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Tag: Boondocking

  • The Ultimate Base Camp: Top RVs for Hunting Season

    The Ultimate Base Camp: Top RVs for Hunting Season

    Using your RV as a base camp while you hunt just makes a lot of sense. It extends your ability to stay out in the wild, whether you’re spending your days in the stand, blind, or out tracking a trail. It’s a no brainer. The really question for a lot of hunter is more simply: What are the top RVs for hunting season? (And what kind of things are RV companies doing that make RVs better for spending time in the great outdoors?)

    So, we went on an information hunt of our own. And here are a few essential things we considered that a good hunting rig should have to have these three things:

    • Credible boondocking capability. Because you will likely spend time in the wild as part of the adventure — and that probably won’t include hook-ups.
    • Flexible sleeping arrangements. Because hunting trips, more often than not, are friend trips not couple trips. (Hats off to you if you’re the exception.)
    • Off-road functionality. Because sometimes the best game happens lies far from the hardball.

     

    With those criteria in mind, let’s take a look at the best RVs for hunting season – from mild to wild. And yes, some of them are real trophies.

     

    Ember RV Overland 240TKR

    A rear ramp-deck expands the Ember Overland 240TKR

    The first time I saw the Ember RV 240TKR I knew that the decision makers at Ember RV had outdoorsmen in mind. This model has the most unique bed situation in the front. It’s a Murphy bed but with a big difference. The bed itself is actually two parts, each of those being a twin-sized bed. You can push the beds apart and there’s a hanging closet that can slide between them allowing for two friends to have their own bed. If you do bring your significant other along, the beds can push together and form a large single bed. It’s pretty slick.

    But that’s not the only magic in this travel trailer. It also features a rear cargo area that uses E-Track rails so there is a lot that can happen here as well. Included in the trailer are platforms so you could make two double-over-double bunks — certainly capable of sleeping adults. Since the platforms rest on the E-Track, which Ember calls EmberTrack, you can leave one at home to increase cargo space or even hang things like hammocks, drawers and cases for hunting supplies. There’s also a drop-down door in the back, similar to a toy hauler, that turns into a patio.

    And, the Ember Overland series uses the Curt independent suspension which is one of the better set-ups for towing and off-roading. This might be one of the better RVs out there for hunting.

    MSRP: $74,935 •  Length: 28 feet 3 inches • Height: 10 feet 11 inches • Dry Weight: 6,765 pounds

     

    Palomino Pause

    The Palomino Pause is notable for its mud room and air ride suspension

    Like the Ember RV model, the Palomino Pause features a rugged build with an exceptional independent suspension. But the Palomino offering goes one step further with an air ride suspension that allows you to raise and lower the RV. There are a number of models in the Pause line, but they all feature a rugged huck-bolted frame and a mud room in the back. (The perfect place to keep hunting supplies and clothing without bringing them into the main space of the trailer.)

    Looking at the Pause 20.3 there is a full outdoor kitchen with a 12-volt cooler and propane flat-top griddle. Something unusual about this model is that the interior walls are 3D-printed and all the cabinets and drawers and interior pieces are human-made pieces so they’re far more resistant to damage from water.

    The limitation on this model, though, is that there’s only one bed in here at the front. So, while it may be one of the top RVs for hunting season, it’s more specifically suited for hunting alone.

    MSRP: $78,997+ • Length: 19 feet 11 inches to 25 feet 10 inches • Height: 10 feet 9 inches • Dry Weight: 5,773 to 7,909 pounds

     

    Outdoors RV Backcountry Series 20BD

    The Backcountry 20BD is ready for cold weather and off-road travel

    If you’re not on the West Coast you may not have heard of Outdoors RV, but they’re a company that specializes in towable RVs that are extraordinarily rugged and well-suited to camping even in very cold weather. In fact, Outdoors RV’s trailers are some of the better rigs for camping in the cold.

    But something unusual is that the company builds their own chassis and certifies those for off-road use. The company makes a variety of models from travel trailers to toy haulers. The Backcountry 20BD is the smallest rig they make in this series. Still, this has a dinette in the back that can convert to a 40-inch-by-84-inch bed and a proper queen-size bed at the front. To reflect their outdoors credibility there’s even a gun safe by the bed.

    This is also one of the few travel trailers you can find with a built-in generator for serious off-grid capability. These also have good sized holding tanks since the company’s chassis are able to support the weight of plenty of water.

    MSRP: $67,505 • Length: 25 feet 3 inches • Height: 11 feet 7 inches • Dry Weight: 6,155 pounds

     

    Winnebago EKKO

    The Winnebago Ekko is designed with four-season camping in mind

    The Winnebago Ekko is an evolutionary rig in some ways being essentially a Class B Plus, which translates into a van/cutaway front and a motorhome back end but without a sleeping area over the cab. (Got all that?) The Ekko is just a few inches wider than the Ford Transit body on which it is based so it retains much of the drivability of a Class B, which is one of the strong suits of this genre.

    By adding a big square box to the back that minor addition of width translates into a whole different experience for the camping side of the vehicle. And I have to say that Winnebago has taken every advantage of this body as well.

    This rig was very intentionally created to deliver four-season camping as much as possible. The walls of the motorhome section are two inches thick, and the roof is three inches thick. The entry door very specifically does not have a window so it can be better insulated.There is a thick blanket that Winnebago makes in house that separates the cab from the camper portion if you’re really in cold temperatures. All the tanks and plumbing are within the cabin of the camper and even the wet bay is heated. Of course, those tanks have 12-volt heating pads on them.

    Even More to Like About the EKKO

    What I like about this RV is the twin beds in the back that can be converted to a king-sized bed which increases flexibility. These beds are also on a raised platform of sorts which leaves a very substantial rear cargo area. This cargo bay is lined with panels to which you can attach things to hold whatever you like – from outdoors gear to tools.

    There are now two variants on the EKKO – one of which is on the Ford Transit all-wheel-drive platform and the other on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter all-wheel-drive. There is also a pop top model now available if you really want to increase the sleeping space in here.

    EKKO Transit 22A – MSRP: $215,551 • Length: 23 feet • Height: 10 feet 6 inches • GVWR: 11,000 pounds

    EKKO Sprinter 23B – MSRP: $245,152 • Length: 24 feet 6 inches • Height: 10 feet 11 inches • GVWR: 11,030 pounds

     

    Thor Motor Coach Tranquility 24A

    The Thor Tranquility 24A has off-road cred and a battery system for quiet boondocking

    If you’re looking for a Class B camper that has some off-road credibility and the ability to sleep two friends, the Thor Tranquility 24A is worth a gander. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter all-wheel-drive Thor steps up the appearance with high-performance lighting and several other exterior details that make this perform and look the part of an off-road machine.

    Something I like about the way Thor does their B vans is with the Mastervolt power system. Using the alternator in the engine this marine-grade power system allows you to operate the entire camping portion of the RV on battery power so you can stealthily enjoy the woods without hearing the noise of a generator.

    I also like that the bathroom spans the width of the back of this rig so it’s more spacious than in many other Class B RVs.

    MSRP: $216,860 • Length: 24 feet 4 inches • Height: 10 feet 6 inches • GVWR: 11,030 pounds

     

    Pickup Campers

    For a lot of hunters there’s nothing better than a pickup camper. You can outfit a pickup you like ,whether that’s a stylish city cruiser or a serious off-road challenger. As such, it can make a lot of sense to put a camper on the back of a pickup. Another big plus on pickup campers is that you can still tow. So. if your outdoor adventure incudes fishing, you can bring along your boat, for example. Here are a couple of campers we’ve seen recently that are among the best RVs for hunting season.

     

    Four Wheel Campers Project M

    The Project M is a blank slate to be customized to suit your needs

    Four Wheel Campers offers campers for just about any pickup configuration out there. One of the unique things about these all-aluminum campers is that the roof easily pops up and down. So, you have a lower height when traveling but then good ceiling height when camping.

    The company makes these for full-sized trucks, of course, but they have models compatible with mid-sized trucks, including the Jeep Gladiator pickup. The company makes a wide variety of camper configurations and works with customers to tailor a rig to your style of camping with a wide number of choices of interior pieces and design. This is an old school way of doing things that still makes sense.

    But another option they have is their Project M. This is essentially a blank slate where you can outfit the camper how you deem fit. That means you can use the camper during the week as an office or just to haul supplies and on the weekend as a camper. There are a lot of choices of windows and other pieces in these but they are affordable and still have the over-cab bunk Four Wheel Pop-Up Campers is known for.

    MSRP: $11,895 • Length: Sized to fit specific truck and bed length • Height: 3 feet 7 inches to 3 feet 9 inches down; 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 6 inches popped up • Base Weight: 352–465 pounds

     

    Lance 650 Truck Camper

    The Lance 650 Truck Camper packs a lot into a small space.

    Lance Camper has been a benchmark for many decades in the pickup camper world. The company also makes high-quality travel trailers and has even introduced the new Enduro line of serious off-grid trailers. But pickup campers are still a hallmark of the Lance brand.

    As such, these high-quality campers slot into the back of your truck. And they still offer many of the same creature comforts of a travel trailer. We took a look at Lance’s smallest pickup camper, the 650 Truck Camper, since it can be fitted to a short-bed pickup which many of us have. Yet these still have holding tanks and air conditioning, a water heater and dry bath. It’s a lot packed into the space. Of course, this has the over-cab bunk but there’s also a dinette in here that folds down into a bed.

    MSRP: $42,696 • Length: 15 feet  6 inches Height: 8 feet 1 inch (with A/C unit) • Dry Weight: 1,813 pounds

     

    So You’re Hunting RVs for Hunting Season?

    When you’re embarking on a hunting trip deep in the woods (and need a reliable base camp for your adventures), the right RV can make all the difference. Features like independent suspension, off-grid power systems, and flexible cargo areas ensure that you can focus on your outdoor experience. All without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Each feature deserves special consideration when you’re considering not just the best RVs for hunting season, but also the right RV for the way you hunt.

    No matter which model you choose, these RVs provide the durability and flexibility needed for an unforgettable hunting season in the wild. Ultimately, the best RVs for hunting season are the one that match your personal style of adventure.

  • New Trail Boss 140BH: Ultra-Lightweight, Standard Off-Grid Appliances

    New Trail Boss 140BH: Ultra-Lightweight, Standard Off-Grid Appliances

    Travelers who are looking to break away from the RV park and camp off the grid have a new ultra-lightweight trailer option. Gulf Stream Coach is introducing the Trail Boss 140BH, a rugged new trailer option the manufacturer says blends “comfort, durability, and affordability.”

    Off-Grid Appliances and Features Come Standard

    Arguably, the most impressive part of the ultra-lightweight trailer is the off-grid package that comes standard in the trailer. Powered in part by a solar energy system, an off-grid refrigerator, gas heater and water heater, outdoor shower, cooktop, microwave, and air conditioning are all built in without sacrificing floor space.

    The interior floor plan includes a U-shaped dinette section that can convert to beds at night, a TV mount near the wall air conditioning unit, and outdoor storage at the end of the trailer. It also features two bunk beds at the top, comfortably sleeping four people. Solid-step entry makes it easy to get in and out of the trailer, allowing travelers to have all the amenities of home in a small, easy-to-tow package.

    Compact, Lightweight, and Versatile

    With extra ground clearance and a total weight of just 2,510 pounds, the latest edition of the Trail Boss 140BH is ready for off-road adventures. Because of its size and weight, RVers with many different types of vehicles can go on off-grid adventures with this versatile trailer.

    “Our goal with the Trail Boss 140BH was to make it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to discover, explore, and escape,” Phil Sarvari, president of Gulf Stream Coach, said in the press release. “We’ve created a trailer that is budget-friendly, without compromising on features or quality.”

    The Trail Boss 140BH has an MSRP around $24,600. You can shop for this off-grid trailer on RV Trader.

  • How to Keep RV Camping as Affordable as Possible

    How to Keep RV Camping as Affordable as Possible

    The word “affordable” means different things to different people. For the older couple who owns a brand-new Class A RV, $1,000 per month for a full hookup that includes WiFi so they can continue to work remotely might be considered affordable. For the young kids living out of an old camper van who work part-time jobs wherever they land to pay for enough gas to get to the next location, next to nothing might be their definition of affordable.

    So, for the purpose of this blog post, RV Trader is covering the full spectrum of campsite affordability. From there, you can decide which options could potentially work for you and which options would remain outside of your budget. Let’s get into it! 

    Free Campsites

    You can’t do much better than free, unless someone is paying you to live somewhere. Believe it or not, that’s actually an option. You don’t actually get paid, but there are some places that are willing to barter space and hookups for manual labor. We don’t have a resource that tells you where to go for that, but some of our RV friends have done it. 

    As for places where you can actually camp for free, if you’re up for some boondocking, you can park for nothing at designated Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forestry Service areas.

    The BLM offers both managed campsites (which cost money) and what they call “dispersed” camping (boondocking), which is absolutely free. You can find yourself a nice site just about anywhere that isn’t a developed recreational facility, that doesn’t conflict with other authorized uses, and isn’t posted as “closed to camping.” The only caveat is that you can’t stay in a single space for more than 14 days within a 28-day period. But all you really need to do is just roll down the road a bit.

    Camping on National Forest Service land allows you to stay in one spot for up to 21 days, as long as there are no closures. Similar to the BLM, you are not allowed to camp for free in developed recreational areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. They also ask that if it’s possible, to pick a site that has been used previously to minimize your impact in the forest.

    Can’t find a place to camp? There are some great boondocking apps that will help you find the perfect spot. Freecampsites.net is one great resource. It’s free and community driven, so you’ll be able to benefit from other peoples’ experiences.

    Quartzite, Arizona 

    For those who need hookups and don’t want to have to move around every two to three weeks, Quartzite, Arizona has some of the best free and low-cost parks available for RVers. According to multiple sources, $180 will secure you a campsite permit for seven months, from September through April. Quartzite is an ideal spot for RVers to hunker down because the winter climate is mild, campsites are cheap, there’s a great community of RVers that congregate during the cooler months, and there are plenty of amenities for temporary residents that live in their rigs. 

    There are also some other online resources that can tell you where to find free RV camping spots across the nation. However, many of those are for overnight camping and not for extended stays. On the other hand, there are some RV parks that offer discounts for long-term campers. The longer you stay, the less you pay.

    Campsite Memberships

    Many of our RV friends tell us that RV resort memberships and clubs are also a great way to save on camping costs, in addition to other discounts on things like propane. A few good ones that were recommended to us are Thousand Trails, Boondockers Welcome, Escapees RV Club, Passport America, Good Sam/Camping World, KOA Rewards, and Harvest Hosts. These all have good reviews by people who have joined.

    Just keep in mind that each club has different usage rules, ranging from how many consecutive days you may use the pass to how many people are included in the discounted rate. Before joining a membership program or club, check where their discounted sites are. If what you see isn’t where you want to go, joining may not be for you.

    No matter what style of camping you enjoy, RV Trader has everything you need to get the vehicle you want to spend extended time in. Offering new and used vehicles, including Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and Class C RVs, we have something available at just about any price point. We can also connect you with dealers or independent sellers so you can get the best price on the RV you pick. Check us out, and then enjoy exploring America.

    By Barrett Baker

  • What Types Of RVs Are The Best For Boondocking?

    What Types Of RVs Are The Best For Boondocking?

    Before we dive into the best types of RVs for boondocking, we first need to make a distinction. Are travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers considered RVs? Some die-hard enthusiasts would say that only rigs with a self-contained drivetrain can be considered RVs, and everything else is a trailer that’s towed by another vehicle. Since trailers are technically made for recreational purposes, both types are absolutely considered RVs.

    In fact, many people who enjoy boondocking prefer trailers because they can drop a basecamp and still have a vehicle available for store runs, sightseeing, and hauling toys. With Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and Class C RVs, you have to pack everything up before you’re able to move around. 

    While shopping for an RV for boondocking, take into account what kind of terrain you’ll be tackling. For example, if you plan to just park your RV at a remote beach location that doesn’t require you to navigate around tight turns or bumpy roads, a Class A unit is a great choice. If you prefer a more mountainous setting that’s a little more difficult to reach, a Class B RV or travel trailer might be a better option.

    RV Trader did some research into various RV models and characteristics so you can make your own informed decision for your future boondocking adventures. Here’s what we came up with.

    What To Look For

    While researching RVs for boondocking, we took a few things into consideration. Even if you don’t pick an RV from this list, you’ll probably want to keep some of the following things in mind during your search.

    High Suspension

    If you’ll be traveling over bumpy roads, you might need extra clearance on your RV to get through rough terrain without damaging the chassis of your rig.

    Off-Grid Power System

    If you plan to be off-grid for extended periods of time, look for RVs that come with solar panels for recharging your power source. Another good option is to invest in supplemental power chargers, such as solar panels or wind turbines, as well as a bank of quality lithium-ion batteries.

    Big Tanks

    It goes without saying, but bigger rigs normally come with bigger tanks for your fresh water, gray water, and wastewater. If you plan to post up somewhere for an extended period of time, the less frequently you’ll have to fill the fresh water and pump out the other two if you have big tanks.

    RV Weight

    Boondocking often takes campers off-road at one point or another. Consider how heavy your unit is and what the ground quality is like. Heavier RVs are going to be prone to sinking in soft ground, so a lighter model might be better in marshy or muddy terrain.

    RVs to Consider

    Now that you know which characteristics are important to consider, here are some great RV options for boondocking.

    Airstream Basecamp

    What we love about the Airstream Basecamp is the large, panoramic window at the front of the unit that provides you with exceptional views wherever you choose to park. The attachable tent also offers lots of extra space to spread out while enjoying nature.

    Winnebago EKKO

    The Winnebago EKKO combines the efficiency of a camper van with the roominess of a Class C coach. Add all-wheel drive, and this RV is ready to go just about anywhere.

    Thor Gemini 24KB

    There are three floor plans in the Thor Gemini series of Class B coaches, but we like the 24KB because it offers the largest sleep area. There are two twin beds that can convert to a king bed, as well as a jack-knife sofa in the dining area. Equipped with all-wheel drive, you can boldly go wherever you please. 

    Rockwood Geo Pro

    With ten floor plans to choose from, including one toy hauler and one with an outdoor kitchen, the Geo Pro series is customized to meet your demands, no matter what kind of basecamp you have in mind.

    Tiffin Open Road Allegro

    For those who prefer “glamping,” the Tiffin Open Road Allegro is a Class A coach that offers great bang for your buck when it comes to luxury and comfort. And with five floor plans to choose from, you’re bound to find a layout you’ll love.

    Go Your Own Way

    With RV Trader, you can browse thousands of listings for all kinds of RVs that are well-suited for the open road or boondocking in open spaces. Take a look at our selection of new and used vehicles and trailers, and you’ll be off and camping before you know it.

    By Barrett Baker

  • 10 Amazing Boondocking Destinations in the U.S.

    10 Amazing Boondocking Destinations in the U.S.

    Boondocking, or dispersed camping on public land without access to water or electricity, is an incredible way to experience the beauty of the United States from the comfort of your RV. What makes it even more special is that it can be done on remote land, far away from civilization, developed campgrounds, and other RVers. Whether you’re in a Class B RV or a travel trailer, you’ll be able to experience distant lands that are teeming with peace, quiet, and even wildlife. Keep in mind that smaller RVs are typically better-suited for boondocking because they can easily access harder-to-reach spaces.

    If you’re seeking an ultra-private vacation that will allow you the opportunity to recharge out in nature, boondocking might be the answer. RV Trader is sharing eight of the best boondocking destinations in the U.S. below, in alphabetical order.

    1. Bolivar Flats (Galveston, Texas)

    If you’re looking for a pristine camping experience on the coast, Bolivar Flats is a great option. This beach near Galveston, Texas is right along the water. All you need to do is pay a $10 registration fee and get a sticker for your RV, and then you’re good to go. You can park directly in the sand and revel in the ocean views for the duration of your stay.

    If you visit Bolivar Flats, one thing to keep in mind are the tides. Be careful not to park too close to the water, or your RV could flood when the tide rolls in.

    2. Chautauqua Gorge State Forest (Mayville, New York)

    If the forest is calling your name, check out Chautauqua Gorge State Forest in Mayville, New York. This gorgeous area spans 538 acres and is open to the public year-round. It’s also free to enter the forest and boondock there in your RV. 

    RVers who venture to Chautauqua Forest can go hiking, fishing, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. With so many diverse activities to try, you won’t have to worry about getting bored without electricity.

    3. Cooks Chasm (Cape Perpetua, Oregon)

    The Oregon Coast is a beautiful place to boondock. Cooks Chasm, in particular, is an extremely unique area. Over time, ancient volcanic lava has been eroded by the ocean and formed caves and chasms. These are very easy to spot in and around the water. There’s even an ocean geyser, called Spouting Horn, that’s worth checking out. Overnight boondocking is free here, and the scenery will take your breath away.

    4. Indian Bread Rocks Recreation Area (Bowie, Arizona)

    If you’re looking for a combination of rugged mountains and vast desert scenery, Indian Bread Rocks is a great spot. In fact, it’s a rock scrambling lover’s dream. Boondocking is free for 14 days here, and the designated picnic area contains grills, picnic tables, and a vault toilet.

    The gorgeous sunsets and diverse wildlife are an extra bonus at Indian Bread Rocks. Just be aware that this is a popular spot, and you’ll likely have neighbors during your stay.

    5. Joshua Tree National Park (Palm Springs, California)

    Joshua Tree National Park doesn’t technically allow boondocking inside the park. With that being said, there are several campsites within 45 minutes of the park that have beautiful scenic views. Some of these campsites include Giant Rock, Painted Canyon, and Box Canyon. All of these locations have different rules and regulations, so do plenty of research before you embark on your boondocking trip.

    6. Nantahala National Forest (Bryson City, North Carolina)

    Nantahala, the largest national forest in North Carolina, includes more than half a million acres of gorgeous woodlands. The forest contains hundreds of miles of hiking trails and ample opportunity for mountain biking and ziplining. 

    Boondocking is legal in Nantahala National Forest, but fees in different locations vary from free to around $20.

    7. Ocala National Forest (Ocala, Florida)

    Filled with lakes, rivers, and springs, Ocala National Forest is another gem that’s perfect for boondocking. There are over 100 campgrounds that can fit RVs and trailers, and there are miles and miles of trails to hike in the forest if you’re in the mood to be active. 

    If you plan to start a fire for cooking, be careful during dry season. One small mistake could result in a park-wide forest fire. Always keep water nearby to put out the fire if it gets too large.

    8. Olympic National Forest (Forks, Washington)

    As the only temperate rainforest in the lower 48, Olympic National Forest has a lot to offer. From lush greenery to rugged beaches and mountainous terrain, there’s a whole lot of nature to admire. 

    Boondocking is conveniently allowed inside Olympic National Forest. The most well-known and popular boondocking campsite is Forest Road 29 (FS-29 on Google Maps). The North portion of this road is better for larger RVs, such as Class A RVs, so keep that in mind.

    9. Valley of the Gods (Mexican Hat, Utah)

    Utah is a stunning landscape to explore, especially from the comfort of your Class C RV or other RV. The Valley of the Gods is filled with sandstone rock formations, buttes, and mesas that will leave you in awe. This area is conveniently located near the highway, and you’re almost guaranteed to catch a beautiful sunset.

    10. Twin Lakes View (Twin Lakes, Colorado)

    If you’re eager to find a boondocking spot for free, Colorado has plenty of beautiful sites that won’t cost you a dime. Twin Lakes View, in particular, is a great place for boondocking, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and more. The lakes look striking against the Rocky Mountains and create quite the morning view as you sip your cup of coffee. 

    When it comes to boondocking, there are endless incredible places to explore in the United States. This is just the tip of the iceberg. When planning your next boondocking trip, remember that rules and regulations vary. Make sure you’re aware of restrictions and fees before you head out. 

    If you’re ready to buy a new or used RV to kick off your boondocking adventures, check out our inventory at RVTrader.com. 

  • 5 of the Best Benefits Of Boondocking

    5 of the Best Benefits Of Boondocking

    Boondocking, or off-grid RVing, is a great way to enjoy camping in natural settings outside of RV parks. While there’s no connection to power, running water (unless there’s a natural spring or stream nearby), sewer hookups, or other amenities, many campers enjoy the boondocking experience for a variety of reasons. RV Trader is breaking down 5 of the best benefits of boondocking in your RV.

    1. Plenty of Parking Options

    Boondocking can be done on private property (with permission from the owner, of course) or in designated areas offered by commercial land or campground owners. However, boondocking is usually done on national or state public lands where you don’t need permission to set up camp.

    These lands are generally available from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and on grounds that the United States Forest Service (USFS) defines as national forests and grasslands. If you’re RVing long-term, many BLM lands allow you to stay up to 14 days in one spot. However, you can simply pack up and move down the road to start a new two-week stint, so availability is almost limitless.

    2. It’s Free

    Boondocking is generally free of charge. If you’re parking your RV van on private land (with permission) for free, it’s generally considered an appropriate gesture to show your gratitude by offering to buy the owner dinner, offer a reciprocal deal if you have something to trade, or present them with a bottle of their favorite libation.

    Nonetheless, a nice dinner or bottle of wine will still end up being less expensive than campground or RV park fees and extra charges for electricity, water, and sewer hookups.

    If you plan to boondock frequently or for long periods of time, you may want to invest in a generator, solar capabilities, or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These require an upfront investment, but they pay for themselves over time.

    3. Beautiful Scenery

    RV parks are not always attractive places to camp. They might be located near great hiking, swimming, or biking spots, but there’s nothing like being out in the middle of nowhere when your objective is to get away from the noise and quiet your mind.

    Boondocking allows for camping in beautiful locations that offer the ultimate peace and solitude. If someone has already claimed a spot that you wanted, just head down the road a bit and you’re bound to find another beautiful spot that’s a good distance from your neighbors.

    4. Keep to Yourself, or Connect With Others

    Being able to find your own spot for your fifth wheel means you can seek out a quiet location to reconnect with a partner, your family, or yourself. Unless you’re actively seeking out new friends to swap RV stories with, you’re pretty much on your own to connect with nature and the expansive night sky scattered with brilliant stars.

    However, if you do want to be around others, boondocking provides an opportunity to find a space large enough for everyone in your party so you can have a communal experience. Boondocking also allows you to skip the campsite reservations and gather with your group in a space that everyone can enjoy.

    5. Flexible Travel 

    In addition to being able to tuck into a lovely forest location or a prime spot on the beach, boondocking has practical applications, too. For example, if you’re on the road and all the campgrounds you find along the way are either full or closed, you can spend the night at a Cracker Barrel, Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, or other retail parking lot that’s RV friendly – but again, always get permission before parking on private property. This can be especially beneficial if an evacuation order is issued for an impending natural disaster and you need to relocate.

    Boondocking is also great for when there’s a prolonged power outage at your home (assuming you’re not on the road full-time). If your VW camper is prepared for boondocking, you can just move into the RV until power is restored. You can also use your RV for guest quarters if friends and relatives come to visit and you need more space.

    Is boondocking right for you?

    One sure way to test out boondocking is to actually go to an RV park or campground first and do a short test-run without plugging in. There are all kinds of tips and tricks to use when conserving water and electricity—as well as what to do with the trash you generate while camping—but if you go through your resources too quickly on your test run, you can always plug in and enjoy the rest of your stay.

    Before you head out for your first true boondocking experience, join some social media groups dedicated to boondocking. You’ll find lots of tips and tricks to use while you’re out in the wild, and you’ll also have a great resource to find exciting and wonderful places to go. If you’re still searching for the perfect camper for your boondocking adventures, check out our nationwide inventory of new and used RVs on RVTrader.com.

    By Barrett Baker

  • Top Tips For Boondocking from Real RVers

    Top Tips For Boondocking from Real RVers

    Before diving into tips about boondocking, let’s talk about what boondocking actually is. Technically, it’s defined as dispersed camping on public land. Dispersed camping is defined as camping in the United States on public land other than in designated campsites, which is commonly available in national forests and Bureau of Land Management land.

    Less technically speaking, it means taking the road less traveled with your new travel trailer or other RV, finding more remote spots that aren’t on public land, and camping where there is no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Boondocking on private land may be acceptable, but only if you have the property owner’s permission to do so.

    RV Trader had the opportunity to speak with some experienced boondockers, who provided some additional sage advice for those looking to join the fun.

    Michelle McClure, who has been RVing full time since April 2021 with her husband Kelly, big dog Molly, and fat cat Ziggy, offers her top tips for boondocking:

    • Have multiple spot options in mind. Research on Campendium, including what people say about each spot—was the road rough or muddy? Where is the nearest place to get water? Where is the nearest dump? Look at the photo people shared. Then, look at spots and follow the route on Google maps satellite view.
    • Glow bracelets and necklaces are always fun. Besides that, they’re useful. Add one to the dog’s collar at night. Put a few in the bottom of a cooler so you don’t accidentally grab that weird mango-flavored drink.
    • The OpenSignal app is helpful for finding out if you will have cell service in a place you’ve never been—or for those who want to extend their trip but can’t miss that one meeting.
    • Take more water than you think you’ll need. Put out your fires COMPLETELY. Sadly, my husband and I have stopped and put out so many abandoned campfires over the years.

    Melissa Nance, the Penny Pinching Globetrotter, and her husband Wade Smith have been RVing full-time for close to six years and almost always boondock. Here are their tips:

    • Always have an atlas. You never know when you won’t have a cell signal and it helps greatly with route planning. When in the U.S., I often look for green areas and know I can most likely find some boondocking there.
    • Go to Baja, Mexico at least once. There is so much great boondocking on the beach!
    • Have solar lights as they save your house battery, create great ambiance, and they are inexpensive. No one wants to hear a generator when you’re out in nature.
    • Go slow. Many of the best boondocking sites are down washboard and pothole-laden roads. If you drive slowly, you can make it with little issue. Also, only settle for the first spot if you’re arriving late or leaving early. There are almost always better spots further away from the main road.
    • Know the weather forecast before camping on softer areas and invest in some traction boards that’ll help you get out should you become stuck.
    • Head out west. The opportunities increase vastly west of the Mississippi River.
    • Smaller is better. Having a smaller rig, such as a Class B RV, will make it easier to boondock as there are many narrow roads with tight turns and smaller areas to boondock. Keep your rig small and you will have more options.
    • Use multiple sources to find possible boondocking spots. There are many apps and sites with information. Some are way better than others, but if one doesn’t list a boondocking area in a location you wish to visit, try another app. Some of our favorite resources are iOverlander, The Dryt, freecampsites.net, and Campendieum.

    Secrets for Success

    One thing that many experienced boondockers recommend for newcomers is to start small and work your way up. Take shorter trips when getting started to make your own notes on how to make longer trips successful. Keep an eye on your freshwater use, your propane use, and how much gray and black water you’re creating, and figure out better ways to conserve.

    You may even want to do a test run with your used fifth wheel camper in an RV park by not using any of the hookups. If you run out of fresh water or the gray and black tanks fill up too fast, you have a resource to connect to and start over.

    Here are a few additional starter tips:

    • Prepare meals ahead of time. By prepping meals first and freezing them, all you’ll need to do is thaw and cook. No washing or chopping needed and you’ll save on dishes that need to be washed. This includes if you plan to have fresh fruit and/or veggies on the trip. Wash them at home so you won’t waste fresh water on site.
    • Top off your propane tanks before leaving.
    • In addition to topping off your freshwater tanks just before arriving on site, fill up some additional five-gallon jugs for additional drinking water.
    • Make sure your gray and black water tanks are completely empty before you start. 
    • When possible, toss out gray water instead of letting it go to the tank.

    Etiquette

    Remember that other boondockers are trying to accomplish the same thing you are—finding a beautiful spot in nature to enjoy, which includes peace and solitude. That’s why it’s important to follow boondocking etiquette. Respect “quiet hours” between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (not a rule, but a good guideline) by not running your generator, playing loud music, shouting, or anything else that could disturb others. Also, when searching for a spot, try to put as much distance as you can between you and any neighbors to keep sound issues to a minimum. 

    While boondocking, trying to remember the motto, “Take only photos; Leave only footprints.” In other words, be sure to take out everything you bring in with you. One exception may be ashes in a fire pit, but as Michelle mentioned early, always fully extinguish your fire and embers before leaving the site. If you’re ready to find your next RV for boondocking, browse the nationwide inventory of new and used vehicles on RVTrader.com. 

    By Barrett Baker