A Hands-On Dry Camping Experience for New Nomads
🛠️ What Is the Boondocking Skills Camp?
The Boondocking Skills Camp (BSC) is a free, in-person event hosted by Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) to help new nomads with limited financial resources, learn how to live safely and sustainably in their vehicles—whether it’s a van, minivan, SUV, or car.
Embarking on a nomadic lifestyle can be both exciting and overwhelming. If you’re new to dry camping (boondocking) and want to gain essential skills while building confidence in your ability to thrive on the road, Homes on Wheels Alliance (HOWA) invites you to apply to our Nomad Boondocking Skill Camp—a hands-on, immersive training program designed specifically for those in their 1st year of nomadic living.
Over the course of 9 days, participants will receive practical training, mentorship, and essential safety resources while living in a supportive community of like-minded individuals. The program is tailored for those with limited financial resources who are committed to learning, adaptability, and community service.
The intent of this program is to teach you how to not only survive but thrive on the road!
Who is should apply to this course?
- If your rig is registered, insured and mechanically sound for travel
- you have financial resources to travel to Pahrump, Nevada and leave area post event.
- If you are physically and mentally able to care for yourself at the event
- This course is serving those in small vehicles without RV type systems. ( generators, water or sewer systems are not our forte) Cars, SUV, Truck, Cargo Trailer users
What are some of the things you may learn?
Some classes held at past events.
- 🌎 Environmental Responsibility
- Leave No Trace: Learn how to protect wild places while camping with care
- 🚐 Vehicle Maintenance & Safety
- Vehicle Checks & Roadside Safety: Hands-on instruction
- 🍳 Food Storage & Cooking
- No-Fridge Storage Hacks: Creative options
- Cooking Off-Grid: Propane, butane, electric, solar, wood fire and 12V options
- 💰 Budget & Income on the Road
- Nomad Budgeting: Simple systems to stay financially stable
- Finding Nomadic Income: How to earn while traveling
- Free Camping Resources & Apps: Find safe, legal places to park without paying a dime
- 🧼 Personal Care & Safety
- Hygiene in Small Spaces: How to stay clean and healthy without a shower
- Situational Awareness: Spot red flags, stay alert, and protect yourself
- Critter Prevention: Keep wildlife and pests out of your rig
- 🔦 Emergency & Outdoor Skills
- Campfire Building: Hands-on fire safety and techniques.
- Weather & Water Safety: Tips to avoid flash floods, dehydration, and overheating.
- Emergency Preparedness: What to pack, plan, and prep for surprises on the road.
- 🌤️ Climate-Smart Camping
- Adapting to Environments: Tips for forest, desert, and humid regions
- ⚡ Power & Connectivity
- Solar Power Basics: Learn to harness the sun for daily needs
- Staying Connected: Phone signal, internet, and digital tools
- 🧠 Health & Community
- Mental & Physical Wellness on the Road: Strategies to stay grounded, healthy, and connected
- Building Community: Find your people, even when you’re parked alone in the middle of nowhere.
Next Course Dates: Thursday Sept 24 – Friday Oct 3rd, 2025
Location: Pahrump, Nevada
What Past Campers Are Saying
“This camp gave me the confidence to go full-time in my van. The community was amazing.”
– Maria D.
“Solar scared me before, but after this camp, I know how to run my system and help others.”
– James M.
Can’t Make It to Camp?
You’re not alone. We’ve created a collection of videos and resources to help guide you from wherever you are.
💡 Got an Idea for the Next Camp?
Know a great spot for a future camp? Want to teach? Have a cool class idea?
Stay in the Loop
Join our email list for updates on future events, how-to videos, and ways to connect with fellow nomads.
💝 Help Us Keep This Event Free
Skills Camp is 100% donation-funded. Every dollar helps us provide support, food, training materials, and more for nomads in need.