I. Introduction
Are you looking for a way to save money while exploring the beauty of America? Do you dream of living on the open road in your RV without spending a dime on parking fees? Finding free RV parking sites can be challenging, but not impossible. In this article, we will explore the top 10 free RV parking sites across the US, offer tips on boondocking safely and legally, introduce surprising parking options, provide strategies for finding free parking near national parks, and offer advice on living off the grid in your RV. Let’s dive in!
II. Top 10 Free RV Parking Sites
Some of the best free RV parking sites across the US include dispersed camping areas, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and national forests. Here are ten of the top options:
- BLM land near Quartzsite, Arizona – ample space for parking and stunning desert scenery
- Olympic National Forest, Washington – beautiful rainforests and beaches with ample parking for RVs
- Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area, Indiana – a nature reserve with free RV parking and birdwatching opportunities
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada – free parking, scenic views, and multiple campgrounds available for a fee
- Cracker Barrel, nationwide – restaurants that allow RVers to park overnight for free
- Camp Walmart, nationwide – select Walmart locations offer free RV parking, just make sure to ask permission from management first
- Truck stops, nationwide – many truck stops offer safe overnight parking for RVs with access to amenities like showers and fuel
- Couchsurfing, nationwide – a free online platform where RVers can connect with hosts who offer driveway or backyard parking for free
- Freecampsites.net, nationwide – a website that lists free and low-cost camping options across the US, including national forests and BLM lands
- Harvest Hosts, nationwide – for a small fee, RVers can camp at wineries, farms, and other unique locations overnight
It’s important to note that while these sites are free, some may have restrictions on the length of stay or other regulations. Be sure to research each site before parking your RV overnight.
III. Boondocking 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Finding Free RV Parking
Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is the practice of parking your RV in undeveloped or remote areas for free. Boondocking offers a unique opportunity to stay in some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the US. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find safe and legal free RV parking spots:
- Research – use resources like Freecampsites.net, BLM websites, and national forest service sites to find potential boondocking sites in the area you plan to visit
- Check for restrictions – make sure the site you choose allows overnight parking and check for any restrictions on length of stay, fires, and other regulations
- Arrive during daylight hours – it’s important to arrive at your boondocking site before dark to avoid any obstacles in your way and scout out the best parking spot
- Leave no trace – always pack out everything you bring and leave the site better than you found it to help preserve the environment for future RVers
- Be prepared – while boondocking, you must be fully self-sufficient with water, electricity, and food. Make sure your RV is equipped with solar panels or a generator to provide you with the power you need
Boondocking can provide RVers with an off-the-beaten-path experience, but it’s important to do it safely and responsibly. Be aware of your surroundings and respect the environment.
IV. Surprising Free RV Parking Options
While some of the most well-known free RV parking options are national forests and BLM lands, there are some other lesser-known places where RVers can park for free. These surprising options include:
- Churches – many churches allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. Just be sure to ask permission and respect any rules
- Casinos – some casinos offer free overnight parking for RVs in their parking lots. While it’s not a quiet spot, it’s a safe and convenient option for many RVers
- Truck stops – as mentioned above, many truck stops offer free overnight RV parking with access to amenities like showers and gas stations
- Cities – several cities across the US have designated free RV parking areas for tourists. Examples include Deming, New Mexico and Seward, Alaska
- Sports fields – many RVers have reported parking for free at sports fields and stadiums overnight, just be sure to ask permission first
While these options may not be as picturesque as national forests and BLM lands, they can offer safe and convenient parking for RVers on a budget.
V. Tips for Finding Free RV Parking Near National Parks
One of the biggest challenges of RVing is finding affordable parking near popular national parks. Here are some tips for finding free RV parking near national parks:
- Do your research – use resources like Freecampsites.net and national park websites to find free or low-cost parking options near the park you plan to visit
- Camp on national forest land – many national forests offer free dispersed camping near national parks
- Stay on private land – use resources like Harvest Hosts to find farms and wineries near national parks that offer overnight RV parking for a small fee
- Arrive early – many national park parking lots fill up quickly, so arrive early in the morning to secure a spot
- Consider public transportation – if you’re staying in a nearby town, consider taking public transportation to the national park to avoid parking fees
It’s important to note that many national parks have strict regulations on overnight parking. Always check with the park and local authorities before parking your RV overnight.
VI. Living off the Grid: How to Live in Your RV for Free
Living off the grid in your RV means camping in remote locations without access to traditional amenities like electricity and water. Here are some tips for living off the grid in your RV:
- Conserving resources – to live off the grid, you must carefully monitor and conserve your resources. Use LED lights, limit water usage, and only run the generator when necessary
- Invest in solar panels – if you plan to live off the grid frequently, investing in solar panels can provide you with a steady source of power without relying on a generator
- Staying safe – when living off the grid, it’s important to practice safety precautions. Always let someone know your location, have a plan in case of emergencies, and be aware of your surroundings
- Boondocking – as mentioned above, boondocking is a great way to find free RV parking spots while living off the grid
Living off the grid in your RV can be a rewarding experience, but it takes careful planning and preparation. It’s important to be self-sufficient and well-versed in RV maintenance and safety.
VII. The Best Free RV Parking Apps
If you’re a tech-savvy RVer, there are several apps available that can help you find free RV parking sites across the US. Here are some of the best:
- Campendium – provides reviews and information on both free and paid RV camping sites across the US
- ParkAdvisor – offers a database of RV parks, campgrounds, and other parking options for RVers including free sites
- iOverlander – features user-generated information and reviews on camping sites and dispersed camping options worldwide, including free sites
- AllStays – offers information on campgrounds, RV parks, and other parking options, including free sites at places like Walmart and truck stops
- FreeRoam – a free app that connects RVers with hosts who offer free or low-cost parking on private land
These apps can be a helpful tool for finding the perfect free RV parking spot while on the road.
VIII. Conclusion
While finding free RV parking spots can be challenging, it’s not impossible. From the top 10 free RV parking sites across the US, to surprising parking options, tips for boondocking, finding parking near national parks, living off the grid, and using the best RV parking apps. RVers on a budget have many options available to them. Just remember to always research each site before parking and respect the environment and any regulations in place.
