Off-grid camping—also called dispersed camping, boondocking, dry camping, or backcountry/wild camping—means camping without hookups or amenities. You’re not in a developed campground with bathrooms, water, or electricity; you bring what you need and choose a legal spot on public land. If you’re new and wondering where you can legally go off-grid and what to pack, this guide walks you through the basics so you can head out with confidence.
What Is Off-Grid Camping?
Off-grid camping is simply camping without facility hookups or services. Instead of reserving a numbered site with a picnic table and bathhouse nearby, you’ll pick a legal, undeveloped spot and provide your own shelter, water, power, and sanitation.
You’ll hear a few synonyms:
- Dispersed camping: camping outside of designated campgrounds, usually on public lands.
- Boondocking/dry camping: commonly used by RVers and camper vans; emphasizes no hookups or shore power.
- Backcountry or wild camping: typically more remote or hike-in zones with minimal infrastructure.
How it differs from traditional campgrounds: No restrooms, potable water, trash bins, or camp hosts. You’ll plan, pack, and manage your own comfort and safety. In return, off grid campsites offer freedom and flexibility (no reservations), cost savings (often free), and an immersive nature experience with quiet, dark skies, and fewer neighbors.
Where Can You Legally Camp Off-Grid?
The most common legal places for remote camping in the U.S. are DNR lands (Department of Natural Resources) such as National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Rules vary by location, but these guidelines will get you started:
Public Lands Overview
-
National Forests (U.S. Forest Service)
Dispersed camping is generally allowed unless posted otherwise. Choose already-impacted spots (cleared pads, existing fire rings) and follow local distance rules from water and roads. National forests publish Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs)—free PDFs that show open roads and, in many units, corridors where roadside camping is allowed. Pick them up at ranger stations or download them before your trip. -
BLM Lands
Much of the West is managed by BLM, and primitive camping is widely permitted outside of signed closures. Typical stay limits apply (often 14 days in a 28-day period). Check BLM Camping for local guidance and any fire restrictions. -
National Parks
You generally can’t just pull off the road and camp inside a national park. Many parks offer backcountry camping by permit only, sometimes in designated zones or sites. Research in advance via NPS Backcountry Camping. A common strategy is to camp on legal BLM/National Forest land outside park boundaries and day-trip into the park. -
State & Local Lands
Policies are mixed. Some states allow primitive camping in state forests or wildlife management areas; others require permits or limit it to specific dispersed sites. Always check the managing agency’s website before you go.
Tools to Find Legal Spots
- MVUMs (National Forests): Identify drivable roads and often where roadside camping sites are allowed.
- Websites & Apps: FreeCampsites.net, iOverlander, The Dyrt, and similar tools list user-reported dispersed sites and notes on access and conditions. Treat them as leads and always verify rules yourself.
- Local Offices: Call or visit Forest Service or BLM field offices; staff can point you to suitable areas, current closures, wildlife warning and road conditions.
- Map Layers: Use GPS apps with land-ownership layers (public vs. private) and download offline maps to use when service is unavailable.
Avoiding Trespass & Common Mistakes
- Confirm land ownership before you set up. When in doubt, don’t camp.
- Obey posted signs (No Camping, Day Use Only, Private Property etc).
- Respect stay limits and distance rules from water sources and trailheads.
- Park only on durable surfaces and avoid crushing vegetation.
What to Expect When Camping Off-Grid
Stepping off the grid changes the rhythm of camping—mostly for the better—while requiring more preparation.
- Remoteness & Limited Connectivity: Expect little to no cell service. Tell a friend where you’re going and when you’ll return. Download maps in advance.
- Self-Reliance: You’ll bring your own water, food, shelter, and power. There are no stores or rangers on site, so a forgotten lighter or dead headlamp battery genuinely matters.
- Flexibility: Sites are typically first-come, first-served. Have a Plan B (and C) in case your first choice is taken or the road becomes impassable.
- Immersive Nature: Quieter nights, brighter stars, and more wildlife encounters. Keep a clean camp and review bear-country best practices in Car Camping in Bear Country.
Essential Gear for Beginners
Think in systems—sleep, food/water, navigation, safety, light, and storage/transport.
Shelter & Sleep
- Weather-worthy tent with rainfly, stakes, guylines; footprint or tarp.
- Sleeping bag rated for your coldest expected temps.
- Sleeping pad (insulation + comfort); pillow or stuff-sack pillow.
- If towing or using a pop-up/tent trailer, do a full shake-down at home first.
Interested in compact towable shelter options? See What Is a Tent Trailer? for a primer on lightweight, off-grid-friendly campers.
Food, Water & Cooking
- Water plan: Carry enough (often 2+ gallons per person/day) and/or bring a filter/purifier with backup tablets.
- Stove & fuel: Compact propane/butane stove(s), windscreen, lighter/matches.
- Cook kit: Pot/pan/kettle, utensils, cutting board, mug, bowls/plates.
- Storage: Cooler with ice or a 12V fridge; odor-resistant containers.
- Food security: In bear country, use canisters/lockers/hangs; keep a clean camp.
Navigation & Communication
- Offline maps on your phone (Gaia GPS, onX, AllTrails) + paper topo or atlas.
- MVUMs for motorized access in forests.
- Compass and basic map skills.
- Consider a satellite communicator for remote trips.
Safety, Light & Comfort
- First-aid kit (bandages, meds, blister care, tweezers).
- Headlamps/flashlights for each person, plus spare batteries.
- Weather-ready layers: rain shell, insulation, hat/gloves, robust footwear.
- Sun & bug protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat, repellent.
- Fire safety: extinguisher, water bucket; verify burn bans before any fire.
- Camp basics: trash bags, composting toilets or WAG bags/trowel, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, quick-dry towel, camp chairs, repair/multi-tool, duct tape/zip ties.
Storage & Transport: Make Space for Comfort
Off-the-grid camping loadouts grow fast—water jugs, stoves, coolers, tarps, tools, and more. If your vehicle is bursting, add external capacity so you’re organized and safe:
- Hitch-mounted cargo carriers act like an extra trunk for bulky or messy gear. Explore Cargo Carriers to keep coolers, fuel, and totes outside your cabin.
 |
Let’s Go Aero cargo carriers are built tough for real-world adventures, turning your hitch into secure, weather-ready storage. Whether you need an open platform for oversized items or an enclosed box for full protection, these carriers free up interior space and keep gear organized. Explore our full Cargo Carrier Collection to find the right fit for your setup. |
- Compact utility trailers handle big hauls (extra water, generators, firewood, family kits) while keeping your vehicle nimble and uncluttered.
 |
Let’s Go Aero utility trailers expand your off-grid capacity with smart, lightweight designs made for rough roads and heavy loads. From family camping kits to bulky essentials like water and generators, these trailers keep gear secure while leaving your vehicle free to travel light. Explore our full Cargo Utility Trailer Collection to gear up for bigger adventures. |
- Cut rattle and sway on rough roads with Silent Towing accessories that tighten the connection and quiet the ride.
How to Power Your Campsite Off-Grid
Power needs vary from “just charge phones and headlamps” to running fridges or CPAP machines. Choose the right mix for your style.
Portable Batteries & Power Stations
Great for weekenders and minimalist setups. A small USB bank handles phones and lights; a mid-size power station (300–1000Wh) runs LED lanterns, cameras, laptops, and some 12V fridges. Charge at home, from your vehicle’s 12V while driving, or with solar during the day.
Solar Panels
Silent and renewable. A folding solar panel paired with your power station keeps essentials topped off; roof-mounted arrays suit overland rigs and trailers. Oversize a bit for cloudy stretches, and angle toward the sun when parked.
Generators
Gas/propane inverter generators deliver high output for short bursts—handy for battery recharges or power-hungry tools. Use sparingly (noise, fuel weight) and never in closed spaces. For a more eco-friendly solution, opt for solar generators. Always follow quiet hours and local rules on public lands.
RVs & Campers: How to Power a Camper Off Grid
Travel trailers and motorhomes rely on house batteries for lights, pumps, and fans. Extend your boondocking time with:
- Bigger or lithium battery banks
- Solar Charge controller
- Occasional generator usage for bulk recharging
- Smart conservation (LEDs, moderate furnace use, minimal inverter time)
If you’re prepping a trailer, our Travel Trailer Checklist covers power, water, and safety must-dos before you leave pavement.
Responsible Off-Grid Camping Practices
With no staff to tidy up or enforce rules, low-impact behavior keeps dispersed camping sites open and beautiful.
Leave No Trace, Always
- Pack it in, pack it out—micro-trash too (twist ties, food bits, TP).
- Human waste: catholes 6–8" deep and 200' from water/camp/trails, or WAG bags where required. Pack out TP.
- Use existing sites and fire rings; avoid creating new scars.
- Stay on paths and trails: Keep recreational vehicles on approved trails.
- Camp on durable surfaces and set up 100–200' from lakes and streams.
Fire & Water
- Check fire bans daily; use stoves instead of fire pits when bans are in effect.
- Keep fires small, only where allowed, and drown/stir/drown until cold.
- Treat or carry all drinking water; wash and rinse 200'+ from water sources.
Wildlife & Courtesy
- Store all food and scented items securely; never feed wildlife.
- Keep noise low, especially at night; control pets.
- Respect closures, stay limits, and road rules.
- Teach kids good habits—our Car Camping with Kids guide has ideas to make it fun and educational.
Quick Planning Flow (First Trip)
- Pick a region & agency: e.g., a national forest or public park near you.
- Download MVUM + offline maps: mark a few potential corridors/sites.
- Check rules & fire status: BLM/Forest web pages; park backcountry permits if applicable.
- Gear & load-out: prioritize shelter, water, light, and first aid.
- Space solutions: add a hitch carrier or small trailer if the vehicle is crowded.
- Safety plan: share your itinerary, bring paper maps, aim to arrive before dark.
- Test & tweak: start with a short trip; note improvements for next time.
Get Ready for Your First Off-Grid Adventure
With the right prep, off-grid camping is absolutely beginner-friendly. Start in an accessible national forest or BLM corridor, pack the essentials, and keep your plan flexible. You’ll quickly discover that solitude, starry skies, and self-sufficiency are worth the extra planning.
To simplify transport and organization, lean on smart storage: hitch-mounted Cargo Carriers for bulky gear, Cargo Utility Trailers for bigger hauls or family setups, and Silent Towing hardware to keep the ride quiet when the road gets rough.
Ready to roll? Choose your public-land target, map a few candidate sites, and build a simple packing checklist. You’ve got this—off-grid camping is accessible, rewarding, and wildly fun.
See how Let’s Go Aero gear can help you camp off-grid more comfortably—explore our collections and outfit your next self-sufficient adventure.
