What Is Dry Camping?

Are you interested in trying out dry camping? If you are, it’s essentially a term used to describe traveling off the grid. It has become increasingly popular over the last decade. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are currently around 3 million dry campers across America.

There are several reasons why people choose to dry camp. Some enjoy the freedom of being able to travel where they want without having to worry about paying for gas or electricity. Others simply prefer to live off the grid because they want to experience traditional living.

Of course, if you do decide to go dry camping, there are a variety of factors that you will need to take into account in order to decide whether, or not, it is the best camping experience for you.

In this article, we are going to be talking you through what dry camping is, how much you can expect to spend, and some important points to keep in mind if you go ahead with it.

Read on!

What Is Dry Camping?

Dry camping, which is otherwise referred to as boondocking, is a type of camping that involves the use of no power hook-ups, including water and electricity – hence its name!

Dry camping is not just limited to vehicles though. Just like its name suggests, dry camping can also be done via foot, using tents and other gear.

How Much Does It Cost To Dry Camp?

The price of boondocking varies depending on how far away from civilization you plan to stay. Prices start at $5 per night and can reach upwards of $30 per night. However, prices vary widely depending on location, season, and availability.

In some instances, there are experienced dry campers (or “boon dockers”) that like to travel to outdoor locations that have no facilities and are free of charge. However, we don’t recommend doing this if you don’t have much experience in the great outdoors.

Where Can I Find Cheap Dry Camping Locations?

If you’re looking for cheap boondocking locations, one place to look would be state parks. State parks often offer campsites with minimal amenities, but they usually come with access to running water and restrooms.

Another option would be national forests. National forests typically provide more amenities than state parks, but they tend to cost more money.

There are also many different designated dry camping locations across the country.

If you’d like to find some in your area (or even further afield) then we recommend looking up dry camping locations on Google, so that you can view all the dry camping locations and find a deal that offers the best value for your money.

Interested In Dry Camping? Here Are Some Things You Should Keep In Mind

You Need To Make Sure That The Area You Camp Has Access To Water

If you’re interested in dry camping, then the first thing that you need to make sure you do is to stay in a camping location that has access to water.

You should bring bottles of water along with you to last the entirety of your trip, while also making sure that you are conserving water as much as you can in the event of an emergency.

We also recommend that you stay in a location that has lakes or bodies of water nearby so that you have the option of using these natural water resources via a purification tool.

You Need To Be Sure That Your Vehicle Can Handle The Load

When you plan on boondocking you need to make sure that your truck can handle the extra weight that comes along with it.

The amount of weight that you add depends on how much equipment you take with you. However, even if you just pack a small tent and sleeping bag you will still add quite a bit of weight to your vehicle.

You Will Need Extra Fuel And Water

When you dry camp you will not have access to many amenities. Therefore, you will need to carry extra fuel and water with you. If you plan on staying at campgrounds during your trip then you will likely be charged for these items.

However, if you plan on boondocking in national parks or wilderness areas then you won’t have to pay for these items. Still, just like we’ve mentioned above, it’s a good idea to bring along your supplies so that you won’t go without.

You Will Have To Plan Ahead

Before you leave home you need to figure out exactly where you will be boondocking. This way you will know ahead of time when you can find food and supplies. Dry camping requires a lot of patience and self-reliance.

Before you hit the road you need to prepare yourself mentally and physically.

First, you must be prepared to spend long periods of time without cell phone service. Second, you need to be ready to deal with extreme weather conditions.

Third, you need to be able to fix any problems that may arise. Fourth, you need to be comfortable living off the land and using natural resources to get food and water.

You Should Always Carry A Map

Boondocking requires a great deal of planning and preparation. When you head out on your adventure you should always carry a map. This way you will never lose track of where you are going. Also, you will know where to go if you run into trouble.

You Must Keep An Eye Out For Wildlife

Wildlife is abundant in nature. While boondocking you need to keep an eye out for wildlife because they could pose a threat to you. Wild animals such as bears, mountain lions, wolves, coyotes, and eagles are dangerous.

You Should Always Carry Essentials

You should always carry essentials including water when you boondock.

Boondocking is a style of camping that involves no water hook-ups or electricity, so you’ll need to make sure that you won’t run out of any important survival supplies while you’re out in the great outdoors.

Wrapping Up

Dry camping is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the great outdoors. It allows you to experience all the wonders of nature without using any gas or electricity.

However, before you decide to try this type of camping, you should be sure to make sure that you’re well prepared and stocked up on all the supplies you’ll need to stay safe.

Thanks for reading!