5 Tools that Simplify Dispersed Camping Planning
Disclaimer: This post contains links to resources that I use. I am not being compensated for it.
Do you get confused about where to go camping or how to find the relevant information? Do you want to learn how to scout your next dispersed camping spot? Or do you simply need inspiration for your next hike? Check out my top 5 resources that will take you to the next level when planning your next adventure. I include a brief description of what these tools do as well as how to use them.
Google maps for scouting potential camping spots
We use Google Maps as the first step for finding potential dispersed camp spots (wilderness camping) and for general route planning. Once you have decided on an area to visit (cultural or natural sight, forest, trailhead, etc.), use Google Maps satellite view to scout a potential camping spot. Look for clearings off forest roads or sandbanks on rivers and lakes. Place a pin in all the spots you see and ask for directions to get a feel for the road access. You may have to zoom in and out a few times near your pin to make sure there is a forest road connecting the main roads to your pin. Google Maps alone won’t give you all the necessary information for a dispersed site, but it’s a vital tool in the first pinning of potential spots.
Caltopo (topographic map) for conditions and land ownership
Caltopo is a free backcountry map that offers an overlay feature including a topographic map of the country and many useful details about the conditions of the area you wish to explore such as land ownership. (CalTopo is not compatible with mobile devices, so you need your desktop for this).
Paste the coordinates from your pinned spots in Google Maps into the search field and enter. Please note that CalTopo doesn’t place a pin in your coordinates as Google Map does, but you will get to the exact coordinates when zooming in. Apply relevant filters (overlays) in the Map Builder. We always apply Land Management (who owns the land), Contours and Slope Angle Shading (how flat is the spot and is it sheltered), Fire History and Fire activity (current wildfires or previous fires stripping the land), Weather Forecast and/or Weather Station (actual current conditions at the nearest weather station as well as weather history).
TIP: Caltopo has to load a lot of information and uses similar color coding for some overlays, so avoid applying all your filters (overlays)( simultaneously. Be patient - it’s slow but it's worth it.
UPDATE: The app “FreeRoam” is a great mobile alternative to Caltopo. They include existing campgrounds in the map making it easy to always have a backup spot nearby.
Related: Check out my in-depth step-by-step guide on how to find dispersed camping spots using Caltopo and Google Maps.
Gaia GPS for reliable offline maps and real-time route tracing
Use the Gaia GPS (Trail maps) for real-time route planning, reading and sharing as well as for downloadable maps of the area. You can’t rely on Google maps to take you to your destination, even if you’ve downloaded the map ahead of time. We have seen how Google sometimes puts us on the wrong side of a river or on a road that doesn’t exist. You end up easily getting lost this way or behind locked gates. This app also offers trails for hiking and offroading, but you can customize your route and share the map with your friends. The Gaia App charges you a fee, but trust me, it’s worth it.
AllTrails for detailed trail descriptions
This app offers endless trail descriptions curated by hikers, bikers, campers, offroaders, and other outdoor adventures. You can search for trails based on dog friendliness, kid-friendliness, distance, views, difficulty level and more, and read detailed reviews with pictures. You can also use the app with you ohone’s GPS to track your steps and record elevation and pace. This is great for exploring trails in unfamiliar areas as well as for people who are new to navigating and backcountry exploring. We also use it to help us decide what places to visit for offroading and camping.
BLM.GOV Where To Camp for state specific suggestions
This search option is great for finding state specific suggestions to both developed and dispersed campgrounds and areas. If you are ready for primitive camping and perhaps even dispersed camping, but not sure you want to scout your own spot yet, this is the place to go. There is also information to find on trails and picnic areas.
And if Backcountry camping just isn't your thing (yet or ever)…
The Dyrt for recommended and reviewed campgrounds
Curated by campers and members of the Dyrt community, you can find campgrounds everywhere in the country that are rated, tested and thoroughly described by people like you and me. If you sign up for their email, you often receive information on “best campgrounds near you”. You can easily look up recommendations based on your camping style (Tent camping, RV camping or Glamping) or you can search by location. The description includes information about the weather forecast, amenities, pet restrictions, cost, pictures, and reviews. They offer great discounts on gear as well as incentives to reviews campgrounds. And I just live their laid-back and humorous style overall.