Dispersed camping means camping outside of designated campgrounds. Unlike regular camping where you pay for a spot with amenities, dispersed camping is free and more primitive. You find your own place in nature, set up camp, and enjoy solitude.
This type of camping is perfect for people who want to:
- Avoid crowds
- Save money
- Experience true wilderness
- Have more privacy
Where Is Dispersed Camping Allowed?
National Forests
Most national forests in the U.S. allow dispersed camping. You can camp almost anywhere unless signs say otherwise. Always check with the local ranger station first. Some popular national forests for dispersed camping include:
- Tongass National Forest (Alaska)
- White Mountain National Forest (New Hampshire)
- Pisgah National Forest (North Carolina)
Rules vary by forest. Some allow 14-day stays, others permit 21 days. Always verify current regulations.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Areas
BLM manages over 245 million acres of public land, mostly in western states. Most BLM land allows dispersed camping. Key states with great BLM camping:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Utah
- Nevada
BLM typically allows 14-day stays within a 28-day period. After 14 days, you must move at least 25 miles away.
National Grasslands
These lesser-known areas offer excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Some top choices:
- Buffalo Gap National Grassland (South Dakota)
- Rita Blanca National Grassland (Texas/Oklahoma)
- Little Missouri National Grassland (North Dakota)
State Forests and Wildlife Areas
Many state forests allow dispersed camping. Rules differ by state. Examples:
- Michigan State Forests (most allow dispersed camping)
- Minnesota State Forests (many permit free camping)
- Wisconsin State Forests (some areas allow it)
Always check state-specific regulations before camping.
Where Is Dispersed Camping Not Allowed?
Some places prohibit dispersed camping:
- National Parks: Almost all require camping in designated sites
- State Parks: Most don’t allow dispersed camping
- Wildlife Refuges: Typically prohibit it
- Private Property: Never camp without permission
- Protected Wilderness Areas: Some have restrictions
How to Find Good Dispersed Camping Spots
Use Maps and Apps
- Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs): Show legal roads for camping in national forests
- Google Earth: Helps scout terrain before you go
- Campendium: User-shared dispersed camping locations
- FreeRoam: Shows public lands and camping rules
Look for These Features:
- Existing Fire Rings: Shows others have camped there
- Flat Ground: Easier to set up tents
- Tree Cover: Provides shade and wind protection
- Water Sources: But always filter water
- Road Access: Don’t block trails or roads
Ask Locals
- Forest ranger stations
- Outdoor gear shops
- Local hiking clubs
Rules for Dispersed Camping
Follow these guidelines to protect nature and stay legal:
- Stay Limit: Usually 14 days maximum
- Distance from Water: Camp at least 100-200 feet from lakes/streams
- Road Rules: Don’t drive off existing roads to make new campsites
- Group Size: Often limited to 10-15 people
- Fire Rules: Follow current restrictions (may ban fires in dry seasons)
- Waste: Pack out all trash (including toilet paper)
Leave No Trace Principles
Dispersed camping requires extra responsibility. Follow these seven principles:
- Plan Ahead: Know regulations and prepare for weather
- Travel on Durable Surfaces: Use existing trails and campsites
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Bury human waste 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water
- Leave What You Find: Don’t take natural objects
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use existing fire rings or a camp stove
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, store food properly
- Be Considerate of Others: Keep noise down, respect privacy
Essential Gear for Dispersed Camping
Since you won’t have amenities, bring:
- Water Filter: Critical for safe drinking water
- Extra Food: No nearby stores
- Navigation Tools: Map, compass, GPS (cell service often unavailable)
- First Aid Kit: Must handle emergencies yourself
- Bear Canister: Required in some areas to store food
- Trowel: For digging cat holes for human waste
- Extra Fuel: For cooking if fires aren’t allowed
Safety Considerations
Dispersed camping has more risks than campgrounds:
- Weather: Check forecasts and prepare for changes
- Wildlife: Know how to store food and handle encounters
- Isolation: No nearby help if you get hurt
- Road Conditions: Some forest roads require high-clearance vehicles
- Communication: Tell someone your plans and expected return
Best Practices for Finding Your Spot
- Arrive Early: Popular areas fill up, especially weekends
- Have Backup Options: Scout multiple potential sites
- Look for Established Sites: Minimizes environmental impact
- Check for Hazards: Dead trees, flood zones, animal signs
- Park Responsibly: Don’t block roads or damage vegetation
Regional Differences in Dispersed Camping
Western U.S.
- More BLM land available
- Often drier climates
- May need to carry more water
- Watch for flash floods in deserts
Eastern U.S.
- More national forest options
- Generally more water sources
- Denser vegetation can limit site options
- More humidity and bugs
Mountain Areas
- Shorter camping seasons due to snow
- Rapid weather changes
- Altitude considerations
- Bear country precautions
Desert Areas
- Extreme temperature swings
- Scarce water sources
- Fragile ecosystem – stay on durable surfaces
- Watch for venomous creatures
Legal Considerations
While dispersed camping is generally free, you must:
- Follow all posted regulations
- Obtain permits if required (some wilderness areas need them)
- Respect private property boundaries
- Adhere to fire restrictions
- Properly display any required vehicle passes
How to Be a Good Dispersed Camper
To keep these areas open for others:
- Leave It Cleaner Than You Found It: Pick up others’ trash too
- Avoid Popular Areas During Peak Times: Reduces overcrowding
- Keep Noise Down: No generators or loud music
- Respect Wildlife: Don’t feed animals
- Minimize Your Impact: Use existing sites when possible
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: All good spots are taken
Solution: Have backup locations, arrive earlier next time
Problem: Road is too rough for your vehicle
Solution: Park and walk in, or choose different access
Problem: No flat ground for tent
Solution: Use a hammock or sleep in your vehicle if possible
Problem: Bugs are terrible
Solution: Choose breezier locations, use bug nets, avoid camping near standing water
Final Tips for Successful Dispersed Camping
- Start Close to Home: Practice before remote trips
- Go With Experienced Friends: Learn from others
- Keep a Journal: Note good sites for future trips
- Respect the Land: Future campers will appreciate it
- Enjoy the Freedom: That’s what dispersed camping is all about
Conclusion
Dispersed camping offers incredible opportunities to connect with nature. By following regulations and practicing Leave No Trace, we can keep these areas beautiful and accessible for years to come. Always check current rules with local land managers before your trip, as policies can change. Happy camping!