What is Boondocking?

August 12, 2024

What is Boondocking?

The Ultimate Off-Grid Adventure

Boondocking, often referred to as "dispersed camping" or "dry camping," is essentially experiencing nature in its purest form. It's the art of camping without all of the modern amenities we so often take for granted—no electricity, no water hookups, just you, your sense of adventure and your Jayco, out in the wild. You’re often on public lands managed by the National Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These areas lack the amenities (and the crowds) found in traditional campgrounds, offering instead an unfiltered way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. At its very core, boondocking is about self-sufficiency—and what could be more exhilarating and reinvigorating? Boondocking gives new meaning to the word “re-creation”.

The Origins of "Boondocking"

The term "boondocking" comes from "boondocks," a phrase originally used to describe rural or remote areas. As words do, over time, it has evolved. Today, it represents a style of camping that embraces the road less traveled and characterizes the kind of people who prefer doing things their own way. Boondockers often seek out the real hidden gems—places where they can park their RVs in secluded forests, set up camp on dirt roads in the desert, or spend the night in some of the most untouched and tranquil places one could imagine.

The Benefits of Boondocking

There are no reservations required, no schedules to keep, and no limits on your exploration. With no reservations to make or fees to pay, boondockers are free to explore and stay wherever the road takes them– it’s the way to slow down and breathe in the simplicity of nature.

Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong instead of an alarm, with the sunrise as your backdrop. Boondocking offers an intimate connection with nature that few other experiences can match. Far from the noise and light pollution of the city, you can truly immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness.

Self-Reliance and Adventure

Boondocking itself is also an activity, even entertainment as it challenges you to rely on your skills and ingenuity. With no hookups for electricity or water, you’ll learn to manage your resources and solve problems creatively. Boondockers see this aspect of boondocking as potentially the most rewarding, as they are able to take great

pride in their independence, self-sufficiency, and accomplishments. For them, it is about surviving in the wild, but it’s also about finding real joy in the adventure of it all.

Places to Boondock and How to Find Them

The best boondocking spots often lie in places where nature’s beauty remains untouched. Here are some top destinations for boondockers:

1.  National Forests and BLM Lands

These areas are a boondocker’s paradise, offering millions of acres of public land to explore. From the towering pines of the national forests to the rugged terrain of BLM lands, you'll find plenty of secluded spots where you can set up camp.

2.    Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations

Seek out lesser-known national parks and forest service roads that offer a more intimate boondocking experience. These hidden gems often provide a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds, allowing you to experience the tranquility and beauty of the wilderness in solitude.

Check out Campendium's Guide to Free Camping as a great resource, but also take a look at the onX Hunt app—this app is a powerful tool for outdoor enthusiasts, usually hunters, but great for boondockers as well. It offers detailed maps and insights into public land boundaries, private land ownership, and access points. OnX also provides real-time weather updates and has advanced GPS technology allowing you to confidently explore new areas and find hidden spots for hunting, camping, and hiking (never get lost again!).

3.    Private Land Opportunities

Another great site is Boondockers Welcome for connecting travelers with private landowners who offer boondocking spots on their property. This option provides a unique experience and added security, as well as the chance to meet new people and explore areas that might not be accessible otherwise.

Preparing for Your Boondocking Adventure Check, Check, Check.

It is definitely true that Boondocking requires more preparation than traditional camping, but with the right planning, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a checklist to help you get started:

  • Water Supply: Bring enough water for drinking, cooking, and Consider investing in portable water containers and a purification system to extend your stay.
  • Power Solutions: Without hookups, you'll rely on your RV's batteries, solar panels, or a generator. Portable power banks are also useful for smaller
  • Waste Management: Plan for waste disposal by using composting toilets or your RV’s built-in waste tanks.
  • Food and Supplies: Pack non-perishable food items and plenty of snacks to keep you fueled during your Cooking can also be more fun (and delicious) when it’s done over a portable stove or campfire, so we recommend investing some good gear or making certain to get the right supplies and ingredients.
  • First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit is always essential when camping, but it's even more so when you’re far from other people, not to mention medical help.
  • Safety Gear: Always have a plan for emergencies. A cell signal booster can be invaluable in remote areas, and it's simply just smart to share your itinerary with someone you trust before heading off-grid.

Tips for a Successful Boondocking Experience

Boondocking is an art, and mastering it requires a bit of practice but we have some great tips to get you started.

Scout Your Location

Before setting up camp, take the time to scout your surroundings; make sure that the ground is level and accessible, and be mindful of any potential hazards like flooding or unstable terrain (like falling rocks or trees).

Respect the Land

Always adhere to Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, avoiding disturbing wildlife, and camping at least 200 feet away from water sources to protect natural habitats.

Adhere to Stay Limits

Many public lands have stay limits, often around 14 days. Respect these rules to avoid fines and help keep these areas open and pristine for future campers.

Why Choose Jayco RV for Your Boondocking Adventures?

You’ve heard the old saying about having “the right tools for the job,” and Boondocking is no different. The right equipment can make all the difference in the quality of your experience. Jayco offers a range of adventure-ready RVs, from small travel trailers to Class A motorhomes. Below are four great options with superior wilderness capabilities perfect for off-grid camping.

Adventure-Ready Features:

  • Terrain (Class B Van): Built on a Sprinter all-wheel-drive Mercedes chassis, the Terrain is perfect for off-roading. It features a smart lithium battery system and Starlink satellite for connectivity, making it an excellent choice for remote
  • Granite Ridge (Class C): This RV is built on the Ford® Transit 350HD AWD chassis and comes with a lift kit, all-terrain tires, Hellwig® helper springs, a rear stabilizer, and Starlink. Its fully enclosed and heated tanks, along with acrylic windows, make it ideal for cold-weather boondocking.
  • Seneca XT (Super C): Based on the Ford® F550 or F600 chassis, the Seneca XT includes a 4x4 chassis, custom bumper, 2-inch BDS radius arm suspension lift, Koni shocks, auxiliary lighting, and all-terrain With a 12,000-pound hitch and Starlink connectivity, it's built for serious off-road adventures and towing toys.
  • Seismic Luxury (Luxury Toy Hauler): A true showstopper, the Seismic Luxury features two decks for extended stays and a back garage for hauling toys. It supports Jayco's largest Overlander Solar Package and is warrantied for

full-time use, providing luxurious comfort even in remote locations.

By choosing Jayco, you ensure that your boondocking experience is not only adventurous but also comfortable and well-equipped, no matter where the road takes you. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the solitude, and discover the joys of camping off the beaten path and visit Jayco to find your boondocker’s paradise on wheels.

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