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Are you looking to experience more of the outdoors without the lodging expense that can come with it? Save money on your next road trip or outdoor adventure with this guide on where and how to go camping for free in the US. This article has everything you need to know to legally find free camping spots around the country!
Free Campsites in the US
Whether you’re looking for free campsites near you or as part of a greater road trip across the other side of the country, here are some of the best places to go camping for free in the US. I cover this and more in my Outdoor 101 course if you are just starting out and seeking guidance.
1. BLM Land
One of the most popular places to go camping for free in the US is on BLM-managed land.
BLM, which is short for the Bureau of Land Management, has huge parcels of land all across the US. As a matter of fact, it manages over 250 million acres!
Most BLM land is located in the western half of the United States, including Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Alaska, Washington, Oregon and California. These locations have some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, so it’s quite a treat to be able to camp there for free.
How long can you camp for free on BLM public land?
You can camp on BLM land for a total of 14 consecutive days within a 28-day period.
It is important to note that, although you can camp for free, you will need to pay a small entry fee to initially access most BLM lands.
2. National Parks
While BLM land is only on the west side of the country, national parks are spread out all over the US–and some of them offer free campsites in the country’s most beautiful places to hike.
Though many national parks have free camping sites (especially if you are backcountry camping), not all of them do. If we were to get a bit more technical, some national parks’ free campsites are actually located in the neighboring national forests.
So before you head out on your camping adventure, be sure to research information on the specific national park that you’ve decided to visit.
You may need a special permit for particular camping sites, including backcountry camping. If you’d like, you can also ask a park ranger for recommendations.
Expert tip: note that although you can camp for free, you will need to pay a small entry fee to initially access the national parks. I recommend getting an annual park pass for this.
3. National Forests, Grasslands, and Seashores
While national forests, grasslands, and seashores technically fall under the “national parks” umbrella, they are often forgotten. That’s a shame, because they’re some of the best places to go camping for free in the US. I’ve listed them separately to help remind you that they are an option.
Depending on where you are, it might be better to camp at a national forest, grassland, or seashore than a national park. After all, who wouldn’t want to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves at a national seashore?
A few of the best places for free camping in the US include Padre Island National Seashore in Texas, Sierra National Forest in California, and Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.
Again, remember that although you can camp for free, you will need to pay a small entry fee to initially access the national forests, grasslands, and seashores.
4. Walmarts
Not all free campsites in the US are found in nature. As a matter of fact, one of the most well-known places to go camping for free is at Walmart.
Since Walmarts are practically everywhere in the United States, this option is very convenient. But remember, Walmart doesn’t have to offer its parking lot space up to travelers. So while there, remember to be respectful.
How do you free camp at Walmart successfully?
It’s easy! Most visitors simply just pull up in their car for a good night’s rest before heading out early the next morning.
They also use the store’s wifi if close enough to get a signal, shop for snacks, food, and water in-store, and use the bathroom too!
Update: Recently, many of the Walmarts near popular national parks no longer offer free overnight parking. To make sure that you can stay at a particular Walmart, be sure to check the Walmart No Stay List to know what to avoid.
5. Truck Stops & Rest Stops
If you’re on a road trip far from any national parks or Walmarts, you can opt to stay at a truck stop or rest stop.
These are all over the United States and have everything you need for your night of camping. And, like all of the other options on this list, it’s completely free!
Since truck drivers make their way all over the country, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find a truck stop nearby. While there, you can get some food and load up on fuel.
Where are truck stops and rest stops to sleep?
A few of the most popular truck stop chains in the country include Travel Centers of America (TA), Flying J, and Pilot Travel Centers. They even have shower facilities!
Rest stops are a bit more simplistic, as there is usually just a bathroom, a short walking path to stretch your legs, and vending machines.
Even if you see grassy areas at rest stops, note that you cannot set up camp at any rest stop (though you are technically allowed to sleep in your vehicle). Most rest stops are meant just for a quick power nap and recharge, so they shouldn’t be part of a long-term free camping plan.
Apps to help you find free campsites in the US
There are many different ways to locate and pinpoint places to legally camp for free. Here’s a quick list of the best ones to help make things easier.
Websites and apps to find free camping:
- iOverlander: this free website also comes as a free app on iOS and Android. I use it the most because I plan a lot on my laptop while on the road and I like their filtering capabilities.
- The Dyrt: they have a free and pro membership ($35/year) and list the largest selection of free camping spots. Available on iOS and Android.
- BLM map: this free map shows you all the BLM-managed public lands, though I find the interactive map itself to be a little glitchy.
- Campendium: This free campsite website thrives on user-based photo submissions and reviews to give you a better idea of what to expect.
How to prepare for your next camping trip
As you see, there are loads of amazing places to go camping for free in the United States. From BLM lands to national parks, you have quite a variety of free camping spots to choose from.
Before you head out, be sure to use this camping packing list to help you remember everything that you need to bring along. If you’re traveling in a camper van or RV read these essential RV camping tips too.
FAQs about free camping in the US
Is free camping legal in the US?
Free camping is legal in designated areas like BLM-managed public lands, US National Forests and Grasslands, backcountry with a permit, and more.
What state has the most free camping?
Utah has 22.8 million acres of BLM-managed public land, making it the state with the most free camping on public land. Wyoming has 18 million acres and Idaho has 12 million acres.
What are free campsites called?
Free camping has many names depending on the type of camping and location. It is commonly referred to as boondocking or wild camping. It can also be called dispersed camping or stealth camping.
Where Will Your Next Camping Adventure Take You?
Sometimes, you just want to go on a getaway that’s off the grid and away from the stress of life. Camping is absolutely perfect for that. And to add to the appeal, there are many free campsites in the US to make it more financially feasible.
I hope this free US campsites list helps you add car and tent camping to your outdoor adventure without breaking the bank on campground costs.
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