This summer, we went on a road trip through some of the West Coast’s best national parks. Over the course of two weeks, we only paid for two campsites! How? Dispersed camping.
Dispersed camping, or freedom camping, or boondocking, or primitive camping are all words that refer to camping for free outside of developed campgrounds. Since moving to California, dispersed camping has become my main camping method due to the increasing popularity and congestion at many established campgrounds.
Here are some of my favorite perks of dispersed camping:
- It’s completely FREE!!!!
- I love a good deal, and free is about the best deal out there.
- No crowds!
- Because dispersed camping involves a little more work, you won’t find yourself camping near 300 of your closest friends.
- Great views!
- The views and overall atmosphere while dispersed camping is (in my opinion) much better than in developed campgrounds. Usually dispersed sites are in national forests, and away from civilization. Say hello, to beautiful starry nights.
- Adventure!
- Getting to dispersed campsites involves a bit more adventure and exploration than finding the KOA on the side of the highway. Thus, you can expect to have a great time!
Hopefully by now, you’re convinced to give dispersed camping a go. Below I’ve shown some of my favorite spots for freedom camping near Bryce Canyon. Most of the main spots that I know of are in the Dixie National Forest along the road to Tropic Reservoir. If you’ve got time, stop by the Red Canyon Ranger station for advice on where to go.
Please leave a comment below if you want to divulge some of your favorite Bryce Canyon campsites.
Once you’re done, you should also check out these free camping guides:
