Articles by Chuck Price — Page 2

LTVA Camping: BLM Long Term Visitor Area Permits, Fees and Rules

by Chuck Price | Sep 27, 2026 | Boondocking-Guide

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) runs seven Long Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in Arizona and California. A long-term permit costs $180 and covers September 15 to April 15, per the BLM La Posa LTVA page as of September 27, 2026. One permit works at all seven sites.

Last updated: September 27, 2026

Chuck Price has 35+ years of RV camping experience and owns a 2018 Hymer Aktiv Class B.

Land access, permits, road conditions, and site availability change. Verify all information with the relevant land management agency before your trip.

• Must-know: The LTVA permit is $180 for September 15 to April 15, or $40 for any 14 consecutive days, per BLM.
• Trip killers: Four LTVAs allow only self-contained units, and a port-a-potty does not count (2004 BLM supplementary rules). You may not collect wood inside an LTVA, or possess native firewood (mesquite, ironwood or palo verde) there.
• Best for: RVers who want one permit valid at all seven BLM LTVAs for the winter season (Recreation.gov).
• Confirm before you go: From April 16 to September 14 you may stay 14 days in any 28-day period, then must move beyond 25 miles.

What an LTVA is and who runs the seven sites

An LTVA is a BLM camping area set aside for long winter stays on public land. BLM established the program in 1983 “to meet the long-term camping needs of winter visitors staying on the public lands,” per a 2007 Federal Register notice. Three BLM field offices share the seven sites. If you are new to camping without hookups, start with our boondocking basics for beginners.

• Yuma Field Office: La Posa and Imperial Dam.
• El Centro Field Office: Tamarisk, Pilot Knob and Hot Springs.
• Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office: Mule Mountain and Midland.

The permit and decals are valid at all seven, per the Recreation.gov LTVA site pass page. A BLM brochure says permit holders may move from one LTVA to another without paying again (BLM LTVA brochure). The rules come from federal regulation 43 CFR 8365.1-6, which lets a BLM State Director set supplementary rules (eCFR, current as of September 24, 2026). LTVAs are different from national park campgrounds, which follow separate rules covered in our guide to boondocking rules in national parks.

LTVA permit cost for the 2026-27 season

The long-term LTVA permit costs $180 as of September 27, 2026. It covers continuous use from September 15 to April 15, a total of 7 months (Recreation.gov). For context on other trip costs, see what boondocking costs.

Long-term and short-visit permits

• Short-visit permit: $40 for any 14 consecutive day period, per the BLM La Posa page.
• BLM set the long-term fee at $180 in 2007 (Federal Register, September 25, 2007).
• The current rule text does not fix a dollar amount. It says users “must pay the cost of the fee indicated on the LTVA permit.”

The El Centro 4-week option

An $80 4-week stay appears only on the three El Centro Field Office LTVA pages. Hot Springs, Tamarisk and Pilot Knob list it.

The proposed fee increase

A $600 long-term fee is a proposal, not the current price. The Yuma Field Office’s September 2024 LTVA Draft Business Plan proposed $600 long-term and $200 short-term. The same plan proposed stretching the short-term permit from 14 to 30 days. The plan also proposed managing LTVA fees and permits separately by field office starting September 1, 2025. As of September 27, 2026, BLM LTVA pages still list $180, and Recreation.gov still sells one pass valid at all seven.

How to buy a permit and get your decal

An online LTVA purchase gives you a receipt, not a permit. You must exchange the printed receipt for a decal, per Recreation.gov. Receipts may not be redeemed for permits before September 15. If you arrive after hours, you may camp and exchange the pass the next morning. Hours below are as of September 27, 2026, and can change.

• Tyson Wash contact station at La Posa: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (Recreation.gov).
• Imperial LTVA contact station: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
• Yuma Field Office: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
• Hot Springs: campground hosts at the site or at Pilot Knob LTVA, Recreation.gov, or the El Centro Field Office weekdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (BLM Hot Springs page).

Put the decal on the bottom right-hand corner of the windshield of every transportation vehicle, per the 2004 BLM supplementary rules. Place one in a clearly visible spot on every camping unit. You may have no more than 2 secondary vehicles within the LTVA.

Self-containment: which LTVAs allow tents and non-self-contained rigs

Four LTVAs allow only self-contained camping units. The rule covers Pilot Knob, Midland, Tamarisk and Hot Springs under Section 17a of the 2004 BLM supplementary rules for Arizona and California LTVAs. Those rules were published February 2, 2004, and took effect March 3, 2004. La Posa, Imperial Dam and Mule Mountain allow non-self-contained units only within 500 feet of a vault toilet or restroom.

• A self-contained unit has a permanently affixed wastewater holding tank of at least 10 gallons (BLM, 2004 rules).
• BLM’s 2004 rules exclude “port-a-potty systems, or systems that utilize portable holding tanks, or permanent holding tanks of less than 10-gallon capacity.”
• Place all trash in designated receptacles, and never dump sewage, gray water or garbage on the ground (BLM, 2004 rules).

The seven LTVAs compared

The table uses only what BLM lists as of September 27, 2026. At all seven, Section 34 of the 2004 BLM rules limits off-season stays to 14 days in any 28-day period, then you must move beyond 25 miles. For stay limits on BLM land outside the LTVAs, see our guide to BLM dispersed camping rules. “Not listed by BLM” means the BLM page gives no figure, not that the feature is missing. Carry drinking water where BLM does not list water on site. For choosing a site within an LTVA, see picking a spot in a Class B.

Site notes

• To reach Imperial Dam, exit I-8 and take S-24 north about 22 miles to Senator Wash Road (BLM). BLM files the page under Arizona, and the Yuma office manages it.
• A November 27, 2024 BLM camp host notice places Coon Hollow campground within Mule Mountain LTVA. It puts the nearest services thirty miles away in Blythe.
• To reach Coon Hollow, take the Wiley’s Well Road exit from I-10, about 16 miles west of Blythe, drive south 12.1 miles, then turn right and drive west 0.5 mile (BLM Coon Hollow page). The first 2.9 miles are paved. The rest is graded dirt, which BLM says is likely to be seriously wash-boarded if it has not been graded within the previous two or three weeks.

Rules that can cost you your permit

An authorized BLM officer can revoke your LTVA permit if you violate any BLM rule or regulation, or if your conduct or that of your family, guests or pets is inconsistent with the goal of the LTVA program. Under Section 4 of the 2004 BLM supplementary rules, you must remove all your property and leave the LTVA system “within 12 hours of notice.” You also “may not enter any other LTVA in Arizona or California for the remainder of the LTVA season.” BLM does not reimburse the permit fee. These rules apply inside all Arizona and California LTVAs.

• Do not leave your unit unoccupied for more than 5 days unless an authorized BLM officer approves in advance (Sec. 5).
• Keep at least 15 feet between dwelling units.
• “Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.” Do not run a generator in a manner that makes unreasonable noise.
• Amplified music is allowed only at La Posa and Imperial Dam, only in BLM-designated locations and only when approved in advance.
• “Pets must be kept on a leash at all times.” Clean up after your pet, and note the rules warn about coyotes preying on pets.
• Violations may bring a fine under 18 U.S.C. 3571 or other penalties under 43 U.S.C. 1733.

Section 19 of the 2004 BLM rules says, “Do not collect wood within LTVAs.” It adds, “You may not possess native firewood (i.e., mesquite, ironwood, palo verde) within LTVAs.” The BLM Midland page says this includes downed wood.

LTVA camping in the off season

You can camp at LTVAs from April 16 to September 14, but a 14-day limit applies. Section 34 of the 2004 BLM rules allows 14 days in any 28-day period. After day 14, you must move outside a 25-mile radius of that LTVA. Off-season fees differ by site as of September 27, 2026.

• La Posa and Imperial Dam: $10 per vehicle for day use, $15 per vehicle overnight, or $75 a year per vehicle (BLM Imperial Dam page). Each vehicle fee covers up to 5 people, plus $1 for each extra person.
• Hot Springs, Tamarisk and Pilot Knob: 14 days of camping free (BLM Pilot Knob page).
• Midland: no cost. The Midland page also says you may stay only 14 days in any 28-day period (BLM Midland page).

Planning a longer summer trip means finding sites beyond the 25-mile radius. Our guide to finding dispersed sites covers that search. Free camping still has costs, which we cover in hidden costs of free RV parking.

Camping on Arizona State Trust land

Arizona State Trust land is not public land, and you need a permit to camp on it. This is an Arizona rule set by the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD), separate from BLM LTVA rules. Overnight camping is limited to 14 cumulative days per calendar year.

• Recreational permit fees: $15 individual or $20 family, covering 2 adults and children under 18 (ASLD fee schedule).
• Permits expire one year from the date of issue.
• Camp at least 1/4 mile from livestock or wildlife water (ASLD permit terms).
• Use a portable toilet or a covered slit trench for human waste.
• Drive only on existing roads and trails.

Field office contacts

Call the managing field office before you go, because fees, hours and site conditions change. Hours below are from BLM office pages as of September 27, 2026.

• Yuma Field Office (La Posa, Imperial Dam): 7341 E. 30th St., Yuma, AZ 85365, 928-317-3200, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday (BLM).
• El Centro Field Office (Hot Springs, Tamarisk, Pilot Knob): 1661 S. 4th Street, El Centro, CA 92243, 760-337-4400, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday (BLM).
• Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office (Midland, Mule Mountain): 1201 Bird Center Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, 760-833-7100, Public Room 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, closed federal holidays (BLM).

Frequently asked questions

How much is an LTVA permit?

As of September 27, 2026, BLM lists $180 for September 15 to April 15, or $40 for any 14 consecutive days. The El Centro LTVAs also list an $80 4-week stay.

Can I use one permit at every LTVA?

Yes. Recreation.gov says the permit and decals are valid at all seven BLM LTVAs. A BLM brochure says you may move between LTVAs without paying again.

Do I need a self-contained RV at an LTVA?

At Pilot Knob, Midland, Tamarisk and Hot Springs, yes. At La Posa, Imperial Dam and Mule Mountain, you may camp without one only within 500 feet of a vault toilet or restroom.

What counts as self-contained at an LTVA?

A permanently affixed wastewater holding tank of at least 10 gallons. Port-a-potties, portable holding tanks and permanent tanks under 10 gallons do not count.

Can I camp at an LTVA in summer?

Yes, from April 16 to September 14. La Posa and Imperial Dam charge $15 a night or $75 a year per vehicle. The El Centro LTVAs and Midland are free. You may stay 14 days in any 28-day period, then must move beyond 25 miles.

Can I gather firewood at an LTVA?

No. The 2004 BLM rules ban collecting wood inside LTVAs and possessing native firewood (mesquite, ironwood or palo verde) there.

Is the $600 LTVA fee in effect?

No. It was a proposal in the Yuma Field Office’s September 2024 draft business plan. Current BLM pages list $180 as of September 27, 2026.

Where do I get my LTVA decal after buying online?

Exchange the printed receipt at the Tyson Wash or Imperial contact stations, open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, or at the Yuma Field Office, open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. You cannot redeem a receipt before September 15.

Boondocking for Beginners: Where It Is Legal, What the Rules Say, and How to Find a Spot

by Chuck Price | Sep 26, 2026 | Boondocking-Guide

Boondocking means dispersed camping on U.S. public land away from developed campgrounds. Stay limits in the sources this guide checked run 14 to 16 days, some areas set shorter limits, and each agency or unit sets its own rules.

Last updated: September 26, 2026

Chuck Price has 35+ years of RV camping and travel experience and owns a 2018 Hymer Aktiv Class B. He has also been featured on CBC Radio’s Cost of Living.

Land access, permits, road conditions, and site availability change. Verify all information with the relevant land management agency before your trip. Conditions in remote areas can be hazardous. Assess your skill level and equipment before you camp off-grid. To budget a trip, see our boondocking cost breakdown.

Quick answer

• Must-know: Most BLM land allows dispersed camping unless posted closed or restricted, generally for 14 days in any 28-day period (BLM).
• Trip killers: National park rules prohibit camping outside designated sites or areas (36 CFR 2.10).
• Best for: Campers who can go without piped water, toilets or trash removal, which dispersed sites do not provide (USDA Forest Service).
• Confirm before you go: BLM says rules vary by state or local area, so follow posted signs and check with your local BLM office.

What is boondocking?

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) states, “Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is called dispersed camping.” The Forest Service’s Pacific Southwest Region describes it as camping anywhere in a national forest outside a designated campground (USFS Region 5). The same region says dispersed camping means no services, such as piped water, toilets or trash removal. This guide covers four kinds of federal land: BLM land, national forests, national parks and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes. Private land and state land are outside its scope.

Where boondocking is legal on U.S. public lands

Most BLM land allows dispersed camping unless an area is posted “Closed to Camping” or has specific restrictions (BLM). BLM manages 245 million acres of public lands, which the agency says is one in ten acres in the country (BLM). The Forest Service manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands (USDA Forest Service). The agency that manages the land sets where and how long you can camp. BLM’s camping page says, “Rules can vary by state or local area, so always comply with posted signs and verify specifics with your local BLM office.”

BLM land

Federal regulation 43 CFR 8365.1-2 bars camping “longer than the period of time permitted by the authorized officer.” The regulation sets no fixed number of days.

BLM’s camping page says dispersed camping is generally limited to 14 days within any 28-day period, and that specific stay limits vary by state and field office (BLM). After you reach the limit, BLM says you must move to a new location, often at least 25 to 30 miles away. Snowbirds should look at LTVA camping in Arizona and California for cheap winter stays.

National forests

Dispersed camping stay limits vary by forest and region. The Forest Service’s Intermountain Region says campers “may camp in a dispersed area for a limited number of days set by the forest” (USFS Region 4, updated July 15, 2026). In California, the Pacific Southwest Region says the limit is usually 14 days, and some national forest areas limit it further (USFS Region 5, updated January 27, 2026). Region 5 says to check with the nearest District Office.

Three forest examples show how much the rules vary:

• San Juan National Forest (Colorado): up to 16 days, then move at least 5 road miles (San Juan NF, updated May 2, 2025). Keep your campsite within 150 feet of a roadway and outside a one-mile perimeter from campgrounds.
• Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (Arizona): no more than 14 days in a 30-day period, then move off the forest for at least 16 days (Apache-Sitgreaves NFs, updated September 22, 2025). Camp within 300 feet of a roadway. Dispersed camping is generally prohibited within one mile of developed campgrounds.
• Coronado National Forest (Arizona): dispersed, primitive camping is allowed across most of the forest for free (Coronado NF, updated May 5, 2026).

Where you may drive to camp is defined on each forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM), per USFS Region 4.

National parks

National parks allow camping only in designated sites or areas. Federal regulation 36 CFR 2.10 prohibits “Camping outside of designated sites or areas.” The same rule lets the superintendent require permits, designate sites or areas, and set conditions for camping. That eCFR text is current as of September 24, 2026.

Death Valley National Park allows roadside vehicle camping “along dirt roads at least one mile down the road from the junction with any paved road or ‘day use only’ dirt road” (Death Valley NP, updated April 16, 2025). Most Death Valley roadside camping is free, and the park recommends a free permit. Roadside camping at Echo Canyon, Hole in the Wall, Cottonwood/Marble Canyons and Greenwater Valley requires a $10 per night permit, reserved online only through Recreation.gov up to 6 months ahead. For park-by-park detail, see whether you can boondock in national parks.

Army Corps of Engineers lakes

At U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects, federal regulation 36 CFR 327.7 states, “Camping is permitted only at sites and/or areas designated by the District Commander.” The same rule prohibits camping more than 14 days in any 30-consecutive-day period at one project without the District Commander’s written permission.

From the author: In 35+ years of camping, I have never had ranger contact.

Stay limits at a glance

Dispersed camping stay limits in the sources checked for this guide run from 14 to 16 days, and the Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region says some areas are shorter. The move rules differ: BLM says often at least 25 to 30 miles, San Juan National Forest says at least 5 road miles, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests say to move off the forest for at least 16 days.

How far to camp from water

No single federal distance-from-water rule for dispersed camping turned up in the sources checked for this guide. Each agency or unit publishes its own number. The published figures range from 100 feet to more than 100 yards. Use the number for the unit where you camp, and check it before you go.

• BLM recommends you “Stay at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers, and streams to protect water quality,” as a best practice (BLM).
• The Forest Service Intermountain Region asks you to place your campsite at least 200 feet from any stream or other water source (USFS Region 4).
• The Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region (California) asks you to place your campsite at least 150 feet from any stream or other water source (USFS Region 5).
• San Juan National Forest asks you to place your campsite at least 100 feet from any stream or other water source (San Juan NF).
• Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests ask you to place your campsite at least 100 feet from any stream or other water source (Apache-Sitgreaves NFs).
• Death Valley National Park requires campsites more than 100 yards from any water source (Death Valley NP).

How to find boondocking spots

Start with the managing agency’s own maps. Apps can point you to candidate spots, but an app listing is not an agency rule. Check any spot against the agency map and posted signs before you stay.

Agency maps

• BLM’s maps page offers the National Data map viewer, a BLM Recreation Opportunities Interactive Map and georeferenced PDF maps (BLM Maps).
• Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) show designated roads, trails and areas for motor vehicle use (USFS Maps). MVUMs are free, and you can print them from forest websites.
• Coronado National Forest’s MVUM shows its dispersed camping corridors (Coronado NF).

Satellite scouting with Google Maps

Our guide to finding dispersed sites with Google Maps walks through satellite scouting step by step. Confirm any spot you find this way against the MVUM or BLM map and posted signs.

For choosing a site once you arrive, see how to choose a camping spot for a Class B RV.

Boondocking apps compared

Prices change, so check the app for current pricing.

Leave No Trace, waste and fire

Leave No Trace publishes seven principles that it says “give you a simple way to think about your impact and how to reduce it” (Leave No Trace). They are guidance, not agency regulations. Agency fire rules are separate and vary by season, state and forest. The seven principles are:

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Others

BLM’s guidance for dispersed campers is “Pack It In, Pack It Out” (BLM). For human waste, BLM says, “If possible, use a portable toilet or pack out your waste.” BLM also says to camp in spots that are already disturbed to protect plants and soil.

BLM says fire restrictions can vary throughout the year, so check current regulations before you go (BLM). San Juan National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests allow campfires unless fire restrictions are in effect (San Juan NF, Apache-Sitgreaves NFs). In California, the Pacific Southwest Region requires a free campfire permit year-round for campfires, charcoal barbecues, gas stoves and lanterns outside developed recreation areas (USFS Region 5). This is a California rule from the Pacific Southwest Region page, not a national one.

Bear and wildlife safety

The National Park Service (NPS) says to identify yourself to a bear by “talking calmly so the bear knows you are a human” (NPS, updated September 8, 2025). This is NPS bear encounter guidance, so also follow any local rules posted where you camp. NPS lists these steps:

• Do not run. If the bear follows, stop and hold your ground.
• “Do not make any loud noises or screams.”
• If the bear is stationary, move away slowly and sideways.
• Pick up small children immediately.
• “Do NOT allow the bear access to your food.”

Have a backup plan

Pick more than one possible campsite before you set out, in case your first choice is occupied, closed or posted. Check each option against the agency map and its stay limit. Our guide to interstate rest areas covers what to check before you plan a night at one. For other low-cost overnight options and their trade-offs, see the hidden costs of free RV parking.

Before you leave, check the website or call the BLM field office, forest ranger district or park that manages your destination for current stay limits, closures and fire restrictions.

If hunting is part of your public-land trip, use our guide to hunting from an RV basecamp to plan legal access, campsite separation, secure transport and game-meat storage.

Frequently asked questions

What is boondocking?

Boondocking is camping on public land away from developed recreation facilities, which the Bureau of Land Management calls dispersed camping. The USDA Forest Service says dispersed camping means no services, such as piped water, toilets or trash removal. BLM asks you to pack out what you bring and, if possible, to use a portable toilet or pack out your waste.

How long can you camp on BLM land?

Federal regulation 43 CFR 8365.1-2 leaves the limit to the BLM authorized officer and sets no fixed number of days. BLM says dispersed camping is generally limited to 14 days within any 28-day period, then you move, often at least 25 to 30 miles away. As of September 2026, verify with the local BLM office before you go.

How long can you dispersed camp in a national forest?

Limits vary by forest and region. San Juan National Forest in Colorado allows up to 16 days, then a move of at least 5 road miles. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona allow no more than 14 days in a 30-day period, then you must move off the forest for at least 16 days. As of September 2026, verify the limit with the forest’s district office before you go.

Can you boondock in a national park?

Only in designated sites or areas. Federal regulation 36 CFR 2.10 prohibits camping outside them and lets each superintendent designate sites or areas. Death Valley National Park allows roadside vehicle camping on dirt roads at least one mile from the junction with any paved road or day-use-only dirt road. As of September 2026, check the park website before you go.

How far from water should you camp?

It depends on the land unit. BLM recommends at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers and streams. San Juan and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests ask for at least 100 feet, and the Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region in California asks for at least 150 feet. Death Valley National Park requires more than 100 yards. No single federal rule turned up in the sources checked for this guide. As of September 2026, verify the rule where you camp.

How do I find legal boondocking spots?

Start with agency maps, such as BLM’s interactive and PDF maps and the free Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Map for your forest. Then cross-check apps such as The Dyrt, Campendium, iOverlander or AllStays. An app listing is not an agency rule. Confirm each spot against the agency map and posted signs before you stay.

What should I do if I see a bear?

The National Park Service says to identify yourself by talking calmly so the bear knows you are a human. Do not run, and if the bear follows, stop and hold your ground. Do not make any loud noises or screams. Pick up small children immediately, and if the bear is stationary, move away slowly and sideways. Do not allow the bear access to your food.

How Much Does Boondocking Really Cost? Sourced Prices for Every Category

by Chuck Price | Sep 26, 2026 | Boondocking-Guide

Last updated: September 26, 2026

Chuck Price has 35+ years of RV camping experience and owns a 2018 Hymer Aktiv Class B.

Most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land allows dispersed camping, and BLM’s camping page names fees only for some developed campgrounds. BLM generally limits dispersed stays to 14 days in any 28-day period. Your real boondocking costs are fuel, food, power gear, memberships and mail. Every price below was checked September 26, 2026, and prices change.

• Must-know: In the one-month example below, USDA moderate-cost food is $776.60 of the $819.73 total.
• Trip killers: U.S. diesel averaged $6.529 a gallon for the week of September 21, 2026, per the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). BLM stay limits vary by state and field office, and when you hit one you must move, often at least 25 to 30 miles away (BLM).
• Best for: Self-contained rigs, since Midland Long-Term Visitor Area requires campers to be “100% self-contained for waste and gray water” (BLM Midland LTVA).
• Confirm before you go: Contact the BLM field office or Forest Service ranger station, because stay limits vary by field office. The USDA Forest Service says “It’s always best to call ahead.”

What does it cost to camp when you boondock?

BLM allows dispersed camping on most of its land unless an area is posted “Closed to Camping” or has specific restrictions, and it is generally limited to 14 days in 28. BLM states that “Dispersed camping is generally limited to 14 days within any 28-day period, though specific stay limits vary by state and field office.” After you reach the limit, BLM says you must move, often at least 25 to 30 miles away. These rules cover BLM and Forest Service land only, as of September 26, 2026. Land access, permits, road conditions, and site availability change, so confirm with the field office or ranger station before your trip.

• Most BLM areas need no permit or reservation, but some regions require permits for large groups or campfires, such as the California Campfire Permit.
• Some BLM campgrounds charge a fee, and BLM does not list one amount for all of them.
• USDA Forest Service dispersed camping “is usually permit-free and fee-free,” but heavily used areas may require a permit and fee (USDA Forest Service).
• Where the Forest Service needs a permit, you get it from the ranger station or Recreation.gov.

To find no-fee spots, see how to find free dispersed sites with Google Maps. National parks follow different rules, covered in boondocking rules in national parks. For site selection in a smaller rig, read choosing a camping spot for a Class B RV.

Long-Term Visitor Areas

BLM runs Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in California and Arizona where winter visitors may camp up to seven consecutive months with a permit (BLM). At Midland LTVA in California, the long-term permit costs $180 for 7 months and the short-term permit costs $40 for 1 to 14 consecutive days (BLM Midland LTVA). Midland requires permits from September 15 to April 15. La Posa LTVA in Arizona charges the same $180 long-term and $40 short-visit prices for September 15 to April 15 (BLM La Posa LTVA). Spread over 7 months, the $180 permit works out to $180 / 7 = $25.71 a month. The $40 short-visit permit works out to $40 / 14 = $2.86 a day.

Off-season rules differ by site, so no single summer rule covers every LTVA. From April 16 to September 14, Midland allows camping “at no cost, but the standard 14 day limit applies” (BLM Midland LTVA). In the same window, La Posa charges $10 per vehicle for day use and $15 per vehicle a night or $75 a year to camp (BLM La Posa LTVA). La Posa’s off-season limit is 14 days in a 28-day period, with $1 per extra guest beyond five.

Midland offers trash disposal and a dump station, and it does not provide vault toilets (BLM Midland LTVA). La Posa lists 10 ADA accessible vault toilets, 8 water faucets, a dry dump station, a dump station with water and trash services (BLM La Posa LTVA). Neither page lists a separate fee for water or dumping.

How much will fuel cost?

EIA put U.S. on-highway diesel at $6.529 a gallon for the week of September 21, 2026 (EIA Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update). EIA listed U.S. regular gasoline at $4.478 the same week. Diesel rose $0.244 and regular gas rose $0.159 from the week before. These are weekly retail averages, and the next EIA release is scheduled for September 29, 2026. Diesel cost $6.529 – $4.478 = $2.051 a gallon more than regular gas that week.

This guide found no source for RV fuel economy, so use your own miles per gallon (MPG). Monthly fuel cost = miles driven / your MPG x the EIA price per gallon for your region. Across EIA’s regions, diesel ran from $6.139 in the Lower Atlantic to $7.456 on the West Coast, and regular gas ran from $3.972 on the Gulf Coast to $5.600 on the West Coast (EIA). EIA also reports California on its own, at $6.003 for regular and $8.246 for diesel.

How much should you budget for food?

Using USDA’s Official Food Plans and its 2-person adjustment, groceries for a couple aged 19 to 70 come to $624.47 to $1,006.50 a month, depending on plan and age. The figures are U.S. average costs of food at home for August 2026, from the USDA Cost of Food at Home report. USDA’s individual figures assume a 4-person household, and USDA says to “add 10 percent” for a 2-person household. Each couple figure below adds the two individual amounts and multiplies by 1.10. We answer whether full-time RV living is cheaper than a house with a line-item budget.

The individual inputs are male and female figures from the same USDA report. A single traveler adds 20 percent to one individual figure instead, per USDA.

What does solar and battery power cost up front?

A basic solar and lithium battery parts list priced at $1,174.26 on September 26, 2026. That total covers one panel, one controller, one battery, one inverter and one monitor, at prices the makers and one retailer listed that day, including LiTime’s sale price. It excludes wiring, fuses, mounting and installation, which no source here prices, and it does not size a system for your loads. Prices change often, and Renogy “from” prices are the lowest variant on each collection page. For system design, read the RV solar power guide.

• Panels: Renogy’s 200W N-Type rigid panel starts at $179.99, and its 200W flexible panel starts at $311.99 (Renogy solar panels).
• Charge controllers: Renogy’s pulse width modulation (PWM) controllers run $32.99 to $82.99 (Renogy charge controllers). Its maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers start at $87.99 for the Rover Li 20/30/40A, $249.99 for the Rover Lite 60A and $399.99 for the Rover 60A.
• Inverters: Renogy’s 12V pure sine P2 inverters cost $175.99 for 1000W and start at $285.99 for 2000W (Renogy inverters). Its Pro inverters with Bluetooth start at $222.99, $333.99 and $455.99 for 1000W, 2000W and 3000W.
• Battery monitor: a Victron SmartShunt 500A/50mV listed at $100.30 at the retailer solar-electric.com.
• Generator: Honda lists the EU2200i at a $1,199 manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), with 2200W max and 1800W rated output (Honda EU2200i). Honda rates it at 3.2 hours at rated load and 8.1 hours at 1/4 load on a 0.95-gallon tank.

Lithium vs AGM cost per usable amp-hour

The Renogy 12V 100Ah absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery costs $208.99, but Renogy advises not discharging it below 50%. Renogy rates it for 500 cycles at 50% depth of discharge (DOD). At 50 usable amp-hours (Ah), that is $208.99 / 50 = $4.18 per usable Ah. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries cost $3.15 to $9.49 per rated Ah across two brands on the check date. Cycle ratings come from each maker and are not tested here.

Example parts list

Example only, prices checked September 26, 2026. Wiring, fuses, mounting and installation are excluded.

1. Renogy 200W rigid panel: $179.99
2. Renogy Rover Li MPPT controller, from $87.99
3. LiTime 12V 200Ah battery (sale): $629.99
4. Renogy P2 1000W inverter: $175.99
5. Victron SmartShunt: $100.30

Math: $179.99 + $87.99 + $629.99 + $175.99 + $100.30 = $1,174.26. Adding a Honda EU2200i at $1,199 MSRP brings the total to $2,373.26.

Memberships, mail and health coverage

Harvest Hosts and RV Overnights charge a yearly fee for overnight stays, and these prices were checked September 26, 2026. Harvest Hosts says most stays are one night, though many hosts offer extra nights up to four total. Confirm current details at each company’s site before you pay.

• Harvest Hosts Classic: $99.00 a year, or $99 / 12 = $8.25 a month, and $84.15 on sale when checked.
• Harvest Hosts + Boondockers Welcome: $169.00 a year, $143.65 on sale.
• Harvest Hosts All Access: $179.00 a year, $152.15 on sale. All Access includes an Escapees RV Club membership that Harvest Hosts values at $49.95.
• Harvest Hosts plans list “No Camping Fees.”
• RV Overnights: $49.99 a year for a new 12-month membership, or $49.99 / 12 = $4.17 a month (RV Overnights membership). RV Overnights lists 1,450+ locations in the U.S. and Canada for one-night stays.
• RV Overnights gives military, veterans, retirees, first responders and Family RV Association members 40% off, at $29.99 a year (RV Overnights Help Center). It says “The rate you join at is your rate for life, as long as your membership stays active.”

For how the two clubs now connect, see Harvest Hosts and Escapees.

Mail forwarding

Escapees Mail Service Category A, covering all mail types, costs $110 a year (Escapees Mail Service rates). Category B costs $130, Category C costs $150 and Business costs $175. Temporary Category A service costs $40 for 2 months, $50 for 3, $60 for 4 and $70 for 6. Mail scanning, to view and manage mail online, costs $10 a month or $100 a year, discounted from $120. New accounts normally pay a $50 one-time enrollment fee and a $50 postage deposit. When checked, a promotion waived the $50 enrollment fee for new subscribers, and Escapees says it “may end or change at any time without notice.” Without the promotion, year one of Category A comes to $110 + $50 = $160 in fees, or $210 paid up front with the deposit. With it, you pay $110 + $50 deposit = $160 up front. The $110 plan equals $110 / 12 = $9.17 a month. The service is available only to Escapees members, and the membership price is not on the rates page.

Health coverage

KFF puts the 2026 U.S. average marketplace benchmark premium at $625 a month, up from $497 in 2025 (KFF benchmark premiums). KFF defines that figure as the second-lowest-cost silver premium for a 40-year-old, weighted by county plan selections. It is a pre-subsidy price for one person, not a couple’s cost. KFF explains that “The premium tax credit works by limiting the amount an individual must contribute toward the premium for the ‘benchmark’ plan.” Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), premiums can vary by location, family size, tobacco use and age, with older adults charged no more than three times younger adults (KFF Health Policy 101). Plan options are covered in health insurance for RVers.

Example: sourced fixed costs for one month

Example: sourced fixed costs for a couple aged 51-70, one month at an LTVA in season, total $819.73. Every input comes from the sections above. Nobody reported this budget, and it is arithmetic on published prices, not a record of real spending. It applies to a Midland or La Posa long-term permit between September 15 and April 15.

• LTVA long-term permit: $180 / 7 = $25.71
• USDA moderate-cost food, couple aged 51-70: $776.60
• Escapees Mail Service Category A: $110 / 12 = $9.17
• Harvest Hosts Classic at regular price: $99 / 12 = $8.25

Math: $25.71 + $776.60 + $9.17 + $8.25 = $819.73 a month. The example excludes fuel, propane, vehicle insurance, internet, maintenance, repairs, health coverage and Escapees dues. The expenses free camping still brings are covered in hidden costs of free RV parking.

Costs this guide cannot price for you

Some real costs have no current source that gives a usable number, so this guide gives no figure for them. Price these yourself before you set a budget.

• Vehicle insurance, registration and domicile costs.
• Internet and cell plans.
• Maintenance, repairs and an emergency fund.
• Dump and water fees at sites other than the two LTVAs above.
• Developed campground and RV park nightly rates.
• Propane use. Propane cost = gallons used x your local price. EIA’s U.S. average residential propane price was $2.674 a gallon on March 30, 2026 (EIA Heating Oil and Propane Update). That is a heating-season residential price, not a campground fill price. EIA collects weekly propane prices only from October through March.

Your next step: before you camp, call the BLM field office or Forest Service ranger station for the area to confirm stay limits, permits and fees (USDA Forest Service). Conditions in remote areas can be hazardous. Assess your skill level and equipment before you go.

Frequently asked questions

How much does boondocking cost per month?

No single figure applies to everyone. Most BLM land allows dispersed camping, and BLM names fees only for some developed campgrounds. One sourced example for a couple aged 51-70 at an LTVA, with USDA moderate food, Escapees mail and Harvest Hosts Classic, comes to $819.73 a month before fuel, insurance, internet and repairs. Prices were checked September 26, 2026.

Is boondocking really free?

The USDA Forest Service says dispersed camping “is usually permit-free and fee-free,” but busy areas may need a permit and fee. BLM allows dispersed camping on most of its land, names fees only for some developed campgrounds and generally limits stays to 14 days in 28. Rules were checked September 26, 2026. Call the field office or ranger station before you go.

How much does an LTVA permit cost?

At the Midland and La Posa Long-Term Visitor Areas, BLM charges $180 for a long-term permit covering September 15 to April 15. A short-visit permit costs $40 for 14 consecutive days. Off-season rules differ, with Midland free under a 14-day limit and La Posa at $15 a night or $75 a year. Checked September 26, 2026, so verify before departure.

How much is diesel for an RV right now?

The EIA U.S. average for on-highway diesel was $6.529 a gallon for the week of September 21, 2026. Regular gasoline averaged $4.478 that week. Among EIA’s regions, West Coast diesel was highest at $7.456 and Lower Atlantic was lowest at $6.139, while California, reported separately, was $8.246. EIA publishes new prices every week.

How much should a couple budget for groceries?

USDA’s August 2026 moderate-cost food plan works out to $776.60 a month for a couple aged 51-70. For a couple aged 19-50 it works out to $807.62. Both figures include USDA’s 10 percent adjustment for a 2-person household. They are U.S. averages from USDA’s Cost of Food at Home report.

What does a basic solar setup cost?

One example parts list priced September 26, 2026 totals $1,174.26. It includes a Renogy 200W panel, a Renogy MPPT controller, a LiTime 200Ah lithium battery, a Renogy 1000W inverter and a Victron SmartShunt. Wiring and installation are extra. A Honda EU2200i generator adds $1,199 MSRP.

Is lithium worth it over AGM?

On price per usable amp-hour, Renogy’s 100Ah AGM costs $4.18 when used to 50% depth of discharge. LiTime’s 200Ah lithium battery costs $3.15 to $4.60 per amp-hour, and Battle Born costs $7.99 to $9.49. The makers rate the AGM at 500 cycles at 50% depth of discharge, LiTime at 6,000+ cycles at 100% and Battle Born at 3,000 to 5,000 cycles. Prices were checked September 26, 2026.

How much do Harvest Hosts and RV Overnights cost?

Harvest Hosts Classic costs $99 a year at regular price, and it was $84.15 on sale when checked. RV Overnights costs $49.99 a year for new members. Military, veterans, retirees, first responders and Family RV Association members pay $29.99. Prices were checked September 26, 2026. Confirm current details at each company’s site.