Dispersed camping offers a fantastic opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. Picture yourself far from the buzz of civilization, with only the wilderness as your companion.
But before you shoot off, it’s important to remember that you should be prepared for possible hiccups.
That’s where this guide comes in.
From GPS navigation to finding the best campsites and learning essential survival skills, we’ve got a list of the best apps for dispersed camping. So grab your gear, download these must-have apps, and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
What Is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping, also known as boondocking or primitive camping, is camping outside of designated campgrounds on public lands.
Unlike traditional camping, dispersed camping doesn’t come with amenities like picnic tables, bathrooms, or running water. Instead, it offers a more rugged and authentic experience, allowing campers to find their own secluded spots in nature.
Dispersed camping is typically allowed on public lands managed by agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and in some areas of national parks and state forests. Rules and regulations vary by location, so it’s important to check with local land management offices for specific guidelines.
Best Apps For Dispersed Camping
In the list below, we’ll be looking at apps for:
- GPS navigation
- Finding campsites
- Trail information
- Survival Skills
- General camping resources
Best GPS Navigation Apps
These apps are ideal for helping you find your way to and from your dispersed camping sites.
1. Gaia GPS
Gaia GPS is a versatile navigation app offering detailed topographical and satellite maps. It allows users to download maps for offline use, track routes, and mark waypoints. It’s ideal for navigating remote areas during camping trips.
Why It’s Great
- Comprehensive map overlays and offline access
- Easy navigation in remote locations
2. Maps.me
Maps.me provides detailed maps of various regions worldwide, including hiking trails and points of interest. It offers offline navigation capabilities, making it suitable for outdoor adventures where internet access is limited.
Why It’s Great
- Easy-to-use interface and offline maps
- Reliable navigation in areas with limited internet connectivity
Best Apps For Finding Campsites
Need help finding campsites? No problem! Just take a look at these apps.
3. The Dyrt
The Dyrt provides access to over 44,000 campgrounds across the United States, including dispersed camping sites. It features user reviews, photos, and filters for amenities and activities. The app also offers offline access for trip planning without internet.
Why It’s Great
- Easily find dispersed camping sites with detailed information and user-generated content
- Offline access ensures you can plan your trip even without internet
4. iOverlander
iOverlander is a user-generated database of camping spots, including dispersed camping locations. It provides details on amenities, user experiences, and real-time updates, making it a reliable resource for finding off-the-beaten-path camping spots.
Why It’s Great
- Find off-the-beaten-path camping locations with real-time updates and community feedback
- Access to detailed information and user-generated content enhances camping experience
Best Trail Information Apps
These apps are all about helping you explore without losing your bearings.
5. Komoot
Komoot is a comprehensive app that offers detailed maps and navigation for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. It allows users to plan routes, access offline maps, and explore user-generated content.
Why It’s Great
- Plan and navigate trails with ease using detailed maps and route suggestions
- Offline capabilities ensure reliable navigation in remote areas
6. AllTrails
AllTrails offers an extensive collection of over 100,000 trail maps worldwide, along with trail reviews and difficulty ratings. The app allows users to track their progress in real-time and provides offline map capabilities.
Why It’s Great
- Discover trails suitable for dispersed camping with user reviews and real-time tracking
- Pro version offers additional features like custom map layers for enhanced experience
Best Survival Skills Apps
These apps are designed to offer all the information you need to survive in the wild.
7. SAS Survival Guide
The SAS Survival Guide, written by former British Special Forces soldier John “Lofty” Wiseman, offers comprehensive survival tips, illustrations, and videos. It covers essential techniques for securing food, water, and first aid in outdoor settings.
Why It’s Great
- Provides authoritative and practical advice for any survival situation
- Comprehensive coverage of essential survival skills
8. First Aid: American Red Cross
The First Aid app by the American Red Cross provides expert advice for everyday emergencies. It features step-by-step instructions, videos, and interactive quizzes to help you handle health and safety situations in the wilderness.
Why It’s Great
- Provides essential first aid instructions for remote locations
- With offline access to vital info available without cell service
Best General Camping Resource Apps
These apps cover everything that wasn’t specified in the list.
9. Reserve America Camping
Reserve America Camping allows users to search and reserve campsites at state and federal parks across the United States. It provides information on availability, amenities, and regulations for various camping locations.
Why It’s Great
- Easily find and book campsites at public parks and recreation areas
- Access to information on availability, amenities, and regulations enhances camping experience
10. Camp USA
Camp USA is a comprehensive app that provides information on campgrounds, RV parks, and dispersed camping sites across the United States. It includes user reviews, photos, and filters for amenities and activities.
Why It’s Great
- Find and explore camping options nationwide
- User reviews and photos help in making informed decisions
Bonus App: Air Doctor
Air Doctor is an innovative and must-have travel app that connects travelers to a global medical network of local doctors in case they get sick while abroad. Now, travelers can get seamless access to medical care during their travels from anywhere at any time.
Why It’s Great
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 78 countries
- Cross border prescription services
- Video consultation services in up to 21 languages and 84 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing, and reviews
- Most common medical specialties
Safe travels!
