Campendium has one of the largest databases of free and low-cost camping in the US. Here's how to find it.
On The Campendium Website
To search a specific area, type a location into the search bar and select that location from the drop down menu options before following the directions below.
Using the Free Public Camping Shortcut
On the Explore panel (the default view when you open the map), you'll see a Free Public Camping card. Clicking it applies the Public Land category with the price set to free automatically. You'll be browsing free camping within your current map view in no time!
After Searching for a Location
- Search for a location (city, state) in the search bar ("Find places to camp, gas, and things to do") and select that location from the drop down menu
- Clear the location from the search bar by using the X in the right side of the bar
- Select the Free Public Camping card
- The map will show free public land camping near your current map view. This will include national forests, BLM land, state parks, Army Corps of Engineers parks, county parks, and city parks
Alternately, you can:
- Search for a location (city, state) in the search bar ("Find places to camp, gas, and things to do") and select that location from the drop down menu
Select the Public Land filter
- Select the Free Public Camping card
- The map will show free public land camping near your current map view. This will include national forests, BLM land, state parks, Army Corps of Engineers parks, county parks, and city parks
Now apply a price filter by clicking 'Filter'. If you're just looking for free camping, set the Nightly Rate to Free.
On The Campendium iOS or Android App
To find free or low-cost camping on the app, tap the Filters button under the search bar and use the Nightly Rate slider to set your price range. Tap View [X] Places to apply.
If you're specifically looking for dispersed or public land camping, tap the search bar and select Public Land from the Categories grid. This will show public land camping options near your current map view.
Results default to Map view. Tap List view (top left under the search bar) to see them as a scrollable list instead.
A Few Things to Know
- Some free campgrounds require a permit, especially in high-demand areas. Check before you go.
- Stay limits typically apply. Most dispersed camping has a 14-day maximum stay in one location.
- Free camping and free overnight parking aren't the same thing. Overnight parking is typically limited to 8–24 hours, and you should avoid setting up camp utilities like chairs or grills. Use discretion with levelers and slide-outs at overnight parking locations.
- Prices are community-reported. The Last Reported Price on a listing reflects what a camper paid, with the date it was reported. Always verify current pricing with the land management agency.
- Reviews are your best source. Recent reviews will tell you about road conditions, site availability, and what to expect on the ground.