Free Camping In USA National Forests!
In a world that seems increasingly tethered to screens and schedules, there's an allure to the wilderness. The vast expanses of America's National Forests beckon with promises of combined peace, adventure, and the chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form. And here's the best part: you can experience all of this without breaking the bank. Welcome to the world of dispersed camping in USA National Forests.
I once went dispersed camping, pictures below, in the Huron Manistee National Forest. We loved it so much we had to go three weekends in a row. Three weekends of no plumbing, and we still loved it. My life was changed.
how-To Guide
CHECK REGULATIONS Pay attention to signs for dispersed camping and any stay limits (consecutive nights in a row). Familiarize yourself with the specific rules & regulations for dispersed camping in the National Forest you plan to visit. Be prepared for changing weather conditions & potential hazards such as food storage. Check current fire restrictions before lighting a campfire and burning the forest down.
SAFETY & RESPECT Be prepared for changing weather conditions & potential hazards. Carry essential gear, including navigation tools, first aid supplies, and ample water in case no stores are nearby. Do not feed animals. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Avoid trampling fragile ecosystems and sensitive habitats.
PERMITS & FEES In some cases, permits or passes may be required for dispersed camping. Check in advance and obtain any necessary permits or passes. Keep noise levels down and be considerate of other campers and visitors, if you need more privacy find a spot with no one around to avoid complaints.
Bucket List Destinations
Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Denali National Park, Alaska, USA
Moab, Utah, USA
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA
Olympic National Park, Washington, USA
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA
Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA
White Mountains, New Hampshire, USA
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina, USA
Redwood National and State Parks, California, USA
Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, USA
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska, USA
Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Below are more recent pictures of dispersed camping outside of Mount St. Helens, Washington, USA!
Tips & Tricks
Plan ahead and research the area. Stay informed about weather conditions and bring an extra tarp if there is rain.
Pack light or compact gear. Bring a toilet substitute if needed!
Rent from REI instead of buying new supplies.
Locate a reliable water source or pack more than enough.
Arrive early to secure a campsite.
Consider alternatives to ice chips. Freeze two-liters completely solid or use dry ice.
Download Google Maps offline in case you lose cell service (most likely).
Store food securely to avoid wildlife encounters. I usually keep it in a LOCKED car.
Inform someone of your plans if camping alone.
Give it a try! It’s worth it!!!! Enjoy the solitude and beauty of nature.
With love,
H & B @ HBTT
