Dry Camping Definition:
Dry camping is when you stop hiking for the day and set up camp without a water source near your camp spot.
Although not ideal, there are many times when dry camping is necessary because you are tired and need to stop. Or maybe the nearest water source prohibits camping due to resource protection.
Another common reason for dry camping, especially in arid or desert locations, are long water carries where it isn’t possible to hike from one water source to another in the given time frame.
The best reason is that you want to camp in a location and catch the sunrise or sunset or enjoy the beauty of a campsite that does not have a close water source.
Dry Camping is Often Used by RV’ers
Dry camping, also known as boondocking by those in recreation vehicles, involves staying in a remote location. that doesn’t have water or electric hook-ups.
What is Dry Camping for Hikers
For hikers, refer to the dry camping definition at the beginning of the article.
There are many reasons for dry camping as a hiker.
The best sunsets and sunrises are usually at higher elevations, and water is often non-existent in these beautiful places.
Another reason could be that you also try to stretch out the mileage and walk past a water source, only to have exhaustion take over. It’s better to make camp and rest than to hike to the next water source.
Although camping near a water source is handy, let’s face it, when the sense of adventure kicks in, we can camp about anywhere regardless if there is water nearby or not.
However, there are some things to keep in mind when dry camping.
You’ll need to bring enough drinking water and cooking water with you. Even more, if you need to clean yourself up or the cookware.
Often you are prohibited from camping near some water sources to protect the resource.
However, you’ll also want to be mindful of your environmental impact while dry camping. For example, when hiking and camping in fragile ecosystems, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Other Reasons for Dry Camping
There are several reasons why people choose to dry camp. Here are five of the most popular reasons.
1. To Save Money
Many people enjoy camping because it is a great way to save money. It means that you have to be completely self-contained, which can be a challenge, but it also means that you don’t have to pay for any campsite fees. Also, camping is often allowed in places where traditional camping is not, such as national forest land. Finally, you can camp in some of the most beautiful and remote locations without paying a premium.
For those willing to rough it a bit, camping can be a great way to save money and enjoy the outdoors.
2. To Get Away from It All
The appeal of camping is the opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy the peace of nature. Hikers will often need to rely on their supplies without a water source, which can lead to a greater sense of self-reliance.
In addition, camping often takes place in remote areas, providing a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Camping can be the perfect solution for those looking to reconnect with nature.
3. To Challenge Yourself
For others, the challenge of camping is what makes it appealing. Without the conveniences of modern life, campers are forced to get creative and resourceful. Resourcefulness can lead to greater accomplishment and pride. Also, camping can be a great way to test your gear and your ability to adapt to different situations.
4. To Connect with Nature
Camping also provides an opportunity to connect with nature in a way that other types of camping do not. Without the distractions of technology or other people, campers can focus on their surroundings and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
It seems that we need to go further into the backcountry to get away from cell signals and everything else that can distract us. So learning how to master dry camping can get us away from places where the majority of people camp.
Additionally, few people are willing to dry camp, so the isolation of a dry camp can lead to a greater sense of tranquility and peace.
5. To Learn New Skills
For many people, the appeal of camping is that it forces them to rely on their resources. This can mean learning to rely on skills such as water management. It’s a chance to step away from the comforts of modern life and test your abilities. With a bit of preparation, dry camping can be a fun and rewarding experience.