Dispersed camping, also known as primitive or backcountry camping, refers to camping outside of designated campgrounds in more natural settings. It provides solitude away from crowds but requires more preparation and leave-no-trace practices. Follow this step-by-step guide to dispersed camping done right.
What is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping involves:
- Camping anywhere allowed on public lands without facilities.
- Avoiding developed campgrounds and RV parks.
- Being self-sufficient with your water, waste, and equipment.
- Adhering to the principles of Leave No Trace.
- Being farther from roads and other groups.
- Immersing yourself in nature away from crowds.
- Minimal or no fees since no amenities are provided.
Benefits of Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping offers:
- Solitude and privacy from other groups.
- Quiet time to enjoy nature without noise.
- Proximity to trails and attractions.
- Flexibility in choosing ideal campsites.
- Freedom from reservations and campground rules.
- No competition for first-come sites.
- Connection with the outdoor environment.
Drawbacks of Dispersed Camping
Potential downsides include:
- No restroom facilities nearby.
- No picnic tables, fire rings, or potable water.
- Possible greater wildlife encounters.
- Fewer safety staff and fellow campers nearby.
- Need to be self-reliant for all supplies.
- Access roads may be rougher requiring high clearance.
- Sites are not maintained or cleaned regularly.
Where Dispersed Camping is Allowed
You can disperse camp on many public lands including:
- National Forests – The most popular option with plentiful sites.
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands – Vast spaces across the western states especially.
- National Grasslands – Wide open plains offer seclusion.
- State Forests and Public Lands – May need to check specific regulations.
Always confirm that dispersed camping is permitted before selecting a site.
Finding Dispersed Camping Locations
Use these tactics to pinpoint ideal dispersed sites:
- Check agency websites for maps, tips, and restrictions.
- Talk to ranger stations for recommendations.
- Use GPS apps and print topo maps to scope potential areas.
- Search free campsite directories like freecampsites.net and campendium.com.
- Drive forest service roads looking for turnouts and spurs with existing sites.
- Maximize distance from high-use areas and attractions.
- Scout ideal spots on foot if needed.
How to Select the Best Dispersed Campsite
Look for a site that:
- Is at least 200 feet from water sources.
- Has existing fire rings and areas to pitch tents.
- Is level and free of hazards like dead trees and rocks.
- Allows adequate turnaround space for your vehicle.
- Has screening from roads or other sites.
- Offers pleasing views and access to trails.
- Shows no signs of excessive previous use.
- Is hardened from use but not overused.
- Feels secluded and immersed in nature.
Dispersed Camping Etiquette
Practice low-impact camping ethics:
- Stick to established sites to avoid expanding disturbance.
- Avoid loud noises and bright lights to respect others’ solitude.
- Leave the area cleaner than you found it.
- Protect wildlife by properly disposing of all food and trash.
- If camping repeatedly in one spot, rotate specific tent sites to prevent permanent impact.
- Consider camping at least 1 mile off main roads and trails when possible.
- Follow all posted regulations to keep dispersed camping allowed.
Pack List for Dispersed Camping
Since amenities are not provided, pack:
- Tent, sleeping bags, pads
- Enough water and food
- Stove and cookware
- Firewood if fires allowed or backpacking stove
- Trowel and TP to properly dispose of waste
- Flashlight, lantern, headlamp
- Maps and GPS or orienteering skills
- First aid kit and insect repellent
- Tools for minor repairs
- Biodegradable soap
- Garbage bags for packed-out trash
Setting Up Your Dispersed Tent Site
When establishing your dispersed camp:
- Park vehicles and RVs on durable surfaces avoiding vegetation.
- Set up tents on existing clear areas minimizing disturbance.
- Organize shared kitchen areas on hardened sites free of debris.
- Use existing established fire rings if building a fire.
- Situate the latrine at least 200 feet from water sources.
- String clotheslines and hammocks from trees without damaging them.
- Plan with backups if natural features like tree limbs are not available.
Building a Dispersed Campfire
If fires are allowed, build them responsibly:
- Gather only downed wood or purchase firewood locally to reduce ecological impact.
- Keep fires small using techniques like flue-style stacking.
- Burn all wood fully to ash and put it out completely when finished.
- Avoid building new fire rings unless necessary. Use established ones.
- Never leave a fire unattended or before it is dead out.
- Consider using portable stoves to eliminate the need for fires.
Dispersed Camping Safety Tips
When camping outside of developed campgrounds, take extra precautions:
- Tell someone your precise plans and expected return time.
- Study maps beforehand and have a backup navigation method like GPS or compass.
- Bring extra lights – a flashlight, lantern, and headlamp.
- Keep the first aid kit accessible and know basic first aid protocols.
- Always have a knife, rope, and basic tools available.
- Operate stoves and lanterns cautiously.
- Watch out for both large (bears, mountain lions) and small (snakes, scorpions) wildlife.
- Store all food and scented items properly out of animal reach.
Leaving No Trace Dispersed Camping
To minimize your dispersed camping impact:
- Pack out ALL trash – no burying or burning.
- Properly dispose of human waste at least 200 feet from water and camp.
- Use biodegradable soap.
- Scatter wash water to disperse it.
- Avoid collecting natural items like antlers or rocks.
- Leave vegetation, rocks, and terrain undisturbed.
- Remove all gear and debris – no gear stashes for future trips.
- Never litter. Pick up and pack out any trash left by others.
- Follow all principles of Leave No Trace at all times.
Criteria for Selecting Dispersed Campsites
| Factor | Ideal Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Location | 200+ feet from water and trails
1+ mile from main roads Hidden from view |
| Terrain | Flat or gently sloping
Dry with good drainage Hardened durable surface |
| Hazards | None nearby – dead trees, rocks, overhangs, etc
Out of flood zones and avalanche paths |
| Existing Signs of Use | Old fire rings
Flat tent sites Limited high-impact areas |
| Natural Features | Screening vegetation or terrain
Soil supports cat holes Suitable trees for hanging food and gear |
| Views | Pleasing views without being too exposed
Viewsheds free of development |
| Wildlife Signs | None in the immediate area like ant hills, dens, nests |
| Access | Allows vehicle pull-off and turnaround
Does not require vegetation clearing |
| Regulations | Allowed on agency land
Outside restricted areas like meadows |
FAQs About Dispersed Camping
Q: Is dispersed camping free?
A: Yes, since no facilities are provided, dispersed camping on public lands is generally free. But you may need an agency pass for general access.
Q: Is dispersed camping safe?
A: It can be as long as you prepare well, pay attention to hazards, and follow safety protocols like telling others your plan.
Q: What is the difference between dispersed and primitive camping?
A: They are generally interchangeable terms both referring to unofficial camping outside of developed areas.
Q: Can you disperse camp anywhere?
A: No, it’s limited to certain public lands and restrictions may apply to certain areas within them. Always check regulations.
Q: What vehicles are best for dispersed camping?
A: High-clearance vehicles like SUVs or trucks allow access to more remote sites. Lower clearance cars limit accessible areas.
Q: What is the best-dispersed camping gear?
A: Gear for comfort and self-sufficiency like tents, sleeping bags, navigation aids, water filters, first aid kits, and stoves.
Q: What do you need to bring dispersed camping?
A: Everything you would normally have except for amenities like bathrooms, picnic tables, and potable water which are not provided.
Q: Is dispersed camping good for beginners?
A: Developed campgrounds are best for first-timers. Gain outdoor skills before attempting remote dispersed camping.
My Final Thoughts
Dispersed camping allows you to connect intimately with the outdoors away from crowds but requires thoughtful preparation. Seek out unspoiled sites, follow strict leave-no-trace principles, and prepare for self-reliance. While more work than car camping, the solitude of dispersed camping amidst breathtaking nature is well worth the effort.
Just be sure to tread lightly and pack out what you pack in. With practiced dispersed camping skills, a night under the stars awaits whenever wanderlust calls!
