Camping is a great way to spent time outdoors and enjoy nature at its best. Camping gives us a chance to escape our norm, our mundane and do something that brings us much closer to nature. And camping is not hard. Armed with the knowledge of a few simple basics that we shared in our camping for beginners guide, you can get started with camping as soon as you like.

The majority of campgrounds in the US charge a fee for camping at their location. These fees range in cost depending on the location of the campground, how many people are in your party, the type of vehicle you are arriving in, and the amenities that the campground provides. But there are plenty of ways to camp for free. So if you are looking to cut costs or even economize on your next camping adventure, perhaps it is time to give free camping a try. Additionally, utilizing free camping around the USA is a budget-friendly way to explore different locations. Many free campsites also provide gorgeous views, escape from the crowds, and a way to try something different in the world of traditional camping.There are many ways to find these free camping spots, so it can be a little overwhelming at first when you begin to plan your trip. But with a little bit of research and some good old google searches, you can find a free campsite that is just right for your specific needs.

What is free camping?

To keep things as clear as possible, free camping is when you camp for free overnight in your camper, RV, tent, van, or even in your car. There are various different types of free camping and depending on where you go and who you talk to, they might be called different things. But at the end of the day, free camping is camping in a spot that is not paid.

Dispersed camping is a popular and official term used by the National Forest Service (NFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the US to describe free camping. If you are searching for free camping sites on either an NFS or BLM website, you will need to use this term to look for free camping sites on these grounds. You can also stop by any NFS office or even call the BLM local office and ask for dispersed camping spots in the local area. Another term used in association to free camping is dry camping. This is when you get a free campsite without any water or electricity hook ups. In such cases, you might end up camping in your car or vehicle.In countries like Canada, Australia and New Zealand, camping for free is called wild camping.

Benefits of free camping

While the primary reason people free camp is to save some money on their adventure, free camping has other benefits too. If you like solitude and getting off-the-beaten-path then free camping allows you the luxury of being away from the crowds. Free camping is also somewhat liberating in that more often than not, you don’t need to make any reservations ahead of time. Unlike front country camping or even wilderness camping in National Parks, your camping plans can be fluid and spur-of-the-moment when it comes to free camping. Without having to be on a timeline with reservations, it also grants you flexibility in your travels. If you need to stop you can stop at any of the free camp spots for the night without worrying about missing a reservation or adding days to your trip.Free camping comes with its perks such as solitude and saving money but it also comes with its fair share of disadvantages. When camping for free you should be mentally prepared to expect a different environment. Many free campsites like the ones found in National Forests are often very primitive. That means they are not developed and have little to no amenities in terms of bathrooms, drinking water or even a flat ground to pitch your tent. Also, chances are that there are no garbage bins or waste disposal close by so be prepared to pack out your trash.

Roads leading to and from the campgrounds might be unpaved and rough. So, make sure your vehicle can appropriately handle rough terrain. Many free campsites are in remote locations so cell service will be spotty. Many free campsites don’t have a fire ring. It is important to check on the fire regulations for that area before arriving and following any local guidelines. If a campfire is allowed, make sure to bring some fire-making essentials, know how to make a campfire safely, and put it out before you leave to avoid any wildfires.

Where to find free campsites?

You can camp for free in parking lots, rest stops, public lands, Forest Service lands, and even some state parks.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for managing public lands. These lands are used for a variety of purposes such as livestock grazing, recreation, energy development, maintaining natural, cultural, and historic resources, and more. While they do have developed campgrounds that you can pay a fee to use, they mostly have dispersed camping available. These campsites are good for tent camping but can also be used for RVers, vans, campers, and other styles of camping.The United States Forest Service (USFS)is an agency that belongs to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and manages over 193 million acres of land across the U.S. You can find some locations where they allow dispersed camping but there are a few key points that you need to know before doing so. Generally no amenities are provided and you can camp in a dispersed area for up to 16 days. But keep in mind that you can only camp in dispersed camping areas and in almost all cases, only have campfires in fire rings.You can also find free camping spots in other areas like state parks, city parks and smaller county parks. However, some may need reservations ahead of time depending on the location. Please also keep in mind that NOT all parks have free camping and it may be much harder to find free camping spots at these locations but it is an option.

Another great option for free camping is overnight parking at business parking lots. Some businesses allow people to park in their parking spaces overnight for free. But definitely check for signs or even speak to the manager before assuming that you can park in the business parking lot. Many Wal-Mart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Home improvement stores and even casinos allow for overnight parking.Something to keep in mind when overnight parking at businesses is that some cities may have laws against sleeping in your car or camping. Always be sure to research any local laws and abide by them.

Rest areas and truck stops are also great options for free overnight parking, especially when you are driving long distances and need a break. Many rest stops have bathroom facilities and long/large parking spots for RV, trucks and bigger cars. However, not all rest stops allow overnight parking, so it is important to do some research beforehand. To make things a little easier for you, you can check out the list found on Interstate Rest Areas website to find the right rest stop for you.

Truck stops are specifically meant for long haul truckers and usually offer travel amenities such as fuel, food, restrooms, and sometimes even showers.

These are just a few of the locations that you should avoid when looking for free camping areas like military areas, children’s parks, private neighborhoods or even private business.

Apps and websites to find free campsites

Here are a few apps and websites that you can find free or dispersed campgrounds

• Free Roam – free: You can also use their interactive map on their website.
• iOverlander – free: You can also use their interactive map on their website.
• US Public Lands – $2.99 (iPhone here or Android here)
• USFS Interactive Map
• US Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps
• BLM Interactive Map

Things to keep in mind while camping for free

Just like a trip or travel adventure, there are some things to keep in mind when making use of free campsites, especially if you are traveling alone.

• Never choose free over your own safety. If the area you are going to camp is too remote or feels unsafe, don’t do it. It is better to pay for a hotel room rather than risk your physical wellbeing.
• When camping in National Forest Land or other public lands that require you to register, please do so. Not only is this data collected for tracking but also is used as a way for people to know where you are. On that note, always let a family member or friend know where you are and where you are camping.
• Do your research when looking for free campsites. It is ideal to read reviews, news articles, and check crime rates on the different locations you plan to stay at. Play it safe.
• Make it easy to leave quickly. When setting up it is important that you make it easy to leave as quickly as possible in case of an emergency or urgent situation.
• Have an emergency plan in place. When camping it is important to have a plan in place. Know the entry and exit routes to the campsite and always be prepared.
• Never leave your doors unlocked. This makes it harder for your items and even your vehicle to be stolen. If you have a bike or overhead luggage rack make sure that it is safely secured and locked with the proper tools to prevent theft or loss.

Free camping is a great way to experience a different style of camping. There is something very rustic and rugged about camping in off-the-beaten-path locations and even primitive camping that brings forth a new sense of adventure.

Have you tried free camping before?

Pin for later!

Related Reading