Thinking About Boondocking? Here’s the Easiest Way to Try It (With Friends by Your Side)
- Lynette Ritchie
- Oct 4
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever driven past a wide-open desert or through a forest and spotted a circle of RVs camped far from crowded parks, you’ve seen boondocking in action. 🌵🚐
Maybe you’ve thought: “That looks amazing—but I don’t know if I could pull it off.”
You’re not alone. Many RVers are curious about boondocking (also known as dry camping or off-grid camping), but aren’t sure where to start. Do you need solar panels? How do you find a spot? Is it safe?
The good news is that boondocking doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it’s easier—and more fun—when you try it with supportive friends by your side.
What Is Boondocking?
Boondocking simply means camping in your RV without hookups—no water, electric, or sewer connections. Instead, you rely on your tanks, batteries, and resourcefulness. For many RVers, it’s the ultimate way to experience freedom, wide-open spaces, and quiet nights under the stars.
Why Quartzsite Is the Perfect Place to Start
If you’ve been curious about boondocking, there’s no better place than Quartzsite and the Quartzsite Desert Dust Run group.
Every winter, thousands of RVers gather on the BLM land outside of Quartzsite for camping, adventure, and community. The ground is flat, access is easy, and you’re never far from fellow RVers if you need a hand.
Even better—again this year’s Quartzsite Desert Dust Run (Jan 10–18, 2026) precedes the famous Quartzsite Sports, Vacation, and RV Big Tent RV Show. That means you can experience your first off-grid rally, then explore one of the biggest RV expos in the country.
Why Try Boondocking With a Group
One of the biggest barriers to trying boondocking is fear of the unknown. That’s why starting out with a supportive group is the best way to ease in.
At the Quartzsite Desert Dust Run, you’ll find:
Experienced boondockers are happy to share tips and tricks.
A circle of rigs where you’ll always feel welcome.
Groups to join with your Jeep, 4x4, or Side by Side on rides exploring the desert.
Group hiking.
Shared meals, campfires, and lots of laughter.
A no-pressure, fun environment to learn at your own pace.
It’s not just camping—it’s community.
What to Expect
Campfires at night under desert skies 🌌
Hiking or riding trails during the day 🚙🥾
Casual entertainment and potlucks 🍲
Learning by doing—with friends close by
Seminars and Speakers on various RVing topics
Even if you come for just one night, you’ll get a taste of the freedom and camaraderie that makes boondocking unforgettable.
Ready to Dip Your Toe Into Boondocking?
Boondocking is a “must be present to win” kind of adventure—you won’t know how amazing it feels until you try it.
👉 If you’ve been curious about trying boondocking but weren’t sure how to start, what’s the one thing that’s held you back? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear.
✅ And when you’re ready to experience it for yourself, join us at the Quartzsite Desert Dust Run, Jan 10–18, 2026. Circle the rigs, light the fire, and discover what off-grid RVing is all about.
👉 [Click here to RSVP on Facebook] and like our page 👉 [Click here to register on our website]
See you in the desert. 🌵
As newbies we learned so much from the Quartzsite Desert Dust Run group. We've since enjoyed many additional boondocking trips and look forward to many more to come. Thanks all who were patient, kind, and so helpful.