Recommendations for Dry Camping from an RV

Why is dry camping often made easier with the use of an RV or similar vehicle, and which areas should you be paying attention to?

There are a number of different approaches people may take when camping or otherwise enjoying the great outdoors, and one such approach is known as "dry camping," or boondocking. This refers to a form of camping where you don't use any water, electricity or sewer hookups of any kind, and people do it for a combination of conservation and enjoyment reasons.

At Campers RV Center, we're happy to offer a wide range of RVs, toy haulers, travel trailers and related items -- many of which can be put to great use when dry camping or taking any kind of similar approach. Here are some simple tips we can offer on dry camping with the use of an RV or similar vehicle to assist you.

Bring Fresh Water Tanks

One of the simplest parts of dry camping, and which an RV or similar vehicle makes much easier, is to bring fresh water tanks and drinking water with you. The fresh water tanks can be filled up at an RV center, or you may have a place where you can fill them up on the road before heading out. Either way, this will allow you to stay hydrated during your time in the great outdoors.

Be sure to plan out your precise water needs, and then to overestimate them slightly, to account for any variation. You'll also want to bring extra water in the case of an emergency, such as if you use too much water or need to replenish supplies in the event that you become separated from your vehicle.

Bring Other Portable Water Containers

It's important not to forget about other potential water needs, either. This can include things like bathing, cooking and cleaning up after meals. It's often a good idea to bring along portable containers of water for these purposes, which you can fill up at an RV center or similar location.

Check if Generators Are Allowed

Depending on the campground you're visiting, you may need to check with management about whether or not generator use is allowed. In some cases, generators may be restricted due to noise and other issues. Even if this is the case at your chosen location, it's usually possible to find some places where they're permitted without issue.

If you're camping in a non-campground location, this may not be an issue. However, if you're going to a campground where generators are restricted, it's a good idea to have backup power supplies available -- such as solar panels or other equipment that can recharge batteries for less noise than a generator would produce.

Generator Etiquette

If generators are allowed for use at your chosen dry camping campground, it's important to be sure you follow appropriate etiquette. This can include keeping the generator quiet and using it only when necessary. It may also mean refilling any diesel tanks at a fueling station rather than attempting to refill them on-site with water from an RV center or other source.

Fill Propane Tanks at Home

For many, though, the goal of dry camping is to actually remove any need for a generator. One of the best ways to do this is by bringing propane tanks that can be used for heating, cooking and other needs. You'll want to ensure that you've filled these up before heading out as well, so they're ready when you need them.

It's also important to note that some campgrounds may have restrictions on propane use that other types of fuels or generators do not. In these cases, it's often possible to find quiet alternatives -- such as a solar cooker or heated blankets -- that can provide much of the same functionality with less noise.

Consider Solar Power Generation

Solar power is becoming more and more mainstream in today's society, and it can be a great option for dry camping as well. This is especially the case if you plan to camp in a location that doesn't allow generators or other noisy power sources. Whether it's just one panel to trickle charge batteries or an entire mobile solar generator unit, this can provide you with the power you need.

And with an RV or similar vehicle, it's easy to bring along all of the equipment you'll need for solar power generation. Just be sure to place it in a location where you can easily access it when needed and store it safely when not in use.

Don't Empty Dirty Water on Campgrounds

When dry camping, you may build up a supply of gray or black water from things like bathing, cooking and cleaning up after meals. In many cases, these can be emptied out at an RV center or other location that may provide this service for a fee. However, you'll want to be sure that you don't empty your gray water tank on a campground where it's not allowed -- as doing so can create issues for the environment.

This isn't just a rules issue, but also a consideration issue. You also shouldn't be dumping dirty water in locations where it's not going to get cleaned up properly, as this can leave a negative impression of the entire RV community.

Learn About State and Federal Laws

Finally, it's also important to make sure you're not breaking any local, state or federal laws when it comes to dry camping. This can include rules about where you're allowed to camp, how long you can stay in a given location and other considerations.

The best way to ensure that you don't run into any issues is by doing your homework before you head out on your trip. This can include learning about any rules at the campgrounds you plan to visit and also considering how to best deal with waste management.

For more on how to go about dry camping with the use of an RV, or to learn about any of our RVs or other vehicle and trailer options or our fantastic service department for all vehicles, speak to our team at Campers RV Center today.