Wild Camping in the US – Your Quick Guide to Free Overnight Stays

Thinking about sleeping under the stars without paying a campsite fee? Wild camping, also called boondocking, lets you park your RV or set up a tent on public land for free. It sounds tempting, but you need to know the rules, safety tips, and where to find good spots. This guide gives you straight‑forward advice so you can enjoy the freedom without getting a ticket.

What Exactly Is Wild Camping?

In the US, wild camping means staying overnight on land that isn’t a commercial campground. Most people use national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, or state land that allows dispersed camping. You won’t find hook‑ups or toilets, but you’ll get privacy and amazing scenery.

The key rule is to camp only where it’s allowed. Some national parks ban overnight stays outside their campgrounds, while many forests let you set up a tent for up to 14 days in the same spot. Always check the sign at the trailhead or the agency’s website before you park.

How to Find Safe Free Spots

Start with the BLM website or the US Forest Service maps. They list “dispersed camping” areas and often provide details about road access, water sources, and fire restrictions. Mobile apps like iOverlander and Campendium also show user‑rated free sites. Look for a clear, level ground away from steep drop‑offs, and make sure you’re not too close to private property.

When you arrive, set up your tent or slide‑out at least 200 feet from water bodies to protect the environment. If you’re in an RV, pull into a spot where the vehicle can sit level and the tires have firm ground. Avoid low‑lying areas that could collect rainwater.

Never leave trash behind. Pack out everything you bring in, and follow the “Leave No Trace” principle: use a portable stove instead of open fires if fire bans are in place. If you do have a fire, keep it small, use established fire rings, and fully extinguish it before leaving.

Safety-wise, let someone know where you’re heading and when you expect to return. Carry a basic first‑aid kit, a spare tire, and a reliable GPS or offline maps. A battery‑powered lantern and a power bank are handy for night‑time needs, especially if you’re using a portable power station.

Winter camping in the US can be harsh. Dress in layers, insulate your sleeping pad, and choose a site that’s sheltered from the wind. Summer heat is another challenge; pick a shaded spot, bring plenty of water, and set up a tarp for extra shade.

Remember, wild camping is a privilege, not a right. By respecting the land and following local rules, you’ll keep these free spots open for everyone. So next time you plan a road trip through the Rockies, the deserts of Utah, or the forests of the Pacific Northwest, add a night of wild camping to your itinerary and enjoy the real sense of freedom.