Best Boondocking Destinations in the West

Boondocking is an exciting and unique way to explore the western region of the United States. It’s a form of dry camping, also known as camping without access to amenities such as electricity, water, and sewage hookups. Boondocking sites are often located away from regular campgrounds and in remote areas, such as public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the United States Forest Service (USFS). RV boondocking is especially popular in the western states due to the abundance of public land, widespread across California, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Montana, Idaho, and Colorado.

Camping in any of these places is a great way to experience the unique beauty of nature without having to fork over tons of money to enjoy it. Many campers find boondocking more peaceful and enjoyable than traditional camping because it offers a more private and scenic experience.  So if you’re looking to explore the West with some serious savings and breathtaking scenery, boondocking is the way to go. RVT has gathered up a few options to help you get started.

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, Idaho

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, Idaho is an ideal boondocking destination. This wildlife refuge, located in south central Idaho near the city of Nampa, is a sprawling 9,842-acres oasis protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and offers boondockers access to some amazing natural experiences. Here visitors can explore the many hiking trails, take in the stunning views of Lake Lowell and enjoy boating, fishing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The boondocking sites are primitive, but they offer plenty of space for camping, with many sites overlooking the lake. For an unforgettable and scenic family experience, consider Deer Flat in Idaho.

Los Padres National Forest, California

Pyramid Lake, Los Padres National Forest, California

Los Padres National Forest is a 2,064-square mile forest located in central and southern California. This large area of public land is known for its stunning views, abundant wildlife and opportunities for boondocking. Here, there are plenty of sites to choose from, including sites alongside streams and rivers and in the middle of meadows. Additionally, boondockers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting and more. If you’re looking for scenic and private boondocking in California, then look no further!

Moab Slickrock Campground, Utah

Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah

Located in the breathtaking red rock country of southeastern Utah, Moab Slickrock Campground is a perfect destination for an unforgettable boondocking experience. This area offers remote camping on BLM land, with plenty of room to roam around and explore. There’s no shortage of activities here; visitors can go hiking or biking along the trails that wind through the breathtaking red rocks, or take in the views from atop Dead Horse Point State Park. There are also plenty of opportunities for off-roading, and even river rafting on the nearby Colorado River. Boondocking at Moab Slickrock Campground promises an unforgettable experience that won’t be soon forgotten! Other popular boondocking areas include La Sal Loop Road, Castleton Tower Campground, and Yellow Circle Road. Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park are nearby.

Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming

Rock formations in Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming

The Shoshone National Forest in west-central Wyoming is home to some of the most beautiful boondocking sites in the west. This 2.4 million-acre forest offers boondockers access to a wide variety of activities and stunning views, from hiking trails and scenic vistas to rivers and lakes for fishing, swimming, and boating. Boondockers can also find plenty of sites to camp in this area, ranging from primitive sites along the Forest Service roads to more established camping areas with amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous outing, Shoshone National Forest has something for everyone!

Big Horn Mountains, Montana

For any memorable camping experience with your truck camper or other RV, look no further than the Big Horn Mountains of west-central Montana. This mountain range is home to some of the most rugged and beautiful terrain in the west, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, wide open prairies, and pristine forests. Boondockers here can enjoy activities such as backpacking, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. There are plenty of sites to choose from here, with plenty of privacy and breathtaking views for everyone. Boondocking in the Big Horn Mountains promises an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!

Unaweep Canyon Area, Colorado

Unaweep Canyon view, Colorado

Colorado is an amazing state for boondocking, with a wide range of free areas to choose from. One such area is near Grand Junction in the Unaweep Canyon area. This boondocking location provides spectacular views and can accommodate small to large rigs alike. The immediate vicinity offers plenty of lush vegetation, hiking trails, rock climbing areas, and boating opportunities, and there is plenty of wildlife to spot in the area, including deer, elk, hawks and other birds. This area tends to be less populated as well, offering campers a more private opportunity to experience the west and all that it has to offer.

Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Rocky mountains and valley at Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Last but not least, Tonto National Forest in central Arizona is an extremely popular destination for boondocking. This area offers stunning views of rock formations, cactus-filled deserts, and abundant wildlife. Here, campers can explore the many trails that wind throughout the forest, or take a dip in one of the numerous lakes and rivers located throughout this area. There are also plenty of opportunities for hunting and fishing. Boondocking in Tonto National Forest is an experience like no other, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this amazing destination in your campervan or other RV.

No matter where you go, boondocking in the west can offer a unique and unforgettable experience. From Utah to Montana, there are plenty of stunning landscapes and breathtaking views to explore. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous outing, boondocking in the West is sure to provide you with memories that will last a lifetime!

If you’re looking for a new or used RV to join you on your travels, check out all the great listings available across North America on RVT.com

By Sam Moon