State Park Fees Are Climbing — But Your Options Aren't Shrinking

If you've been following camping news lately, you've probably noticed a familiar trend: state parks across the country are raising their overnight camping and vehicle permit fees. Clinton State Park in Kansas is the latest to announce increases, joining a growing list of beloved parks adjusting their rates heading into the season. And while we totally understand why park systems need funding to maintain trails, facilities, and ranger programs, we also know that your camping budget is real — and it matters.

So let's talk about the silver lining hiding in plain sight: boondocking. Free, dispersed, off-the-grid camping has never looked more appealing, and if you've never tried it, this might be the season that changes everything.

What Exactly Is Boondocking?

Boondocking (also called dispersed camping or dry camping) simply means camping outside of a designated, fee-based campground — think Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, National Forests, remote pullouts, or even legal urban overnight stays in your RV. No hookups, no camp hosts, no reservation portals, and crucially — no fees.

It's the purest form of camping freedom, and millions of travelers are discovering that it delivers some of the most memorable outdoor experiences imaginable. Wide-open skies, genuine solitude, and a landscape that feels like it belongs entirely to you.

Where to Find Free Boondocking Spots

The good news is that the United States has an enormous amount of public land open to dispersed camping. Here's where to start your search:

  • BLM Land: The Bureau of Land Management oversees over 245 million acres, much of it open to free camping for up to 14 days. The American Southwest — Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico — is boondocking paradise.
  • National Forests: Most National Forests allow dispersed camping outside of developed campgrounds. Check with the specific ranger district for rules and fire restrictions.
  • State Trust Lands: Several states allow camping on state trust lands for free or a very small annual permit fee — a fraction of what developed state park camping now costs.
  • CampgroundViews.com: Use our platform to explore campgrounds and discover nearby dispersed camping areas. Our 360° virtual tours let you scout locations before you ever pack a bag — so you know exactly what you're rolling into.

Essential Boondocking Tips for Beginners

Power and Water Are Your Priority

Without hookups, you'll need to plan your resources carefully. Invest in a quality solar panel setup if you're RVing, carry more fresh water than you think you'll need, and know your tank capacities inside and out. A good rule of thumb: plan for 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and cooking, and more if you're showering.

Practice Leave No Trace

Boondocking is a privilege, not a right — and it stays free because campers respect the land. Pack out everything you bring in, avoid digging fire pits in sensitive areas, and camp on durable surfaces like gravel, rock, or previously disturbed ground whenever possible.

Know Before You Go

Cell service is often nonexistent at the best boondocking spots. Download offline maps using apps like onX Backcountry or Gaia GPS before you leave. Check fire restrictions, seasonal road closures, and any permit requirements through the land management agency's website ahead of your trip.

Start Close to Home

Your first boondocking adventure doesn't need to be a remote desert odyssey. Find a quiet National Forest road a few hours from home, spend one night, and get comfortable with the rhythms of off-grid camping. You'll build confidence fast.

The Bottom Line: Fee Increases Are a Nudge Toward Adventure

State park fee hikes sting a little, but think of them as a gentle push toward exploring public lands you might have overlooked. Some of the most jaw-dropping camping in North America is completely free — you just need to know where to look.

Start your search on CampgroundViews.com, where you can browse thousands of campgrounds, preview sites with immersive 360° tours, and plan your next adventure whether you're chasing a lakeside state park or a wide-open BLM mesa under the stars. The road is calling — and it doesn't have to cost a fortune to answer.