If you're going to be traveling for any amount of time, you may want to consider camping. Camping is a great way of getting out in the nature and enjoying it without paying a fortune. It's crucial to be aware of where and what type of campsites are available. Fortunately, there are several resources you can use to find out what's available.
One of the most common places to find free campsites is in national forests. Check with the USFS and the Forest Service to determine if the area that you are looking for is available. You can also find sites in smaller US federal agencies and state parks.
You can also use several websites to search for overnight parking at no cost. Campendium allows you search for nearby campsites based on price, location and reviews. Similarly to Campendium, iOverlander lets you search nearby campgrounds and RV parks via a mobile phone app. It lets you search for overnight parking, and even upload photos. You can even sign up for a free trial of the app to see if it is right for you.
A great resource for finding campsites is USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps. These maps are printable and can also be obtained at ranger stations. They provide information about campgrounds as well as road closures as well as open/closed dates. Although they can be used to locate camping sites that are free, you will need to be familiar with the rules.
You can check out the free campsites in the Bureau of Land Management area if you are looking for a more established one. These campgrounds usually have picnic tables and fire ring. They may also have restrooms and electrical hookups. BLM areas have no campsites. They are often located on secondary roads so it may be necessary to walk to get there. These campsite fees vary depending on the location and amenities received.
A great alternative to paying for a campsite is the free one. Sometimes, you can find a campsite with beautiful views without having the expense of paying for it. You will have to be responsible so make sure the place is left in the same way you found them.
While you're at it, you should make sure you pack out all your trash. For dispersed camping you must follow the Leave no Trace principle. After you are done, you will need to set up your campfire and remove any trash you have brought along.
If you aren't able to find a free campsite, you can always park your rig at one of the numerous truck stops or rest areas. These might be found in cities and towns, but you will need to check with the manager to confirm that they are OK with your plans.