my go-to apps to find camping
As you travel, you learn what works for you and what doesn’t. I’ve used a handful of apps and sites to find camping, and the three listed below have always held tried and true. With the Vanlife movement becoming more prevalent, there are a plethora of apps out there.
iOverlander
Best for: Finding free camping and necessities around towns
iOverlander is a worldwide database for camping and almost solely the app I use for camping. It’s not the most aesthetically pleasing app on this list, nor the most luxurious to use—however, it’s a simple platform to navigate and is full of crowd-sourced information.
Through iOverlander you can find everything from established campgrounds (usually cost $), informal campgrounds (rest stops), and wild camping (BLM land). Additionally, the app lists local mechanics, water fill stations, dump stations, laundromats, showers, and anything else you may need during a stop through a town.
Something I love about iOverlander is the reviews and photos other campers leave. This helps me decide before navigating my way to the site if it’s even worth trying out. Reviews will let you know if the area feels safe, what the cellular coverage may be, services at the site, and important information about the road conditions, such as needing a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD to access the site.
Freecampsites.net
Best for: In-a-pinch camping
If I’m not completely satisfied with what I’ve found on iOverlander or I want to explore what else may be in the area, I go to freecampsites.net. The interface is pretty old-school and can be a bit slow to load—it’s another crowd-sourced site full of informal, formal, and wild camping options. The focus tends to be on informal and wild campsites as well as backcountry permitted sites.
Along with reviews, photos, and coordinates of the site, a 5-day weather forecast of the area is also shown.
Hipcamp
Best for: Glamping and unique stays
Hipcamp is the camping equivalent of Airbnb. Hosts will advertise their land, display a short bio, list amenities, and possess star ratings left by previous guests. On Hipcamp you can find everything from someone listing extra space on their land to pitch a tent to a glorious glamping sanctuary to reset and recharge after long days on the road. I once rented out a dozen acres of someone’s land out in Big Bend State Park, pitched my tent, and didn’t see anyone for days. Hipcamp can provide any camping experience you’re in search of.
Hipcamps interface is easy to navigate, allows you to filter your search to display stays that accommodate necessary needs, and is incredibly comprehensive.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The Dyrt
A fav among many Vanlifers. It’s not one I’ve explored much yet, however, I use it to cross-reference sites I’ve found on iOverlander or to explore more of the area I’m in. The site offers a very slick, easy-to-use interface offering a filter system to ensure you’re camping with the amenities you need. The Dyrt also fills you in on local attractions and things to do in the area.
Campendium
Paid sites and boondocking sites with a list of amenities offered. A bit of a cross of what you may find on iOverlander with what you may find on Hipcamp.
