Why Free and Low-Cost Camping is Ideal for RVers
RVing on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your camping experience. In fact, some of the best RV destinations are free or low-cost. From boondocking on public lands to staying at affordable campgrounds, budget-conscious RVers can still enjoy stunning scenery, peaceful surroundings, and all the benefits of RV life without overspending. Free and low-cost camping options allow you to travel farther, stay longer, and explore more.
Here’s how you can enjoy the RV lifestyle while keeping your travel costs low.
Free RV Camping: Boondocking and Dispersed Camping
Boondocking, or dry camping, refers to camping without hookups (electric, water, or sewer) on public lands, often for free. It’s one of the most popular ways for budget-conscious RVers to camp, as it allows you to stay in beautiful, remote locations without paying campground fees. You’ll typically find boondocking spots on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, national forests, and other public lands.
1. Boondocking on BLM Land
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees millions of acres of public land across the U.S., primarily in the western states. Many of these areas allow free dispersed camping, where RVers can park and camp without amenities. BLM boondocking spots often offer incredible views and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Key Tips for Boondocking on BLM Land:
- Stay for Free: Most BLM boondocking spots are free, though some may require a small fee for longer stays.
- Leave No Trace: Be mindful of the environment by packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the land.
- Check Time Limits: Some BLM areas have stay limits, typically ranging from 14 to 21 days, so make sure to check the rules before setting up camp.
For more information on boondocking on BLM land, visit the Bureau of Land Management website:
2. Dispersed Camping in National Forests
Another great option for free camping is dispersed camping in national forests. National forests across the U.S. offer a wide range of boondocking opportunities, often in secluded and scenic areas. Unlike developed campgrounds, dispersed camping areas usually don’t have facilities like restrooms or picnic tables, but they offer a peaceful camping experience away from the crowds.
Key Tips for National Forest Camping:
- Use Existing Sites: To protect the environment, camp in existing sites when available. Look for flat areas where others have camped to avoid creating new impacts on the land.
- Stay Within Limits: Like BLM land, national forests typically have a 14-day stay limit for dispersed camping.
- Plan Ahead: Since there are no amenities, make sure to bring enough water, food, and supplies to last your stay.
To find free campsites in national forests, check out Campendium’s directory of free camping spots:
3. Boondocking Apps and Resources
Finding free camping spots is easier than ever thanks to online resources and apps that help you locate boondocking areas. These tools provide user reviews, GPS coordinates, and detailed information on campsites, helping you find the perfect free camping spot.
Popular Boondocking Apps:
- FreeRoam: A popular app that helps RVers find free and dispersed camping spots, including BLM land and national forests.
- iOverlander: This app is great for finding boondocking spots and free campsites with user-generated reviews and photos.
- Campendium: Known for its comprehensive database of free and low-cost camping options, including BLM, national forest, and public land campsites.
For more boondocking resources, visit Campendium:
Low-Cost Camping: Affordable RV Parks and Campgrounds
While free camping is great, sometimes you need a few amenities like water, electricity, or a dump station. Luckily, there are many affordable RV parks and campgrounds that provide basic services without costing a fortune.
1. National and State Parks
National and state parks are fantastic options for budget-friendly RV camping. While they often charge a fee, it’s typically much lower than private RV parks, and you’ll enjoy beautiful natural surroundings with access to trails, scenic views, and educational programs. Plus, many state and national parks offer spacious campsites and basic amenities like water and electric hookups.
Key Tips for Camping in National and State Parks:
- Book in Advance: Popular national and state parks often book up months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Make reservations early to secure a spot.
- Consider Annual Passes: If you plan on visiting multiple national parks, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass, which grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites for one annual fee.
For information on affordable camping in national parks, visit the National Park Service website:
2. Passport America: 50% Off RV Parks
Passport America is a membership club that offers 50% off campsites at participating RV parks across the U.S. For a low annual fee, Passport America members can save significantly on RV camping fees at over 1,000 campgrounds. This is a great option for RVers looking to stay at private parks while keeping costs low.
Key Benefits of Passport America:
- Wide Network: The program partners with a large number of campgrounds, making it easy to find discounts across the country.
- Low Annual Fee: For a small yearly fee, you can access discounted camping at 50% off regular rates, making it easy to save on multiple trips.
For more information on joining, visit the Passport America website:
3. KOA Value Kard Rewards
For frequent campers, the KOA Value Kard Rewards program offers discounts at over 500 KOA campgrounds across North America. While KOA parks are typically more expensive than boondocking or public land options, the rewards program offers a 10% discount on nightly rates, which can add up over time. KOA campgrounds are known for their family-friendly amenities like pools, playgrounds, and organized activities.
Key Features of KOA Value Kard:
- 10% Discount: Save on every stay at KOA campgrounds with the Value Kard membership.
- Points and Rewards: Earn points for each stay, which can be redeemed for future discounts.
- Exclusive Offers: Members receive special offers and discounts throughout the year.
For more information on the KOA rewards program, visit the KOA website:
Additional Tips for RVing on a Budget
In addition to finding free and low-cost camping options, there are other ways to save money while RVing.
1. Join RV Clubs and Memberships
Joining RV clubs like Good Sam or Harvest Hosts can offer significant savings on campground fees, fuel, and RV services. These memberships often include discounts on camping, as well as additional perks like access to private campgrounds and special events.
For a list of popular RV memberships, visit Good Sam Club:
2. Stay at Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts offers a unique way to camp for free at wineries, farms, and other attractions across the country. Members can stay overnight at participating locations in exchange for supporting the host by purchasing products or services. It’s a great way to experience local culture while camping for free in scenic and unique locations.
For more information, check out Harvest Hosts:
Final Thoughts
RVing on a budget is not only possible, but it can also lead to some of the most rewarding
Happy Rving!