in the park or area. Use that time to do research and read reviews about others who have camped in the area.
Also, don’t assume that dirt roads on National Forest lands are a free-for-all. Talk to the local ranger station and ask if there are spaces or areas where camping is allowed. It’s for your own safety never to assume!
How to find boondocking options
iOverlander is one of my favorite dry camping apps to use because it gives coordinates, reviews, and tips from people who camped in various places. You can literally use your phone’s GPS as you’re driving down the road and it will pull great spots for you to have as options for camping.
It will include traditional RV parks, dispersed campsite options, and more.
We’ve used this on so many camping trips, and it’s a great option for when you’re traveling! I would pull it up while we were driving down the road, and it would have a list of places that we’ve passed and ones coming up in the future. It was great!
Boondocking Tips
- Stay informed about weather conditions when planning your boondocking trip. Sudden changes can occur, affecting your safety and overall experience.
- When you’re boondocking in and around national parks, it’s important to remember that you won’t have a water source, fire rings, or bathroom facilities. The options will be in a remote location that offers close proximity to National parks but none of the typical campground amenities.
Safety Guidelines for Boondocking
Boondocking offers a great opportunity to stay in some really close places and save money, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be safe about it.
Informing Others
Let trusted individuals know your boondocking plans, including your intended location and expected return times. This ensures that someone is aware of your whereabouts in case of emergencies.
Wildlife Encounters
Exercise caution when encountering wildlife while boondocking. Keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or approaching animals to prevent potential conflicts. Properly store food items to minimize attracting wildlife to your campsite.
Emergency Protocols
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures specific to the national park you are visiting. In case of unforeseen circumstances, have essential contact information readily available for park rangers or emergency services.
Benefits of National Park Boondocking
While many people prefer camping in an established campground, there are benefits to moochdocking and boondocking!
Solitude
Experience the tranquility of nature and connect with your surroundings in remote national park areas.
Boondocking allows you to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in peaceful solitude.
Stunning Views
Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems while boondocking in national parks.
Witness sunrise over majestic mountains or fall asleep under a blanket of stars.
Freedom and Flexibility
Embrace the freedom to choose your camping spot and stay as long as you desire.
Enjoy the flexibility of adjusting your travel plans on a whim without rigid campground reservations.
Can I boondock in national parks legally?
No, it’s not common. This is where you need to research BLM lands for boondocking options.
How can I find national parks with nearby boondocking opportunities?
Research online resources like official park websites, camping forums, apps like Campendium or iOverlander, and guidebooks focused on boondocking locations.
I’d also check with Harvest Hosts and see if they have any locations close by – although it isn’t boondocking per se, it’s a great way to find a unique place to camp!
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