Renegade camping, dispersed camping, or boondocking — whatever the moniker, when you really, really want to get away from it all, going off the grid could be your best bet. Survival skills? Check. Being able to live without your cell phone? Well… Come on! You can update your Instagram when you get home. What might the wildman (or wildwoman) in you expect when it comes to this ultimate version of roughing it?
No electricity, no running water, no nothing, just you and the great outdoors. Be realistic about your skills and ability to cope on your own. You will be far from help, and from the local convenience store. You may have to hike to get to the best spot so pack wisely and efficiently. You’ll need staples like clean water and clothes for wet or cold weather but only bring what you can carry. Do your homework on the location you’re heading in to so you know what to expect as far as climate, environment, and wildlife.
How do you find these places? Check with the Bureau of Land Management, for one. They manage all the public lands, which are almost always free and open to campers unless otherwise specified. Some private land owners will allow campers access to their land but ask first. Don’t assume or go by what you heard second hand. Sometimes you can find the best places by just wandering. Head into a National Forest (which may have an entrance fee) and just keep driving till the road ends. Then keep hiking till you find that magic spot to call your own. Abandoned rail lines are another place to explore and can be accessible by car or truck.
Finally, practice leaving no trace behind. When you head back into the real world, there should be no evidence left that you were there. Keep a clean campsite and take away everything you brought in. One important tip: tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Plan, prepare, pack; then enjoy a one-of-a-kind escape into the quiet of nature.
Featured Image from Liam Simpson/Unsplash
