Boondocking Basics

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

How to Sanitize an RV Fresh Water Tank

Sanitizing an RV fresh water tank is pretty easy to do, you just need some common household bleach, a lot of water, and a garden hose. You'll need access to an outdoor water faucet too. Don't worry if the water you're using is potable...

Why Won’t My RV Furnace Stay On?

The reasons why your RV furnace won't stay on is because your battery bank is running low, or you have low propane pressure, or just a bad control board. There could be other reasons, but these are the three most...

Can You Run a Generator While Boondocking?

Yes, you can run a generator while boondocking. Some federal and state land management agencies do not prohibit the use of generators while boondocking or dispersed camping. There are some that do, however, but only when it becomes...

How Much Does it Cost to Boondock in an RV?

There are two (2) categories of costs associated with boondocking in an RV. The first is the cost of outfitting your RV to make it "boondocking ready". The second is increased fuel costs due to traveling further distances into town...

Campervan Versus Trailer for Boondocking

Which is better for boondocking, a campervan versus a trailer? Campervans, otherwise known as Class B RVs and Class B Vans, are very popular as boondocking vehicles, particularly those who prefer to keep moving. On the other hand, a trailer is better for boondocking if you prefer to remained camped in one place for a longer period.

Are Toy Haulers Better for Boondocking Than Travel Trailers?

Generally speaking, yes... toy haulers are better for boondocking than travel trailers. This is because toy haulers are designed to carry more weight than travel trailers, making them more sturdy for towing across dirt, sand, rocks, and mud.

Is Collecting Dead Wood Legal?

Yes, collecting dead wood is legal depending on how you use the wood, and whether or not you plan to remove the wood from the area. As long as you use the wood for your own campfire purposes, it's legal. Problems generally occur...

Rules on Collecting Firewood for Camping

There are rules on collecting firewood for camping. In most cases, you are free to collect "dead and down" wood for your own personal camping uses. Most of the rules that exist with collecting firewood come into play when you...

How to Keep Mice Out of Your RV

The best way to keep mice out of your RV is to camp in places where people don't normally camp. Otherwise, mice are smart critters and they'll remember a camper the next time they see one. How to keep mice out of your RV is to...

Can You Have a Campfire While Boondocking?

Yes, you can have a campfire while boondocking on BLM and US Forest Service lands. Other federal land management agencies including National Park Service, Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and...