The camping most people don't know exists
Camp next to a lake
with no neighbors.
On a ridge under the stars. In a desert with nothing around for miles. This is . Free, first-come-first-served, on land your tax dollars already pay for.
The catch: no bathrooms, no water, no reservations. You have to find a spot and drive there.
Wylara maps 0+of them. Vetted for cell signal, road condition, and what's nearby.
Always free
Public land managed by and . No reservation fees, no site fees, no gate.
Stay as long as you want
Up to 14 days in one spot, then move at least 25 miles. After that you can start the clock over.
Spots mapped
Vetted with access notes, cell coverage, road condition, and what's nearby. No more forum-scrolling.
Your first dispersed camp
Doing this for the first time? Here's what's worth knowing before you go.
Pick a spot with good access
Your first time, skip the rough roads. Look for a spot rated for 2WD access. Rocky or rutted roads can strand a car.
Bring enough water
One gallon per person per day is the rule. Add more for cooking, dishes, and any dogs. There are no spigots out here.
Arrive with daylight left
Finding the spot, setting up camp, and getting your bearings is a lot easier before the sun drops behind the ridge. Aim for 2+ hours of daylight.
Leave no trace
Pack out everything you pack in. Use an existing fire ring or skip the fire. Scatter ashes, bury waste at least 6 inches and 200 feet from water. Future campers depend on it.
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Dispersed Camping FAQ
What is dispersed camping?
Dispersed camping means camping outside of a designated campground on public land. There are no marked sites, no picnic tables, no bathrooms, and no fees. You pick a flat spot, set up camp, and leave no trace when you go.
Where is dispersed camping allowed?
Most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land allows dispersed camping unless posted otherwise. National Parks generally do NOT allow dispersed camping without a backcountry permit. State land rules vary by state.
How long can I stay?
The default limit on BLM land is 14 days within a 28-day period. USFS land varies by ranger district, typically 14 to 16 days. After the limit, you must move at least 25 miles.
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping?
In most cases, no. Some areas require a free permit or self-registration at a kiosk. Always check the local ranger district or BLM field office website before your trip.
Can I have a campfire?
Fire rules change constantly based on fire danger levels. Many areas allow campfires in an existing fire ring when conditions are safe, but fire restrictions are common from late spring through fall. Always check current fire restrictions before building a fire.
Is dispersed camping safe?
Yes, with common-sense precautions. Tell someone your plans, carry enough water, know the weather forecast, and have a way to navigate without cell service. In bear country, store food properly.
Want the full map?
Wylara Guide members get access to our full dispersed camping map with all 0+ spots, filtering by land agency, road type, cell service, and more.
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