What is Boondocking?

Many people have asked the question, what is Boondocking? Boondocking, also known as dry camping is when you park your RV without any hook ups such as water, electric or sewer. Boondocking is a great way to really get out and enjoy some privacy in an RV. In many cases, remote campsites are the goal but boondocking is also common at events and gatherings where utilities and resources are not available. Boondocking is essentially camping without hookups, power and access to the amenities associated with RV parks. In the long run, RV parks are excellent for comfort but boondocking is free and offers a great way to camp while traveling and exploring new areas.

Scouting Sites

Scouting is a critical element for boondockers. The size and clearance of the RV or camper is an important consideration. Learn about the roads, turnarounds and conditions before pushing forward to a campsite. Pushing a big RV down a small dirt road with clearance issues can lead to a disastrous situation. Talk to drivers coming the other direction and ask around before trying a difficult road. Using campsite mobile applications also works well for scouting. Always mark a few different options to have backups ready in case the roads are too difficult.

Boondocking also requires approval from the land owner. You might boondock at a Walmart overnight or in the National Forest for a few weeks. Parking on private lands without permission is a bad idea however. Always know where the campsite is located and what rules apply for campers. Things like no fires and other restrictions are also not uncommon. Check with the local parks, forest rangers and other authorities for current regulations and advice. Otherwise, find a perfect off the grid camp, level out the camper, setup some shade and enjoy the solitude.

Related Read: Boondocking 101

Generate Power

Power generation is a common need when boondocking for any extended period of time. A battery bank is ideal for energy storage but those batteries will require energy to remain charged. A solar system and a gas powered generator are the two most common means of charging batteries. Solar is ideal but a generator is convenient for topping off as needed. Regardless, use power conservatively to minimize the need for charging. Also use a propane refrigerator to limit power needs to lights and electronic charging. A well planned power system will run the camper for weeks at a time. Bring along extra gas for the generator, park where the solar panels see quality time under the sun and limit overall usage to make it last for the duration of your trip. Having power makes for a really comfortable camp with the same lights and extra amenities found in most homes.

Use Water Wisely

Water is a major consideration when boondocking. As a general rule, you want to stock enough water for the trip and an extra 7-10 gallons for emergency use. Do a test run at home to gauge the average water usage per day. This will vary depending on the number of people and they way you use water. Skipping daily showers and limiting consumption to cooking and drinking makes a big difference in water usage. In some cases, camping near a water source like a clean river or stream offers an option for bathing. Keep a water filter on hand and that river or stream and double as a means of refilling if needed. Ideally, you will carry enough water in the tank and backup tanks to supply the entire trip. Clean drinking water is crucial and a remote campsite always calls for an emergency supply just in case a breakdown occurs when leaving the campsite.

Related Read: Conserving Water When You Are a Full-timer

Eat Like Kings and Queens

One of the best things about boondocking is the ability to cook some excellent homemade meals. An RV or camper has a full kitchen and bringing along a grill with propane or charcoal is perfect for meat and vegetables cooked over fire. Plan your meals in advance and take the time to cook a few really nice dinners. A hearty breakfast is also easy with omelettes or egg bakes. Even consider making the egg bake in advance and simply pop the dish in the oven for a quick and easy meal that will please everyone in the group. Bring along extra coffee and tea for the mornings as well. Easy lunches with fruit and sandwiches are ideal and always have plenty of snacks around.

Don’t skimp on desert either. Fresh baked cookies or brownies with ice cream from the freezer makes the perfect end to a perfect day in the great outdoors. You can even premake pies and heat them up for a fresh and delicious dessert.