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What is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping, also known as boondocking or dry camping, is camping outside of developed campgrounds on public lands. Unlike traditional campgrounds, dispersed camping sites typically have no facilities, no fees, and minimal restrictions. This type of camping allows you to enjoy nature in its purest form while having the freedom to choose your own spot.
The majority of dispersed camping opportunities exist on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service. Most dispersed camping follows the "14-day rule," meaning you can camp in one spot for up to 14 days before needing to move at least 25 miles away.
BLM Land vs National Forest Camping
BLM Land Camping
Bureau of Land Management lands cover over 245 million acres, primarily in western states. BLM lands typically offer wide-open spaces in desert and plains environments, perfect for RV camping and stargazing.
- Usually more open, desert terrain
- Easier vehicle access
- Popular for RV and van camping
- 14-day stay limit is standard
National Forest Camping
National Forests encompass 193 million acres of mountains, forests, and wilderness areas. These locations offer cooler temperatures, shade, and scenic camping with trees and mountains.
- Forested, mountainous terrain
- Cooler summer temperatures
- More challenging road conditions
- Better for tent camping
Leave No Trace Principles
When camping on public lands, following Leave No Trace principles is essential to preserve these beautiful areas for future generations.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Research regulations, check weather, and download offline maps before heading out.
Camp on Durable Surfaces
Use established sites when possible, camp at least 200 feet from water sources.
Dispose of Waste Properly
Pack out all trash, including toilet paper. Bury human waste 6-8 inches deep.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from distance, never feed wildlife, store food securely.
Safety and Preparation Tips
Successful dispersed camping requires proper preparation and awareness. Unlike developed campgrounds, you won't have access to water, facilities, or emergency services nearby. Always tell someone your plans and expected return date.
Essential Items to Bring
- Adequate water (1 gallon per person per day minimum)
- First aid kit and necessary medications
- Offline maps and GPS device
- Emergency communication device
- Weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular Free Camping States
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Alabama Free Camping
Alabama offers diverse free camping opportunities from the Appalachian foothills to coastal plains, with excellent dispersed camping in Bankhead and Talladega National Forests.
Alaska Free Camping
Alaska provides unparalleled wilderness camping experiences with vast public lands, from Arctic tundra to temperate rainforests, offering true backcountry adventures.
Arizona Free Camping
Arizona is a premier boondocking destination with extensive BLM lands, desert landscapes, and year-round camping opportunities in the Sonoran Desert.
Arkansas Free Camping
Arkansas offers excellent free camping in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains with pristine forests, clear streams, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
California Free Camping
California offers diverse free camping from coastal redwoods to high Sierra mountains, with extensive national forest and BLM lands for dispersed camping.
Colorado Free Camping
Colorado provides exceptional high-altitude camping with stunning mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and extensive national forest dispersed camping opportunities.
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All Camping Spots (414)
Cheaha Skyline Backroads
"Free dispersed camping around Talladega NF Alabama. Skyline ridge roads and overlooks with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Cheaha State Park. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Seasonal gates Arrive early to claim a legal
Conecuh – Open Pond Roads
"Free dispersed camping around Conecuh NF Alabama. Longleaf pine flats and ponds with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Open Pond area. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Humidity and insects Arrive early to claim a legal
Talladega – Shoal Creek District Roads
"Free dispersed camping at Talladega – Shoal Creek District Roads in Alabama. Skyline ridges and hollows with informal pullouts and some level clearings near Shoal Creek. Primitive conditions with no hookups or trash service. Seasonal gates Arrive early
Blue Creek Public Use Area
Blufftop primitive spots overlooking Holt Lake. Vault toilet sometimes available; otherwise pack-in/pack-out.
Tuskegee — Kennedy Road Clearings
Scattered pine clearings off FS roads. Primitive; pack out all waste.
Talladega — Hollins WMA Roads
Gravel hunt-camp clearings in Hollins area. Primitive; no amenities.
Bankhead — Wolf Pen Hunters Camp
Free dispersed camping at Bankhead — Wolf Pen Hunters Camp in Alabama. Forest backroads and shaded clearings near Sipsey Wilderness. Primitive; no restrooms or water.
William B. Bankhead — Canoe Trail Pullouts
Small riverside pullouts along the Sipsey Canoe Trail. Primitive; leave no trace.
Talladega — Chinnabee Lake Road Pullouts
Roadside primitive pockets near Chinnabee. Narrow access; no facilities.
Tuskegee — Primitive Campsites
Designated primitive sites in Tuskegee National Forest. No hookups or facilities.
Bankhead — McDougal Hunt Camp
Free dispersed camping at Bankhead — McDougal Hunt Camp. Pine woods near Brushy Creek; primitive; no facilities.
Chena Hot Springs Road Dispersed
Pullouts along the Chena River corridor. Primitive; no amenities.
Denali Highway MP 110–134
"Free dispersed camping around Denali Highway Alaska. Tundra vistas and gravel benches with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Maclaren Summit. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Sudden weather shifts Arrive early to claim a legal
Richardson Highway — Summit Lake Pullouts
Scenic tundra pullouts near Summit Lake. Primitive; exposed.
Hatcher Pass – Archangel Rd
"Free dispersed camping around Talkeetna Mountains Alaska. Alpine valleys and boulders with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Independence Mine. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Snow lingers; rough spurs Arrive early to claim a legal
Thompson Pass — Worthington Area
Roadside turnouts in alpine tundra near Valdez. High winds possible.
Nabesna Road Dispersed
"Free dispersed camping around Wrangell–St. Elias Alaska. Wide valley floor with mountain views with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Kendesnii vicinity. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Seasonal stream crossings Arrive early to claim a legal
Glenn Highway — Matanuska View Turnouts
Roadside gravel flats with glacier views. No facilities.
Nabesna Road Dispersed East
Gravel pits along Nabesna Road (Wrangells). Bear country; no amenities.
McCarthy Road Pullouts
Informal clearings by the old railbed. Primitive; rough road.
Your Complete Guide to Free Camping in America
What is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping, also known as boondocking or dry camping, refers to camping outside of designated campgrounds on public lands. This type of camping is typically free and offers a more primitive, wilderness experience.
Where Can You Camp for Free?
- • National Forest Service lands
- • Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas
- • Some state parks and wildlife areas
- • Army Corps of Engineers properties
Free Camping Etiquette
- • Follow Leave No Trace principles
- • Respect 14-day camping limits
- • Camp in previously used sites when possible
- • Pack out all trash and waste
- • Respect wildlife and other campers
Popular Free Camping Apps
While there are many apps available, Camping in the USA provides the most comprehensive, up-to-date directory of free camping spots across all 50 states.