Where Can You Live in a Camper for Free? (The Ultimate Guide)

Are you looking for a place to live that won’t cost you a dime? If so, you may want to consider living in a camper. Campers can be parked in a variety of places, including campgrounds, RV parks, and even on public land. And while some of these places do charge a fee, there are also many places where you can live in a camper for free.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best places to live in a camper for free. We’ll cover everything from campgrounds and RV parks to public land and even some wilder options. So whether you’re looking for a short-term stay or a long-term home, we’ll help you find the perfect place to park your camper and live for free.

Keep reading to learn more!

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Location	Amenities	Cost
National Forests	Campsites, hiking trails, restrooms	$0-$20 per night
BLM Land	Campsites, hiking trails, restrooms	$0-$20 per night
National Parks	Campsites, hiking trails, restrooms	$20-$50 per night
State Parks	Campsites, hiking trails, restrooms	$20-$50 per night
KOA Campgrounds	Campsites, water, electricity, restrooms	$50-$100 per night
Private Campgrounds	Campsites, water, electricity, restrooms	$100+ per night

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Where Can You Live in a Camper for Free?

There are many places where you can live in a camper for free, both on public and private land. Here is a list of some of the best options:

Public Land Campgrounds

National Forest Service campgrounds

The National Forest Service (NFS) offers a variety of free campgrounds throughout the United States. These campgrounds are typically located in remote areas, and they offer basic amenities such as a picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilet. Some campgrounds may also have water available, but it is not always guaranteed.

To find a free NFS campground, you can use the agency’s online campground locator.

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) also offers a number of free campgrounds throughout the United States. These campgrounds are typically located in more remote areas than NFS campgrounds, and they may offer fewer amenities. However, they are often free of charge and can be a great option for those who are looking for a secluded camping experience.

To find a free BLM campground, you can use the agency’s online campground locator.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) also operates a number of free campgrounds throughout the United States. These campgrounds are typically located near lakes and rivers, and they offer a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and boat ramps.

To find a free USACE campground, you can use the agency’s online campground locator.

State park campgrounds

Many state parks offer free camping. To find a free state park campground, you can use the National Association of State Park Directors’ online campground locator.

County park campgrounds

Some county parks offer free camping. To find a free county park campground, you can contact your county’s parks and recreation department.

City park campgrounds

Some city parks offer free camping. To find a free city park campground, you can contact your city’s parks and recreation department.

Private Land Campgrounds

In addition to public land campgrounds, there are also a number of private campgrounds that allow free camping. These campgrounds are typically located in more remote areas, and they may offer fewer amenities than public campgrounds. However, they can be a great option for those who are looking for a free camping experience.

Here are some of the best options for free private campgrounds:

Campgrounds that allow free camping

There are a number of campgrounds that allow free camping. These campgrounds are typically located in remote areas, and they may offer fewer amenities than other campgrounds. However, they can be a great option for those who are looking for a free camping experience.

Some of the best options for free campgrounds that allow free camping include:

• FreeCampsites.net
• Campendium
• iOverlander
• The Dyrt

Campgrounds that allow dispersed camping

Dispersed camping is a type of camping that is allowed on public land that is not designated as a campground. This means that you can camp anywhere on public land that is not posted as closed to camping.

Dispersed camping is a great option for those who are looking for a free camping experience. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in your area.

Some of the best options for dispersed camping include:

• National Forests
• Bureau of Land Management lands
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lands
• State parks
• County parks
• City parks

Campgrounds that allow boondocking

Boondocking is a type of camping that is done in a self-contained vehicle, such as a van or RV. Boondockers typically stay in remote areas, and they may not have access to any amenities.

Boondocking is a great option for those who are looking for a free camping experience. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations for boondocking in your area.

Some of the best options for boondocking include:

• National Forests
• Bureau of Land Management lands
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lands
• State parks
• County parks
• City parks

There are many great places to live in a camper for free, both on public and private land. By doing some research, you can find a campground that meets your needs and budget.

Here are some tips for finding a free campground:

• Use an online campground locator.
• Check with your local

3. Other Places to Live in a Camper for Free

In addition to the places listed in the previous section, there are a number of other places where you can live in a camper for free. These include:

• National forests. National forests offer a variety of free camping opportunities, including dispersed camping, campgrounds, and RV parks. Dispersed camping is allowed on most National Forest land, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source. Campgrounds and RV parks in National Forests typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages over 245 million acres of public land, much of which is open to dispersed camping. Dispersed camping on BLM land is free, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) land. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) manages over 400,000 acres of land, including reservoirs, lakes, and rivers. Some USACE lands are open to dispersed camping, while others offer campgrounds and RV parks. Campgrounds and RV parks in USACE lands typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• State parks. State parks offer a variety of camping opportunities, including dispersed camping, campgrounds, and RV parks. Dispersed camping is allowed in some state parks, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source. Campgrounds and RV parks in state parks typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• County parks. County parks offer a variety of camping opportunities, including dispersed camping, campgrounds, and RV parks. Dispersed camping is allowed in some county parks, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source. Campgrounds and RV parks in county parks typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• City parks. City parks offer a variety of camping opportunities, including dispersed camping, campgrounds, and RV parks. Dispersed camping is allowed in some city parks, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source. Campgrounds and RV parks in city parks typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.

BLM land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages over 245 million acres of public land, much of which is open to dispersed camping. Dispersed camping on BLM land is free, but there may be restrictions on where you can camp. For example, you may not be allowed to camp within 100 feet of a road or trail, or within a certain distance of a water source.

To find BLM land where you can dispersed camp, visit the BLM’s website and search for “dispersed camping.” You can also use the BLM’s interactive map to find BLM land near you.

When dispersed camping on BLM land, be sure to follow the following guidelines:

• Stay on designated roads and trails.
• Camp in areas that are away from roads and trails.
• Camp at least 100 feet from a water source.
• Pack out all of your trash.
• Be respectful of the environment and other campers.

National wildlife refuges

National wildlife refuges are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to protect wildlife and their habitats. Some national wildlife refuges offer dispersed camping, while others offer campgrounds and RV parks. Campgrounds and RV parks in national wildlife refuges typically charge a fee, but they offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.

To find national wildlife refuges where you can dispersed camp, visit the USFWS’s website and search for “dispersed camping.” You can also use the USFWS’s interactive map to find national wildlife refuges near you.

When dispersed camping on national wildlife

Where Can I Live in a Camper for Free?

• Campgrounds. Many campgrounds offer free or low-cost camping for RVs and campers. Some of these campgrounds are located in state parks, national forests, and other public lands. Others are privately owned.
• Public Land. You can often find free or low-cost camping on public land, such as Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, National Forest Service (NFS) land, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) land.
• National and State Parks. Some national and state parks offer free or low-cost camping for RVs and campers. However, these campsites are often in high demand, so it is important to book your reservation well in advance.
• Private Property. You may be able to find free or low-cost camping on private property. However, it is important to get permission from the property owner before you set up camp.

What Do I Need to Consider Before Living in a Camper?

• Cost. Living in a camper can be a relatively inexpensive way to travel and see the country. However, you will need to factor in the cost of gas, food, and other expenses.
• Size. The size of your camper will depend on your needs and budget. If you are planning to travel with a family, you will need a larger camper than if you are traveling solo.
• Location. Where you choose to live in your camper will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Some popular places to live in a camper include national and state parks, campgrounds, and public land.
• Regulations. Be sure to check the local regulations before you set up camp. Some areas have restrictions on where you can park your camper and how long you can stay.

How Do I Prepare My Camper for Long-Term Living?

• Insulate your camper. This will help to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• Add solar panels. This will allow you to generate electricity for your camper.
• Install a water tank. This will give you access to running water when you are not connected to a campground.
• Install a composting toilet. This will allow you to dispose of waste without having to connect to a sewer system.
• Stock up on supplies. Be sure to have plenty of food, water, and other supplies on hand in case of an emergency.

What are the Pros and Cons of Living in a Camper?

• Pros:
• Freedom to travel and see the country.
• Lower cost of living than traditional housing.
• More privacy than staying in a hotel or hostel.
• Opportunity to connect with nature.
• Cons:
• Small living space.
• Limited amenities.
• Potential for noise and disruption from other campers.
• Need to be prepared for emergencies.

Is Living in a Camper Right for Me?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The best way to decide if living in a camper is right for you is to weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that is best for your individual needs and lifestyle.

there are many different places where you can live in a camper for free. However, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are legally allowed to camp in the area you choose. Additionally, be prepared for potential challenges, such as dealing with the elements, finding a safe place to park your camper, and getting along with other campers. If you are willing to put in the effort, living in a camper can be a great way to save money and experience the beauty of the outdoors.