RV City Boondocking

City boondocking in an RV. That's one thing I've never tried. 

Do It Yourself RV has posted an article with the dos and don't to city boondocking, including tips.  

It begins with:

Boondocking is one of the best ways to save money while RVing. Typically, it’s associated with remote, scenic locations where you can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. But did you know there’s also a way to boondock in urban areas?

City boondocking is a fantastic option for saving money while staying close to the amenities and attractions a city offers. It allows you to explore the sights and sounds of an urban area while remaining close to gyms with showers, dump stations, and plenty of dining options.

That said, city boondocking does come with its own set of challenges. These include ensuring you stay safe, avoiding noise, and of course, making sure you are boondocking legally.  Want to give city boondocking a try but feel unsure about how to begin? Below, I’ll share all my tips and tricks!

To read more, go here. 

$600 To Boondock On BLM Land?

 

Summary:

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is proposing a large increase in fees for winter camping in Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in Arizona. We have all the details. 

The BLM will host two virtual public information sessions about the proposals at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10, and Wednesday, Sept. 25. The Yuma Field Office will hold a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 5:00-7:00 p.m.; an in-person public meeting in Quartzsite on Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 1:00-3:00 p.m.; and two public information sessions on Nov. 6 at Imperial Dam LTVA and Nov. 20 in Quartzsite from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Public meetings are interactive where attendees are invited to ask questions and provide comments. Information sessions are presentations where attendees can learn about planned updates from BLM experts. 

Find the links for the virtual meetings here: https://www.blm.gov/announcement/blm-...

You can provide comment on this draft business plan by emailing BLM_AZ_YFOWEB@blm.gov with the subject line "LTVA Fee Proposal Comment" or by delivering/mailing comments to:

BLM Yuma Field Office

7341 E 30th St, Suite A

Yuma, AZ 85365

RV Boondocking Myths

Above, boondock camping at Ashurst Lake dispersed campground in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When one is out camping in their RV in areas such as BLM land or dispersed campgrounds, this is generally called boondocking or dry camping. There are no hook-ups such as electric, water or sewer available.

I boondock with the fraternal organization E Clampus Vitus every year. My motorhome is self-contained with its own battery power and water tank.

There are some myths concerning boondocking and RV Travel has posted an article discussing them.

They begin with:

There are many boondocking myths held by both new and seasoned RVers. Most so firmly believe them that they fear even trying boondocking for one night. Sadly, this keeps many limited to camping in overcrowded campgrounds, never to experience the freedom boondocking offers.

I quite often hear statements like, “I would boondock, but…

• I like to shower every day.”
• I don’t like the desert.”
• My RV isn’t suited to drive miles down a rough dirt road.”

While their statements are true, they have little to do with boondocking. They are boondocking myths.

In fact, those new to RVing may not even know what the term “boondocking” really means.

While there are many interpretations of what boondocking is, most dyed-in-the-wool boondockers (myself included) consider boondocking as camping outside of a developed campground on public land. Public land agencies refer to it as “dispersed camping.”

To read more, go here. 

Is BLM Camping Safe?

Above, Arizona BLM lands are indicated in yellow.

Many RVers like to boondock (dry camp) on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.

RV Travel has posted an article asking the question, Is BLM Camping Safe? For the most part it is. But there are some precautions campers should take to ensure that it is.

It begins with:

Is BLM camping safe? This was the core of a question posted on the BLM Camping Facebook group hosted by RVtravel.com. Unfortunately, the post was deleted before I could review the hundreds of comments. It drew such a response that RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury reached out to me and asked that I write an article on the subject. Upon further research, I determined the original question had a bit more to it, as it asked, “How to determine if a BLM camping area is safe or not for a lonely camper.”

As someone who has enjoyed camping on BLM land for years, I would have responded to the original question that BLM camping is as safe or even safer than camping in an RV park, regardless of whether you are a single camper, a couple, or traveling with other RVers. I would also have responded that while there are natural dangers (animal and weather) of camping on BLM land, which are quickly understood and can be minimized, most people are thinking of the two-legged variety of danger, which is mankind. Sadly, staying safe from others is what this article will focus on.

This article will tackle the question of whether BLM camping is safe in four parts. First, I will discuss what is the BLM and what types of camping opportunities exist on BLM land. Second, I will outline why my wife and I don’t fear BLM camping. Third, I will share deterrents to help you feel safer. And fourth, I will share clues to help you determine if a BLM camping area is “safe” or not. 

To read the full article, go here. 

Preserving RV Boondocking

Above, boondocking near Kingman, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Thanks to irresponsible campers, areas in which people can boondock are being closed up.

According to RV Travel:

Boondockers prefer camping on public lands without hookups or amenities, moving from place to place. Boondocking is one of the best ways to experience America’s public lands’ natural beauty and diversity, from forests and deserts to mountains and lakes. It also saves money and fosters a sense of adventure and freedom.

However, boondocking is facing a serious challenge. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which manages more than 245 million acres of public lands in the United States, is systematically closing off boondocking access to many areas due to irresponsible and destructive behavior by some campers, like this popular area in Arizona. These thoughtless campers leave trash, overstay the posted limits, vandalize trails and installations, and damage wildlife habitats and the environment. These actions harm the natural resources, create safety and health hazards, increase maintenance costs, and erode public support for boondocking.

However, all is not lost just yet as a possible solution could save boondocking areas. 

A “New CCC”

I would offer a solution to this problem, one that could benefit boondockers, the BLM, and the public: The creation of a “New CCC,” a modern version of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that operated from 1933 to 1942 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. The original CCC was a work relief program that gave millions of young men employment on infrastructure and environmental projects during the Great Depression. The CCC planted more than three billion trees, built trails and shelters, fought forest fires, and improved soil and water conservation on public lands. The CCC helped to shape the modern national and state park systems we enjoy today.

To read more, go here.

Can RVs Overnight At Truck Stops?

Above, RVs at the Flying J in Jamestown, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since I bought my motorhome eight years ago, I have made only two attempts at overnighting at a truck stop.

The first was in Missouri. I pulled in and was about to settle in for the night, but I found the surroundings were too noisy and loud. So I pressed ahead on the road and ended up overnighting at a Kansas rest stop.

The second time was at a Flying J in Albuquerque. I had an early morning flight and I overnighted at the truck stop. This time, the RV area was away from the loud trucks. The stay worked out fine.

RV Life posted an article on the topic of overnighting in an RV at truck stops.

It begins with:

Can RVs Overnight At Truck Stops?

Truck stops exist to cater to truckers, ensuring they have the necessities to transport goods across the country. These stops typically offer fuel, water, food, retail stores, showers, and parking areas for resting. Many also allocate parking for RVs, and some even feature a dump station.

Why you shouldn’t park an RV overnight at truck stops

However, issues arise when truckers, in dire need of rest, find truck stop spaces occupied by RVs. RVs can obstruct accessibility due to their size. Given that truckers operate vehicles that can be up to 80 feet in length, they require ample space, not only for parking but also for maneuvering. When truck stops overflow with RVs, truckers struggle to find alternative resting spots, leading to conflicts between the two groups.

Truck stops come equipped with a range of amenities that are perfect for refueling and relaxation. However, there are also drawbacks to consider when choosing to stay overnight. Due to their close proximity to major roads and continuous flow of vehicles, truck stops tend to be noisy. But if you’re weary and need a break, you’re generally welcome to rest, provided the stop isn’t too crowded and you’re parked away from the main trucking areas.

To read more, go here.

RV Budget Hacks To Save Money

Above, overnighting at Twin Arrows Casino Resort. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The dollar isn't buying as much as it used to in these days of high inflation while RV traveling. 

There are ways to saving money with some budget hacks that RV Life is recommending.

They begin with:

Budgeting is essential for every RVer because you need to ensure you have enough money for your everyday needs (plus some extra for unforeseen problems). Factors like a fixed income, monthly RV payments, maintenance fees, and other costs can lead to a very tight budget.

But even if you have limited funds, you can still enjoy the RV lifestyle. You just need to understand how to save money while you’re on the road! Making a few trade-offs and thrifty decisions can help you stay within your budget. Maybe you won’t be able to stay in luxury resorts or eat out every night, but you can still have plenty of fun on your trips.

If you need to make every penny count, these budget RV hacks are for you. We’ve compiled some of the top RV hacks for camping on a tight budget. Some of this advice may seem obvious, while other points may surprise you! Carefully read each tip to see if it will align with your life on the road. Let’s get started!

To read more, go here.

Boondocking At Cracker Barrel Rules

I've been to several Cracker Barrel restaurants over the years, most recently in Albuquerque and Gallup, New Mexico. However, I have never stayed overnight at any of their RV parking areas.

Some Cracker Barrel restaurants allow free overnight RV parking and some don't. It depends upon the management or city ordinances.

If one should come across a Cracker Barrel who does allow overnighting, there's some rules one must abide by and RV Lifestyle has an article listing them.

They begin with:

Most RVers have heard of Wallydocking, which is parking overnight in a Walmart parking lot. It’s a form of “lot docking” that extends to another popular location: Cracker Barrel.

There aren’t nearly as many Cracker Barrels as Walmarts, but with 663 locations in the United States, there’s often one nearby. And the company has always been welcoming to RVers, allowing people to park overnight for free.

Of course, their hospitality should only be expected to extend so far. There are unwritten rules that RVers should abide by to ensure Cracker Barrel’s courtesy continues to be extended to us. 

I’m going to outline those rules for you so you can enjoy what I like to call “Barreldocking” as much as Jennifer and I do.

To read more, go here. 

RV Boondocking Myths

Above, Ashurst Lake dispersed camping area in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who are new to RVing, there's an alternate way to camp to public and private campgrounds. It is dry camping out in the boonies. It is commonly known as boondocking.

There are some myths to boondocking that RV Travel debunks.

They start with:

There are many boondocking myths held by both new and seasoned RVers. Most so firmly believe them that they fear even trying boondocking for one night. Sadly, this keeps many limited to camping in overcrowded campgrounds, never to experience the freedom boondocking offers.

I quite often hear statements like, “I would boondock, but:

• I like to shower every day.”
• I don’t like the desert.”
• My RV isn’t suited to drive miles down a rough dirt road.”

While their statements are true, they have little to do with boondocking. They are boondocking myths.

In fact, those new to RVing may not even know what the term “boondocking” really means.

While there are many interpretations of what boondocking is, most dyed-in-the-wool boondockers (myself included) consider boondocking as camping outside of a developed campground on public land. Public land agencies refer to it as “dispersed camping.”

To read more, go here. 

Walmart Overnighting May Be Doomed By Lawsuit

Some Walmarts around the country allow overnight RV stays in their parking lots (boondocking). A fatal incident in 2019 with a resulting lawsuit may end that.

RV Travel reported:

Essie McKenzie, of Coon Rapids, MN, is suing Walmart Stores, Inc. in U.S. Federal Court in Minnesota for negligence and wrongful death.

Ms. McKenzie’s two daughters, Ty’rah and Taraji, were asleep in McKenzie’s car while their mother shopped just after 6:00 a.m. on August 6, 2019, in the Walmart parking lot located at 8450 University Avenue NE in Fridley, MN. The car was quickly engulfed in fire that started in a Dodge camper van parked next to McKenzie’s car. Ty’rah McKenzie was rescued by emergency responders but later died from smoke inhalation and burns; her sister, Taraji, was severely injured in the conflagration. The RV caught fire from a hot propane camp stove.

Complaint allegations include Walmart failing to monitor overnight campers

The complaint alleges negligence on the part of Walmart for creating a nuisance and failing to monitor overnight campers in its parking lot. The case has significant implications for RVers who have long been welcomed to remain overnight in the retailer’s parking lots.

Personally, I have never stayed overnight in a Walmart parking lot, but I have stayed overnight at a Flying J parking lot.

To read the full story, go here.

What Is Boondocking Camping?

Above, boondocking on the Keene Ranch near Tehachapi. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I have done boondocking camping and have written about it here. Regular readers will know what it is.

A few hours ago, TheTravel posted an article titled, "What Is Boondocking & Why Do People Love It?"

So, if you are one of those who are wondering this, you should go over and read the article.

They begin it with:

Many people fancy escaping the typical life routine, hitting the road to find beauty somewhere and experience something new. There is nothing as fun as leaving the town and going on a wilderness adventure! But since the usual noisy campsites surrounded by crowds of people can be tiring, travelers can always go on an amazing wilderness adventure without experiencing crowds of other noisy campers. This is what people call boondocking, and although travelers new to RVing may not be aware of the concept, it is a fascinating camping experience. So, what exactly is boondocking, and why do people love it?

To read more, go here. 

RV "Wish List" For Boondockers

Above, at Ashurst Lake Dispersed Camping area in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whenever I do dry camping or "boondocking", it is usually with a group of around 200, give or take.

With that in mind, some of the items in the RV Travel boondockers' "wish list" would not be practical. These are items that would instead come in handy while camping in remote areas.

They begin with:

Many RVers are drawn to off-grid camping or “boondocking,” as we like to call it. It offers nature in its most undisturbed state and at a much lower cost. There are little to no campground fees involved. There is quiet, solitude, and a personal challenge to camp sans conveniences like shore power, city water, hot showers and level pavement. The challenges of boondocking are what most people think of when contemplating a wish list for dispersed camping.

To read more, go here. 

Things Needed For Camping Off Grid

Above, boondocking in Quartzsite, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Boondocking, dry camping or camping off grid is getting more popular than ever. Many do this to avoid crowded RV parks and campgrounds.

There are some things one needs to have on hand while boondocking. Do It Yourself RV posted about four of them.

They begin with:

Boondocking, or camping off the grid, is more popular than ever now as RVers seek to avoid crowded RV parks and campgrounds. Boondocking requires you to take everything with you and provide your own critical amenities: food, water, connectivity, and power.

 To read more, go here.

Best RV Battery For Boondocking

Above, dry camping at the free campground at the Gen. Patton Museum at Chiriaco Summit, California. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Generally, I do dry (or boondock) camping twice a year when I attend a clampout with the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus. Sometimes more.

Dry camping is relying solely on water stored in an RV and the RV's 12 volt battery or, if equipped, the RV's generator.

One may wonder, What is the best RV battery for boondocking?

Do It Yourself RV takes a look a different battery types and which one is best for boondocking.

They start it with:

RV boondocking demands 12 volt, 100 amp hour deep cycle RV batteries that charge up quickly from solar panels and are able to handle discharge rates of 80-100% of their capacity.

Boondockers frequently require more power than a single battery can provide, especially if they use AC appliances such as coffee pots, blenders, TVs, or AC power outlets in addition to DC power (lights, pump, furnace).

If you plan to boondock for a number of days, or even weeks using solar panels to recharge your batteries, you’ll probably want more than two batteries to store power and keep you powered even on cloudy days. Here are some quick facts to help you find the right RV battery for your boondocking needs.

To read more, go here. 

Digital Journal: Reasons To Travel In An RV

Above, dry camping at Lake Cachuma. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The pandemic has changed many things in people's lives. Travel is just one of them.

Camping has become the go-to means of travel, especially with RVs. Boondocking, or dry camping, is rising in popularity. Self-contained RVs are designed for boondocking. 

According to Digital Journal:

To escape the trivialities of a busy, city life, there’s nothing better than to take a long trip to explore the country’s vast national parks and exotic camping spots. However, what’s even better is taking the trip in an overland trailer. That’s right, RV boondocking comes with some unparalleled advantages that people will never find in conventional camping. Moreover, since millions of people are now vaccinated, it seems like everybody is going out for an outdoor adventure! RV boondocking has become massively popular since the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

They then go into the advantages of boondock camping in an RV.

To read more, go here.

RV Travel: Camping In A "Ghostly" Cemetery

Above, campers (background) next to Hi Jolly Cemetery in Quartzsite, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Boondocking or dry camping in the desert can be and often is an interesting experience.  There's plenty of open land, with quite a lot of it managed by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management).

For the past three years, the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus has held camping clampouts at cemeteries. One was in Kingman, Arizona and the other was in Quartzsite, Arizona. Why did we camp at cemeteries? We had plaques to dedicate at each.

It just so happens that RV Travel has an article on camping in a "ghostly" cemetery. 

Here's how it begins:

Would you stay the night in a ghostly cemetery, especially around Halloween?

I have and will continue to do so when it meets my needs. Read on…

Those of you that follow our travels know that my wife and I like to explore abandoned ghost towns and mining camps across the West. Since there typically is not a campground or RV park anywhere close to these places, we most often boondock nearby.

You may also recall an article I wrote earlier this year regarding a spontaneous road trip we took detailing the places we camped. One of our campsites was adjacent to the ghostly cemetery in the 1860’s town of Candelaria, Nevada. As the article mentioned, the interred appreciated the visit and I promised a future article. This is the promised article. I waited until October, as it seemed like an appropriate time for a ghost story with Halloween just around the corner.

Many of you are probably asking, why would anyone choose to camp near an old ghostly cemetery in a ghost town?

Note: When I say “ghostly” I am not referring to spiritual ghosts lingering around their earthly remains*. I’m referring to a shadow of what once was in the form of tangible remains of the lives lived and lost, and their stories.

 To read more, go here.

How To Find RV Dump Sites

Above, emptying The Beast's holding tanks at Malibu Creek State Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Emptying holding tanks of an RV is a simple matter if one is camping at a campground or RV park with full hook-ups or a dump station.

But there are those who prefer to dry camp (or boondock) without any hook-ups or dump stations.

Do It Yourself RV has an article on how to find nearby dump sites.

They begin it with:

If you boondock often like I do, knowing where the nearest RV dump sites are located is of upmost importance. Not only for dumping the contents of the black and gray tanks, but they are often a source for potable water to refill the fresh water tank in preparation of the next boondocking campsite.

While those that camp in RV parks and campgrounds with RV dump sites can just use the on-site facilities, those of us that choose to dry camp in less conventional locations will need to hone our online skills to find them.

“Finding RV dump stations is easier now than it ever has been. You can imagine what it was like back before the age of the Internet! Today, we can find dump stations rather easily through various online sources” per Mike Wenland blogging at RVlifestyle 

To read more, go here. 

How To Charge An RV Battery While Driving

Above, The Beast in Jackson, Wyoming. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Keeping the RV house battery charged while driving is easy. I make sure that the house power system is on so that the chassis alternator charges it while driving to dry camp somewhere. Before I even leave home, I would have it plugged into the 30 amp outlet in the RV garage overnight (at least).

If, while dry camping, the battery gets low, I'll fire up the onboard generator to charge it up.

There are other ways to keeping the house battery charged while driving and Do It Yourself RV has an article telling what they are.

They begin with:

With more and more people dry camping, knowing how to charge an RV battery while driving is important, as arriving with a fully charged house battery is key for a successful campout.

For years, RVers have relied on a 12-volt charge line to keep their RV house battery(s) charged while driving. The charge line basically connects the electrical charge coming from the vehicle’s alternator (tow vehicle or motorhome) to the house battery(s). While it was not the optimum way to charge an RV battery while driving, it sufficed.

To read more, go here. 

Do It Yourself RV: 3 Off-Grid Camping Tips

Above, dry-camping at the Gallo Campground in Chaco Canyon. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Camping without electric or water hookups is something self-contained RVs are made for. 

This kind of camping is known as dry-camping, boondocking and off-grid camping. 

Before doing any off-grid camping, campers have to make sure they have plenty of water and the batteries are all fully charged, among other things.

Do It Yourself RV has three tips for going off-grid.

They begin with:

Thinking of going off the grid in your RV? There are many rewards to camping off grid in your RV, but before you go off grid for the first time, you need to become educated, prepared, and well practiced.

Start out right by following these 3 tips for going off the grid in your RV.

I last camped off-grid two weeks ago at Chaco Canyon. The campground had no water or electric hookups. So it was definitely dry camping. 

To see what the three tips are, go here. 

How To Prevent A Dead RV Battery

Above, I replaced the motorhome chassis battery during its last maintenance check-up. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Keeping up with RV battery maintenance is a must to prevent having a battery go dead while on a vacation trip. Especially if one is boondocking.

That is one thing I keep up with. I replaced my motorhome's house battery two years ago and I replaced my chassis battery a couple of months ago during its routine annual check-up before I went to Durango, Colorado. Both of the replaced batteries were the originals that were in the motorhome when I bought it. The house battery lasted four years and the chassis battery lasted six years. Not too shabby.

Do It Yourself RV has an article how to prevent a dead RV battery.

They begin it with:

There is something special about traveling to a camping destination in an RV. Watching the sunrise while sipping your favorite hot brew of coffee is a morning ritual for most campers. But those good times will be ruined if your RV battery dies, especially if you are boondocking.

There are several reasons why RV batteries die. According to Mark Polk on GoRVing,

85% of batteries manufactured in the U.S. die prematurely, and RVers often replace batteries every year or two.

Mark Polk – GoRVing

That cost can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are tried and true ways to prevent your RV batteries from dying, and extending their lifespan from just 1 or 2 years to a much more pocket-friendly 5 to 7 years. In this article, we’ll walk you through the fundamental steps to maintaining your RV’s coach and chassis batteries correctly.

To read more, go here.