Boondocking Basics

Learn the core concepts of off-grid camping, boondocking, and overnight parking

Add a Free Campsite

Add a free campsite to our Boondocking Map to help create the world's largest map of free campsites in North America.

Are e-Bikes Allowed on Federal Lands?

Yes, e-Bikes are allowed on just about all federal recreation lands including National Parks, National Forests, National Monuments, Wildlife Refuges, and so on. The only federal recreation lands where e-bikes still have not been addressed are Army Corps of Engineers projects.

Does the Ring Camera Require Internet Access?

The Ring Camera has become popular with boondockers as a way to set up a small, remote camera to capture video of intruders getting too close to their campsite. We had a reader ask us a question about the Ring Camera requiring Internet access in order to work...

Boondocking Laws and Regulations

The full texts of federal and state laws and regulations that pertain to boondocking, dispersed camping, and sleeping in your vehicle overnight.

Can You Camp in a Wilderness Area?

Yes, you can camp in a wilderness area, however you have to hike your camping gear in because vehicles are not allowed, including bicycles. Wilderness areas were created by the federal government to preserve habitats and...

Add Your Campsite Review

Do you have a YouTube video or a blog post about a boondocking site review? Submit it to us and we'll add it to our Boondocking Map.

Is Boondocking Feasible for a Class A RV with Toad?

Yes, there are plenty of boondocking areas with well-graded roads, wide turns, and solid ground for heavy rigs pulling a vehicle in tow. There is no tried-and-true formula for finding these areas, though most boondocking sites...

Is a 100-watt Solar Panel Enough for my RV?

No, a 100-watt solar panel is not enough for an RV, especially if you plan to use your RV for boondocking. A single 100-watt solar panel is the bare minimum required to recharge a couple of 100 amp hour batteries, but that's only...

What is the Difference Between Camping and Overnight Parking?

The difference between "camping" and "overnight parking" is that camping involves a recreational purpose while overnight parking involves relieving driver fatigue. Camping can also include those who are sleeping on public...

Can I Leave My Pickup Truck Running All Night at a Rest Area?

There are some folks pulling a travel trailer who want to leave their pickup truck's engine running while parked overnight at a rest area. The idea is to use the truck's engine as a generator to power the trailer's 110 volt electrical system...