RV boondocking is a great way to enjoy incredible views and reconnect with nature. If you are new to RV camping, you might be rightly wondering about what boondocking is. In this post, you will learn how this activity can help you to relax in peace, tranquility, and beauty when camping outdoors in an RV rental.
RV Boondocking: What is It?
RV Boondocking is the practice of pulling the mobile vehicle off the highway and camping at a free location out in the boondocks. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors for free.
Generally, public authorities charge for camping near the forests and parks. However, about a mile or two away from the ‘official’ camping ground, you can find secluded areas where you can camp legally without having to pay anything.
The fact is that the public camping grounds are not much different from ‘free’ camping grounds or the boondocks. The only difference is that public campgrounds have a fire pit with a grill and a pit toilet. You are better off without these two things when camping outdoors.
Is RV Boondocking Right for You?
RV boondocking is not for everyone. If you don’t like camping in secluded spots and prefer to be surrounded by other campers, then boondocking is not for you. However, if you wish to take in the peace and tranquility and also save on money, you will be highly satisfied with the activity.
There are many places in the US that are ideal for boondocking. One of the favorite spots for the activity is near the Grand Canyon. In addition, National Forest and National Grasslands, BLM (Bureau of Land Management), Fish and Wildlife Management and other public lands allow recreational RV boondocking. You can also use apps such as Ultimate US Public Campgrounds to find free camping grounds to enjoy RV boondocking in the wild.
Important Things to Remember when RV Boondocking in the US
Keep in mind that most public lands have stay limits. Once the stay-limit is over, you need to move at least 24 miles away from the site. Some areas charge you for overstaying at a public place. So, make sure that you know about the stay limit before camping.
Another important tip regarding boondocking is to stay on areas that have been used before. This will ensure that you make minimum impact on the environment. Look for areas that have already been cleared out. Also, structures like a fire pit indicate that the area has been used before.
Lastly, good RV boondocking etiquette is to camp at a distance from other campers. There is no fixed distance but a good rule of thumb is about 15-feet away from another camper. Avoid parking right next to another RV unless invited and especially if you can find a spot elsewhere. Most people go boondocking to get away. So, you should respect them by giving as much space as possible.
