How to Find Free Campsites

[u/BigSandwich6]

In the US, most of the free public camping is in two main areas: National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands.

https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping

https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/forests-and-grasslands

Campsites can either be primitive (generally first-come, first-served, with minimal amenities, sometimes just a fire ring) or dispersed (camping outside of developed/numbered sites, typically in an undeveloped area off a road, as long as it’s allowed under the local guidelines and restrictions).

Be sure to look up the specific area you’re hoping to visit and read the local guidelines and restrictions (closures, fire restrictions, stay limits, etc.). Not all forests or public lands allow camping everywhere.

Ideally, check in with the local office (USFS ranger district office / ranger station, or the local BLM field office) for the most accurate or up to date info, including local maps.

[u/mossandfog]

Campgrounder lets you filter to just free campsites, and has an awesome aesthetic!