Sure, camping inside a national park is a magical experience, but those nightly fees can add up quickly. Money-savvy campers often practice the art of boondocking, camping for free (or almost free) on public lands outside of developed campgrounds. Instead of jockeying for a $30 campsite months before your trip, you can put in a little extra legwork on websites like FreeCampsites and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and score sweet digs just a few miles outside of the entrance station. Sure, you won’t find hookups, running water, or even pit toilets at most of these dispersed sites, but they often provide more of a secluded backcountry experience than developed areas.
The most important consideration when boondocking, though, is safety. Scout legal spots in advance, have a plan B in case your site is occupied, arrive before dark, and always follow the Leave No Trace Principles. Bring plenty of food and water, pack out your trash, bury human waste, and keep your entire rig self-sufficient. When it’s done right, boondocking slashes your camping expenditures while giving you a wilder, quieter experience that’s tough to beat.
