Getting Started w/ RV Living, On the Road, RV Living Tips

Real Life Summer Boondocking – Ultimate Tips You Need to Know

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June 28, 2025

Summer boondocking means secret camping spots, off-grid national forest hide-aways, unforgettable sunsets—and some serious heat. July and August are prime months for off-grid exploration, but they also test your RV’s systems and your sanity if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re high up in the mountains or low on the Plains, with a goal of staying unplugged, here are smart, field-tested tips to help you find shade, stay healthy and safe, and beat the heat off-grid.

Boondocking in July and August: How to Find Shade, Water & Stay Off-Grid Comfortably

1. Chase Elevation, Not Just Location

When planning your summer boondocking route, elevation is your best friend. For every 1,000 feet you climb, temperatures drop roughly 3.5°-5.5 F. So if it is 100°F in the valley, it might be a pleasant 80°F at 6,000 feet. Apps like Campendium and iOverlander list elevations, making it easy to search for higher-altitude spots in national forests or BLM land.

Boondocking Gems in High Elevation (July–August):

Flagstaff, AZ (Coconino National Forest)
Stanley, ID (Sawtooth Mountains)
Leadville, CO (San Isabel National Forest)
Mammoth Lakes, CA (Inyo National Forest)

2. Strategically Park for Shade

Shade becomes a precious resource during peak summer sun. When scouting a spot:

Look for groves of pine or evergreen trees that offer consistent shade throughout the day.
Orient your rig so the broadest side (usually the passenger side with your largest windows) faces north—this reduces direct sun exposure.
Use natural features like canyon walls or large boulders to block morning or afternoon sun.
Consider a shade cloth or awning extension for additional cover.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have solar, park so your panels get maximum sun while the rest of your rig stays shaded. I carry portable solar panels that plug into the outside of my RV so I can park in the shade and still charge my batteries.

3. Master the Art of Water Management

Hot weather = higher water consumption. Between drinking, dishes, and rinsing off the sweat, you’ll need a solid strategy to stretch your water supply. And don’t forget your four-legged friends! Make sure you have enough water to keep your furbabies hydrated and cool too!

Tips to Make Your Water Last Longer:

Use rinse-free body wipes between showers.
Wash dishes once a day using a collapsible basin; reuse rinse water for pre-wash next time. Pro-tip: use vinegar instead of dish soap, it greatly reduces the need to rinse!
Collect condensation from your A/C if you run it off a generator.
Carry extra jugs or collapsible water containers for backup (at least 5–10 gallons).

Where to Refill Off-Grid:

U.S. Forest Service ranger stations
County parks
Small-town campgrounds (many will let you fill for a few bucks)
Some gas stations or travel centers (ask first!)
Apps like Campendium and iOverlander also list water stations.

4. Optimize Ventilation & Cooling

Smart airflow management is your off-grid A/C. You don’t need shore power to stay cool if you plan it right.

Off-Grid Cooling Tactics:

Install a roof vent fan (MaxxAir or Fantastic Fan) to create cross ventilation.
Use Reflectix or blackout shades on east- and west-facing windows.
Open windows at night to pull in cool air and close them by 9–10 a.m.
Use USB or rechargeable battery fans to circulate air where you sleep or work.
Freeze water bottles in a 12V fridge and place them in front of a fan for DIY cooling.

💡 Pro tip: On warmer nights, I close all my windows except the one by my bed and turn on a roof fan to suck the cooler air in over my bed through the open window. This allows the cool air to be funneled through the one window and keeps Sadie and me cool!

5. Choose a Smart Solar Strategy for Keeping House Batteries Charged

The high solar gain in summer is a plus—if you can stay cool while your panels soak it up.

For Efficient Power Management:

Run high-draw appliances (like Instant Pots or fans) during midday sun when your batteries are at the fullest and getting the most charge.
Monitor battery temps—extreme heat can degrade lithium battery performance. Your charge controller should have a battery temperature sensor, and double-check to keep your battery healthy for the long-term.
If needed, run your generator in the early evening to run your A/C and cool off! Or, use a Bluetti Portable Power Station like the AC240P to plug in your RV and even run your A/C.

6. Keep You & Your Pets Comfortable

Don’t forget your own (and your furry companions) comfort and safety.

People Tips:

Wear breathable, UV-blocking clothing.
Stay hydrated—consider adding electrolytes, especially on extremely hot days.
Use cooling towels and spray bottles.

Pet Tips:

Bring a portable shade tent or cooling mat for dogs.
Never leave pets in your rig without proper airflow or A/C backup. Get a Waggle Pet Monitor (LINK TO BLOG_ to monitor the temps inside if you MUST be away.
Walk early in the morning and late in the evening to avoid heat stress.
Chicken broth ice cubes are excellent treats for your pup and are high in electrolytes.

7. Have an Exit Strategy

Sometimes it’s just too hot. That’s OK.

Always Have a Backup Plan:

Keep a list of paid campgrounds nearby in case you need hookups.
Know where the nearest town is with a library, grocery store, or rec center where you can cool off for a few hours.
Watch the weather for heat waves and be ready to move a few thousand feet higher—or farther north.

Final Thoughts

Boondocking in July and August is entirely doable with the right gear, mindset, and strategy. It takes planning to stay safe and comfortable. If you’re chasing freedom on four (or six!) wheels this summer, use nature’s tools—elevation, shade, and water—to your advantage.

Do you have a favorite summer boondocking spot or trick to stay cool off-grid? Drop it in the comments!

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Carolyn’s RV Life and Carolyn Higgins share her experiences, thoughts, opinions and ideas in this blog post and on this website for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, instruction or guidance. Viewers/Readers should consult with professionals before pursing any actions or behaviors exhibited in this video. Carolyn’s RV Life or Carolyn Higgins cannot be held liable in the event of any accident or injury that may occur as a result of application of procedures and information provided in this video.