Are you craving a true escape from crowded campgrounds and busy highways? Overland camping is quickly becoming the go-to choice for adventurers who want to explore the wildest corners of the United States-on their own terms. If you’ve ever imagined driving deep into the backcountry, setting up camp in a place few have seen, and relying on your own resourcefulness, overland camping might be your next obsession.
But what exactly is overland camping? How do you get started, and what do you really need to know before you hit the trail? This guide will break down everything you need to know, from essential gear and planning tips to the best destinations and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to level up your adventures, you’ll find practical, actionable advice to make your overland camping experience safe, fun, and unforgettable.
What Is Overland Camping?
Overland camping is a style of self-reliant travel where the journey is just as important as the destination. Unlike traditional camping, which often means setting up in a designated site and staying put, overland camping is about moving from place to place-usually in a 4×4 vehicle, SUV, or truck-while carrying everything you need to survive and thrive off the grid.
Here’s what sets overland camping apart:
- It’s about the journey: You’re not just driving to a campground; you’re exploring remote trails, backroads, and wild landscapes.
- Self-sufficiency: You carry your own shelter, food, water, and gear. You’re prepared for unexpected challenges.
- Freedom: Camp wherever the day ends, often on public land, far from crowds and amenities.
- Adventure: Overland camping often involves off-roading, river crossings, mountain passes, and ever-changing conditions.
If you’re looking for a camping experience that’s equal parts road trip, wilderness survival, and exploration, overland camping is for you.
Overland Camping vs. Traditional Camping
Let’s clear up the differences between overland camping and the classic camping you might know from childhood.
| Feature | Overland Camping | Traditional Camping |
| Focus | The journey, exploration, self-reliance | The destination, relaxation |
| Duration | Multi-day, moving camp regularly | Usually a few days at one location |
| Accommodation | Vehicle, rooftop tent, ground tent, hammock | Tent, RV, cabin |
| Location | Remote, off-grid, dispersed sites | Campgrounds, parks, organized sites |
| Gear | Recovery tools, navigation, vehicle maintenance | Basic camping gear |
| Planning | Route, logistics, vehicle prep | Site reservation, packing essentials |
Bottom line: Overland camping is about embracing the unknown, adapting on the fly, and being ready for whatever the trail brings.
Planning Your Overland Camping Adventure
1. Choose Your Destination and Route
Start by deciding where you want to go. The United States is packed with legendary overland routes and endless miles of public land. Popular regions include:
- Utah: Iconic trails like White Rim Road, the Utah Backcountry Discovery Route, and the Maze District.
- California: The Mojave Road, Death Valley, and the Sierra Nevada backroads.
- Colorado: Alpine passes, ghost towns, and millions of acres of BLM and National Forest land.
- Oregon: The Oregon Outback, Cascade Range, and remote forest service roads.
- East Coast: Outer Banks beach runs, Green Mountain trails, and Appalachian forest roads.
Use mapping tools like Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Google My Maps to plot your route. Apps like iOverlander and Campendium are great for finding dispersed campsites and up-to-date info on road and trail conditions.
Pro tip: Download your maps for offline use-cell service is unreliable in remote areas.
2. Understand Land Management and Rules
Most of the best overland camping in the U.S. happens on public land, managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service. Each area has its own rules about camping, fires, and vehicle use. Always check local regulations and respect closures or restrictions.
- Dispersed camping is allowed in many National Forests and BLM lands, but you must camp at least 200 feet from water sources and avoid fragile environments.
- Leave No Trace is a must: Pack out all trash, minimize campfire impact, and leave sites better than you found them.
3. Plan Your Campsites
Overland camping is all about finding your own spot. Use apps, forums, and guidebooks to find legal, scenic, and safe places to camp. Look for:
- Flat, durable surfaces for your tent or vehicle
- Distance from roads and trails for privacy
- Proximity to water (but not too close-protect natural sources)
- Fire regulations and weather conditions
If you’re new, start with well-known routes and work your way up to more remote adventures.
Essential Overland Camping Gear
Packing for overland camping is about striking a balance: you want to be prepared, but space and weight are limited. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Shelter & Sleeping
- Rooftop tent: Fast setup, off the ground, but adds weight and cost
- Ground tent: Lightweight, flexible, and budget-friendly
- Sleeping bag & pad: Choose based on season and climate
- Blankets & pillows: For added comfort
Cooking & Food
- Portable stove or grill: Propane or multi-fuel
- Cookware: Pots, pans, utensils, cutting board
- Cooler or fridge: For perishables
- Water jugs or tanks: Plan for at least one gallon per person per day
- Food storage: Bear-proof containers in some areas
Vehicle & Recovery
- Spare tire, jack, lug wrench
- Recovery gear: Shovel, traction boards, tow straps, D-rings
- Air compressor & tire repair kit
- Basic tools & fluids: Wrenches, pliers, oil, coolant
- Jump starter or jumper cables
Navigation & Safety
- GPS device or smartphone with offline maps
- Paper maps & compass: Always have a backup
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Emergency beacon or satellite communicator
Lighting & Power
- Headlamps & lanterns
- Extra batteries or portable power station
- Solar charger (optional)
Organization
- Storage bins or bags: Keep gear sorted and accessible
- Roof rack or cargo box: For bulky items
Personal Items
- Clothing for all weather: Layers, rain gear, sturdy boots
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, wipes, toothbrush
- Sunscreen & insect repellent
Overland Camping Tips and Tricks
- Start small: Take a weekend trip close to home before tackling longer expeditions.
- Travel with others: Especially at first, a buddy system adds safety and shared knowledge.
- Stay organized: Use a checklist and keep gear in labeled bins.
- Water management: Freeze water jugs for your cooler and use the melt for drinking.
- Navigation backup: Never rely on a single device; always have a paper map.
- Respect the land: Stay on established roads, avoid sensitive areas, and minimize campfire impact.
- Practice vehicle recovery: Know how to use your gear before you need it.
Read more: How to Plan the Perfect Camping Trip: A Beginner’s Guide
Where to Go: Top Overland Camping Destinations in the U.S.
The U.S. is an overlander’s paradise. Here are some of the best places to start your journey:
Utah
- White Rim Road: 100 miles of red rock, canyons, and epic views in Canyonlands National Park.
- Utah Backcountry Discovery Route: Crosses the state from north to south, with a mix of terrain and scenery.
California
- Mojave Road: A historic 140-mile route through the Mojave Desert, with ghost towns and petroglyphs.
- Death Valley: Endless backcountry roads, salt flats, and remote campsites.
Colorado
- Alpine Loop: High-altitude passes, wildflowers, and mining history.
- San Juan Mountains: Rugged trails, waterfalls, and alpine lakes.
Oregon
- Oregon Outback: Volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and remote forests.
- Cascade Range: Dense forests, mountain lakes, and scenic byways.
East Coast
- Outer Banks, NC: Drive on the beach, camp near the ocean, and explore historic lighthouses.
- Green Mountains, VT: Forest roads, covered bridges, and fall foliage.
For more route ideas and detailed guides, check out Overland Trail Guides, which offers GPX files, maps, and expert advice for over 90 routes across North America.
Overland Camping Myths and Realities
Myth: You need a fully built-out rig with a rooftop tent and every gadget.
Reality: Start with what you have. Many overlanders begin in stock SUVs or trucks with basic gear. Focus on skills, not Instagram aesthetics.
Myth: Overland camping is just car camping with a fancy name.
Reality: Overlanding is about the journey, self-reliance, and exploring remote places over longer periods-not just setting up camp at a single spot.
Myth: It’s only for hardcore adventurers.
Reality: Anyone can start overland camping. The key is preparation, respect for the land, and a willingness to learn.
Common Overland Camping Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Overpacking: Space is limited. Prioritize multi-use gear and essentials.
- Ignoring vehicle maintenance: Breakdowns in remote areas can be dangerous. Know your rig and carry spare parts.
- Poor route planning: Don’t rely solely on GPS. Research road conditions, fuel availability, and backup routes.
- Underestimating weather: Pack for all conditions, especially in the mountains or desert.
- Neglecting Leave No Trace: Overuse and poor practices can ruin wild places for everyone.
Real-World Example: Weekend Overland Camping in Colorado
Let’s say you’re planning a weekend overland camping trip in Colorado. You plot a route using Gaia GPS, targeting BLM land near the San Juan Mountains. You pack your 4Runner with a ground tent, sleeping bags, a portable stove, and recovery gear.
You drive remote forest roads, crossing streams and climbing switchbacks. Each night, you find a dispersed site with mountain views. You cook a one-pot meal, enjoy the stars, and sleep in total solitude. Along the way, you meet other overlanders, swap stories, and learn new tips for your next trip.
Resources for Overland Camping
- Apps: iOverlander, Gaia GPS, Campendium, GasBuddy (for fuel stops)
- Websites: Overland Trail Guides, Expedition Portal, Recreation.gov
- Gear: Find deals and recommendations at Overland Vehicle Systems
- Events: Overland Expo, local meetups, and trail runs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is overland camping?
Overland camping is self-supported travel in a vehicle, combining off-roading and camping over multiple days, often in remote areas.
How do I find overland campsites?
Use apps like iOverlander, Campendium, and Gaia GPS to locate dispersed campsites on public land. Always check land management rules.
Do I need a special vehicle?
You don’t need a fully built-out rig to start. A reliable SUV or truck with decent ground clearance is enough for most routes.
What gear do I need?
Start with shelter, sleeping gear, cooking equipment, recovery tools, navigation aids, and safety supplies. Add more as you gain experience.
Is overland camping safe?
With proper planning and preparation, overland camping is safe and rewarding. Always let someone know your route and carry emergency supplies.
Can I overland camp alone?
Yes, but beginners should consider traveling with others for safety and support.
How do I practice Leave No Trace?
Pack out all trash, minimize campfire impact, stay on established roads, and respect wildlife and other campers.
Overland camping is your ticket to the wildest corners of the U.S.-and the freedom to explore on your own terms. With the right preparation, a sense of adventure, and respect for the land, you’ll discover a whole new world beyond the pavement. Ready to hit the trail? Start planning, pack smart, and embrace the journey.