We are excited to share some practical tips on how to boondock like a pro. Boondocking is a great way to get off-grid and fuel your adventurous spirit. For those curious about the basics behind the what, why, and where of Boondocking we recommend starting with Boondocking in Your Pleasure-Way Motorhome.
While the idea of taking the path less traveled is incredibly romantic… that path is often uneven, rutted, remote, un-obvious, and lacking cell service. Here are some tips and tricks for successful boondocking.
Being Prepared for All Road and Campsite Conditions
Tire Levelers: It is rare to find a completely level and flat site that makes tire leveling blocks an essential part of your boondocking kit.
Tire Traction Mats: These are great for getting out of sandy or muddy situations. There are a variety of options for tire traction mats that you can buy and in a pinch I have seen the floor mats from a car get the job done.
All-Terrain Tires: Getting all-terrain tires for our Tofino has been a game-changer for winter driving and tackling forest service roads. We have been very happy with the Hankook Dynapro AT2 RF11 tires we have on our Tofino.
Know Your Power: Finding a site with decent sun for your solar panels will help ensure you can stay out longer. Cleaning/wiping off your solar panels is important too, especially when driving on dusty dirt roads.
How To Find The Right Location When Deciding Where To Boondock?
There are some great resources to find boondocking sites that we want to share.
Campendium & Free Roam: These are helpful for the ability to filter sites on a variety of helpful criteria such as cell coverage, land manager, weather, nearby amenities, etc.
Harvest Host: RV sites at farms, breweries, wineries, and more. Must have a bathroom in your RV.
Rest Areas: While not glamorous, rest areas can be a practical option in a pinch.
Protecting the Places We Love
When boondocking on public land the responsibility of stewarding the land we are on falls to us. Here are some ways that you can reduce your impact on the lands that we love.
Where to do your business?
If your RV has a bathroom that is the clear and obvious choice. For those of us in Tofino’s, we have a couple of options. Doing your business in nature is an option if allowed by the land manager, this entails digging a 6-8” deep hole to do your business. You should not leave TP in the hole you should pack it out. Some areas require you to use a wag bag to remove all of your waste. For those not interested in squatting a portable toilet is a great option. Want to get fancy… try a backcountry bidet.
Campfires:
Out west drought and dry conditions have resulted in campfires being illegal due to wildfire risks. In areas where campfires are allowed use established campfire rings or bring your own fire pit to minimize your impact, we love our Solo Stove Ranger & Stand. Always be sure to properly put out your fire.
Leave No Trace:
Learn about and follow the Leave No Trace 7 Principles.
Saveria Tilden is the founder and CEO of AdventurUs Women a women-owned & led company dedicated to providing opportunities for women of all ages, races, sizes, backgrounds, and experience levels to learn new skills and try outdoor activities in beautiful locations. She is a Leave No Trace Master Educator, Wilderness First Responder, outdoor educator, and guide. Saveria is also a co-host of the Almost There Adventure Podcast. She loves being on the road in search of adventure in her Tofino!
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