Safety vs Seclusion: Can Campers Have Both?

RV campgrounds offer little to no privacy and no seclusion. Boondocking can be secluded, but is it safe? Can campers have both safety and seclusion, or is that just a pipe dream?

Let’s take a closer look at boondocking and your safest RV camping options that don’t sacrifice the need for privacy and seclusion. 

Is Boondocking A Safe Camping Option? 

Yes, boondocking is safe.

Boondocking can even be safer than camping in a campground. This is because boondocking usually takes place in remote areas with very few people. Crime typically happens in populated, busy areas. The main threats you might face while boondocking is severe weather and vehicle breakdowns. 

Granted, there is buzz about spotting feral people in National Parks. We think it’s more myth than fact.

Is Camping in Campgrounds Safer than Boondocking? 

This depends on what kind of campground you’re staying in. You’re more likely to become a victim of theft or vandalism in an RV park or campground full of people.

We’re not saying that campgrounds are unsafe or full of criminals.

But anytime you camp in a heavily populated area, you take that risk. This is why it’s a good idea to never leave valuables unattended outside your RV. You never know who might wander by and steal something. 

Benefits of Boondocking

Boondocking is an exciting way to camp. There are many benefits to wild camping. Here are our favorites. 

Seclusion

Seclusion is one of the top benefits of boondocking. There are boondocking campsites close to towns or full of people, but the beauty is that you get to choose. You can be as secluded or as surrounded by people as you want. 

Inexpensive or Free

Most wild camping spots are free. If there is a fee, it’s usually less than $15 per night. We like the free spots but will gladly pay a fee to boondock if it means supporting the area and local land management. 

Incredible Views

The views you’ll find at a remote boondocking spot beat the views in a campground any day. Whether you want beachside views, canyon views, wide-open spaces, or mountains, you can find it all. 

Benefits of Campgrounds

There are many benefits to campground camping, too. Boondocking is beautiful, but campgrounds come with perks.  

Developed Campsites

It’s hard to beat a developed campsite. Full hookups are an RVer’s best friend. It’s nice to be able to use your RV like a sticks-and-bricks house. Many campsites even include a fire ring and picnic table. 

Amenities

Amenities like on-site convenience stores, pools, wifi, and laundry rooms can feel like a luxury to an RVer. Campground amenities are the best parts of camping at campgrounds. 

Close Proximity to Other Campers and Staff

If boondocking feels scary because you’re all alone, being near other campers and campground staff is a major benefit. In a campground, you can rest assured that there are people nearby if you have an emergency. 

Close Proximity to Civilization

Campgrounds are usually close to stores, entertainment, delicious food, fun activities, and more. Everything you could ever want to see or do is generally within a few minute’s drive.

Safety Versus Seclusion: Can Campers Have Both? 

You really can have both. Boondocking is a safe and fun way to camp. Campgrounds have benefits, but seclusion isn’t one of them. If you’re ready to try boondocking, check out our official boondocking guide here. Have you ever boondocked before? What’s your favorite part?

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: