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What is Stealth Camping?

If you want to camp on your terms, stealth camping may be the adventure you are looking for! It refers to camping in a very remote location. Stealth camping in the United States of America can be complicated.

What is Stealth Camping
Photo by Bazil Elias

Stealth camping can be safe, provided you consider the location you narrowed down to camp. Depending on the terrain, you should take extra precautions. Researching the area thoroughly for any rules or regulations is also important.

Stealth camping in cities

It is very important to look up the local rules and regulations as most US states leave it up to the cities and enforce the stealth camping laws. Compared to the smaller towns, the urban cities are much stricter regarding camping.

Many states in the US have an ordinance that makes it illegal for any camper to sleep on a sidewalk, a park, or a city street, be it in a van, a tent, or a bus.

Stealth camping in the wild

There are some areas in the US where stealth camping is legal. These areas include public lands such as national grasslands, forests, or Wildlife management areas. It is important to follow all the rules levied by the state.

The campsites should also not disturb sensitive habitats and should be at least 150 ft from the roadways and 100 ft from water.

During stealth camping, you should not forget to bring plenty of food, water, and anything else you need. Also, bring a lightweight power supply, which allows you to recharge electronic devices.

What are the benefits of stealth camping?

Stealth camping is the type of camping that offers many benefits that standard camping cannot compete with

Affordability

Stealth camping is the type of camping that is usually free unless you have decided to create a dispersed campsite, for eg, at a national park. This may require an entrance fee. Many campgrounds in the United States of America offer campsites for an average of $22 per night.

Convenience

Stealth camping is much more convenient than searching for and reserving a campsite. One need not worry about the availability of a campground or even for any kind of reservation. Thus, you are free to head out and find a feasible spot.

Adventure

Stealth camping is the type of camping that offers visitors a unique sense of adventure and exploration for its visitors.

One simply will not be able to find it at most standard campgrounds. You can look for a remote spot or explore the street outside your van; stealth camping is the best way to ramp up the excitement.

What are the important tips for stealth camping?

Following are some of the most important tips for stealth camping:

Choose the right vehicle

The type of vehicle you choose for stealth camping makes or breaks your experience. Most people often opt for a van, a camper, or an RV while stealth camping, as cars are usually small. You should choose a vehicle that allows you enough space to sleep comfortably. It should also be large enough to store your supplies.

Learn to keep a low profile

In urban locations, it is very important to keep a low profile. Try to avoid activities that can draw the attention of other people. Some of the activities you should avoid are playing loud music or having bright lights.

Know your surrounding well

Before you zero down on the area you will camp in, it is very important to research it thoroughly. If you feel suspicious activity is happening, you should immediately evacuate the campsite and find a new spot. To stay out of trouble, pay attention to the city ordinances.

Manage your RV needs

If you plan on staying overnight in an RV or camper van, planning for your electrical needs is important. The Ecoflow RIVER 2 Portable power station is an off-grid energy source that can charge your devices quickly without taking up much space.

If you plan on recharging the portable power station, pair it with 110W solar panels, as they work great with the RVs.

Keep your campsite clean

Following a leave-no-trace principle while stealth camping in urban areas is very important. Dispose of all the waste properly and also take care of your belongings. Respect the wildlife and the environment in the area.

What to pack?

Preparation is crucial when planning a stealth camping. You should take the following items with you while camping:

  • Solar generator: It combines the solar panels with a power station, and it can turn the solar energy into electricity.
  • Sleeping pad: It is placed on the stealth camper van for a comfortable resting.
  • Sleeping bag: It is the most crucial component of stealth camping.
  • Outdoor grill: An outdoor grill makes outdoor cooking possible.
  • Flashlight: It is a useful implement for nighttime use.
  • Spare clothing: It is very important to keep spare clothes just in case of any emergency.

Where to camp for stealth camping?

It is recommended to constantly change places during stealth camping. You should not remain in one place. There are certain rules and restrictions you should follow pertaining to every state in the US. One should not park in the areas marked ‘’no overnight parking’’.

Where to bath?

You should locate or track down a coffee shop, a gym, public libraries or campgrounds if you are stealth camping. Many avid campers carry a portable toilet with them.

Where to cook?

It is important for you to learn to cook food if you live in a metropolis for an extended period. You should only cook inside a van with proper room for air or ventilation so as to get rid of the carbon monoxide.

You can also cook outdoors by placing your stove on a picnic table. Many people carry backpacking stoves for preparing essential food items such as soups or salads.

Avoid cooking sophisticated food items that might cause an extra hassle. It would also require you to give extra time and energy that can be otherwise utilized for camping activities.

Written by Emma Parker

Hi, I'm Emma Parker, a passionate outdoors enthusiast and blogger. I love nothing more than exploring the great outdoors and sharing my experiences with others.

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