Using Public Lands for Camping

Why using public lands matters for international RV travellers

Public lands play a major role in RV and campervan travel in the United States. Unlike most European countries, large areas of the US are government-owned and open to the public for camping, often at very low cost or sometimes free. For first-time international visitors, this creates opportunities but also confusion. Rules vary by land type and managing agency, signage can be limited, and terms like “boondocking” or “dispersed camping” may be unfamiliar.

Understanding how public lands work helps you plan realistic driving distances, manage water and waste, and avoid fines or unsafe situations. It can also affect insurance conditions, where overnight parking is permitted, and how far in advance you need to plan. This guide explains the main systems clearly, in plain English, with practical tips for travellers used to European campervan travel.

Types of public land you can camp on

Not all public land in the US follows the same rules. Regulations can vary by agency, state, and even individual district, so always check local notices or ranger information before staying overnight.

National Parks

National Parks are the most famous protected areas, such as Yosemite or the Grand Canyon. Overnight camping is generally only allowed in official campgrounds.

No roadside or wild camping outside designated areas.
Campgrounds often require advance reservations, especially in peak season.
RV size limits are common and are usually strictly enforced.

National Forests

National Forests may allow both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping, depending on location.

Dispersed camping means informal camping outside marked campgrounds where it is explicitly permitted.
Stays are usually free, but are typically limited to a set number of days, commonly up to 14 days in one area (rules vary by forest and district).
No facilities are provided: no toilets, water, or rubbish bins.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land

BLM land is common in western states and is popular with RV travellers, but regulations are set locally.

Dispersed camping is generally allowed unless posted otherwise.
Access roads may be unpaved, narrow, or seasonally impassable and may be unsuitable for large RVs.
Rules vary locally, including stay limits, designated camping zones, and seasonal fire restrictions.

Key US camping terms explained

Boondocking: Camping without hookups (electricity, water, sewer). Often used informally and can include stays in permitted public lands or some overnight parking areas, but only where regulations allow.
Dispersed camping: The official term used by US land agencies for camping outside developed campgrounds where permitted.
Full hookups: A campsite with electricity, fresh water, and a sewer connection at the pitch.
Dump station: A designated facility for emptying toilet waste (black water) and grey water.
State park: Parks run by individual US states, separate from National Parks. Rules, fees, and reservation systems vary by state.

How this differs from Europe

European travellers are often surprised by how differently public land is managed and used in the US.

Wild camping is restricted in much of Europe but may be legal on certain US public lands where explicitly permitted.
Distances are longer; driving 200–300 miles (320–480 km) in a day is common, especially in the western states.
Fuel is sold in gallons, not litres, and speed limits are posted in miles per hour.
Outside paid campgrounds, facilities can be very basic or completely absent.

Practical rules to follow

Camp well away from water sources; a 100-foot (about 30 metres) setback is common, but required distances vary by agency and location.
Observe posted stay limits, which are commonly around 14 consecutive days but are not universal.
Pack out all rubbish where no bins are provided and never dump waste on the ground.
Use only designated dump stations for toilet and grey water disposal.
Check fire rules and weather warnings frequently during dry or extreme weather seasons.
Store food securely and follow wildlife guidance to avoid attracting animals.

Planning routes around public lands

Public lands are especially common in the western US. Travellers collecting an RV near Los Angeles or Denver often encounter National Forest or BLM land within a few hours’ drive.

Balance public land stays with private or public campgrounds so you can refill water, recharge batteries, and empty waste tanks. Be realistic about travel times on secondary roads and in mountainous areas. For broader trip preparation questions, see our planning FAQs.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming all public land allows overnight camping.
Driving large RVs down unmaintained dirt roads without checking conditions.
Underestimating water, fuel, or battery needs during extended boondocking.
Ignoring local signage, ranger instructions, or weather warnings.

Final planning tip

Public lands offer flexibility and incredible access to nature, but they require preparation and personal responsibility. Always check local rules, understand your RV’s limits, and plan resupply stops.

When you are ready, you can review suitable RV and campervan options and availability for your travel dates on USARVRentals.com.