Boondocking Guide: Camping on US Public Lands & BLM

What Is Boondocking? The Essential Overview

Boondocking is camping on undeveloped land without hookups (no water, electricity, or sewer connections) and typically without reservations. This form of camping, also known as dry camping or wild camping, takes place on public lands managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS), as well as some private properties.

3 Critical Things Every First-Timer Must Know

Stay Limits: Most BLM and National Forest dispersed camping areas have a 14-day limit within a 28-day period, though specific rules vary by district office and location.
Fees & Reservations: Whether you pay fees or can make reservations depends entirely on the specific area. Reservable developed campgrounds are typically found on Recreation.gov.
Fire Permits: States like California require a free Campfire Permit year-round, and all areas are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans.

Chapter 1: Essential Systems – Power, Water, and Waste Management

Off-Grid Power Planning

Calculating Your Power Needs

Start by listing every device you’ll use and its power consumption over 24 hours:

LED lights: 5-10W per hour
12V refrigerator: 30-60W continuous (720-1,440Wh daily)
Water pump: 5A for 10 minutes = 50Wh daily
Phone charging: 10-15Wh per charge
Laptop: 45-65W per hour of use

Battery Capacity Guidelines

100Ah LiFePO₄ battery ≈ 1,200Wh usable capacity
200Ah system handles 2-3 days of moderate use
Plan for 50% depth of discharge for lead-acid, 80% for lithium

Solar Power Sizing

200W solar: Good for maintaining batteries with light usage
400W solar: Supports refrigeration and moderate electronics
600W+: Handles air conditioning, microwaves, and heavy usage

Alternative Charging Methods

Vehicle alternator: DC-to-DC chargers provide 20-40A while driving
Generator: 2,000W units handle most RV needs but observe quiet hours (typically 8 AM – 6 PM)
Shore power: Campground hookups when available

Water Management Strategy

Daily Water Consumption Estimates (per person)

Drinking: 0.5-1 gallon
Cooking: 0.5 gallon
Basic washing: 1-2 gallons
Total conservative estimate: 2-4 gallons per person per day

Water Conservation Tips

Use paper plates to reduce dishwashing
Take “navy showers” (wet, soap, rinse quickly)
Collect rainwater for non-potable uses
Use wet wipes for quick cleanup

Gray Water Management All wastewater must be disposed of properly:

Strain food particles and pack them out
Use biodegradable soap sparingly
Dispose of gray water at least 200 feet from water sources
Scatter over a wide area to aid soil absorption

Waste and Sanitation

Human Waste Disposal – The Cat Hole Method

Dig holes 6-8 inches deep
Locate at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, and trails
Cover completely when finished
Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products (or bury 6+ inches deep)
Use a trowel or specialized camping shovel

Trash Management

Pack out ALL trash – “Leave No Trace”
Use sturdy bags and secure them from wind and animals
Burn appropriate materials only where fires are permitted
Never bury trash or food waste

Chapter 2: Finding Spots – BLM and National Forest Regulations

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands

General Rules and Stay Limits

Most dispersed camping areas allow 14 consecutive days
Must move at least 25 miles after 14 days
Cannot return to the same area for 28 days (14-day rule reset)
Some popular areas have shorter limits (7 days) or require permits

Finding BLM Camping Areas

Use the BLM Navigator app and website
Look for “Open” or “Dispersed Camping Allowed” designations
Yellow areas on maps typically allow camping
Check local field office websites for specific restrictions

Fees and Permits

Most dispersed camping is free
Developed campgrounds may charge $5-20 per night
Long Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in Arizona and California offer seasonal permits ($40-180)
No reservations for dispersed sites – first come, first served

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Lands

National Forest Camping Rules

Generally follow 14-day limits but rules vary significantly by forest
Some areas restrict camping to within 150 feet of designated roads
Others require ½ mile spacing between camps
Check the specific forest’s website for current regulations

Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM)

Show which roads allow vehicle travel
Essential for legal camping spot selection
Available at ranger stations and forest service websites
GPS coordinates help locate legal camping areas

Permits and Restrictions

Most dispersed camping is free
Some areas require Adventure Passes or similar permits
Group size limits (typically 8-16 people)
Seasonal closures for wildlife protection or fire danger

Reservations and Developed Campgrounds

Recreation.gov – The Central Booking System

Handles reservations for most federal campgrounds
Mobile app shows real-time availability
Can book up to 6 months in advance (varies by location)
Cancellation policies vary; some allow partial refunds

State and Private Options

Hipcamp for private land boondocking
State park systems have separate reservation systems
Some offer primitive camping with fewer amenities
Private landowners through apps like Campendium

Fire Permits and Restrictions

California Campfire Permit Requirements

Required year-round for any open flame outside developed campgrounds
Free online application at CAL FIRE website
Valid for one calendar year
Includes regulations for portable stoves and lanterns

Fire Restriction Levels

Stage 1: Restrictions on timing and location of fires
Stage 2: Complete fire bans, including propane stoves in some areas
Check current status on InciWeb or local forest service websites
Violations carry heavy fines and potential liability for firefighting costs

Chapter 3: Campsite Setup and Safety

Selecting Your Campsite

Site Selection Priorities

Use existing sites when possible to minimize impact
Choose durable surfaces: gravel, sand, rock, or established dirt areas
Maintain 200-foot buffer from water sources
Avoid natural hazards: dead trees, rockfall zones, flash flood areas
Consider wind protection and sun exposure for comfort

Terrain Considerations

Avoid washes and low areas prone to flooding
Check for level parking before committing to a site
Ensure adequate turnaround space for your vehicle
Look for natural windbreaks but avoid camping directly under large trees

Vehicle and Equipment Setup

Parking and Stabilization

Use wheel chocks on any slope
Deploy stabilizing jacks gradually and evenly
Check propane connections and test leak detectors
Ensure adequate ventilation around generator exhaust

Power System Setup

Position solar panels for maximum sun exposure
Keep battery vents clear and batteries level
Run generator during acceptable hours (usually 8 AM – 6 PM)
Use CO detectors inside your RV or tent

Water and Waste Systems

Locate gray water disposal area before setup
Check all plumbing connections for leaks
Keep fresh water tanks full when possible
Plan waste disposal routes and timing

Safety Protocols

Fire Safety

Clear 10-foot radius around fire rings of flammable materials
Keep water or dirt nearby for extinguishing
Complete extinguishing process:
1. Allow wood to burn completely to ash
2. Pour water on embers
3. Stir ashes and add more water
4. Feel for heat with back of hand
5. Repeat until completely cold

Wildlife Safety

Store food in hard-sided containers or bear boxes where required
Never feed wildlife
Keep cooking and eating areas clean
Research specific wildlife risks for your destination

Weather Preparedness

Monitor weather forecasts and warnings
Have evacuation plans for flash floods, severe storms
Carry emergency communication devices in remote areas
Know signs of altitude sickness if camping at elevation

Security Considerations

Inform someone of your plans and expected return
Carry emergency communication (satellite communicator, PLB)
Keep vehicles locked and valuables secured
Trust your instincts about people and situations

Chapter 4: Environmental Ethics and Campground Courtesy

Leave No Trace Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Research regulations and special concerns
Prepare for extreme weather and emergencies
Schedule travel to avoid times of high use
Visit in small groups and split larger parties

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Camp on designated sites when available
Use existing campsites rather than creating new ones
Keep campsites small and select sites 200+ feet from water
In pristine areas, disperse use to prevent creation of campsites

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter
Deposit solid human waste in catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water
Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products
Wash dishes and yourself 200 feet from streams or lakes

4. Leave What You Find

Preserve the past; examine but don’t touch cultural artifacts
Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them
Avoid introducing non-native species
Do not build structures or furniture

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

Use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires
Keep fires small and use dead wood found on ground
Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out fires completely
Consider using lightweight stoves for cooking

6. Respect Wildlife

Observe wildlife from a distance
Never feed animals
Store food and scented items securely
Control pets at all times

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Respect other visitors and protect quality of experience
Be courteous and yield to others on trails
Step to downhill side when encountering pack stock
Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors

Noise and Light Etiquette

Generator Use Guidelines

Observe established quiet hours (typically 8 PM – 8 AM)
Position generators downwind from neighboring camps
Use sound-dampening materials or enclosures
Consider others’ schedules and activities

Music and Conversation

Keep noise levels reasonable, especially after dark
Sound travels far in open country
Be mindful of wildlife behavior changes due to noise
Use headphones for personal entertainment

Lighting Courtesy

Use warm, dim lighting to preserve night vision
Shield lights to prevent glare into neighboring camps
Turn off unnecessary lights when retiring
Consider astronomy enthusiasts and wildlife

Pet Responsibilities

Leash and Containment

Keep pets leashed or contained at all times
Never allow pets to chase wildlife
Be aware of seasonal restrictions (nesting seasons)
Carry adequate water for pets

Waste Management

Always pick up pet waste
Dispose of waste in trash (don’t bury)
Keep pets away from water sources
Monitor pets for wildlife encounters

Pre-Departure Site Restoration

Campsite Inspection Checklist

Remove all trash, including micro-litter and food scraps
Scatter unused firewood (don’t transport to new areas)
Ensure fire is completely extinguished and cold
Fill in and disguise catholes
Remove any improvements made to the site
Replace moved rocks and logs to natural positions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are BLM and USFS dispersed camping rules the same everywhere? A: No, rules vary significantly by location and managing office. While the general 14-day rule is common, specific restrictions on distance from roads, group size, and vehicle requirements differ. Always check the local field office or ranger district website for current regulations.

Q: Do I need to pay fees or make reservations for dispersed camping? A: Most dispersed camping on BLM and Forest Service land is free and first-come, first-served. However, developed campgrounds typically require fees and may accept reservations through Recreation.gov. Some popular areas have implemented permit systems or fees due to overuse.

Q: Do I need a fire permit in California? A: Yes, California requires a free Campfire Permit year-round for any open flame outside of developed campgrounds. This includes campfires, barbecues, and some portable stoves. The permit is free and can be obtained online through the CAL FIRE website, but you must also follow all current fire restrictions and bans.

Q: Where can I find the “150 feet from road” requirement? A: This varies by National Forest. Check the specific forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) and dispersed camping guidelines. The USFS Intermountain Region, for example, has specific distance requirements that differ from other regions.

Q: How deep should I dig a cathole and how far from water? A: Dig catholes 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, and trails. This depth puts waste in the biological soil layer where decomposition occurs most rapidly while keeping it away from groundwater.

Q: Can I camp anywhere on public land? A: No, camping is only allowed in designated areas or where specifically permitted. Always check current regulations, seasonal closures, and special restrictions. Some areas prohibit camping entirely to protect sensitive resources.

Q: What’s the difference between BLM and National Forest camping? A: Both agencies manage public lands for multiple uses, but regulations can differ. BLM tends to have more open desert camping with fewer restrictions, while National Forests often have more specific rules about road proximity and environmental protection. Always check local regulations.

Q: How do I find reliable cell service and internet while boondocking? A: Cell service is often limited in remote areas. Consider a cellular signal booster, multiple carrier options, or satellite internet solutions. Apps like OpenSignal and CellMapper can help identify coverage areas, but don’t rely solely on connectivity in emergency situations.

Q: What should I do if I encounter wildlife at my campsite? A: Never approach or feed wildlife. Store food properly, give animals space, and make noise to avoid surprising them. For large predators, make yourself appear large, back away slowly, and fight back if attacked. Carry bear spray in bear country and know how to use it.

Q: How do I handle medical emergencies while boondocking? A: Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and know basic wilderness first aid. Have emergency communication devices like satellite messengers or Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). Share your plans with someone reliable and include expected return times and emergency contacts.

Essential Resources and Next Steps

Recommended Apps and Websites

FreeRoam: BLM and Forest Service camping locations
Campendium: User-reviewed camping spots with photos
iOverlander: International camping database
GaiaGPS: Offline mapping and navigation
Recreation.gov: Federal campground reservations

Planning Tools

Download offline maps before departing
Calculate power and water needs using our planning worksheet
Check fire restrictions and weather forecasts
Research local regulations and permits required

Building Your Boondocking Skills

Start with shorter trips close to services while you learn your systems and preferences. Gradually extend your stays and venture into more remote areas as your confidence and experience grow. Join online communities and local clubs to learn from experienced boondockers and discover new locations.

Remember that successful boondocking combines technical preparation with environmental stewardship and courtesy to others. The goal is to enjoy these incredible public lands while ensuring they remain pristine for future generations.

Ready to start your boondocking adventure? Begin by identifying your power and water needs, research locations near you, and plan your first short trip to test your systems and skills.

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