Boondock Ettiquette

Boondock Etiquette somewhat depends on the situation, but there are somethings that you must NEVER do:

1. Never leave any trash or any other trace that you were there.
2. Never dump any gray or black water on the ground. In most places, dumping even gray water is illegal. Dumping black water, especially in a storm sewer, will get you in big-time trouble.
3. Be mindful of your "neighbors" and do not do anything that will create a disturbance. Included in this category is loud noise and generators.

PARKING LOT ETIQUETTE
Do not put our your awning, lawn chairs, grill, etc that will give anyone the impression that you are doing any more than just parking. Slideouts are permissible, but care must be used to make them as inconspicuous as possible and also be sure that they are not a safety hazard. You will also want to park in a location that is either recommended by the management or that is such a location as not to pose a hazard to other patrons.

NEVER put your jacks down on asphalt! Most times, this will dimple the asphalt parking lot. In some cases, I have even seen where an RV'ers jacks punctured the asphalt!

It is only common courtesy to patronize the business that is allowing you to boondock, such as fuel purchase, restaurant meals or misc supplies depending on the business. NOTE: It always helps to ask with your shopping cart full.

Generally, you should limit your stays in a parking lot to no more than three nights - preferably only one or two.

RV'ers have been under attack recently in many states and locales due to a few inconsiderate boondockers. Please do not ruin boondocking for the rest of us!

DRIVEWAY ETIQUETTE
Unless you are camping with a very close friend or relative, it is always proper to offer a small gift as a token for your appreciation. This does not have to be anything major, and can simply be a food that you prepared in your kitchen. However, if you are being provided any hookups, you should provide at least a token renumeration.

Also, be aware that most driveways are NOT reinforced enough for the weight of your D. If in doubt, don't park on a concrete drive.

Also, be aware that parking on grass may leave ruts, particularly if the ground is moist. Be careful not to tear up your host's landscaping!

PUBLIC LANDS
In addition to the "No Trace" and "No Dumping", you should also be mindful of your neighbors that you will likely have when boondocking on public lands. Generally, you should park as far away from each other as practical. This is especially important if you plan on using your generator. Do not run your generator between 9PM and 9AM. Sometimes, you may be in an area that restricts generator usage even further. In some areas, you may not be allowed to run your generator at all unless it meets USPS noise level standards.

Click on a link below to learn more:
Why Boondock?
Finding places to boondock.
Boondock Tips