The Five Best Boondocking Campsites in the US
Freedom, adventure, nature, and the views! Boondocking offers a chance to experience some of the most spectacular landscapes in the US- but the way many adventurers dream of—surrounded by wide-open spaces, star-filled skies, and the quiet sounds of nature. Boondocking or dispersed camping offers something loud, crowded campgrounds do not- solitude and epic views.
Over the years, we’ve stayed at some unforgettable dispersed camping locations across the country, but a handful stand above the rest. From red rock deserts and dramatic canyon views to mountain sunrises and endless wilderness, these are the boondocking spots that left us saying, "How is this place even real?"
Sedona Arizona
Oh Sedona, it is one of those places that is hard to put into words. The natural beauty, endless views, and the stunning red rock make this place truly magical. There really isn’t anywhere else like it; but with that comes crowds. While the hiking is some of the best in the country, it is also some of the busiest. Luckily, Sedona offers several dispersed camping areas that make you feel as though you have the entire place to yourself.
If you are planning a trip to Sedona, check out this guide for all of the nature-inspired things to do—
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is one of the most visually stunning places in the country and has something for everyone. From endless hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and scenic drives, Utah’s first national park offers so many adventures with vast, wild beauty. In addition to camping within the park, visitors can explore camping options in the surrounding areas, including nearby national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. The sites do fill up fast, but if you can snag one, you won’t be disappointed. Our 360-degree view of breathtaking beauty was about 15 miles outside the park and offered views of the park.
For more on what Zion has to offer, check out this guide—
Valley of the Gods
Quite possibly one of the most epic places in the US. Valley of the Gods in Utah is home to some of the most unique sandstone formations you will ever see. Carved over millions of years, these natural sculptures are definitely a bucket list destination. Camping here is certainly awe-inspiring. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this area is open to dispersed camping. Snagging one of these sites will give you some of the best views you have ever had camping!
Goosenecks State Park
Okay, I guess this is technically not boondocking, but I promise it feels like it. Goosenecks State Park in Utah offers dry camping sites that are very spaced out and offers views that you will not get anywhere else! We literally camped 25’ from the edge of a cliff. It was one of those times when we found ourselves saying, “I can’t believe they let people do this!” The 360-degree views were pretty spectacular; you can even see Monument Valley from here! We could see at least 4 bends in the San Juan River from our campsite, which is considered one of the most impressive examples of an entrenched meander in North America. It is by far one of the best underrated places we have ever camped! It is so massive, it's impossible to fit it all in a picture. A highlight was watching the rafts floating down the curves of the San Juan River 1,100 feet below.
Grand Teton National Park
The Tetons might be the most stunning view in the entire country. The mountain peaks are so jagged and unlike anything else. I still can't believe the view from our campsite in Teton National Forest, which was just outside of Grand Teton National Park. This has to be the most majestic view of any campsite in the country. While this area does not offer spread-out sites, the views make up for the lack of solitude by far. The wildflower meadow with the rugged peaks behind will forever be one of my favorite memories.
While there are countless places to boondock across the United States, these five locations have given us some of our most memorable camping experiences. Whether it was watching the sun light up the red rocks of Sedona, camping on the edge of a cliff, or waking up to mountain views in the Tetons, each destination reminded us why we love traveling. Boondocking is about finding places where you can truly disconnect, slow down, and experience nature on a deeper level. Hopefully this list has inspired you to hit the open road and find a destination worth remembering.
You might also be interested in—
