Boondocking Basics
Learn the core concepts of off-grid camping, boondocking, and overnight parking
How Many Batteries Does it Take to Run an Air Conditioner?
Four 12 volt batteries is the very minimum needed to run a rooftop RV air conditioner. But then, that will only run an air conditioner for about 1 hour maximum. Of course, it depends upon the type of battery. Flooded cell batteries, AGM batteries...
What Stores Allow Overnight Parking?
Stores like Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco, Home Depot, Cabela's, Camping World, Cracker Barrel, Anytime Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, typically allow overnight parking. But not always. Certain store locations have chosen to prohibit...
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Run My RV AC?
You will need at least 1,800 watts of solar panels to run your RV air conditioner for 8 hours each day. This is assuming you are using 12 volt RV grade panels. This is also assuming, of course...
Is It Illegal to Start a Campfire?
No, it is not generally illegal to start a campfire on most federally managed lands. However, there are many restrictions and guidelines. Each of the six agencies that manage federal lands have rules in place on starting...
How Can I Boost My Cell Signal When Camping?
You can boost your cell signal when camping by either (1) using a cellular antenna, or (2) using a cellular booster. Both can yield similar results, though the former, the antenna, is often cheaper...
Is Boondockers Welcome Illegal?
It depends. Boondockers Welcome might be illegal depending on the location being offered for parking, and depending on local ordinances. Many cities and counties have have laws on the books that would make it illegal for people to...
Where Can I Find Secluded Camping Spots?
You can find secluded camping spots on BLM and national forest lands, using online mapping tools from Google Maps and FreeRoam. These spots can be located using satellite imagery, by following dirt roads that lead into clearings...
Where Can I Park Overnight?
You can park overnight at Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco, Home Depot, Camping World, and a few other big box stores. You can also park along most city streets as long as you don't see any "No Parking" signs. Rest areas are...
Can I Park on the Street Overnight?
Yes, for the most part, you can park on the street overnight. As long as there are no signs posted against parking, you are permitted to park a vehicle overnight. Sleeping inside that vehicle is a different matter, however.
Does Google Maps Show BLM Land?
Yes and no. Google Maps does show BLM land for places like national monuments as well as many developed campgrounds. However, it does not depict all BLM lands. Otherwise, there are only two ways to find BLM land. You can use the...
