Boondocking means camping in areas without campground hookups, so you can get away with staying without the hassle of utilities. It’s an excellent way to make friends with fellow travelers while traveling from park to park. But where can you boondock? It’s important to note that boondocking doesn’t have to be on a questionable parking lot. For example, boondocking can also mean parking off a forest service road.
Boondocking is camping without hookups
For new RVers, it may seem confusing to know the difference between boondocking and dry camping, but don’t let it discourage you! This type of camping is perfectly legal and can be a fun experience once you get the hang of it. Many boondockers stay at friends’ homes in exchange for water and electric hookups. Others stay at designated campgrounds that do provide hookups, such as RV parks.
In order to get started, you’ll need to find a boondocking site. Most state parks and
national forest campgrounds offer no hookups, but boondocking is possible on any public land. Just be sure to check the regulations for the area where you plan to stay and be sure to bring plenty of water, holding tanks, and solar power. You’ll also need a good battery. You’ll also need to learn how to prepare your RV for boondocking because the rules for camping in these locations are different.
To get a feel for boondocking, you can try it for yourself. Try it on a weekend trip, or even a single night. That way, you can see if you like it before you decide to go for a longer trip. If you enjoy it, you can always extend your stay and find a more suitable spot. When boondocking, remember to keep your vehicle and generator well-maintained.
Using a map, you can find boondocking sites on state forests and national forests. It’s also possible to boondock on open farmland, country fields, and vineyards. Depending on where you go, you’ll likely find that you’re close to a water source. However, boondocking can also be dangerous if you’re not careful and don’t have a clear idea of where you’re going.
When boondocking, you’ll need to check with the local authorities before parking your RV. Some public lands allow it, while others restrict where you can park and how long you can stay there. You should respect the rules of the land and the time limits for boondocking to ensure that the land is maintained for the next visitor. The most important thing to remember while boondocking is to keep your vehicle safe!
If you decide to go boondocking with an RV, you’ll need to bring plenty of water and supplies. You will also need solar chargers to power electronics, lighting, cell phones, and other uses. Boondocking without hookups can be dangerous for RVers, so make sure to take precautions and plan ahead. If you’re unsure about your ability to stay safely and enjoy yourself, consider bringing along a battery-operated fan or two.
It’s a great way to meet people
Many people enjoy meeting new people while boondocking in new places. Often, this is possible by participating in a boondockers welcome program. Members of this program are allowed to dry camp on the property of fellow RVers. Members can find a host from all over the country, and sometimes, they can even receive discounts. Here are a few ways to find a boondockers welcome location in your area.
Often, people will offer free boondocking sites to RV travelers. Some will even offer hook-ups. You can also sign up with a website that allows people all over the country to host boondockers for a minimal fee. Once you’ve become a member of the site, you’ll find lots of hosts to stay with, and you’ll be able to meet new people on your journey.
The best boondocking locations are often in scenic locations. The public land near highways is often open to boondockers, and the cost is negligible. There are also boondockers who choose to camp in dispersed campsites. Some of these places aren’t public, so you’ll want to check the regulations before you head out. If you’re a newbie to boondocking, be sure to ask other RVers where they’ve camped before. They might be able to share their secrets about good boondocking spots and resources.
If you’re thinking about boondocking in a hotel parking lot, be prepared for the unexpected. It’s not uncommon to run into a rogue hotel attendant, but you’ll have no problem finding a spot off of the beaten path. Just remember to bring a few extra gallons of gas to avoid getting towed. And don’t forget to bring a solar panel to power your generator – a portable solar panel and a cigarette lighter will work just fine. And don’t forget to eat healthy!
When planning your trip, make sure to download an app like Dyrt or Campendium. These apps have maps of public land ownership restrictions, as well as pictures and user reviews. You can also use the maps to find boondocking sites. Make sure you use one of these apps to find sites with wi-fi so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about missing out on something.
It’s a great way to save money while traveling from park to park
While boondocking requires you to be more resourceful, the benefits are numerous. While electricity costs are much higher than propane, you can extend your travel time by utilizing propane instead. Adding a 12-volt water pump to your RV’s plumbing system is a great way to conserve power while boondocking. Boondocking also requires you to bring extra water, propane, and solar chargers.
It is possible to find free campsites on state parks. You can also check online for local boondocking areas. Using Dyrt PRO, you can download maps that will allow you to stay in free public lands even without cell service. If you have limited resources, you can find supplies in big box store parking lots. Whether boondocking on a secluded forest road or a big box store parking lot, you should have all your supplies handy. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance so you don’t run out of essential items.
Keep in mind that while boondocking, you’ll have to travel over dirt roads and rocky terrain. You’ll also have to scout ahead before camping, so remember to pack tire chains and other gear that can keep your vehicle in good condition. And, of course, you’ll have to pay attention to your RV’s holding tank capacity!
One of the best things you can do to conserve your energy while boondocking is to use inverter chargers, which can provide both AC and DC power. If you don’t have the ability to find inverter chargers, you can opt to install solar panels. Solar power can charge your batteries anywhere there’s sunlight. It’s also free and environmentally friendly, and it’s silent!
One of the best ways to save money while traveling is by boondocking on public land. You can often find free camping sites in dispersed locations, such as on state or federal land. However, it’s important to check if the area allows RVs, since some sites are more primitive and cost more. Boondocking requires a little more preparation than traditional camping, so it’s crucial to prepare accordingly.
Despite the benefits of boondocking, it’s not for everyone. Not all campgrounds are perfect for boondocking. Some campgrounds are extremely remote and may not have electricity. So you should plan your boondocking trips ahead of time and avoid campgrounds where the electricity and water aren’t available. You should also check the availability of services in the area where you plan to boondock.