Camping in National Parks is a great way to experience the beauty of nature while also saving money on accommodations. Unfortunately, camping in most National Parks can be costly.
However, there are a few ways to camp for free in these parks and have an unforgettable experience.
Camping on Public Lands
Many National Parks are adjacent to public lands that allow free camping. These areas are typically BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) and National Forests.
It’s important to check with the local park office before setting up camp as some areas may require camping permits or have other restrictions in place.
Volunteer Camping
Some National Parks offer volunteer camping for people who help out with park conservation efforts. These programs typically offer free campsites, access to restrooms and showers, and other amenities in exchange for volunteering time towards tasks such as trail maintenance or litter clean up. It’s worth checking with the park office to see if they offer volunteer camping opportunities.
Campground Hosting
Some campgrounds in National Parks may offer campground hosting opportunities where volunteers stay at the campground for a certain period of time and help out with various duties such as greeting visitors, picking up litter, maintaining restrooms, etc. This type of volunteer work is usually only available during peak season and may require a commitment of several weeks or months.
Conclusion:
Camping in National Parks can be an unforgettable experience, but it can also be expensive if you don’t know how to go about it. Fortunately, there are ways to camp for free such as on public lands adjacent to the park, volunteering your time at the park or becoming a campground host. By taking advantage of these opportunities you can have an amazing outdoor adventure without breaking the bank!
