Buy Land to Camp On: Find the Perfect Camping Land

For many people, owning a private campsite is the ultimate dream. If you love camping and enjoy spending time outdoors, you can buy land to camp on to provide your perfect retreat. Purchasing your own parcel allows you to camp whenever you want, without worrying about reservations or crowded campgrounds. You can create the ideal campsite tailored exactly to your needs and have the flexibility to camp for weekends or extend your stay for weeks or months. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about buying land specifically for camping purposes, including where to find camping land for sale, the benefits of owning your personal campsite, tips for choosing the perfect property, whether to buy or rent, and important factors to consider before purchasing land for your dream camp.

Where to Look for Camping Land for Sale

When you’re ready to start your search, knowing the best places to find land for camping is key. Here are top options for locating the perfect recreational parcel.

Land for Sale

The first place to look is online land sale listings. Sites like LandWatch allow you to search for vacant rural land, remote properties, and open space across the U.S. You can filter for acreage, price and features like woods, views and waterfront.

Regional sites like LandsOfAmerica drill down on sales by state and county. On these sites, look for keywords like “recreation,” “camping,” or “off-grid” in the descriptions to find lands suited for campsites.

If you have a specific location in mind, like near Yosemite, search directly on real estate sites for that area. You may find more limited land parcels or acreage suitable for camping this way.

Pro tip: Work with a local real estate agent who specializes in land listings. They can set up custom MLS searches and notify you of new properties that meet your criteria. This gives you an edge over other buyers.

Camping Land

In addition to broad land sale sites, some specialized sites focus specifically on promoting or selling land for outdoor recreation:

• Recreation Land Sales: Features listings suited for camping, hunting, RVing and other recreation, searchable by state.
• 20 Acres: Specializes in smaller 5-20 acre parcels suitable for camping getaways.
• Campground Membership: Offers members-only access to a network of campgrounds/private parks across the U.S.
• Hipcamp: Helps landowners rent out their land for camping. Browse here for ideas, then contact owners directly about purchasing.

Once again, the keyword “camping” is crucial when searching property listings if you want land tailored to campsite use. Phrases like “camping allowed,“ “land for camping” and “camping land” in descriptions indicate parcels where you can camp on the land.

The Benefits of Owning Your Own Campsite

When you buy land to camp on, what are the major advantages over other camping options? Let’s look at why purchasing your own recreational camping property is so rewarding.

Freedom and Flexibility

Having your own campsite parcel provides unmatched freedom and flexibility compared to public campgrounds. You can camp whenever you want, with no need to book sites months in advance.

With enough land, you can stay as long as you like rather than being limited to 2 week stints in national parks. When you own the land, you make the rules.

Some key benefits include:

• Camp during peak seasons without the crowds
• Extend stays for weeks or months
• Come and go as you please
• Avoid reservation hassles and fees

You also have the flexibility to change your camp setup. Feel free to experiment with tents, yurts, RVs, or more permanent structures. Plus you can modify the site itself by adding amenities like fire pits, pads, and landscaping over time.

Customized Camping Experience

When you’re the land owner, you can shape the campsite to match your ideal outdoor experience. Make it rustic or add some “glamping” touches – it’s up to you!

Some possibilities for customizing your own campsite parcel include:

• Add hiking/biking trails
• Landscape with native plants
• Install a fire pit, camping site, picnic table
• Set up tents/yurts for lodging
• Bring in an RV or park a tiny home
• Build a basic cabin for shelter

The sky’s the limit when you’re not limited by public campground rules and regimented sites. personalize your campsite land fully.

Peace and Privacy

For many campers, getting away from it all is the goal. Having your own private land for camping provides the ultimate peace and privacy.

You don’t have to worry about noisy crowds in nearby sites. Instead, you can relax in solitude and enjoy the sounds of nature. Set up anywhere on the property for seclusion.

Since you control access, you can decide when (or if) to allow visitors. For maximum privacy, sites with dense trees, natural barriers or remote locations are ideal.

Connection with Nature

Private land provides the space and seclusion to deeply connect with nature. You begin to notice more wildlife activity when not surrounded by other campers.

Your schedule revolves around the rhythms of the land rather than park rules. With time, you gain familiarity with the ecosystems and your place within them.

According to therapists, this sense of belonging to the natural world reduces stress and improves well-being. Living lightly on the land leads to sustainability.

Affordable Ownership

While buying land is a major investment, it’s often cheaper than you might think, especially compared to the cost of frequent short-term site rentals.

For the price of a family vacation every year, you could own your own camp retreat. Making incremental improvements over time further contains costs.

Lands allowing camping, living off the grid and recreational vehicles can be found for as little as $1,000-$3,000 per acre in rural areas. That’s an affordable dream for many camp enthusiasts.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Camping Property

Once you’ve decided to start your search for the ideal recreational camping land, use these tips to help find the perfect parcel for your needs.

Buying Camping Land

First, get clear on the features you want in your dream campsite. Important considerations include:

• Location: Do you want remote isolation or closer proximity to a town/amenities?
• Acreage: The parcel size depends on your camping style. For occasional weekends in a tent, 5 acres could suffice. For permanent RV living, 20+ acres provides privacy.
• Terrain: Flat and open or sloped and wooded? The landscape impacts campsite possibilities.
• Access: How will you get to the land – 4WD vehicle or hike in? Nearby roads are a convenience.

Once your must-have list is set, start the search process. The best sources are:

• Real estate agents who specialize in recreational land sales
• Land listing sites like LandWatch filtered for keywords like “camping”, “off-grid”, etc.
• Local county assessor sites to find parcels of land

Pro tip: Expand your search radius in case the perfect property isn’t in your ideal area. Compromise on location if the land checks every other box.

Camping Land for Sale

When evaluating potential parcels, look for key indicators that the land can accommodate your camping dreams:

• Explicitly allows camping in the property description
• Zoning permits recreational vehicles and campground use
• Has space to clear tent or RV campsites
• Provides access to water for drinking and washing
• Allows campfires or has existing fire pit
• Has builder-friendly topography if you want semipermanent structures

Ask the seller questions to determine if camping is feasible long-term:

• Is off-grid living allowed year-round or only for short periods?
• Are RVs, tents, and minor improvements like sheds permitted?
• Are there any deed restrictions against camping activity?

With some creativity and prep work, almost any raw land can become a camp retreat. But confirming the property supports camping upfront ensures your plans can come to fruition.

The Pros and Cons of Buying vs. Renting Camping Land

When starting your land search, you’ll need to decide whether to buy or rent a campsite. What are the trade-offs of each option?

Buying Land

Purchasing your own recreational property has several advantages:

• You can camp whenever you want, for as long as you like. No restrictions!
• You don’t have to pack up camp every 2 weeks like on many rental sites.
• You can add amenities and customize the land to your tastes since you own it.
• Your investment can appreciate over time, while rental fees add up without gaining equity.
• It provides a legacy to pass down or a permanent vacation home for retirement.

However, buying land also involves major downsides:

• The purchase price is substantial, while renting has minimal upfront costs. You’ll need to finance or pay cash.
• Monthly payments, taxes and maintenance mean ongoing expenses vs. just rental fees.
• If you lose interest in camping later, you’ll have to resell the property.

Renting Sites

Renting a campsite for vacations or extended stays can make sense too:

• You avoid large purchase costs and can test different areas easily.
• Maintenance and taxes are handled for you as part of the rental fees.
• You’re not tied down to one property if your needs change.

But renting has some disadvantages as well:

• Options are limited on public lands and rental sites, restricting dates and lengths of stay.
• You must follow rules and move sites frequently instead of using your own land freely.
• Rental fees add up quickly, with no long term financial benefit like home equity.
• Improvements and amenities are limited since you don’t own the site.

Carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding to buy land or rent for your camping retreat. Consider your budget, how often you’ll use it, and your goals for accessing the site.

What to Consider Before Buying Camping Land

Purchasing property is a big commitment. Make sure you evaluate these key factors carefully first.

Raw Land Requirements

When buying vacant raw land for camping use, assess:

• Acreage – A 5-20 acre parcel provides ample space for tents, RVs, and amenities. Go smaller or larger depending on your plans.
• Access – Confirm there is suitable road access or trails to enter the property with your vehicle or on foot.
• Geography – Flat, open meadows are easily developed. Heavily wooded or steep slopes limit campsite options.
• Water – Streams, ponds or lakes are ideal. Or plan to drill a well or haul water. Adequate water supply is essential.
• Utilities – Most raw land lacks electrical, septic and other hookups. Be prepared to go off-grid or pay to add utilities later.
• Soil/Drainage – Evaluate ground conditions to determine if the land can support structures, trails, campsites, etc. Poor drainage can cause problems.

Rules and Restrictions

When buying any property, research:

• Zoning laws – Ensure the land is zoned for recreational use and camping activity.
• Local regulations – Check with the county or township on rules like noise curfews, campfire bans, and occupancy limits if living on the land.
• Homeowners associations (HOAs) – If part of one, check for deed restrictions against long-term camping.
• Easements – Note any utility or access easements granting others partial rights to the land. This could limit camp placement.

Cost Considerations

Factor in both purchase and ongoing costs:

• Purchase price – Expect raw land suitable for camping to run $1,000 – $5,000 per acre on average. Location heavily influences price.
• Closing costs – Budget approximately $1,500 – $2,000 in title fees, inspections, recording charges, etc.
• Taxes – Property and land use taxes apply annually. These vary by state/county but are usually reasonable.
• Insurance – You may want liability coverage in case of injuries on the land. Expect $300 – $500 per year.
• Maintenance – Factoring in periodic costs for access road upkeep, vegetation clearing, trash removal, etc. helps avoid surprise expenses.
• Utilities – If adding electricity, water, septic down the road, be aware of permitting costs and contractor fees.

Think through your entire budget for purchasing and owning recreational land before taking the plunge. Identify all potential costs so you can determine affordability.

Can I camp on my own land in California?

Here are the key points regarding camping on your own land in California:

Camping on Private Residential Property

• Camping is only allowed with the property owner’s written consent.
• Camping must be for personal use, not commercial purposes.

Camping Regulations

• Most cities and counties prohibit camping on private property for extended periods.
• Camping may be limited to 14 days or less before having to move.
• Permanent or long-term camping is generally considered illegal.
• Anti-camping laws often prohibit living in tents or RVs long-term.
• Some cities require permits for camping even on your own land.

Exceptions

• Camping may be allowed for short durations like weekends or vacations.
• Backyard camping for a night is usually permitted.
• Rural areas may have fewer restrictions than cities.
• Camping may be allowed if proper sanitation facilities are provided.

Camping on your own residential property in California is only legal for short periods in most areas, unless special exceptions or permits apply. Extended stays often violate anti-camping laws. Checking local city and county regulations is advised before camping on private land.

Can you camp on public land in the US?

Here are the key points about camping on public land in the US:

Dispersed Camping

• Dispersed camping means camping outside of a designated campground, usually for free.
• It is allowed on most public lands like National Forests and BLM land.
• You can camp wherever you want unless signs prohibit it. Stay 100-200 ft from water sources.
• Leave No Trace principles should be followed to minimize impact.

Rules and Regulations

• Permits and fees may be required in some areas.
• Stay limit is usually 14 days before having to move.
• Campfires may be restricted during dry conditions.
• Some areas are closed to camping or have seasonal restrictions.

Finding Dispersed Sites

• Public lands roads and trailheads are a good place to start.
• Use maps and apps to find suitable areas away from private property.
• Scout potential sites in person while it’s still light out.

Dispersed camping is allowed on most public land for free with some regulations. Proper planning is key to finding suitable sites and minimizing impact. It provides free and scenic camping options across the US.

How do I build a camp site?

Here are some tips for building a campsite on your property:

Choose a Location

• Pick a flat, dry area away from hazards like dead trees, streams, etc.
• Stay at least 200 feet from water sources to avoid contamination.
• Choose a spot with natural windbreaks like trees or ridges to block wind.
• Orient the site to maximize morning sun and afternoon shade.

Prepare the Site

• Clear brush, rocks, stumps, and other debris.
• Level the ground if needed and remove grass/sod.
• Add a gravel pad or put down ground tarps to keep tents dry.

Set Up Camping Facilities

• Build a fire pit or grill from rocks or install a metal one.
• Create paths between tents, kitchen, and fire pit.
• Set up a clothesline, lantern hangers, and other amenities.
• Build wooden platforms for tents if desired.
• Install a bear-proof food storage locker if needed.

Follow Leave No Trace

• Avoid digging trenches and leave the site as you found it.
• Pack out all trash and waste.
• Use existing fire rings if possible rather than creating new ones.

Proper site selection, preparation, and low-impact facilities will help create a functional and eco-friendly campsite to enjoy for years.

How to start a campground in Utah?

Here are some key steps to starting a campground business in Utah:

Develop a Business Plan

• Research the market, competition, potential locations, and target customers.
• Create financial projections including startup costs and operating expenses.
• Determine the business structure – LLC, partnership, sole proprietorship, etc.
• Outline your offerings, amenities, activities, and what makes your campground unique.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

• Acquire a local business license from the city or county.
• Obtain approval for recreational vehicle park from local health department.
• Get building permits for new construction and renovations.
• Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

Prepare the Property

• Scout potential locations and purchase suitable land.
• Clear land, grade sites, establish roads and pathways.
• Install utility hookups (electricity, water, sewer, WiFi).
• Build amenities like bathrooms, laundry, pool, store, etc.

Market and Open for Business

• Create a brand, website, signage to promote the campground.
• Set rates and policies for reservations and length of stay.
• Hire staff for maintenance, operations, and customer service.
• Welcome first guests and get feedback for future improvements!

With proper planning, preparation, and promotion you can successfully start a campground business in Utah’s beautiful outdoors.

Start Exploring Your Camping Land Dreams

We’ve covered the key steps for successfully buying land to camp on – finding ideal properties, weighing the benefits, tips for choosing the perfect parcel, things to consider before purchasing, and researching local rules. With this guidance, you can start your journey to owning your own slice of recreational paradise. Picture yourself relaxing by a crackling campfire or waking up to mountain views on your own camping land. Make those dreams a reality by taking the first steps to secure the ideal campsite property for your needs. The endless camping adventures await!