Boondocking refers to camping in an RV without amenities in a secluded location. It can be called wild camping, dry camping, or independent parking. Boondockers must be self-sufficient and plan ahead. They have a code of honor to clean up and help others. Some enjoy the isolation and dislike crowded campgrounds, while others appreciate the cost savings.
The term “boondocking” is used to refer to camping in a recreational vehicle (RV) without access to amenities, typically in a secluded location. You may also hear boondocking referred to as wild camping, dry camping, or independent parking. There are a variety of reasons for choosing to abandon rather than use designated RV camping areas, ranging from a desire to be in a more secluded area to a desire to save money on camping fees.
There is some dispute in the RV community as to what, exactly, boondocking entails. Most people generally agree that the term implies a lack of amenities and a certain amount of self-sufficiency, but the boundaries of boondocking vary depending on who you’re talking to. For example, one person would argue that running the RV’s electricity and self-contained plumbing systems independently of utilities would be considered a failure, while others argue that using electricity would violate the “sink it” premise.
For boondocking to work, people have to think ahead. Some people outfit their RVs specifically with boondocking in mind, outfitting them with additional water storage tanks, composting toilets, solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, and other measures designed to allow the RV to become self-sufficient for days or weeks. Other campers, who may only boondock for a night or two from time to time, cannot make any modifications to their vehicles to accommodate boondocking.
Because boondocking often involves being in an area where camping or parking is technically prohibited, boondockers have a well-defined code of honor that includes precepts such as cleaning up and helping other campers if they appear to need assistance. By doing this, boondockers hope to gain a reputation as polite, respectful people who aren’t interested in causing trouble or violating any laws other than those restricting campground operation.
Some boondockers claim to enjoy the relative isolation that boondocking offers and point to the fact that some serviced parks are not very pleasant to stay in, with poorly maintained facilities and crowded camping areas. These camps aren’t quite what most people have in mind when they think of a getaway close to nature, leading boondockers to strike out on their own for more enjoyable camping. Others simply appreciate the savings provided by parking in free zones, arguing that parking fees for RVs are often high.
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