No hookups. No camp host. No rules — well, fewer rules. Dispersed camping on BLM land means freedom, solitude, and total self-sufficiency. This checklist makes sure you’ve got everything because the nearest store might be two hours away. 🦅
Tent (freestanding — no trees to tie to)Sleeping bag (weather-appropriate)Sleeping padGround cloth / footprintExtra tarp for shade or rainTent stakes & malletParacord (for tarps, bear hangs)
💧 Water (Critical — no hookups!)
Minimum 5 gallons of water per person (no source may exist)Water filter (Sawyer Squeeze, Katadyn, etc.)Purification tablets (backup)Collapsible water storage jugsHydration pack / water bottles
🍳 Food & Cooking
Camp stove + fuel (enough for full trip + spare)Lighter x2 + waterproof matchesFirewood or gather on-site (check local rules)Cook pot, pan, utensils, bowl, mugFood for full trip + 2 emergency daysCooler + ice (if car camping)Bear canister or hang bag + cord (check area requirements)Biodegradable dish soap + scrubberCollapsible wash basin
đźš— Vehicle & Camp Setup
Full tank of gas before leaving pavementSpare tire (full-size if possible)Jumper cables or jump packTow strap / recovery gearTire pressure gaugeShovel (for stuck vehicles & cat holes)Camp chairs & tableLantern or string lights
đź§ Navigation & Safety
Downloaded offline maps (phone may have no signal)Paper map of the areaCompassSatellite communicator (InReach, SPOT — highly recommended)Headlamp + extra batteriesFirst aid kit (comprehensive)Emergency whistleFire extinguisherFire ring or burn pan (many BLM areas require)
đź§ą Leave No Trace (BLM Essential)
WAG bags or blue bags (pack out all waste)Trowel (cat holes 6–8″ deep, 200ft from water)Biodegradable toilet paper or pack-out bagsHand sanitizerAll trash bags — if you pack it in, pack it outGrey water strainer (strain and pack out food bits)
⚡ Power & Communication
Portable power bank (large capacity)Solar charger panel12V car charger / inverterExtra batteries (all sizes)Walkie-talkies (if group camping)