Boondocking In The Winter: Which States are Best?

ByLaura Elm

Are you dreaming of boondocking in a winter wonderland but can’t decide where to park your trusty RV? You’re not alone. Boondocking, or free camping for the uninitiated, isn’t just a summer fling. It’s a year-round love affair, and winter adds a sprinkle of snowflake magic to the mix.

Winter boondocking isn’t just a chilly challenge; it’s an icy-cool adventure. But let’s be real, not every state is cut out for this frosty fun. We’re talking about finding the perfect snowy paradise for your RV, not just a frozen parking lot.

We’re here to guide you through the snowy maze and find out which states are the cool kids on the block and which ones are, well, just plain cold.

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Best Boondocking Spots for Winter

Some states are like that cozy cabin with a crackling fire – just perfect. Others? More like a snow globe that’s been shaken too hard. Stick with us as we unveil the top states for winter boondocking, where the views are stunning and the campfires are roaring.

A cozy winter scene with a group of diverse individuals sitting around a campfire in a snow-covered landscape. The people are warmly dressed, gathered together, enjoying the fire's warmth. In the background, an RV is parked amidst tall evergreen trees, with the ground blanketed in pristine snow. The clear sky and tranquil surroundings emphasize the communal joy of winter boondocking.

Colorado: The Snowy Mecca

Colorado, often hailed as a winter paradise, is a dream come true for boondockers looking to revel in the snowy season. Between the Rocky Mountains and national forests, Colorado offers some of the most scenic and accessible winter boondocking spots in the United States.

Whether you’re a snowboarding enthusiast, a peaceful nature lover, or just someone who adores the sight of snow-capped mountains, Colorado’s diverse landscape has something for everyone.

An RV parked in the snowy landscape of San Juan National Forest in winter. The scene is tranquil, with the RV surrounded by a blanket of snow, towering pine trees, and distant mountain ranges. This image captures the peaceful and picturesque essence of winter camping in a forested, mountainous setting.

San Juan National Forest

Towering mountains provide a perfect backdrop for your winter adventure. It’s a place where you can enjoy peaceful solitude or venture out for some cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Location: Southwestern Colorado, near Durango and Pagosa Springs. You can find dispersed camping spots along US Forest service Road 725, near Haviland Lake.
Highlights: Breathtaking mountain views and quiet, secluded areas.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Access can be challenging during heavy snowfall, so check local conditions.
Amenities: This is a true boondocking (dry camping) experience with no amenities, so come prepared with everything you need.
Activities: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. Wildlife spotting is also a treat.
Stay Limit: Typically, there’s a 14-day stay limit within a 28-day period.
Winter Preparedness: Have a 4WD vehicle, snow tires, and be prepared for rapid weather changes.

An RV parked in Pike National Forest during winter, surrounded by a serene, snow-covered landscape. Tall pine trees and gentle rolling hills form a picturesque background, with a thick layer of snow blanketing the ground. The scene captures the peacefulness and beauty of winter boondocking in a forest setting.

Pike National Forest

Pike National Forest is a boondocker’s delight with its large variety of winter activities. From scenic drives to hiking trails that turn into snowy paths, there’s always something to do. The forest is close enough to civilization for convenience but far enough to feel like a true escape.

Location: Central Colorado, near Colorado Springs and Denver. Dispersed camping spots are plentiful along Rampart Range Road, near Woodland Park.
Highlights: Easy accessibility and diverse activities.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Some areas might be inaccessible due to snow, so it’s essential to check road conditions.
Amenities: Like most boondocking sites, there are no facilities. Pack in what you need and pack out your trash.
Activities: Hiking trails that double as snowshoeing paths in winter, plus excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Stay Limit: The 14-day stay limit applies here too.
Winter Preparedness: Be sure to have a vehicle equipped for snowy conditions and be self-sufficient in terms of supplies and emergency gear.

The image depicting a stunning winter scene in Utah has been created, showcasing the unique and breathtaking landscape of the state during the winter season.

Utah: Red Rocks and White Snow

From the iconic red rocks to the stunning snow-dusted vistas, winter boondocking in Utah offers a contrast unlike any other – where the warmth of the desert meets the crispness of the snow. Winter camping here requires a mix of desert and winter survival skills, so come prepared, respect the environment, and get ready to be awed by Utah’s winter wonders!

A winter scene at Moab, Utah, with a group of boondockers gathered around a campfire near their RVs. In the background, Moab's famous red rock formations are lightly covered with snow, contrasting beautifully with the clear, crisp winter sky. The boondockers, dressed warmly, are enjoying the unique beauty of a winter evening in this renowned desert landscape

Moab

In Moab, winter boondocking brings a unique contrast – the iconic red rocks dusted with snow. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this area transforms into a peaceful, otherworldly winter camping spot. It’s a place where adventurous souls can witness the stunning fusion of desert warmth and winter’s chill.

Location: Southeastern Utah, near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Dispersed camping can be found along Willow Springs Trail, accessible via Highway 191.
Highlights: Easy access to some of Utah’s most famous parks.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Roads can be muddy or snowy, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Amenities: This is off-grid camping; be self-sufficient with water and supplies.
Activities: Winter hiking, photography, and off-road vehicle trails.
Stay Limit: 14-day limit in most areas.
Winter Prep: The desert can be cold at night, even in winter, so pack warm gear and plenty of water.

A winter scene in Dixie National Forest, Utah, showing boondockers by their RVs in a snow-covered pine forest. They are gathered around a warm campfire, creating a cozy atmosphere amidst the serene, snow-blanketed forest setting. The image captures the peaceful and picturesque essence of winter camping in the forest.

Dixie National Forest

Dixie National Forest offers a high-elevation winter wonderland, stretching across southern Utah’s varied landscapes. Here, boondockers are treated to a snowy retreat amidst forests and near iconic natural attractions like Bryce Canyon. It’s a perfect blend of peaceful snowscapes and accessible outdoor winter activities.

Location: Spanning 170 miles across southern Utah. Dispersed camping opportunities off of Highway 12, near Bryce Canyon.
Highlights: Close to Bryce Canyon and other scenic wonders.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Higher elevations mean more snow; be prepared for winter driving.
Amenities: Primitive camping; bring everything you need, including emergency supplies.
Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching.
Winter Prep: Essential to have snow gear and be prepared for winter storms.

A striking winter scene in Arizona, showing a desert landscape with cacti and rugged terrain, lightly covered in snow. The clear blue sky above contrasts with the white snow, highlighting the rare and beautiful sight of snowfall in the Arizona desert. This image captures the diversity of Arizona's natural scenery, blending its iconic desert features with a touch of winter.

Arizona: Desert Winter Wonderland

Arizona, often associated with scorching summers, transforms into a surprisingly delightful destination for boondociking in the winter. The mild winter climate in many parts of the state makes it ideal for those looking to escape the harsher winter conditions found elsewhere. From snow-dusted deserts to pine-covered mountains, Arizona’s diverse landscapes offer a unique winter camping experience.

A winter scene in Coconino National Forest, Arizona, showing an RV parked amidst a snowy landscape. The area is surrounded by tall pine trees and distinctive red rock formations, both covered in a layer of snow, under a clear blue sky. This image captures the serene beauty of winter camping in a forested area with a unique blend of snow and red rocks.

Coconino National Forest

Coconino National Forest, with its blend of red rock cliffs and snow-covered peaks, offers an enchanting winter boondocking experience. The forest’s diverse terrain includes both high desert and alpine environments, providing a stunning backdrop for your winter adventure.

Location: Nothern Arizona, near Flagstaff and Sedona. Find dispersed camping spots along Forest Road 525, close to Sedona.
Highlights: Very close to Sedona, which is known for its spiritual and scenic beauty.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Some areas may be snow-covered; a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Amenities: Primitive camping; be fully self-contained.
Activities: Hiking, photography, and snow play in certain areas.
Winter Prep: Nights can be chilly; pack appropriate gear.

A serene winter scene in Sedona, Arizona, featuring an RV boondocking in an unobstructed, snow-covered landscape. The background reveals Sedona's famous red rock formations under a bright blue sky, emphasizing the peaceful and clean setting. This image perfectly captures the tranquil beauty of winter camping in the desert, free from any clutter or man-made distractions.

Sedona

Winter in Sedona offers a boondocking experience like no other with its iconic red rock landscapes lightly dusted with snow. The area is not only beautiful but also provides a peaceful retreat during the cooler months.

Location: Northern Arizona in the heart of Red Rock Country. Dispersed camping is available along Schnebly Hill Road.
Highlights: Stunning views of red rock formations and spiritual vortexes.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Roads can be accessible, but check conditions after snowfall.
Amenities: Limited facilities; come prepared for off-grid camping.
Activities: Enjoy tranquil winter hikes and explore the town’s artsy vibe.
Winter Prep: Although winters are milder, nights can be cold.

Winter landscape in Montana, featuring a vast expanse of snow-covered ground, with majestic mountains in the background and a dense forest of pine trees. The sky is clear and blue, enhancing the beauty of the white, snowy terrain. This image encapsulates the picturesque and serene nature of Montana's winter, highlighting its expansive and breathtaking scenery.

Montana: Big Sky, Bigger Adventures

Montana, aptly known as the “Big Sky Country,” transforms into a winter paradise that’s perfect for boondocking. With its vast open spaces, towering mountains, and forests, Montana offers a peaceful yet adventurous winter camping experience. The state’s natural beauty is on full display during the colder months, providing a stunning backdrop for those seeking a snowy escape.

A picturesque winter scene in Flathead National Forest, Montana, featuring an RV or campers nestled among a serene forest of dense pine trees covered in snow. The landscape is tranquil, highlighting the peacefulness of winter camping in the beautiful, snow-laden wilderness of Montana. The image captures the essence of a winter retreat in the midst of nature's quiet beauty.

Flathead National Forest

Flathead National Forest offers a mix of thick forests and open meadows. This area is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and proximity to Glacier National Park, making it a prime location for winter boondocking enthusiasts.

Location: Northwestern Montana, near Kalispell and Glacier National Park. Dispersed camping spots can be found along the North Fork of the Flathead River, accessible via North Fork Road.
Highlights: Forested areas and open spaces.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Snowy conditions can make some areas challenging to reach.
Amenities: This is a true off-grid experience with no amenities.
Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and nature photography.
Winter Prep: Be prepared for cold temperatures and pack accordingly.

A stunning winter landscape in Glacier National Park, Montana, showcasing the park's dramatic and snowy terrain. The scene features towering mountains, dense pine forests, and frozen lakes under a clear, blue sky. This image captures the serene beauty and majesty of Glacier National Park during the winter season, highlighting its tranquil and rugged charm.

Glacier National Park Area

Location: Northwestern Montana, adjacent to Glacier National Park. Look for dispersed camping areas along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Highlights: Less crowded than in the summer months.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Limited access in winter; some areas may be closed due to snow.
Amenities: Very few amenities; winter camping here is for the self-sufficient.
Activities: Ideal for those who enjoy peaceful winter hikes and wildlife watching.
Winter Prep: Winters can be severe, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing, particularly at night and in the higher elevations.

The image showcasing a breathtaking winter scene in Wyoming, with its rugged and snowy landscape of rolling hills, open plains, and distant mountains under a clear blue sky, has been created to visually represent the serene beauty of Wyoming in winter.

Wyoming: Winter’s Wild Heart

Known for its raw, unspoiled beauty, Wyoming in the winter is a treat for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. The state’s dramatic scenery, from snow-covered plains to towering peaks, provides a stunning backdrop for a serene and adventurous winter boondocking experience.

Bridger-Teton National Forest

Bridger-Teton National Forest, in western Wyoming, offers a pristine and tranquil winter boondocking experience. The forest is vast, encompassing a large area of wilderness, and is known for its incredible views of the Tetons and diverse wildlife.

Location: Western Wyoming near Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Dispersed camping areas can be found along the Gros Ventre Road and along the Shadow Mountain area.
Highlights: A great spot for observing elk, moose, and other wildlife.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Winter conditions can make access challenging; a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Amenities: Primitive camping; be prepared with all necessary supplies.
Activities: Snowshoeing, skiing, and wildlife photography.
Winter Prep: Harsh winter conditions demand appropriate gear and preparations.

A beautiful winter scene in Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, showing campers gathered around a campfire in a snowy landscape. Tents or an RV are visible nearby, set against a backdrop of tall pine trees and rugged mountains, all covered in snow. This image captures the adventure and serenity of winter camping in the wilderness, highlighting the natural beauty of the snow-covered forest.

Shoshone National Forest

Shoshone National Forest, also in northwestern Wyoming, is known as the first national forest in the United States. It offers a rugged and remote winter boondocking experience with its dramatic landscapes, including mountainous terrain and dense forests.

Location: Northwestern Wyoming, east of Yellowstone National Park. Look for dispersed camping along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and near the Clarks Fork Yellowstone River.
Highlights: The nation’s first national forest.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Roads may be snow-packed; check local conditions.
Amenities: Off-grid camping; come fully prepared for self-sufficiency.
Activities: Ideal for backcountry skiing and solitude.
Winter Prep: Be ready for extreme winter conditions and possible wildlife encounters.

A captivating winter scene in New Mexico, where the desert landscape is lightly covered with snow, has been created. Cacti and rugged hills under a clear blue sky, showcasing the rare and beautiful sight of snow in the New Mexico desert

New Mexico: The Road Less Traveled

Known as the “Land of Enchantment,” New Mexico’s mild winters make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Southwest without the extreme cold found in more northern states. The state’s diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and clear starry nights create a magical backdrop for winter camping.

A winter scene in Carson National Forest, New Mexico, with people camping has been created. It features a landscape covered in snow with tall pine trees and mountainous terrain, where campers are gathered around a warm fire, enjoying the serene beauty of the forest during winter.

Carson National Forest

Carson National Forest, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offers a serene winter boondocking experience. The forest’s high elevation brings some snow, providing a unique contrast to the typical desert scenery of New Mexico.

Location: Northern New Mexico, near Taos. Dispersed camping spots can be found along Forest Road 437, near the town of Questa.
Highlights: Near historic towns and Native American pueblos.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Some areas may be snow-covered, requiring 4WD.
Amenities: Primitive camping; be prepared with all necessary supplies.
Activities: Ideal for hiking, snowshoeing, and exploring local culture.
Winter Prep: Despite milder winters, be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow.

Winter scene in Cibola National Forest, New Mexico, featuring an RV parked for boondocking in a snowy landscape. The area is covered with a blanket of snow, surrounded by tall pine trees and gentle rolling hills, all under a clear blue sky. This image captures the tranquility and picturesque beauty of winter camping in a forested area, offering a peaceful retreat in nature.

Cibola National Forest

Cibola National Forest encompasses a variety of landscapes, from desert grasslands to forested mountains. Here you’ll find a tranquil escape with easy access to the amenities of nearby Albuquerque.

Location: Central New Mexico, near Albuquerque. Good spots for dispersed camping can be found in the Sandia Mountains, accessible via the Turquoise Trail (State Highway 14).
Highlights: Forests, grasslands, and mountainous areas with easy access to urban amenities.

What to Expect:
Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but higher elevations can get snow.
Amenities: Limited facilities; prepare for self-sufficient camping.
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby cultural attractions.
Winter Prep: Nights can be chilly; pack appropriate gear for cold weather.

Challenges of Boondocking in the Winter

When the temperature drops and the landscape turns into a frosty wonderland, camping out in your RV isn’t just an adventure; it’s a test of your cold-weather smarts. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the icy challenges of freezing temperatures, ensuring you stay snug as a bug in your mobile abode.

An RV in a snowy campsite equipped for cold weather challenges. The RV is connected to a generator and heated hoses, with an emergency kit visible, highlighting the essential gear for winter camping. The background shows a snow-covered landscape with trees and a clear winter sky, emphasizing the need for special equipment in cold and snowy conditions.

Tips for Boondocking in the Winter:

  1. Insulate Your RV: Seal all of your windows and doors with weather stripping. You can also use insulated curtains or window coverings to keep the heat in.
  2. Check Your Heating System: Make sure the heater is functioning correctly and consider getting a portable heater as a backup.
  3. Stock Up on Propane: Have enough propane tanks to fuel your heaters throughout your trip.
  4. Keep Batteries Charged: Ensure your RV batteries are fully charged. Cold temperatures can drain batteries faster.
  5. Pack Extra Blankets and Warm Clothing: Bring plenty of warm bedding and dress in layers to retain body heat.
  6. Protect Your Water Supply: Use heated water hoses or insulate your water lines to prevent them from freezing.
  7. Have a Reliable Generator: Keep a generator on hand for an alternative power source, especially in remote areas.
  8. Be Prepared for Emergencies: Keep a well-stocked emergency kit with extra food, water, warm clothing, and a first-aid kit.
An RV in a tranquil snow-covered landscape. The setting includes pristine snow, evergreen trees, and a mountain backdrop, free from any artificial lights in the trees. This image beautifully captures the simplicity and tranquility of a winter journey in nature, emphasizing the natural beauty of the snowy surroundings."

Wrapping Up: Boondocking in the Winter

It’s clear that boondocking in the winter isn’t just about braving the cold; it’s about embracing a unique experience that few dare to try. From the mountains of Montana to the deserts of New Mexico, each state we’ve visited offers a distinct flavor of winter adventure.

Remember, the success of your journey hinges on preparation, a respect for the ruggedness of nature, and an unquenchable thirst for adventure. So, gear up, set your GPS, and embark on a winter boondocking journey that promises to fill your travel diary with unforgettable memories.

How do you stay warm while boondocking in the winter?

Make sure your generator is working well, keep batteries charged, and have fill your propane tanks. You should also wear lots of warm clothes in layers and have thick blankets for sleeping to help keep you extra warm.

Is it safe to travel by RV in winter?

Yes, traveling with your RV in the winter can be perfectly safe. You will want to check the weather before you go and drive carefully on snowy or icy roads, but otherwise driving your RV in the winter can be as safe as driving your car in. the winter.

How do I know if boondocking in the winter is right for me?

To determine if winter boondocking is right for you, consider your comfort with cold weather, your experience in handling an RV in winter conditions, and your willingness to prepare extensively for the challenges of cold, snow, and ice. If you dislike winter, prefer to avoid cold and snow, and don’t enjoy preparing for the challenges of winter weather, then boondocking in the winter might not be the best choice for you.

What equipment is essential for winter boondocking?

Key items include a reliable heating source, insulated water hoses, RV antifreeze, a well-maintained generator, heavy bedding, and appropriate winter clothing.

How do I prevent my water lines and tanks from freezing?

Using heated hoses, insulating water lines and tanks, and keeping the interior of the RV warm can prevent freezing.








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