Is your family craving a little adventure this year? There’s no better way to reconnect with nature than by heading into the great outdoors. Whether it’s a summer getaway or a spontaneous weekend escape, camping is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel. Here’s how to score free or low-cost camping spots across the United States — and yes, these tips work year-round!
Discover Campsites with Ease
First things first: finding a place to camp doesn’t have to be complicated. A great tool to help you locate campsites, including free and low-fee options, is Campendium. It offers reviews, maps, and filters to help you choose the perfect spot, from remote wilderness to RV-friendly areas.
Explore Free Camping Options
1. National Forests
Most National Forests across the U.S. allow dispersed camping—meaning you can set up your tent outside of developed campgrounds and recreation zones. These primitive spots are free to use, but you’ll need to bring your own water, pack out your trash, and skip the bathroom facilities. The U.S. Forest Service’s Map Locator can help you pinpoint potential camping areas.
2. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Areas
Prefer the rugged beauty of desert landscapes? The BLM manages vast areas of public land, mostly in the western states, where you can also camp for free outside developed sites. Like National Forests, BLM land is typically amenity-free — just you, your gear, and the wide open sky. Download their app or visit blm.gov for more information and free maps.
Visit recreation.gov to download their free app or go to the App Store or Google Play store directly to download the app now.
Don’t Miss Free Entry Days at National Parks
While most U.S. National Parks charge entrance and camping fees, there are several dates each year when admission is completely free.
- January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 19 – Kickoff of National Park Week
- June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4 – Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 27 – National Public Lands Day
- November 11 – Veterans Day
- Visit nps.gov for the current schedule
Note: While entry is free on these days, campsites may still require reservations and additional fees.
Additional Discounts You Should Know About
- 4th Graders: Thanks to the Every Kid Outdoors program, all fourth graders (and everyone in their vehicle) get free park admission! Be sure to sign up for your pass early in the season.
- Seniors (62+): The Senior Pass offers lifetime or annual discounts on entrance and camping fees at federal recreation sites. The current cost is $20.00
- Military, Veterans & Gold Star Families: Enjoy free access to National Parks with appropriate ID or proof of service.
Whether you prefer off-the-grid camping or a more structured experience at a developed site, there’s a way to enjoy nature on a budget. Before heading out, always check for park closures or alerts by visiting the National Park Service’s website.
Here’s to happy trails and unforgettable nights under the stars!
