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How to find free campsites
Free campsites are usually basic sites on public land or informal spots where camping is allowed. To find them, search a map for campsites marked free, check who manages the land and read the local rules before you go. Facilities are often minimal, so plan to bring water and take your trash home.
Search a map for free sites
Many campsite maps mark which sites charge a fee and which are free.
How to do it: In Pitch, the Free to stay filter shows free sites in green, with details from OpenStreetMap and the date each was last verified. Find free campsites with Pitch
Check public land in the US
National forests and Bureau of Land Management land often allow dispersed camping outside developed campgrounds.
How to do it: Check the local ranger district or field office website for stay limits, fire rules and closures.
Know the rules elsewhere
Rules on free and wild camping differ a lot between countries and regions.
How to do it: Check the official land agency or tourism site for the area before you go.
Check how recent the details are
Free sites change: access roads close, rules change, facilities go.
How to do it: Look at when the information was last verified, and ask the land manager if it's old.
Plan for no facilities
Free sites often have no water, toilets or trash collection.
How to do it: Bring enough water, a way to deal with toilet waste and bags to take your trash home.
Arrive in daylight
Finding a spot and checking the ground is easier when you can see.
How to do it: Plan the day's drive so you reach the area with time to spare. How to plan a camping road trip
Have a backup
Free spots can be full or closed when you arrive.
How to do it: Note a second site, free or paid, within a short drive.
Leave no trace
Free sites stay open when campers look after them.
How to do it: Camp on durable ground, use existing fire rings where fires are allowed and pack out everything you bring in.
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Questions
How do I find free campsites near me?
Search a campsite map for sites marked free, check public land nearby and read the land manager's rules before you go. In Pitch, the Free to stay filter shows them on the map.
Is dispersed camping free?
In the US, dispersed camping on national forest and BLM land is often free, with rules such as stay limits. Check with the local office for the area you're visiting.
Do free campsites have toilets and water?
Some do, many don't. Check the listing, bring your own water and plan to take your trash home.
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Updated October 12, 2026