1. Alabama Hills – Lone Pine, California
Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada, Alabama Hills is one of the most scenic free camping spots in the country. The unique rock formations and dramatic mountain views have made it a favorite backdrop for Hollywood westerns. You can park your RV among the boulders and wake up to a sunrise that turns Mount Whitney a stunning shade of pink. The best part? It’s all public BLM land, meaning you can camp for free for up to 14 days.
There are no amenities here, so come prepared with water and waste disposal plans. But the trade-off is complete solitude and direct access to amazing hikes like Mobius Arch Trail. At night, the sky is unbelievably clear, making this a prime stargazing destination. If you need supplies, the town of Lone Pine is just a short drive away with gas, groceries, and a great little museum showcasing the area’s film history.
2. Valley of the Gods – Utah
If you want to experience the beauty of Monument Valley without the crowds or fees, Valley of the Gods is the perfect alternative. This vast desert landscape is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, RVshare explains, meaning dispersed camping is free and first-come, first-served. The towering red rock formations create a surreal setting, especially at sunrise and sunset. The 17-mile scenic loop through the valley offers plenty of pull-offs where you can park your RV and soak in the views.
Because it’s remote, you’ll need to be self-sufficient—there are no water, dump stations, or restrooms. The dirt roads can get rough, especially after rain, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Despite its isolation, you’re only about 30 miles from the small town of Mexican Hat, where you can refuel and grab a bite to eat. If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and jaw-dropping scenery, this spot is hard to beat.
3. Nomad View – Badlands, South Dakota
Perched on the edge of the Badlands, Nomad View offers some of the most dramatic free camping you’ll ever find, RV Parky reports. This spot is located on BLM land just outside Badlands National Park, meaning you can stay for free while enjoying million-dollar views. RVs can park right along the rim, with an unobstructed panorama of the rugged landscape below. The sunrises and sunsets here are absolutely unreal, painting the rock formations in shades of orange, pink, and gold.
There are no hookups or amenities, so you’ll need to bring everything you need, including water. However, the nearby town of Wall (home to the famous Wall Drug) has supplies if you need them. If you want to explore deeper into the park, the entrance is just a short drive away, offering incredible hikes and wildlife viewing. Just be cautious near the edge—this spot is breathtaking, but the cliffs drop off sharply!
4. Magnolia Beach – Texas
If you love waking up to the sound of waves, Magnolia Beach is a dream come true. This free beach camping spot along the Gulf of Mexico allows RVers to park right on the hard-packed sand with no permits required. The calm waters and gentle sea breeze make for a relaxing stay, and there’s even a nearby pier for fishing. Unlike many other beach camping areas, the sand here is firm, making it easy to drive on without getting stuck.
While there are no hookups, there are a few basic amenities like picnic tables and trash cans. The town of Port Lavaca is just a few miles away, offering groceries, gas, and restaurants. It’s a peaceful spot that’s perfect for unwinding, watching the sunrise, or spotting dolphins in the distance. If you’re looking for a free beachfront escape without the crowds, this is it.
5. Coconino National Forest – Near Sedona, Arizona
Camping in Sedona can be expensive, but Coconino National Forest offers incredible free camping just outside of town, according to the US Forest Service. The dispersed camping areas along Forest Road 525 provide stunning red rock views and easy access to some of Sedona’s best trails. You’ll wake up surrounded by iconic rock formations, with the added bonus of a peaceful, off-grid experience. Best of all, you’re only about 15 minutes from town, making it easy to restock or grab a meal.
There are no hookups, so bring plenty of water and be prepared to pack out your trash. The dirt roads can be a little bumpy, but most RVs can handle them with caution. Because of its popularity, it’s best to arrive early in the day to snag a good spot. If you love hiking, don’t miss the nearby Devil’s Bridge Trail or Cathedral Rock—both offer some of the best views in Arizona.
6. Craggy Wash – Lake Havasu, Arizona
Located just a few miles outside of Lake Havasu City, Craggy Wash is a fantastic free camping area in the Arizona desert. This BLM land allows up to 14 days of camping, giving you plenty of time to explore the area. The landscape is a mix of rugged hills and open desert, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy some solitude. The best part? You’re close to town but still feel completely off the grid.
Lake Havasu itself is a great place to visit, with plenty of water activities, restaurants, and the famous London Bridge. The area is popular with both boondockers and long-term travelers, so you’ll find a friendly RV community here. While there are no amenities, the town is just a short drive away for supplies. If you enjoy warm weather, desert scenery, and free camping with easy access to civilization, this spot is perfect.
7. Saddle Mountain Dispersed Camping – Tonopah, Arizona
For those who love wide-open desert landscapes with mountain views, Saddle Mountain is a hidden gem. This BLM-managed area offers free camping with plenty of space to spread out, ensuring peace and quiet. The rugged peaks of Saddle Mountain make for a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s also a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching, with chances to see desert foxes, coyotes, and plenty of birds.
The dirt roads leading in are manageable for most RVs, but larger rigs should scout ahead before driving too deep. There are no amenities here, so bring plenty of water and be prepared for dry camping. The town of Tonopah is about 10 miles away if you need supplies or fuel. If you’re looking for a peaceful desert retreat with incredible scenery, this is the spot.
8. Twin Lakes – Leadville, Colorado
If you love mountain lakes and cool alpine air, Twin Lakes near Leadville is a fantastic free camping destination. The sites here are located on BLM land with unbeatable views of the water and the towering peaks of the Sawatch Range. It’s an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the lake with a cup of coffee. Plus, Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the U.S., is only a short drive away and full of Old West charm.
Since it’s at a high elevation, the weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. There are no hookups, but there are plenty of flat spots suitable for RVs of all sizes. The dirt roads leading to the campsites can get rough in wet weather, so check conditions before heading in. If you enjoy mountain solitude with easy access to outdoor adventures, this spot is hard to beat.
9. Government Wash – Lake Mead, Nevada
For waterfront camping with a desert twist, Government Wash at Lake Mead is a prime choice. This area, managed by the National Park Service, offers free dispersed camping with stunning views of the lake. You can park right near the shore and enjoy easy access to fishing, swimming, and boating. The surrounding desert landscape makes for incredible sunsets, and the lights of Las Vegas are just a short drive away.
While there are no hookups, there are vault toilets available for campers. The terrain is mostly dirt and gravel, so choose your spot carefully to avoid getting stuck. Since it’s within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, you’ll need an annual park pass or pay the entrance fee. If you want a mix of lakeside relaxation and desert adventure, this is an excellent stop.
10. Bolivar Flats – Texas Gulf Coast
If you’re looking for a truly unique beachfront boondocking experience, Bolivar Flats is the place to be. This stretch of sand on the Texas Gulf Coast allows free camping right on the beach, with the ocean just steps from your RV. The area is part of a bird sanctuary, so you’ll see plenty of pelicans, herons, and other coastal wildlife. It’s also a great spot for shell hunting, surf fishing, or just kicking back and enjoying the sea breeze.
Because you’ll be camping directly on the sand, make sure to check tide charts and park on firmer ground. There are no hookups, but there are nearby amenities in Crystal Beach, just a short drive away. Ferry access to Galveston is free, making for an easy day trip to explore the historic island. If you love the idea of waking up to the sound of waves without the crowds of traditional campgrounds, this is a must-visit.
11. Pumpkin Patch Dispersed Camping – Anza-Borrego Desert, California
Tucked away in California’s largest state park, this unique free camping area offers a quiet desert escape. The “Pumpkin Patch” gets its name from the strange round rock formations scattered across the landscape, giving it an almost otherworldly feel. Sunsets here are unforgettable, casting deep orange and red hues over the desert floor. It’s also a great place for off-roading, stargazing, and exploring the many slot canyons in the park.
Access requires a bit of navigation on dirt roads, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended. There are no services or water sources, so come fully prepared for dry camping. The nearby town of Borrego Springs has gas, food, and a quirky charm, making it a fun place to visit. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path desert camping experience, this spot delivers.
12. Rincon Parkway – Ventura, California
Rincon Parkway is one of the few places in California where you can park your RV right next to the ocean for an incredibly low cost. While not completely free, the overnight fee is minimal compared to traditional campgrounds, and the location is unbeatable. RVs line up along the shoulder of the Pacific Coast Highway, with waves crashing just feet away. It’s a simple setup—no hookups, just unbeatable oceanfront views and the soothing sound of the surf.
Spots are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is key, especially on weekends. There are no facilities beyond a few portable restrooms, so be prepared for dry camping. The beach is great for tide pooling, watching dolphins, or simply enjoying a sunset over the Pacific. If you want an affordable coastal stay in one of California’s most scenic areas, this is a fantastic choice.
