Types of Stays & Destinations

Not all campsites are created equal – and that’s a good thing! Today’s travelers can choose from a spectrum of camping experiences, from remote wilderness spots with no facilities to full-service RV resorts with every amenity.

In this section, we’ll break down the main types of stays:

• Dispersed Camping / Boondocking:
  Camping on public land outside of developed campgrounds (no hookups or facilities). Pure freedom and solitude, but you provide everything yourself.

• Developed Campgrounds:
  Designated camping areas (public or private) with varying levels of amenities (from just a pit toilet to full hookups). These require more planning (reservations) but offer convenience.

• Hosted & Alternative Stays:
  Unique options like staying at farms, wineries, or private properties through membership networks (e.g., Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome) or renting spots via platforms like Hipcamp.

Understanding these options will help you decide what fits your rig, comfort level, and travel goals for each trip. You might even mix and match on a single journey (many do – perhaps boondock for a week, then hit a campground to recharge water and batteries and do laundry).

Let’s look at each category in detail:

Dispersed Camping / Boondocking

Dispersed camping – often called boondocking or dry camping – means camping on public lands outside of designated campgrounds. In a dispersed site, you generally won’t find any man-made facilities: no picnic tables, no toilets, no hookups. Instead, you bring everything you need and commit to leaving no trace when you go.

The philosophy of boondocking centers on self-sufficiency and freedom. You’re not constrained by campground rules or reservations. You can seek out that perfect spot by a babbling brook or tucked in a canyon – and it’s likely all yours, since dispersed campers are few and far between.

Boondocking does require more planning and caution, which we’ll cover (from legalities to safety), but the rewards are immense: serenity, open space, and a close connection to nature.

Types of Land for Dispersed Camping

In the U.S. (and many other countries), multiple public land agencies allow dispersed camping in certain areas:

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land:
  BLM manages vast areas, especially in the western states, and generally permits free camping on them. Typically you can stay up to 14 days in one spot within a 28-day period. BLM lands are often desert, grassland, or scrub, with established primitive spots (you might see a rock fire ring from previous campers).
  Always check regional BLM rules – some popular areas near cities now have restrictions or permits due to overuse.

• National Forests & Grasslands:
  The U.S. Forest Service also allows dispersed camping in most national forests (and national grasslands), with similar stay limits (commonly 14 days). Forest roads crisscross these lands, and any pull-out or clearing at least 100–200 feet from water is usually fair game to camp (unless signed otherwise).
  Always camp on existing clearings to avoid damaging vegetation.

• State Trust Lands / State Forests:
  Rules vary widely by state. For example, Arizona state trust lands require a permit (a nominal fee) for dispersed camping. Other states may allow it generally in state forests or not at all.
  Research the specific state land department. These lands can be hidden gems if allowed – often less crowded than national lands.

• Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) & National Wildlife Refuges:
  Many WMAs (managed by state fish & game agencies) allow camping, but often only in designated spots or certain times (e.g., during hunting season). National Wildlife Refuges usually do not allow overnight camping except perhaps in backcountry with permits.
  Check local regulations – these areas prioritize wildlife, so restrictions are common.

• National Parks (Backcountry only):
  Generally, U.S. national parks do not allow vehicle camping off of designated campgrounds. Some national parks do offer backcountry permits for backpacking (or very occasionally for overlanding on specific 4x4 routes).
  Don’t assume you can boondock in a national park – you usually cannot. However, national monuments or recreation areas under BLM or USFS often do allow dispersed camping outside developed sites.

• Canadian Crown Land:
  Roughly 89% of Canada is Crown land (public). Canadian residents can camp on Crown land for free up to 21 days at one site. Non-residents need to buy a permit in certain provinces (like Ontario).
  Crown land boondocking is popular in Canada’s vast forests and lakes – just be mindful of provincial rules and any fire bans or local restrictions.

• Other Special Lands:
  Always look for signage. Some Native American reservations offer camping by permission or fee, but you must get permits from the tribe – never assume you can camp on reservation land without explicit permission. Similarly, Army Corps of Engineers lands, city-owned open spaces, etc., each have their own rules.

Unique Considerations for Dispersed Camping

• Legal & Permit Issues:
  Before camping on any public land, ensure it’s allowed there. Get required permits (state trust land permits, etc.) in advance if needed. National forests often don’t require a permit for individuals, but some high-use areas might (for example, a few BLM sites around Moab now have free permits to limit impact).
  If unsure, contact the local ranger district or BLM field office. They can confirm camping areas and rules. Know the 14-day limit (it’s common across BLM/USFS) and respect it – rangers do patrol and can ticket if you squat too long. Also, do not trespass onto adjacent private land (use maps; many apps show land ownership boundaries).

• Special Land Use Rules:
  Each area may have specific regulations. Some examples: fire restrictions are big – in dry season there may be a complete fire ban (no campfires, sometimes no charcoal grilling either). Some forests require a (free) fire permit even for a camp stove (like California).
  Many western lands have rules about not driving more than a vehicle length off existing roads – so don’t drive cross-country to find a site, stick to obvious tracks. If a gate says closed or an area is marked “No Camping” or “Rehabilitation in Progress,” move on – closures happen to protect resources or due to hazards. Also, some sites may be designated for camping only in certain spots (like marked sites along a popular river corridor) to concentrate impact. Always read any posted signs at kiosk or along roads – they often contain the do’s and don’ts.

• Self-Sufficiency (Water, Power, Waste):
  When boondocking, you must be self-contained. This means bringing enough water for drinking, cooking, washing – and knowing how to refill or ration if your trip extends. It means having a way to generate power (battery, solar panels, generator, or very sparing use of vehicle’s battery) and being mindful of consumption (see Energy Options & Management for techniques).
  It also means dealing with waste: you’ll need to pack out all trash (there are no bins in the wild) and either have sufficient tank capacity for sewage or know where to dump it. Many boondockers use their RV’s holding tanks and then swing by a dump station every few days. In very remote scenarios, you might practice Leave No Trace backcountry waste disposal (catholes for human waste if appropriate – see Waste Management). Being self-sufficient also extends to emergencies: no camp host to help, possibly no cell signal – so you need first aid knowledge, perhaps a satellite messenger for emergencies, and a mindset of carefulness (e.g., don’t push your off-roading beyond your skill, since towing out can be tricky).

• Minimal Impact & Leave No Trace:
  Dispersed camping comes with a duty to protect the land so that others can enjoy it too.
  “Leave it better than you found it” is a great motto here.
  Follow the Leave No Trace principles: camp on durable surfaces (existing clearings, hard ground), pack out all trash (yes, even that tiny bottle cap or citrus peel – animals don’t need our litter), and never dump waste water or sewage on the ground. Use existing fire rings rather than making new ones, and fully extinguish fires.
  Basically, keep your campsite pristine. A ranger shouldn’t be able to tell you were ever there, aside from maybe some tire marks that will wash away. Also, be considerate of wildlife: don’t feed animals (lock your food up in your vehicle at night), and don’t camp too close to water sources (200 feet away is recommended) so wildlife can access them. Ethical dispersed camping is key to ensuring these areas remain open to the public. Sadly, some popular boondocking spots have been closed due to abuse (trash, illegal dumping, resource damage) – we definitely don’t want to contribute to that.

Finding Boondocking Sites

How do you actually find these dispersed sites on the map and on the ground?

• Maps & Apps:
  Start with maps that show public lands. Many use free apps or websites like FreeRoam, Campendium, or iOverlander to scout locations. These tools often have user-submitted coordinates and reviews of boondocking spots – a huge head start so you’re not blindly searching.
  For example, Campendium’s map can filter “Free Camping” and show you known dispersed sites with feedback on road conditions and rig size. FreeRoam and OnX Offroad can display land ownership boundaries (so you know if you’re on BLM vs. private). Google Maps satellite view is also a boon: you can often spot flat clearings or pull-outs along forest roads by switching to aerial imagery. Astra’s own online guidebook might also have recommendations for off-grid friendly locations, given their brand focus.

• Local Ranger Stations:
  When in doubt, ask the folks who manage the land. A quick call or visit to a ranger station can yield tips on where dispersed camping is allowed and currently ideal. They might say, “Try Forest Road 123 about 5 miles in; lots of sites and pretty by the creek” or conversely warn you of washed-out roads.
  Rangers will also have the latest on fire restrictions or wildlife advisories. They often appreciate when visitors seek information – it shows you care about doing it right.

• On-the-Ground Exploration:
  Many boondockers enjoy the hunt. Drive down public land roads (keeping aware of conditions so you don’t get stuck) and look for existing sites: signs include a flat bare area, perhaps a stone fire ring, and obviously no “no camping” signs. Typically, sites are found near the end of spur roads or where a road crosses a scenic meadow or ridge.
  Go slow and scout – if towing a big rig, sometimes it’s wise to park it and scout ahead with your smaller vehicle (or walk a bit) to ensure the road and turnaround are suitable. Also, arrive early in the day when possible. Finding a site before dark is important – it’s hard to see pull-offs at night and you may disturb wildlife or other campers. Plus, you want time to set up.

• Etiquette in Finding a Spot:
  If you arrive at a known boondocking area and there are already campers, give them space. Find another pull-off out of sight/sound if you can, unless it’s a very large area meant for multiple use. Privacy is one of the boondocking perks, so respect others’ desire for it. Also, avoid driving over vegetation to make a new spot – stick to paths that are obviously used. The environment will thank you.

• Plan B Locations:
  Always have a backup identified. Boondocking sites aren’t guaranteed – maybe the one you want is occupied or temporarily closed. Before you leave, note a second or third option (perhaps a campground in the area as a last resort or a safe overnight parking like a truck stop) so you’re not stressed if Plan A doesn’t work out.

(For in-depth advice on locating dispersed sites and recommended apps/websites, see Tools for Finding Where to Go in the planning tools section. And later, in Safety, Responsibility & Stewardship, we’ll cover more on ethical boondocking practices.)

Developed Campgrounds

If boondocking is about solitude and self-reliance, developed campgrounds are about community and convenience. These range from rustic public campgrounds in the woods to commercial RV parks with pools and Wi-Fi.

Let’s break down what to expect:

Public Campgrounds (State, National Parks, Municipal)

Public agencies operate thousands of campgrounds. This includes national park campgrounds, which are often scenic and affordable but can be quite basic (maybe just water and restrooms, sometimes no hookups). State park campgrounds are a favorite of many travelers – they typically offer spacious sites, well-maintained facilities (flush toilets, showers in many cases), and a balance of nature and comfort. Prices vary by state but are generally moderate (anywhere from $10 to $35/night). National forests and other federal lands also have developed campgrounds – these can be very inexpensive and less known, but often more primitive (perhaps just a vault toilet and a picnic table). Some cities/counties have municipal campgrounds or fairground camping – these may not be scenic, but are practical for stopovers, often with hookups and dump stations and a modest fee.

Developed public campgrounds usually require reservations or at least advance planning for popular ones. Recreation.gov is the portal for national parks/forests (and some state partners) – highly recommended to book early for big-name parks in peak season (often opening 6 months in advance and filling within minutes). State parks often have their own reservation systems. However, many campgrounds, especially in national forests, remain first-come, first-served – so if you prefer spontaneity, look for those. Arrive in early afternoon on weekdays for best chance. Holiday weekends all bets are off – everything will likely be full, so either boondock or reserve way ahead.

Amenities in public campgrounds vary:

• At a minimum, expect a designated site (usually a flat pad or area for your tent/RV and a parking space) with a fire ring and picnic table.
• Many have water spigots available (maybe not at each site but centrally) and vault or flush toilets.
• Some (especially state parks) offer electric hookups, a dump station, even full hookups (electric/water/sewer) at RV sites – making them comparable to private RV parks but usually in more natural settings.
• Extras: camp stores, visitor centers, amphitheaters with ranger programs, hiking trails right from camp – these are common perks. For instance, national park campgrounds often have evening programs or trailheads leading into attractions.

Staying in public campgrounds is a great way for beginners to ease into camping. You get a taste of nature but still have the safety net of neighbors and park staff nearby, plus creature comforts like toilets. It’s also social – kids often find playmates, and it’s easy to chat with fellow campers (swap stories, get tips). The trade-off is less privacy and more rules (quiet hours, pet regulations, generator hours).

Private Campgrounds & RV Parks

These run from simple mom-and-pop campgrounds to lavish RV resorts. A typical private campground might offer:

• Full hookups (electric 30/50 amp, water, sewer) at most sites – meaning you can live just like at home with unlimited power and water (but don’t actually waste water; there’s often a separate charge or limited supply).
• Pull-through sites for big rigs, making parking easy.
• Amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, showers, laundry, perhaps a playground or pool depending on the place. The upscale ones might have clubhouses, organized activities, even hot tubs or golf courses.
• They tend to be located near tourist destinations or highways (for convenience to travelers). For example, near a national park entrance you’ll often find several private RV parks with full amenities as an alternative to the no-hookup park campgrounds.
• Cost varies widely: you might pay $25–$40 at a simple private campground, or $60–$100+ at a resort or in high-demand areas. Some ultra high-end resorts (with fancy facilities and even valet parking for RVs) charge more, catering to luxury RVers. But price doesn’t always equal quality – read reviews.
• Many private parks accept discount memberships (Good Sam 10% off, Passport America 50% off for one or two nights, etc., which we’ll touch on next).

Private campgrounds are businesses, so expect a few more policies geared toward efficiency – e.g., check-out times, extra fees (for additional people, pets, or using dump station if not staying). The atmosphere ranges from friendly community (family-owned campgrounds often have personable hosts) to more commercial (some RV parks feel like parking lots with hookups). Always check if the vibe matches your preference (reviews or website photos help – do sites have trees and space or are they tightly packed on gravel?).

One major benefit is ease: if you need to refuel yourself and your rig, a private campground can be a nice pit stop – you can take a long hot shower, run your A/C or heater all night without worrying about battery, do laundry, fill propane (some have on-site service), and order a pizza delivery if you’re sick of camp cooking. They’re also reliable in off-season when public sites might be closed. On the flip side, they may not give that “in nature” feel; often you’ll be closer to town or a road.

Amenity Levels: Rustic to Resort

It’s helpful to know the lingo:

• “Primitive” or “Rustic” campground: usually means no hookups, possibly vault toilets only, maybe no potable water. Essentially just a notch above dispersed camping – designated spots and a toilet. Example: many national forest campgrounds are like this.

• “Standard” or “Developed” campground: likely has at least water and toilets, possibly some electric sites. Many state park campgrounds fit here – a nice mix of nature and comfort.

• “RV Park” or “Resort”: implies full hookups and lots of amenities (pool, store, etc.). The word “Resort” is often used when they have more luxury touches (spa, concrete pads, patio furniture provided, etc., and usually correspondingly high rates). Even if not a true resort, private parks often call themselves that for marketing. Look at what they offer to judge.

• Campground Clubs and Discounts: There are networks and membership programs to be aware of (crossover with hosted stays too):

  • Good Sam Club: A discount card (10% off) accepted at many private RV parks, plus a campground directory. Worth it if you frequent private parks.
  • KOA (Kampgrounds of America): A chain of franchised campgrounds across North America known for family-friendly facilities. They have KOA Rewards for 10% off. KOAs are reliably decent with cabins, tent and RV sites, but can be pricier due to brand.
  • Passport America: A membership that gives 50% off nightly rates at participating campgrounds. It’s great for one or two nights stays when transiting. There are restrictions (often not valid on weekends or peak season at certain parks), but a few uses and it pays for itself.
  • Others: Thousand Trails (we’ll mention in Hosted section), Escapees (their parks and discounts), and more.

In summary, developed campgrounds offer a structured camping experience. They’re wonderful for meeting other travelers, enjoying some facilities, and situational convenience (especially when visiting national parks or needing a respite to dump tanks and recharge). Many people alternate – perhaps boondock for a few days, then hit a campground to refresh. There’s no one “best” way – it depends on your mood and needs at the time. This guide will help you navigate both on-grid and off-grid options so you can create the ideal mix for your journey.

Hosted & Alternative Stays

Beyond public lands and traditional campgrounds, a whole world of alternative overnight options has blossomed in recent years. These hosted experiences can add variety (and often comfort or local flavor) to your travels.

Let’s look at a few popular ones:

• Harvest Hosts:
  This is a membership program connecting RVers with businesses that welcome overnight RV parking, such as wineries, farms, breweries, museums, and golf courses. With an annual membership fee, you get access to thousands of host locations across North America. The expectation is that you’ll patronize the business (e.g., buy a bottle of wine or some produce) in exchange for the free overnight stay. It’s a win-win: you get a unique safe spot for the night (often very scenic or interesting, like among vineyard rows or beside a barn with farm animals), and the host makes a bit of income from your visit.
  Harvest Hosts stays are typically one night only, dry camping (no hookups), and self-contained RVs only (no tents). They often require arrival during business hours and sometimes advance notice. For example, you might use Harvest Hosts to stay at a charming vineyard – you spend the afternoon tasting wines, enjoy a quiet night on the winery grounds, and depart in the morning with a couple of bottles for the road. Or perhaps a farm where you can pick up fresh eggs and produce. Some hosts are truly unique (museums, alpaca ranches, even an astronomy observatory). These stays don’t feel like camping in the rough – they’re more like a cultural experience with the comfort of your RV. Just remember it’s not meant for multi-night camping or as a base to leave and sightsee (it’s about engaging with the host). Many travelers use Harvest Hosts as a fun way to break up long travel days or when campgrounds are full – and rave about the hospitality and memories made.

• Boondockers Welcome (now part of Harvest Hosts):
  This is another membership where private individuals offer RV parking at their property for free. Think of it as the RV community’s version of couchsurfing. Members (often fellow RVers) list their driveway or land where travelers can stay a night or two. The platform allows you to find hosts along your route – perhaps someone with a few acres who doesn’t mind an RV parked out back, or a suburban driveway stop. You typically request in advance and communicate with the host. There’s usually no expectation of purchase (unlike Harvest Hosts), though many travelers bring a small thank-you gift or swap travel stories with the host.
  It’s a fantastic way to meet locals and have a safe overnight in areas where campgrounds are sparse or expensive. Some hosts even provide hookups or offer tools if you need repairs. Boondockers Welcome stays tend to be short (1–3 nights) and of course you must be respectful – leave when agreed, don’t run generators late, etc. Now that Boondockers is under Harvest Hosts, an “All Access” membership covers both programs. For example, you could boondock at a host’s farmstead where they have a level spot by a pond, and the friendly hosts might invite you for coffee and share travel tips. It’s more personal and community-driven than anonymous campground stops.

• Hipcamp & Private Land Rentals:
  Hipcamp is essentially Airbnb for camping. People with land can list campsites (anything from a simple plot for a tent/RV to cabins or glamping setups). As a traveler, you go on Hipcamp.com or app, search an area, filter for RV sites, and you might find, say, “Mountain View Pasture – RVs up to 30ft” on someone’s ranch for $25/night, or a creekside spot on private property. This opens up places to camp that aren’t publicized otherwise.
  The upside: often beautiful, quiet locations and a chance to support a local. The listings usually describe what’s provided – some have basic hookups or at least water, others are literally just space. Read reviews and descriptions thoroughly (since quality control is variable – one Hipcamp can be amazing, another might be a muddy field behind someone’s house). You book and pay through the platform. Unique experiences like staying on a farm with a farm tour or a private orchard where you can pick fruit could pop up. Also, platforms like Airbnb sometimes list RV spots or even stationary RVs to rent; and similar smaller sites (Tentrr for glamping tents, etc.) exist.

• Unique Experiences (vineyards, farms, etc. outside of memberships):
  Beyond formal networks, keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind stays:

  • Wineries/Breweries: Some not in Harvest Hosts might still allow overnight parking if you ask nicely and are self-contained – especially those in rural areas. Always inquire with management; don’t just assume. A few regions (like parts of Europe with “France Passion” network, akin to Harvest Hosts) have long traditions of this hospitality.
  • Agritourism Farms: Farms that do tours or U-pick sometimes have camp spots or small campgrounds associated. For instance, some apple orchards or lavender farms welcome campers for a fee outside of any network.
  • Community or Cultural Sites: Now and then, museums or community parks allow overnight stays (with permission). For example, some small-town museums with big parking lots might say yes to an overnight if you visit the museum – essentially a DIY Harvest Host arrangement.
  • Events and Gatherings: Fairgrounds, sports complexes, churches, and other large facilities occasionally offer overnight RV parking (sometimes with hookups) during special events or off-season. For instance, if you’re visiting a town during a festival, check if the fairground is doing an RV roundup. Similarly, many Casinos (especially in the West) allow free RV parking and even have dedicated RV areas or cheap hookups – they aren’t exactly scenic, but can be very secure and amenity-rich (with restaurants, restrooms inside, etc.).

While these hosted and private options are fantastic, remember a few general tips:

• Always get permission and follow host instructions to the letter. You’re a guest on private land.
• Arrive when you say you will, park where directed, and only stay the agreed length. Leave the area clean (maybe even send a thank-you note through the platform or small gift).
• Be aware that these are not as guaranteed as a reserved campground – very rarely a host might cancel or something comes up. Have a backup plan for the night just in case.
• Safety: It’s usually very safe (hosts are vetted by reputation and you choose them), but still, you’re on someone’s property – use normal caution as you would visiting a new friend.
• Availability: Some networks like Harvest Hosts limit how frequently you can stay at the same host (usually one night, occasionally more if host allows), so these are more for en route stops rather than basecamps.

Incorporating a mix of these alternative stays can greatly enrich your trip. Many full-timers string together boondocking, campgrounds, and hosts to keep things interesting and budget-friendly. One week you might be deep in a forest with nobody around, and later you’re parked at a tranquil winery chatting with the owner about their vintages. Astra encourages exploring these options because they reflect a spirit of adventure and community that is at the heart of modern traveling. By all accounts, people who use these services often form memorable connections – you might make friends or get insider local tips (your Harvest Host vintner might point you to a hidden waterfall nearby, for example).

As you plan, consider sprinkling in some hosted experiences for spice. They’re not meant to be a permanent living solution (e.g., Harvest Hosts expressly forbids running a generator all night or setting up camp long-term), but rather a special stopover or short stay. Used appropriately, they can save money (many are free after membership) and create wonderful memories. And they reinforce the positive image of travelers as courteous guests – which is important for keeping these opportunities open for everyone.

Now that we’ve explored where you can stay – from the wilds to the winemakers – the next step is learning how to pick the right spot for your needs and how to prepare for conditions. In the next major section, we’ll go over the decision-making process for choosing destinations and campsites that suit your rig and the environment. Onward!