Everything You Need to Know About Dry Camping in Your RV
If you’ve ever dreamed of camping off-grid, surrounded by nature with no noisy neighbors, hookups, or campground fees, then boondocking is for you!
Boondocking—also known as RV dry camping or off-grid camping—is the ultimate way to experience the outdoors without relying on traditional RV parks. It allows you to camp for free (or very cheap) in remote areas like national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and other designated boondocking sites.
But how do you boondock safely and comfortably? What gear do you need to survive without water, electricity, or sewer hookups? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including the best places to boondock, essential boondocking gear, and tips for staying safe while camping off-grid.
What Is Boondocking?
Boondocking refers to camping without hookups—meaning no water, electricity, or sewer connections. It’s a more adventurous, budget-friendly way to explore nature.
Types of Boondocking
- Dispersed Camping on Public Lands – Free camping areas on BLM land, National Forests, and Grasslands.
- Overnight Parking Boondocking – Staying overnight at places like Walmart, Cracker Barrel, and Cabela’s while traveling.
- Stealth Camping – Parking in urban areas discreetly, often in a van or camper.
- Moochdocking – Camping on a friend or family member’s property with or without hookups.
No matter where you boondock, Leave No Trace principles are essential—always pack out everything you bring in!
How to Find Free Boondocking Sites
Finding great boondocking locations takes research. These apps and websites make it easy:
✅ Campendium – User reviews, GPS coordinates, and cell coverage info.
✅ iOverlander – Great for finding free dispersed camping and RV-friendly stops.
✅ FreeRoam – Detailed maps showing BLM land and national forests.
✅ The Dyrt PRO – Premium camping app with offline maps.
👉 Pro Tip: Always check recent reviews—boondocking sites change due to weather, road conditions, or new regulations!
Boondocking Essentials: Must-Have Gear for Off-Grid Camping
Boondocking requires the right gear to stay comfortable. Below are boondocking essentials you’ll need for power, water, waste management, and cooking.
1. Power & Electricity Off-Grid
Since you won’t have access to shore power, these solutions will keep you running:
🔋 Portable Power Station – The Jackery Explorer charges phones, laptops, and small appliances.
☀️ Solar Panels – The Renogy 200W Solar Kit harnesses the sun to power your RV.
2. Water Storage & Filtration
Without campground hookups, water conservation is key!
🚰 Collapsible Water Containers – The Heavy Duty Truck Bed Water Bladder that stores extra drinking water.
💦 RV Water Filter – The RV Water Filter System removes contaminants from questionable water sources.
🚿 Portable Shower – Stay fresh with the NEMO Helio Pressure Shower.
3. Waste Management & Bathroom Setup
Managing waste properly is crucial when boondocking in an RV.
🚽 Portable Toilet – If your rig doesn’t have a bathroom, the portable camping toilet is a great option.
🗑️ Trash & Recycling Bins – The trashcan keeps your campsite clean.
4. Cooking Off-Grid
Eating well while boondocking in an RV is easy with the right gear:
🔥 Propane Stove – The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is compact and reliable.
🥘 Cast Iron Cookware – The Lodge Cast Iron cookware is perfect for open-fire cooking.
Boondocking Tips for Beginners
✔️ Arrive Early – Boondocking spots are first-come, first-served.
✔️ Check the Weather – Heavy rain can make some dirt roads impassable.
✔️ Be Wildlife Aware – Store food properly and never leave trash outside.
✔️ Conserve Water & Power – Short showers, solar panels, and LED lights help extend your resources.
✔️ Follow the 2-2-2 Rule – Drive no more than 200 miles, arrive by 2 PM, and stay at least 2 nights to enjoy your spot!
Is Boondocking Right for You?
Boondocking is a fantastic way to explore remote places, save money, and experience true RV freedom. It takes preparation, but with the right mindset and gear, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.
💬 Have you tried boondocking? Drop your favorite free camping spots in the comments!
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