Boondocking Basics

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

The Six Types of Federal Public Lands

There are actually six types of federal public lands that you can camp on. These are broken out into six different federal land management agencies. Despite people saying there are only two, or three, or even four, there are...

Is Boondocking Illegal?

Boondocking is not illegal on public lands. It's actually encouraged by local, state, and federal agencies as a way to relieve crowding at developed campgrounds. These agencies, however, do have rules for boondocking, just like...

Is Boondocking Dangerous?

Boondocking is no more dangerous than staying in RV parks or campgrounds. In fact, boondocking is safer. This is because you are further away from other people, and further away from criminal opportunity. Most people choose...

Can You Sleep In Your Car at Walmart?

Generally, yes, you can sleep in your car at Walmart. Walmart does not have a corporate-wide policy of allowing people to sleep in their car in their parking lots. It's up to each store manager to decide. Most Walmart store managers...

Can You Park an RV Overnight at Home Depot?

Yes, you can park an RV overnight at Home Depot. Most Home Depots don't mind you using their lots for overnight parking. However, the cities they are located in may have laws against sleeping in vehicles. Even though...

Can You Legally Live in an RV on Your Own Land?

Yes, it is possible to legally live in an RV on your own land, but only depending on the city or county you live in. Most larger cities have enacted ordinances that require your RV to adhere to the same building codes...

Can I Live in a Motorhome On My Own Land?

Maybe, or maybe not. It depends on the city or county. Most cities have laws against camping within their borders, with exceptions for RV parks and campgrounds. Anti-camping laws were created to help them deal with homeless sleeping...

Is Camping on Your Own Land Illegal?

It depends on the city and county. Most medium to large cities have enacted laws to prevent home owners from creating eye sores within their neighborhood. They are particularly concerned about property owners using their land to...

Is Stealth Camping Illegal?

Yes, stealth camping is illegal in most cities. It has nothing to do with being stealthy, but just the fact that you're camping within city limits, or sleeping in a vehicle overnight...

Is Boondocking Safe?

Yes, boondocking is safe! It's perhaps the most safest form of camping, more safe than staying at an RV park, campground, or pitching a tent. Exposure to danger has more to do with where you camp, particularly in places...