Let’s be clear: Boondocking, also known as dry camping, is not just about parking your rig somewhere off-grid. It’s about pushing your boundaries, testing your limits, and embracing true freedom. Doing so, you’ll experience the thrill of navigating remote locations and relying on your own preparedness. Extreme boondocking makes every journey memorable. (And it just so happens to be my wife and I’s favorite way to RV! )
Below are five incredible extreme boondocking sites that personally challenged us to the max — physically, mentally, and logistically. Each tested our limits in its own way, but every location rewarded us with unforgettable views, experiences, and a deeper connection to nature. We love these places, and we hope you do too.
1. Piney Lake Dispersed Camping, Colorado
Why It Tests Your Limits
The journey to Piney Lake requires driving along steep, rocky dirt roads with tight switchbacks — not for the faint of heart. (Or large RVs.) The high altitude and unpredictable mountain weather present additional challenges. Getting stuck or turned around on this rugged terrain is always a possibility, so having off-road capabilities and solid driving skills is essential. We felt every bump, rock, and pothole of this 10-plus-mile, mountainous dirt road.
Why It’s Worth It
Piney Lake offers jaw-dropping views of the Gore Range, peaceful mornings by the water, and trails that take you deep into the wilderness. The serenity you’ll find here makes the rough road worthwhile, offering a perfect escape from crowded campgrounds. Fishing, paddling, and wildlife encounters are just some of the adventures waiting at your doorstep. We even saw the faintest view of a moose as it ran back into the woods in the distance.
Pro Tip: Bring an extra set of leveling blocks — finding a perfectly flat spot on this uneven terrain is tricky. Also, pack plenty of propane or extra blankets since the temperature drops significantly after sunset.
2. Tuktoyaktuk at the Arctic Ocean, Northwest Territories, Canada
Why It Tests Your Limits
The epic 600-mile journey along the Dempster Highway to reach Tuktoyaktuk, a tiny Inuit village on the Arctic Ocean, is an endurance test. With few services along the way, extreme weather, and endless gravel roads, this is extreme boondocking at its most remote. You must prepare for every possible scenario. Blown tires. Fuel shortages. Exposure to freezing winds. These are all common challenges, no matter the time of year.
Why It’s Worth It
Reaching the northern edge of North America by RV is a rare and rewarding accomplishment. From experiencing the stunning tundra landscapes to jumping into the frigid Arctic Ocean. (Yes, we swam in the Arctic Ocean; but it was a heat wave, so we survived.) Tuktoyaktuk offers a sense of achievement few will ever experience. Connecting with the local culture adds another dimension to this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Pro Tip: Stock up on food, fuel, and spare tires before hitting the Dempster Highway. Cell service is limited, so download maps offline and carry emergency supplies, including a satellite communication device. We had Starlink, and it saved us on this trip. We highly recommend it if you are doing a Canada/Alaska trip like we did.
3. Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon, Canada
Why It Tests Your Limits
The remote and rugged landscapes of Tombstone Territorial Park demand respect. It is widely regarded as the Patagonia of North America. Getting there on the other had, involves navigating rough, winding roads with few places to stop along the way. (It is on the same Dempster Highway that takes you to the Arctic Ocean.) The unpredictable northern weather, limited cell service, and the sheer remoteness of this area mean that you must be entirely self-sufficient.
Why It’s Worth It
The surreal, tundra-covered landscapes of Tombstone are like nowhere else on Earth. Towering granite peaks, mirror-like lakes, and golden meadows create an unforgettable backdrop. The hiking here will challenge even experienced adventurers, but the vistas are beyond compare, and the solitude is perfect for those seeking to disconnect.
Pro Tip: Be ready for all weather conditions. Snow is possible even in summer. Pack a detailed paper map of the area and let someone know your itinerary before heading into this remote wilderness.
4. Blue Lake Wildlife Management Area, Utah/Nevada Border
Why It Tests Your Limits
Blue Lake’s remote location near the Utah-Nevada border is tricky to access, with unmarked dirt roads that can quickly become impassable after rain. Dust storms are common, and there are no amenities — meaning you’ll have to bring everything you need, from water to waste management solutions.
Why It’s Worth It
This hidden oasis is a paradise for those seeking solitude. The crystal-clear waters of Blue Lake are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The peaceful surroundings make it feel like you’ve discovered a secret world. It’s a great spot to decompress away from civilization, with plenty of space to explore.
Pro Tip: Travel with an RV that has excellent clearance, as the roads can be challenging. Be sure to bring enough drinking water and be prepared to pack out all your waste.
5. Crowley Hot Springs, Near Mammoth Lakes, California
Why It Tests Your Limits
Finding your way to Crowley Hot Springs requires navigating rocky, unmarked roads that will test both your patience and your GPS. Without any amenities, you must rely entirely on your own supplies. The journey can be especially challenging if you’re not used to dry camping in remote areas with no signage or services.
Why It’s Worth It
Soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by panoramic views of the Eastern Sierra mountains is pure magic. It’s the perfect reward after a day of exploring nearby Mammoth Lakes or Mono Lake. Watching the sunset while immersed in warm water, with nothing but nature around you, is the kind of experience that stays with you forever.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds. (This spot is becoming more popular.) Bring biodegradable sunscreen or soap if you plan to bathe, and always pack out everything you bring in.
Extreme Boondocking’s Biggest Reward
Each of these extreme boondocking locations will test your resilience, driving skills, and preparedness. From the unforgiving roads of the Dempster Highway to the high-altitude challenges of Piney Lake, these sites push you out of your comfort zone. But for those willing to embrace the adventure, the rewards are extraordinary. They offer experiences and views that simply can’t be found anywhere else. The memories we have at each of these places will live with us forever. And if you take the chance to experience extreme boondocking in these locations, we’re sure you’ll create memories unlike anything you’ve had before.
So, if you’re ready to push your limits and dive headfirst into the world of remote boondocking, these five locations are waiting for you. Just remember, preparation is everything, so pack well, stay flexible, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
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