Overland Camping Options - Free

Exploring Jeep Life Through Dispersed Camping & Boondocking

If you asked ten Jeepers to define “Jeep Life,” you’d get ten different answers. For some, it’s a daily driver that brings joy to the commute. For others, it’s weekend trail rides, deep mud, desert sand, rocky technical climbs, or the endless cycle of modifications and upgrades.

For me, Jeep Life has evolved over the years from daily driver to weekend warrior to rock crawler and now into a blend of #camperlife and #overlanding. I still love challenging trails, but I’ve also discovered the peace, affordability, and freedom of staying in remote campsites while exploring the backcountry.

One of the best free tools I rely on for finding these spots is the iOverlander app.

What Is Overlanding? 

Overlanding is long-distance, vehicle-dependent travel that combines exploration, off-road capability, and self-sufficient camping. Unlike traditional off-roading, which focuses on technical driving challenges, overlanding emphasizes the journey itself traveling through remote locations, staying off-grid, and using your vehicle as both transportation and shelter.

Whether you camp inside your Jeep, in a rooftop tent, or with a small trailer, overlanding is about discovery, independence, and connecting with the landscapes you travel through.

What is Overlanding?

Why iOverlander Is Essential for Free Camping

When you travel frequently, campgrounds and hotels get expensive fast. That’s why apps like iOverlander, which is free, are so valuable for Jeep owners and overlanders.

What iOverlander offers:

• User-submitted campsites and reviews

• Dispersed camping locations on BLM and National Forest land

• Overnight parking spots (legal and safe)

• Detailed notes on amenities, terrain, and road conditions

• Offline map capability

It’s essentially a community-powered guide to the best places to camp for free places that are beautiful, quiet, and often far from the crowds.

For more tips on Jeep camping:

Read More ➤➤  Camping Tips to Enhance Your Adventure

What Is Dispersed Camping?

Dispersed camping means camping outside of designated campgrounds on public lands. These areas typically:

• Have no bathrooms or trash services

• Don’t include fire pits, tables, or facilities

• Require you to pack out all trash

• Often allow more privacy and scenic views

General dispersed camping rules:

• Stay 100–200 feet from roads, water, and trails

• Do not camp in day-use areas or trailheads

• Follow all posted signs

• Respect fire restrictions and seasonal closures

It’s important to know where you’re camping: 

• National Forests: Dispersed camping is usually allowed

• National Parks: Typically do NOT allow dispersed camping; camping is restricted to official campgrounds

Campsite in Uncompahgre Forest

Where You Can Disperse Camp on BLM Land

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is one of the best resources for free overland camping in the western U.S. States with extensive BLM land include:

Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

These areas often have well-used pullouts, open desert flats, canyon overlooks, and primitive tracks where overlanders can camp respectfully and legally.

Escalante Canyon Campsite

What Is Boondocking?

Boondocking (also known as dry camping or off-grid camping) is camping without hookups or campground amenities, typically in areas that allow overnight parking. Unlike dispersed camping, boondocking often refers to:

• Truck stops

• Walmart or Cracker Barrel parking lots

• Highway rest areas (where permitted)

• Gravel pullouts or designated roadside overnight zones

On our trip to Kingman, Arizona, we pulled into a gas station late at night, popped up our camper, and slept. Simple, safe, and free.

Off-Shoot Camping in the Mojave Desert

In the Mojave, you can often camp on established off-shoot roads—small side roads branching off the main route.

How to identify legal off-shoots:

• They look well-traveled

• You may see pre-existing fire rings

• They appear on MVUM maps or apps like iOverlander

Tip: Never create your own off-shoot. Stick to established routes to protect desert ecosystems.

If you’re new to dispersed camping, traveling the Mojave Road is a great introduction. The route is iconic, scenic, and filled with dispersed camping opportunities.

My Experience as an Overlanding Jeeper

As someone who has wheeled across the country from Sierra Nevada overlooks to sweeping Utah canyons I’ve learned firsthand what makes overlanding unique. It’s not just the remote trails or the rugged terrain; it’s the freedom to camp anywhere, the beauty of waking up in the wilderness, and the confidence that comes from self-reliance.

Sharing my real-world experiences good, bad, unexpected, and educational is part of helping other Jeepers discover a style of adventure that fits their life, budget, and comfort level. 

Kingman Arizona Campsite

FAQ: Overland Camping & Free Campsites 

What is the difference between dispersed camping and boondocking?

Dispersed camping happens on public lands (BLM or National Forest) outside of designated campgrounds. Boondocking typically occurs in permitted parking lots or roadside areas and focuses on overnight convenience rather than wilderness scenery.

Is dispersed camping free?

Yes. Dispersed camping on BLM or National Forest land is usually free, although some areas may require permits or have seasonal restrictions.

Can you disperse camp in National Parks?

No. Most National Parks only allow camping in designated campgrounds, many of which require reservations and fees.

Is iOverlander a good app for finding free camping spots?

Yes. iOverlander crowdsources campsites, dispersed camping spots, water refill stations, and overnight parking suggestions. It’s one of the most widely used apps in the overlanding community.

How do I know if a camping spot is legal?

Check MVUMs (Motor Vehicle Use Maps), ranger district websites, iOverlander notes, posted signs, and state or federal land regulations. When in doubt, ask a ranger.

What gear do I need for dispersed camping?

You’ll need to be self-sufficient: water, food, lighting, shelter, a toilet solution or waste bags, and a trash management plan. Recovery gear, navigation tools, and first aid kits are strongly recommended.

How far off the road should I camp when dispersed camping?

Most guidelines recommend camping 100–200 feet away from roads, water sources, and trails to minimize environmental impact.

Can I have a campfire when dispersed camping?

It depends on fire restrictions. Always check local wildfire danger levels and bring a portable stove as a backup.

Is it safe to boondock at gas stations or parking lots?

Generally yes, if the location is marked as allowing overnight parking. Always confirm with management and stay aware of your surroundings.

Final Thoughts

Overland camping opens the door to a more affordable, flexible, and deeply rewarding Jeep lifestyle. Whether you’re camping on a desert off-shoot, sleeping beside red canyon walls, or catching rest in a parking lot during a long road trip, these experiences define the freedom of Jeep Life.

Wherever your Jeep takes you rocky trails or remote campsites embrace the journey and enjoy the adventure.