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WheelsOfGrace.com | Volume 13 Issue 3 | 7 research on dispersed camping. On Google Maps, I'll check satellite imagery of Forest Service Roads in the area I'm planning to stop for the night. You'll be able to see RV's or vehicles camped out in these remote areas from the aerial views, which will give you a decent idea of what's available, and how far down the road you'll need to travel. One thing Google's Aerial View won't show you, though, is road conditions. I use apps like the Dyrt, Ultimate Campgrounds, and Campendium to read reviews to help determine if my bike will make it to the campsite or not. Sometimes, the roads are extremely rough or impassable by a bike not equipped for rugged terrain. Then again, I've ridden some roads that reviewers say are "extremely rough" and I made it just fine. It doesn't hurt to do your research, though. Bureau of Land Management Land BLM land, a division of the U.S. Department of Interior, is more commonly found in the western United States. These public lands offer dispersed (free) and developed (fee) camping options, like the USFS. I typically look at USFS areas first, because BLM Land is a bit trickier to navigate. Their website doesn't have a user-friendly map showing free camping areas. Instead, I like using apps like Ultimate CG, the Dyrt, and onX Offroad for help. If you're traveling to a popular area like Moab, Utah, chances are you'll have pay a fee to use BLM land. You can always contact the local BLM office for information or ask a friend who knows the area well. Truck Stops & Rest Areas These are, without question, the last resort possible when looking for a free place to lay your head at a moment's notice. No, they're not a campsite, but worth a mention. Yes, I've napped in truck stop parking lots, but only while traveling in groups. As a female that primarily travels alone, I tend to not put myself in situations that create greater risks. If you are comfortable utilizing these areas, they do work well in a pinch. Be aware that most Rest Areas along major interstates don't allow camping. If you set up a tent, you may be asked to leave. Campgrounds are in regions with no cell service, and reservations can't be made online. If you want to reserve one of these sites in advance, you'll need to call the phone number listed on the USNF website. Screenshot your reservations from your phone in case you need to know your site number upon arrival. Motorcycle-Friendly, Private Campgrounds If you prefer more amenities, need a shower, or to charge your electronics overnight, privately owned campgrounds (and RV parks) come in a variety of types and sizes to fit your needs. Whether you wish to rough it with no electric hookups, ability to enjoy a hot shower, swimming pool, or "glamp" in a tipi or tiny cabin, there's a campground out there that will fit your needs. Keep in mind, the more amenities available, the higher your fee will usually be. If you're new to motorcycle camping and want to stay in a more comfortable environment, KOA campgrounds have plenty of amenities, (showers, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, etc.) and can be found nationwide. They're motorcycle-friendly and usually near major interstates or attractions, making them easy to get to by motorcycle. Full transparency: I usually don't stay at KOAs due to their pricing for a single campsite. If I was in a group, it would be more affordable and worth my while. Traveling alone, however, makes their campsites a little overpriced for my budget. If you're ready for the next level of private camping, the world is truly your oyster. Motorcycle-specific, as well as "biker-friendly" campgrounds, are common near popular motorcycle destinations, like the winding roads of the Great Smoky Mountains. Some are so motorcycle friendly that they don't allow four wheeled vehicles into the camping area, just bikes! One example of this is Two Wheels of Suches in Northern Georgia. If you're new to an area and hope to enjoy a cold beer by a campfire with other riders and share stories and ride routes, I'd highly recommend this style of campground. How to Find Free Campsites on a Motorcycle Trip For the experienced camper, dispersed camping tends to provide the best motorcycle camping available. It is camping at it's purest, most rugged form. With zero amenities available, including food storage for animal deterrent purposes, restrooms, or running water, you'll need to be fully self-sufficient. Please read and understand the Leave No Trace Principles prior to diving into dispersed camping. Forest Service Land (USFS) Forest Service Land is my first searching area for free camping. Free (dispersed) camping is allowed in all National Forests and Grasslands across the United States, unless noted otherwise. A good rule of thumb with dispersed campsites is to to set up camp 100 feet from any water source and 150 feet from a roadway. Keep in mind, some areas don't allow camping. Be sure to do your LawTigers.com 1-800-LawTigers