Free Camping & Dispersed Camping Sites

Yes. Dispersed camping is legal on most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and national forest land unless signs indicate otherwise. You can camp for free in undeveloped areas outside of established campgrounds. Some areas require permits or have seasonal closures, so always check with the local ranger district or BLM field office before setting up camp.

The standard stay limit on BLM and national forest land is 14 days within a 28-day period. After 14 days, you must move at least 25 miles from your previous campsite. Some areas have shorter limits (7 days) or specific seasonal restrictions. Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in Arizona and California allow extended winter stays for a seasonal fee.

Use CampSeek to explore free camping areas on our interactive map. National forests and BLM land are the best resources for free camping. Look for forest roads and established pullouts on Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs), which show where vehicles are allowed to travel. County and state land sometimes allows camping as well. Avoid camping on private land without permission.

Since there are no facilities, you need to be self-sufficient. Essential items include enough water for your entire stay (at least one gallon per person per day), a way to dispose of human waste (WAG bags or a trowel for cat holes dug 6-8 inches deep), fire-starting supplies, navigation tools (GPS or paper maps since cell service is rare), and all food and cooking equipment. For RV boondocking, ensure your tanks and batteries are full.

Fire regulations vary by location and season. Many areas implement fire bans during dry summer months, especially in the western United States. When fires are permitted, use an existing fire ring or a portable fire pan. Never build a new fire ring. Keep fires small, never leave them unattended, and fully extinguish them by drowning with water and stirring the ashes until cold to the touch.

Boondocking refers to camping in an RV or van without hookups (electricity, water, or sewer connections), typically on free public land. Boondockers rely on solar panels, batteries, onboard water tanks, and portable waste systems. Popular boondocking areas include BLM land in the desert Southwest, national forests throughout the West, and some retail parking lots that permit overnight stays.