Many people have probably seen people in the movies, magazines, and even on social media in photos showing them with their RV, and nothing puts trees or desert in proximity. Frequently, it’s on purpose; other times, it’s due to unforeseen circumstances.
The majority of people choose this lifestyle called boondocking to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the remoteness.
Here’s all you need to know about boondocking and then some:
What is Boondocking?
Boondocking is defined as the ability to go camping in remote/off-the-grid locations, away from the assistance and conveniences of RV parks and developed camping areas.
It’s a more mild form of camping, and it frequently takes you to lovely locations for trips lasting a couple of days to several weeks. However, you can boondock in urban areas as well.
Even though boondocks generally refer to having no amenities in the middle of nowhere, numerous US Forest Lands(USFS) or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) have minimal provisions, such as pit toilets and water pumps.
Others go as far as providing covered enclosed facilities with running water, toilets, and showers.
Still, if that’s accessible to you, it is also accessible to tons of other people and would defeat the purpose of boondocking.
Nearly all of the Forest Lands that allow camping provide tables, bonfire zone, and trash bins.
However, if you’re boondocking, you’ll likely be outside the range of these amenities.
Types of Boondocking
When you think about, “What is Boondocking?”, believe it or not, there are not only many places to boondock, but there are numerous ways as well, from tiny mobile houses to RVs, Caravans, and Winnebago.
And if you are looking for small lightweight camping trailer options read, “6 Best Pop-Up Campers Under 1,500 Pounds” or “9 Best Camping Trailers Under 1500 pounds“.
Boondocking is a convenient way to park your vehicle and nap simply. Parking at a free spot overnight helps save time and cash if you’re on a rigid schedule and only require a place to crash for the night. They all have names!
Wallydocking
The name speaks for itself as the moment you hear Wallydocking; the “Wal” suggests Walmart. Yes, a lot of people go boondocking right in the Walmart parking lot.
This has been happening for several years, and many of the managers are accommodating because there’s no official rule that Walmart has against staying overnight in their parking lots. But it’s dependent on the individual managers.
Blacktop Boondocking
When people choose to camp out in parking lots and rest areas, this is usually referred to as blacktop boondocking.
You typically have no amenities available and may need permission for this boondocking.
Campsite Boondocking
There are two kinds of campsite boondocking, developed and undeveloped campsites.
For developed campsites, they come with multiple amenities and allow you to park your RV at specific spots and even remote sections of the campgrounds.
As for the undeveloped campsites, there are usually no services. Most often if there is, it might be a pit or vault toilet and maybe a hand-pumped water pipe.
If this is your first time camping, it would not be an ideal start.
Moochdocking
Choosing to park your RV on the driveway of a friend or relative during your road trip is referred to as moochdocking. It’s essential to know the community rules before utilizing this option.
Boondocking for Beginners
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by boondocking, mainly if you’ve never done it before. Preparation is essential, but even then, mistakes can still occur, but you’ll be a pro or at least close by your next road trip.
Here are a few valuable hints for rookie boondockers:
- Make sure your freshwater supply is at the maximum.
- Go to the site during the daytime.
- Stay on top of weather forecasts.
- Check to see if there are any designated generator hours at the campground and prepare accordingly.
- An inverter is essential if you’ll be using solar panels.
- Only bring appliances that utilize limited power.
- Make sure all electronic devices are charged before arriving.
- Conserve energy to keep your batteries healthy, save money on gas, and reduce the time you spend using your generator.
- Make a grocery list.
- Prepare your washing ahead of time.
- Bring extra supplies just in case.
Boondocking Locations
Boondocking has specific legal implications because of local laws and the need to protect federal lands, making sure you’re parked legally.
Most Superstores allow boondocking on their parking lots. (clever, since it often benefits them in terms of sales). Most truck stops are also welcoming.
Boondocking On Public Property
If you wish to boondock in a specific area, try to contact a park ranger as they are very knowledgeable about the safe zones and places that are accessible or closed to the public. You’ll get the best directions from the rangers as well.
When boondocking on BLM property, or national forest land, locations are occasionally closed due to abuse or overuse of the properties.
Therefore, make sure to read any local signs that state if camping is permitted.
To keep these locations accessible to the public, follow the signs and be thoughtful of fellow boondockers and the surroundings while you’re there.
Numerous boondocking areas will provide precise coordinates so that you can be sure you’re camping lawfully in the specified location.
If you’re boondocking, the idea is to enjoy nature rather than ruin it. Be sure to stick to established roads and only camp in designated places.
Typically, you are not permitted to camp in national parks. However, those that do will have dedicated RV campsites (with or without connections) and designated boondocking areas that you must call into reserve or do online.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t true for every location, so call ahead to double-check. Only a few states allow overnight RV parking at rest sites, but this is illegal in most countries. Another reason to check with boondocking apps before setting up camp for the night.
Boondocking Overnight Stops
While driving cross-country, you might be seeking a brisk overnight parking place. Overnight camping is permitted at many establishments outside of Walmart and truck stops.
You can resist boondocking on city streets or in commercial parking lots where overnight camping is not permitted. If you don’t, you’ll probably be interrupted amid your sleep by a law officer or security personnel, requesting that you depart immediately.
The Pros and Cons of Boondocking
Pros
- You save on camping ground costs.
- A lot of space for you and your family
- Little to no interruption.
- Parking lot boondocking is very convenient if you only need an overnight stop.
- Break from technology to be in oneness with nature
- No noise pollution
- Amazing scenery
Cons
- You may end up without a cellphone or internet service.
- Weather changes could lead to your RV getting stuck.
- Boondocking in parking lots can get noisy and crowded.
- Some public lands have heavy restrictions like a 3-14 day maximum stay.
- Water usage has to be at a bare minimum.
- No turn-around area.
- Campsites are sometimes too far into the forest for larger RVs to maneuver the small road.
Wrapping It Up
Boondocking may not be for everyone. However, if you want to find seclusion and really get in touch with nature, it is the best way to go. As you travel, you may find yourself in each of these categories. Wallydocking each night until you reach your campsite destination. Moochdocking at a friend’s or relative’s house while on your route.
Camping is an adventure. Boondocking can get you back to what life was like for the early pioneers. Traveling across the country, stopping each night to set up camp and rest, then travel on the next day.
