Imagine ditching crowded campgrounds and expensive RV parks for a serene, off-grid experience in the great outdoors. Sounds enticing, right? That’s the beauty of boondocking, or free camping, which offers the opportunity to camp without hookups, often at no cost.
We have boondocked in quite a few places around the USA and I can tell you, there is almost always free camping nearby- no matter where you are. With the help of technology, finding the perfect spot for your boondocking adventure has never been easier. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 8 boondocking apps, along with alternative methods for finding those hidden gems that may not be listed on any app or website.
So buckle up and get ready to explore the world of free camping like never before!
Key Takeaways
- Discover the top 8 boondocking apps to find free camping spots with interactive maps, user reviews and various filtering options.
- Learn essential gear for successful and safe boondocking adventures as well as tips for responsible camping habits.
- Share your experiences with fellow campers to foster a sense of community and inspire others on their off-grid journeys!
Top 8 Boondocking Apps for Free Camping
In today’s digital age, numerous apps and websites can help you find free camping spots with interactive maps, user reviews, and various filtering options. From versatile tools like iOverlander to crowd-sourced platforms like Freecampsites.net, there’s a boondocking app for every type of camper.
Explore the best options available to enhance your upcoming camping trip.
iOverlander: The Ultimate Boondocking Tool
iOverlander, a top-notch camping app for PC, iphone or android, aids users in locating free campsites, wild camping areas, as well as other amenities. It’s tailored for car and van camping, as well as overlanding, making it a popular choice among travelers. Users can add new places, leave comments and reviews, and access the most up-to-date information, ensuring a seamless experience.
The ability to download maps for offline use is an added bonus, especially in remote areas with limited cell coverage. With the growing popularity of camping apps like iOverlander, finding the perfect spot for your next adventure has never been easier.
A standout feature of iOverlander is the effortless search for nearby amenities like showers, gas stations, and recycling centers. The app even includes information on free camping in national parks. It is built by its users, so there is a ton of information. When you click on a site, there is a full page of information about the site, what size rigs will fit, nearby amenities, cell coverage, etc.
While it may not provide information for every campsite, it’s an invaluable tool in our arsenal and our go-to app for traveling and finding the best free camping spots.
Freecampsites.net: Crowd-Sourced Camping Gems
Freecampsites.net, a platform steered by a community, facilitates users in discovering and sharing free camping locations. The platform offers a map-based search engine that enables users to locate hundreds of campsites, making it a valuable resource for campers seeking boondocking spots.
Although the interface may not be as user-friendly as iOverlander or Campendium, it provides comparable services and useful information.
Freecampsites.net offers the following advantages:
- Provides a trove of data and user feedback, specifically about public lands
- Features a selection of short-term stays, such as Walmart parking lots and rest areas that permit overnight camping
- Some locations even offer camping discounts, making it an excellent resource for budget-conscious travelers.
However:
- There is no app, so you will need some type of cell service to use this site.
Campendium: Comprehensive Camping Database
Campendium, an all-inclusive app, furnishes information about free camping areas, established campgrounds, and other amenities. With user reviews and filtering options, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
The free version of the app offers basic features for finding boondocking spots, while an upgrade to Campendium supporter provides ads-free searching, cell service filtering, and map layers, making it an awesome boondocking app.
You can effortlessly find free camping spots on Campendium, one of the best free camping apps, by using the price filter and selecting ‘free’. The app also allows users to download offline maps for areas with limited or no cell service, ensuring you can find a great place to camp even when you’re off the grid.
FreeRoam: Plan Your Perfect Trip
More than a camping app, FreeRoam functions as a trip-planning tool assisting users in locating campgrounds, plotting routes, and uncovering points of interest en route.
With guides on boondocking and dispersed camping, it’s a treasure trove of information for camping enthusiasts. The app provides powerful filters for campground searches, a trip planning feature, product reviews for campers, and cell coverage information.
From a user aspect, FreeRoam feels a bit overdone if you are just looking for quick information to locate sites, but it holds our interest particularly for its emphasis on networking with fellow travelers and keeping abreast of forthcoming events and meetings. That is an aspect of this site that we really think is cool.
RV Parky: Your All-in-One Camping Companion
RV Parky, a comprehensive camping app, is designed to aid users in finding RV camping spots, including:
- Campgrounds
- Free camping areas
- RV resorts
- Truck stops
- Dump stations
With an extensive database and filters to narrow down options, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your next boondocking adventure. View the amenities available at each location, and utilize filters to help refine your search for your next destination.
The app was created by an experienced RVer to provide assistance to other RVers during their travels. With its comprehensive database, RV Parky is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to discover and enjoy free camping spots across the country.
Allstays Camp & RV: Customized Camping Experience
Allstays Camp & RV, a highly adaptable camping app, accommodates to your specific requirements. With free and paid versions available, you can choose the level of features that best suit your camping adventures.
The app offers filters for state, land or park type, and amenities, which makes it easy to find the perfect spot for your next boondocking trip. Plus, offline access ensures you’ll never be without the information you need, even in remote areas with no cell service.
AllStays Pro offers a range of additional features, including:
- Full-screen maps on the website
- Bridge clearances
- RV washes
- Extra dump and propane locations
- Steep road grades
With AllStays, you can truly tailor your camping experience to your preferences and requirements.
US Public Lands: Explore America’s Backyard
US Public Lands, an app offering color-coded maps of US public lands, assists users in finding camping opportunities on federal and state-owned properties. While the app itself doesn’t provide specific campground information, it’s a valuable resource for those interested in exploring public lands and identifying potential camping spots.
We recommend using US Public Lands in combination with one of the other excellent boondocking apps mentioned in this guide. This way, you can ensure you’re well-informed about campsite closures and other relevant information, while also enjoying the benefits of color-coded maps to aid in your search for the perfect free camping spot.
Boondocking App: Affordable and Efficient
Boondocking App serves as a cost-effective and efficient solution for those seeking free camping spots, ensuring affordability. It is designed for iPad so there is no Android version. As a free app, it offers:
- Maps
- Weather information
- Filters
- The ability to save favorite locations and leave reviews
Although it may not be as feature-rich as some of the other apps on this list, it’s a cost-effective solution for those seeking a simple and easy-to-use tool for finding free camping sites.
With its low price and user-friendly interface, the Boondocking App is a great starting point for those new to the world of free camping or as an additional resource to complement other more comprehensive apps.
Alternative Methods for Finding Boondocking Sites
While apps and websites are incredibly useful for finding free camping spots, there are also alternative methods worth considering. The section explores three alternative methods: utilizing paper road maps, Google Satellite View, and seeking advice from local rangers.
Each of these approaches offers unique advantages and can help you uncover hidden gems that may not be documented on any app or website.
Paper Road Maps: Old-School Navigation
Despite the era of smartphones and GPS devices, the reliability of traditional paper road maps can’t be overlooked. These maps can be particularly useful for finding boondocking spots when you’re venturing into areas without cell coverage or internet access.
With a paper map in hand, you can gain insight into the terrain and road conditions in the area, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable camping experience.
Delorme road atlases are an excellent option for those interested in utilizing paper maps for their boondocking adventures. Easy to read and packed with detailed information on public lands, these atlases are a valuable resource for any camper seeking off-grid experiences.
Google Satellite View: Visual Scouting
Google Satellite View serves as a potent tool for visually scouting potential boondocking locations, which may not be listed on apps or websites. By zooming in on the area of interest, you can search for suitable camping areas that are away from roads and other indications of civilization.
This method allows you to uncover hidden gems that others may not know about, as you’re relying on your own visual observations instead of pre-existing information.
However, it’s important to be aware that Google Satellite View may not always be current, so it’s a good idea to verify the area before arrival. Additionally, be mindful that certain areas may be private property and should not be entered without permission.
Local Knowledge: Ask a Ranger
Local rangers can offer a wealth of pertinent information on free camping sites, road conditions, and other area-specific details unavailable on apps or websites.
By consulting with local experts, you can gain insights into the best camping spots, potential wildfire risks, and other important factors to consider when planning your boondocking adventure.
Don’t hesitate to approach local rangers and ask for their advice. They’re often more than happy to share their knowledge and help you make the most of your camping experience. Plus, by connecting with local experts, you’ll be better prepared to practice responsible boondocking in the area.
Essential Gear for Boondocking Adventures
Boondocking out in nature without hookups requires paying attention to some factors. Prior to setting off to a remote camp spot, consider factors such as:
- Water Tank Capacity– is your on board tank sufficient for all of your needs?
- Power Source– do you have the capacity to create enough power for all of your electrical needs?
- Bathroom– will your black and grey tanks hold enough to get you through your trip or will you need to dump?
- Cooking Equipment– do you have sufficient propane, charcoal, wood?
- Trash Management– do you have space to store ALL of your refuse to pack out with you?
By doing some planning beforehand and being well-prepared and equipped, you can enjoy your boondocking adventure without any unwanted surprises.
Embarking on a boondocking adventure necessitates having the right gear for a safe and enjoyable experience. Some essential items to consider include:
- Emergency kits
- Extra water containers
- Power sources
- Signal boosters
- Portable heaters
- Compostable toilets
These items not only make your camping experience more comfortable, but also help you stay prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise while you’re off the grid.
Tips for Responsible Boondocking
Practicing responsible camping habits stands as one of the most significant aspects of boondocking. This includes adhering to Leave No Trace principles, complying with local regulations, and being conscious of wildlife and the environment. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re not only enjoying your camping experience, but also preserving the natural beauty of the area for future generations to enjoy.
Leave No Trace principles include:
- Planning ahead and preparing
- Traveling and camping on durable surfaces
- Correctly disposing of waste
- Leaving the environment as you found it
- Minimizing campfire impacts
- Respecting wildlife
- Being considerate of other visitors
By following these principles and respecting local regulations, you can create a positive impact on the environment and contribute to the sustainability of free camping opportunities.
Share Your Boondocking Experiences
Imparting your boondocking experiences to others can foster a sense of community and support among fellow campers. By sharing your favorite apps, tips for finding the perfect free camping spot, and stories from your adventures, you can help others discover the joys of boondocking and inspire them to embark on their own off-grid journeys.
There are various platforms where you can share your experiences, such as these apps, boondocking forums, social media, and other online communities. By contributing your knowledge and experiences, you can encourage responsible boondocking practices and help others explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.
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Summary
As we’ve explored in this guide, there are numerous apps and alternative methods available to help you find the perfect boondocking spot for your next camping adventure.
From comprehensive databases like Campendium to community-driven platforms like Freecampsites.net, there’s no shortage of resources to help you embark on an unforgettable off-grid experience.
With the right tools, gear, and responsible camping practices, you can enjoy the beauty and freedom of boondocking while preserving the environment for future generations. So, get ready to explore the world of free camping and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you find boondocking locations?
Finding boondocking locations is easily done by researching public lands like the BLM, National Forests, Army Corps of Engineers, State Parks, Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome and AllStaysPRO, or through moochdocking.
What is the best app for free camping?
The best app for free camping is Gaia GPS, followed by FreeRoam, iOverlander, Avenza Maps and FreeCampsites.Net for exploring public lands such as BLM sites, National Forests or National Parks to find epic free campsites.
These apps provide detailed maps, reviews, and other information to help you find the perfect spot for your next camping adventure. They also provide features such as offline maps, route planning, and more. With these apps, you can easily find the best free camping spots in the US and Canada.
Is there a Boondockers welcome app?
Yes, Boondockers Welcome has a mobile app to help its members find Host locations, request overnight stays, communicate with Hosts and more while they are on the go.
Frank Foley
Frank is the Head Hubby, Daddy, and Fix-It Guy of the Roving Foleys clan. He ia an avid traveler and has spent over 5 years traveling full time with his family. he loves helping others learn about the RV life. He has also traveled in Europe, Asia, and Australia with his wife Grainne.