We’re getting ready to move our RV to Poncha Springs, CO to enjoy nature’s beauty while boondocking—and we’re bringing you along with us! Boondocking, or dry camping, is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes and tranquility of the wilderness. Whether you're a seasoned boondocker or a newbie eager to explore this off-grid lifestyle, here's how we find epic boondocking spots with our large RV, prepare for our trips, set up camp, and enjoy all the comforts of home while off-grid. 

When choosing a site, we consider: 

• Accessibility: Is the road leading to the site suitable for a large RV? We scout ahead with an e-bike to ensure the road is suitable for us. 
• Space: Is there enough room to park and set up our RV without feeling cramped? We often use our drone instead of the e-bike to look ahead for large campsites. 
• Appropriate for solar and Starlink usage:  We try to avoid too much tree coverage so that we can get plenty of sunlight for our solar and open sky so that our Starlink works properly. 

Preparing for a Boondocking Trip 

Preparation is key to a successful boondocking experience. Here's how we get ready for our adventures: 

Water Supply 

We start by filling our fresh water tank to its maximum capacity. We don’t like to fill up until we are close to our destination so that we aren’t hauling all of that extra weight.  In addition, we carry a portable water bladder that can hold extra water, which we can refill at public water-fill stations if needed. 

Sewer  

To manage waste, we ensure our black and gray tanks are empty before heading out to our campsite. We also bring along a macerator pump and portable sewer tank to facilitate dumping if we wish to extend our stay. The macerator pump allows us to pump into the sewage tote tank that’s placed in the bed of the truck for easy transportation that may be a significant distance away. 

Groceries and Supplies 

Stocking up on groceries and essentials is crucial since boondocking sites are often far from stores. We plan meals in advance and make sure to have plenty of non-perishable foods, fresh produce, and snacks. Additionally, we stock up on propane for cooking and heating.  It is also a good idea to dump trash before heading out because there are not typically dumpsters at these remote campsites.

Final Tips for Successful Boondocking 

Here are some additional tips to ensure your boondocking trip is a success: 

Leave No Trace 

Always practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, avoid damaging vegetation, and leave the site as you found it.  Also, please don’t use the ground as your bathroom or dump your black water. And if you dump gray water in permitted areas, please use earth-friendly soaps and detergents. This ensures the beauty of nature is preserved for future adventurers.  

Be Prepared for Weather Changes 

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in places like Colorado. Pack layers, and rain gear, and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, especially at higher elevations.   

Safety First 

Ensure you have a first aid kit, a reliable GPS, and a means of communication. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return. Also, be mindful of wildfires as they spread fast and could start in other campsites near you. Which reminds me, always put your campfire completely out to the point it is cool to the touch.   

Conserve Resources 

Boondocking requires mindful resource management. Conserve water by taking fewer showers and using water-saving fixtures.  If laundry adds up and we want to extend our stay, we will go to a laundry mat.  Limit electricity usage to essentials, and rely on solar power whenever possible.  For example, we choose to run our dishwasher in the middle of the day when we have the most solar energy possible. 

Stay Connected 

While the goal of boondocking is to disconnect, it’s wise to have a way to stay connected for emergencies. A cell booster can help improve reception in remote areas, but we rely on our Starlink so that we can get work done from anywhere.