RV Boondocking Myths

Above, boondock camping at Ashurst Lake dispersed campground in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When one is out camping in their RV in areas such as BLM land or dispersed campgrounds, this is generally called boondocking or dry camping. There are no hook-ups such as electric, water or sewer available.

I boondock with the fraternal organization E Clampus Vitus every year. My motorhome is self-contained with its own battery power and water tank.

There are some myths concerning boondocking and RV Travel has posted an article discussing them.

They begin with:

There are many boondocking myths held by both new and seasoned RVers. Most so firmly believe them that they fear even trying boondocking for one night. Sadly, this keeps many limited to camping in overcrowded campgrounds, never to experience the freedom boondocking offers.

I quite often hear statements like, “I would boondock, but…

• I like to shower every day.”
• I don’t like the desert.”
• My RV isn’t suited to drive miles down a rough dirt road.”

While their statements are true, they have little to do with boondocking. They are boondocking myths.

In fact, those new to RVing may not even know what the term “boondocking” really means.

While there are many interpretations of what boondocking is, most dyed-in-the-wool boondockers (myself included) consider boondocking as camping outside of a developed campground on public land. Public land agencies refer to it as “dispersed camping.”

To read more, go here.