Boondocking is a specific type of dispersed camping, primarily distinguished by its accessibility to larger recreational vehicles (RVs) and suitability for vehicle-based overnight stays.
Dispersed camping and boondocking both refer to camping outside of established campgrounds, offering a more rustic and often free experience. While often used interchangeably, boondocking is actually a subset of dispersed camping, characterized by specific considerations for larger vehicles.
Understanding Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping involves setting up camp on public lands, typically national forests or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, away from developed facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, or designated campsites. It's about finding a primitive spot and being self-sufficient.
- Key Characteristics of Dispersed Camping:
- No Amenities: Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, as there are no facilities like water, electricity, restrooms, or trash service.
- Self-Sufficiency: Requires campers to bring all necessary supplies and to pack out everything they pack in.
- Accessibility: Can involve less accessible areas, sometimes requiring high-clearance vehicles, off-road capabilities, or even backpacking to reach a site.
- Cost: Generally free of charge.
- Ethos: Requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
- Common Locations: Found on US Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.
What is Boondocking?
Boondocking is a form of dispersed camping that specifically refers to vehicle-based camping in remote areas, particularly for RVs, motorhomes, and vehicles pulling travel trailers. The key distinction lies in the type of vehicle used and the accessibility requirements for those vehicles.
- Boondocking Specifics:
- Vehicle Accessibility: Primarily for RVs, motorhomes, and larger travel trailers.
- Road Conditions: Sites are typically accessed by wider roads that are in good shape, allowing for the passage of larger rigs without difficulty.
- Space for Maneuvering: Sufficient space is available for large vehicles to turn around and park comfortably, often requiring a larger footprint than a typical tent site.
- Self-Contained Living: Campers are entirely self-sufficient, relying on onboard water tanks, power systems (like solar or generators), and waste disposal systems.
- Locations: Commonly found on public lands that have suitable access, such as certain areas within National Forests or BLM lands, chosen for their ease of access for large vehicles.
Key Differences Summarized
While both offer a primitive camping experience, the primary distinction lies in the type of vehicle used and the accessibility of the site.
| Feature | Dispersed Camping | Boondocking |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Broad term for primitive camping on public land | Specific type of dispersed camping, focused on vehicles |
| Vehicle Type | Any (tent, car, truck, van, RV, backpacking) | Primarily RVs, motorhomes, large travel trailers |
| Accessibility | Can range from easily accessible to remote/rugged | Requires wider, well-maintained roads suitable for large rigs |
| Maneuverability | Less critical for smaller setups | Ample space needed for turning and parking large vehicles |
| Amenities | None (always primitive) | None (always primitive, self-contained) |
| Preparation | Backpacking gear, basic car camping gear, survival essentials | RV systems (water tanks, solar, generator, waste management) |
Practical Considerations for Both
Regardless of whether you are dispersed camping with a tent or boondocking in an RV, responsible outdoor ethics are paramount.
- Leave No Trace Principles: Always essential. Pack out everything you pack in, properly dispose of human and pet waste, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and leave natural areas as you found them.
- Water and Waste: Carry ample water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Have a plan for human waste and greywater disposal (e.g., portable toilets, approved cat holes, or designated dump stations). Never dump greywater or blackwater on the ground.
- Power: For boondocking, consider solar panels, portable power stations, or generators for power needs. For general dispersed camping, a power bank for small electronics might suffice.
- Regulations: Always check local regulations for fire restrictions, length of stay limits (often 14 days in one spot), and specific rules for the area you plan to visit. Resources like Campendium or FreeCampsites.net can be helpful for finding locations and understanding regulations.
