What Is Dry Camping

If you’ve heard the term but aren’t quite sure, you might be asking: what is dry camping? In the simplest terms, dry camping is any type of camping where you do not have access to external hookups for water, sewer, or electrical power. It means relying entirely on the resources you bring with you or what you can find naturally. It’s the purest form of self-sufficient camping, and it opens up a world of incredible, remote locations.

This style is also widely known as boondocking, especially in the RV community, or dispersed camping on public lands. Whether you’re in a tent, a camper van, or a large RV, the core principle is the same: you’re on your own. It’s about finding that perfect, quiet spot away from crowded campgrounds and enjoying nature on its own terms. Let’s look at what makes it so special and how you can get started.

As we touched on, dry camping defined is camping without hookups. But it’s more than just a definition; it’s a mindset. It’s about preparation, conservation, and appreciation. You learn to use less water, to manage your power needs carefully, and to leave no trace. The reward is solitude, stunning scenery, and a deep sense of accomplishment. You aren’t just visiting nature; you’re learning to live with it temporarily, on its schedule.

Dry Camping vs. Boondocking: Is There a Difference?

You’ll often here these terms used interchangeably, and for good reason. The line is very blurry. Generally, “dry camping” is the broader umbrella term. It can refer to parking your RV overnight in a Walmart parking lot (with permission), camping in a trailhead lot, or staying in a national park campground that simply lacks utilities.

“Boondocking” typically refers to dry camping for free, on public lands like those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service, often in more remote, undeveloped areas. So, all boondocking is dry camping, but not all dry camping is boondocking. The skills and preparation required, however, are virtually identical.

Why Would Anyone Choose to Dry Camp?

The benefits are massive, especially if you value freedom and adventure over convenience.

Cost: It’s almost always free or very low-cost compared to developed campgrounds.
Solitude: Escape the crowded, noisy campgrounds with neighbors right on top of you.
Freedom & Flexibility: You’re not bound by reservations or check-in times. Find a spot you love? Stay there (within legal limits).
Access to Unique Locations: Some of the most breathtaking views are found miles down a dirt road, far from any RV hookup.
Skill Building: It teaches you invaluable self-reliance and resource management skills.

The Essential Systems for Successful Dry Camping

To camp comfortably without hookups, you need to manage four critical systems: water, power, waste, and your own comfort. Let’s break each one down.

1. Water Management: Your Most Precious Resource

Without a water hookup, every drop counts. You need to bring in all the water you’ll use for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The key here is conservation and planning.

Calculate Your Needs: A good rule of thumb is 1-2 gallons per person, per day for drinking, cooking, and minimal washing. If you want a shower, add more.
Use Conservative Methods: Use spray bottles for washing dishes. Take “Navy showers” (wet down, turn water off, soap up, rinse quickly). Use hand sanitizer.
Bring Containers: Have dedicated, clean jugs for fresh water. Never use something that held chemicals for drinking water.
Find Water Sources (Safely): Know how to locate and filter natural water sources if you plan to extend your stay, but always have a backup supply.

2. Power Management: Keeping the Lights On

No electrical hookup means your battery is your lifeline. For RVers, this runs lights, the water pump, fans, and possibly a refrigerator. For tent campers, it’s about phones, lights, and maybe a small cooler.

Know Your Battery Capacity: Understand your battery’s amp-hour rating and what your appliances draw. Avoid deep-cycle batteries if you can.
Invest in Solar: A portable solar panel is the single best upgrade for a dry camper. It quietly recharges your batteries during the day.
Conserve Relentlessly: Use LED lights. Limit fan use. Be mindful of the water pump. Consider a 12-volt fan over one that plugs into an inverter.
Have a Backup: A small, quiet inverter generator can be a safety net for recharging, but be considerate of noise in pristine places.

3. Waste Management: Dealing with Black and Gray Water

This is the least glamorous but most crucial part. In an RV, you have two waste tanks: gray water (from sinks/shower) and black water (from the toilet).

Monitor Your Tanks Closely: Never let your black tank get completely full. It’s much harder to deal with.
Extend Tank Capacity: Use biodegradable soap to help break down gray water. For black tanks, use plenty of water and proper treatments.
Plan Your Dump Station Route: Always know where the nearest dump station is before you go out. Apps like Campendium are great for this.
For Tent Campers: Follow Leave No Trace principles for human waste: dig a cathole 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources.

4. Food & Comfort: Eating Well and Staying Cozy

You don’t need to eat cold beans out of a can! With a little planning, you can eat great.

Meal Prep: Pre-cook and freeze meals at home. They’ll help keep your cooler cold and just need reheating.
Cooler Strategy: Use block ice, it lasts longer than cubes. Keep the cooler in the shade and open it as infrequently as possible.
Alternative Cooking: A propane camp stove is essential. A Dutch oven opens up a world of cooking possibilities over a campfire (where allowed).
Climate Control: Without electric hookups, you likely won’t have A/C or electric heat. Plan for the weather. Use fans, vent covers, and warm bedding.

How to Find Amazing Dry Camping Spots

Half the adventure is in the finding the perfect spot. Here are the best places to look.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Millions of acres in the western U.S. are open to dispersed camping, often for up to 14 days.
U.S. National Forests: Most national forests allow dispersed camping unless marked otherwise. Look for established pull-offs or clearings.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) & State Lands: Rules vary by state, but many allow primitive camping.
Apps and Websites: Use Campendium, iOverlander, FreeRoam, or the Dyrt to find vetted spots with recent reviews.
Always Verify Rules: Check the official website for the land management agency for current rules, fire restrictions, and stay limits.

A Step-by-Step Checklist for Your First Dry Camping Trip

Feeling overwhelmed? Follow this list to ensure your first outing is a success.

Start Small: Don’t go 100 miles into the desert for a week. Try a one or two-night trip relatively close to home or near facilities.
Scout in Daylight: Always arrive at your potential campsite with plenty of daylight left to set up and find an alternative if needed.
Inspect the Site: Look for level ground, check for overhead hazards (dead branches), and ensure you have a safe place for a fire if planned.
Set Up Camp Efficiently: Park or pitch your tent with the sun exposure in mind. Deploy your solar panel if you have one.
Conserve From the Start: Adopt your water-saving habits immediately. Turn off lights when not needed.
Monitor Resources: Check battery levels and tank levels at the same time each day to track your usage.
Leave It Better Than You Found It: This is non-negotiable. Pack out all trash, scatter any fire ring you built, and erase your presence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We all make mistakes, but learning from others can save you a lot of hassle.

Running Out of Water/Power Too Fast: This is usually from overestimating your capacity. Be conservative in your estimates.
Not Being Self-Contained: Venturing out without a way to manage your own waste or without enough supplies is irresponsible.
Ignoring Leave No Trace: Damaging vegetation, leaving trash, or not properly disposing of waste gives dry campers a bad name.
Getting Stuck: Know your vehicle’s limits. A beautiful meadow can turn into a mud pit after rain. If a road looks questionable, it probably is.
Forgetting the Small Stuff: Extra fuses, a basic tool kit, tire repair kit, and a first-aid kit are even more critical when you’re remote.

Gear Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

You don’t need to spend a fortune, but a few key investments will dramatically improve your experience.

Portable Solar Generator Kit: All-in-one units like Jackery or EcoFlow provide clean, quiet power for devices and small appliances.
High-Efficiency Cooler: A quality rotomolded cooler like a Yeti or RTIC will keep ice for days, not hours.
LED Lighting: Swap out old bulbs for LEDS. They use a fraction of the power.
Water Bladder: A collapsible water bladder gives you extra water capacity without taking up space when empty.
Satellite Communicator: For true remote trips, a device like a Garmin inReach provides emergency SOS and texting where there’s no cell service.

Dry Camping with a Tent vs. an RV

The core principles are identical, but the execution differs.

Tent/Car Camping: Your setup is simpler. Your focus is on a good cooler, water jugs, a camp stove, and a portable power bank. Waste management is handled via catholes and packing out all trash. Your mobility is higher, allowing you to reach tighter spots.

RV/Camper Van Camping: You bring your systems with you. The challange is managing the built-in water tanks, house battery, and propane supply. Setup is faster, and you have more protection from the elements, but you are limited by the size and capability of your vehicle.

Both offer a fantastic way to experience this style of camping. The best choice is the one you already have or are most comfortable with.

FAQs About Dry Camping

How long can you typically dry camp?
On most public lands, the stay limit is 14 days within a 28-day period. You must then move at least 25 miles away. Always check specific area rules, as some have shorter limits.

Is dry camping safe?
Generally, yes. Use common sense: choose established-looking spots, be aware of your surroundings, lock your doors, and trust your instincts. Let someone know your plans. Safety preparedness is your responsibility.

Can you dry camp in a regular campground?
Absolutely. Many state and national park campgrounds offer “non-electric” or “primitive” sites. You pay a lower fee and still have access to a shared water spigot and restrooms, but no utilities at your site. This is a perfect way to practice.

What’s the biggest challenge of dry camping?
For most people, it’s psychological: getting used to using less. The fear of running out of water or power is real at first. With experience, you learn your actual consumption and gain confidence. The physical challenge is usually waste disposal planning.

Do I need a special permit?
Usually not for standard dispersed camping on BLM or National Forest land. However, some popular or sensitive areas may require a free permit. Always check with the local ranger district office.

How do I handle refrigeration without hookups?
RV absorption fridges can run on propane efficiently. For others, a high-quality cooler with block ice is the standard. More advanced setups use 12-volt compressor fridges powered by a robust battery and solar panel system.

Dry camping isn’t just a way to save money on campground fees. It’s a gateway to a different kind of outdoor experience. It teaches you to be mindful of your resources, to plan carefully, and to appreciate the quiet corners of the world that many never see. The first time you wake up to a stunning sunrise in a spot you found all by yourself, with no one else around, you’ll understand why so many people are drawn to it. Start with a short trip, learn your systems, and before you know it, you’ll be seeking out those remote coordinates with confidence. The freedom is worth the extra preparation.