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i love vanlife

This page is built for nomads, weekend warriors, and anyone living life on the move who wants to explore our beautiful parks, public lands & places to stay outside without digging through ten government websites!

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National &
State Parks

One of the best parts of life on the road is access to public land.

National and State Parks are some of the most protected and scenic places in the country.

 

From iconic destinations to lesser-known gems, these parks offer hiking, camping, wildlife, and unforgettable views.

Heads up: many popular parks now require reservations; timed entry, or permits, especially in peak season.

Before we dive into the parks. One of our favorite apps when living on the road is Harvest Hosts. Safe, low-stress places to stay, plus the bonus of supporting local farms, breweries, and businesses:

 

 

​Find a National Park:

Find State Parks by State:

 

If you plan on visiting more than a couple of National Parks or federal sites in a year, the America the Beautiful Pass is a no-brainer. One pass covers entrance fees at National Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, Forest Service lands, and more:

Federal Lands & Public Access

Not all parks are fenced, gated, or full of RV hookups, & that's a good thing. 

Federal public lands offer some of the best opportunities for dispersed camping, backcountry access, forest roads, and wide-open space. These lands are managed by different agencies, each with their own rules.

National Forests are some of the most vanlife friendly places in the country. Many allow dispersed camping, long stays, and access to trails, lakes, and fire roads. U.S. Forest Service Recreation & Camping:

BLM land is a favorite for overlanders and off-grid travelers. You’ll find massive open areas, desert landscapes, and fewer crowds, but fewer

services, too:

Recreation.gov is the official portal for federal campgrounds, permits, and reservations across National Parks, Forest Service land, BLM sites, and more:

 

 

 

 

 

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National Wildlife Refuges

National Wildlife Refuges are often overlooked, & that's exactly why they're special!   

These lands are managed primarily for wildlife conservation, but many allow hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, and limited camping depending on the refuge. Access and activities vary by refuge. Always check local regulations before visiting.

 

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To inspire people to get outside. To sit on a bike, slide down a mountain, dance on water, and sleep under the stars (even if the parking lot lights are on).

Our Why

To build community

People need their people and a place to turn when they have questions, need direction, or just want to feel like they’re not doing this alone.

 

There’s no right or wrong way to get outside. Whatever rig, bike, board, or fly rod gets you off your screen and into the outdoors, that’s the right one for you in that moment.

 

We're here to support that, no judgment, just stoke.

Planning more time outside? Check out our Fishing & Hunting resources for licenses, guides, and regulations.

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