The idea of free camping isn’t just a myth. With a little bit of research, you can find free camping spots or locations almost everywhere that you travel!
We camp, a lot. And there have been many times where we’ve opted to look for free camping spaces instead of paying an overnight fee for literally parking and sleeping. In the camping world, the term “free camping” is also known as “boondocking” and is one that is catching a lot of popularity.
If you’ve ever wondered if there was a way that you can travel around the states and camp for free, the short answer is “yes”. Where there’s a will, there’s a way, right? The information that you need to keep in mind when looking for free campsites is that you have to do your research first. (but trust me, it’ll “pay” off!)
Free Camping Ideas That You Can’t Afford To Miss
If you’re hoping to camp for free, here are some questions that you need to read and understand.
What does “free camping” mean?
Basically, it means that you can park your RV/camper or pitch a tent in a location that won’t cost you a penny. Keep in mind that many of the locations that offer dry camping don’t usually have any other amenities or options to use.
This means no restrooms, no running water, no dump stations, etc. Also, free camping is always on a first come/first serve basis since there is nobody monitoring any type of reservation system.
You’ll hear it referred to as free camping, boondocking, moochdocking, ad more.
Is it legal to camp everywhere?
No, it’s not. And while it would be nice if it were, there are actually rules to camping, even if the spot is free. Even if a location/park/conservation area has it posted that free camping is allowed, there are probably still a few rules that you need to pay attention to.
Most times no campfires allowed is one of the biggest rules, as well as the rule that you leave the area cleaner than how you found it.
How do you prepare to boondock?
It’s actually kind of fun to pack up and prepare for primitive camping if you ask me. Just know that your camping area won’t have any sort of electricity or water/bathroom hookups and keep those are your key areas of priority. Pack along:
- Water
- Portable toilet
- Food that doesn’t need to be kept hot or cold
- Table/chairs to sit out and enjoy nature
- Generator (if you have one and if you want access to electricity)
- Trashbags to clean up your area before you go
- Books and games to keep you occupied
Packing the basics for boondocking is simple and easy and keeps the camping trip stress-free.
Don’t forget these other camping hacks and tips:
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- Family Friendly Camping Games Perfect for Every Camping Adventure
Is boondocking legal?
It can be legal, and it might be illegal. Plenty of campers boondock at various locations all over the United States with one intention in mind – to see as much of the world as possible for the cheapest cost.
Boondocking in parking lots is another way that many travelers find free camping. Some stores are fine with this, while others have strict signs up saying it is not allowed. This also tends to vary from state to state as well – so make certain that you’re looking and following rules and signs before setting up camp overnight, otherwise you may be awoken to a police officer asking you to move at 2 AM.
And when in doubt? Call ahead to the store and ask. Our family actually did this on one of our trips and the store manager was extremely nice and friendly. That way, we knew when we pulled in for the night, we didn’t have anything to worry about.
We rested easy and were up in the morning super early to head on down the road. Plus, we saved money by not having to pay a camping fee!
Is free camping safe to do?
Honestly, this will depend on who you ask. It’s always a good idea to park under lights in a parking lot to distract people from messing with your camper…but this isn’t always a given. My thoughts? Use your instincts when deciding on where to camp for free. If it seems unsafe or you just don’t feel comfortable, find another location.
And always, always lock up your doors, windows, etc. We keep our phones charged as well in case we need to contact anyone for help. While we’ve never had any issues camping before, we don’t feel the need to let down our guard to take any chances.
What are you wanting to obtain from camping for free?
It’s also important to point out that not all primitive camping locations are the same. Camping in a parking lot overnight is obviously going to have a much different feel than finding a camping spot out in nature. Seems obvious, but important to point out.
Decide what experiences you are wanting to have before embarking on your journey and you’ll find that camping with a cost experience is much more enjoyable.
Now that you know a little bit about free camping and boondocking, let’s get down to the nitty gritty on how you can find free campsites as well.
Resources to find Free Camping locations
Isn’t the Internet a beautiful thing….just by simple searching around the states for options, you can literally plan out a trip with ease.
Conservation Areas
Contact your local state Conservation Department and ask about their camping options. For primitive camping in Missouri, conservation areas are a great way to go. Each state will vary, but conservations areas may be a free way to make camping happen. Plus, they offer great seclusion and nature watching as well.
Online Camping Resources
Why not let an online resource do all the hard work for you? By just typing in a state or city, you can have a list of free camping locations just by the click of a button. Check out these awesome camping apps that can direct you towards some awesome dry camping locations:
Small towns/City Parks
One trick that we’ve learned is that often times, small towns have areas that they’ll let campers stay overnight in as well. (We did this once when our truck broke down and it was actually one of our best boondocking trips, ever!)
Call City Hall or just stop in and ask a local business if you can use their parking lot overnight. Camping in small towns is actually a lot of fun.
My final tip about free camping?
Always do your own research and never, ever assume. During our travels, we have found great luck by asking and communicating rather than just parking and guessing. It’s helped us feel safer and less stressed about our travels, which is priceless in my mind.
Have you ever had success with free camping?
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