RV camping can make for a great trip almost anywhere, but I
think it is best in the west. In many areas, you can just drive
into the desert, and stay free for up to two weeks. It's true of
most BLM (Bureau Of Land Management) and national forest lands,
and many state forest lands too. You have to move every two
weeks, but how far is open to interpretation, and mostly yours
will be accepted.
Long Term RV Camping on BLM Land
RV camping, or "boondocking" is growing in popularity. In fact,
the BLM has begun to establish special areas for longer stays,
particularly in Arizona. A permit fee is around $140 now, but
this allows you to stay up to six months, and you get pump
stations, dumpsters and water. People are living in some of
these areas. It's cheaper than paying property taxes or rent for
a lot to park on.
RV camping is common in Winter in Arizona. One of the largest
gatherings of "boondockers" is in Quartzite. Several hundred
thousand people spend at least part of the year in their RVs
here. It's near the California border, on Interstate 10, only 20
miles from the Colorado River. Surrounded by BLM lands,
Quartzite is famous for gem shows, swap meets, and the
multiplying of its population each winter.
If you ask around when you are in the desert southwest, you'll
find there are RV communities that form every winter. Some of
these temporary towns like "Slab City" in California, have
bookstores, grocery vendors, and other businesses run by RVers.
Once summer returns, these boondock communities disappear, and
reappear again the following winter.
Other RV Camping Opportunities
Just look around, and you'll find "hidden" places where you can
park your RV for a week or a month in the desert southwest. Some
are inexpensive, other's free. The Hot Well Dunes Recreation
Area, for example, north of Bowie, Arizona, costs $3 per night,
and has nice hotsprings and plenty of wildlife. An annual permit
costs $30, but you're limited to two weeks per month (permits
are sold at the BLM office in Safford). You can stay outside the
fenced area free, but then you don't get the hotsprings and
shaded picnic tables.
For information on other areas, contact the Bureau of Land
Management. They can tell you what's available under their
jurisdiction. Also, the Woodall's campground guide lists
campgrounds that are free. Keep your eyes open for other RVs
parked out in the desert or forest. Finally, ask around. Other
RVers will give you the best information on RV camping.
About the author:
Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the U.S. and
Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom
he met in Ecuador. For travel stories, tips and a free e-book,
visit: http://www.Everything
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