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Boondocking in the West


Anchorage, Alaska: A Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Anchorage, Alaska: A Guide for Travel Nurses and Healthcare Pros Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, combines urban amenities with unparalleled access to natural beauty. For travel nurses, Anchorage offers diverse professional opportunities alongside a unique cultural and recreational environment. This was one of our favorite assignments. Check below for our wrap up video and video on costs. City Life 🌆 Anchorage serves as Alaska's primary transportation hub, connecting vari


Dalton Highway | AK Boondocking
Yes. We absolutely took our 37 foot travel trailer on the Dalton Highway all the way to Coldfoot! The Dalton is an extremely rough,...


Parks Highway | AK Boondocking
If you are looking for a quick, free overnight near Denali National park, there are several pull outs along Parks Highway that are...


Exit Glacier Rd NF | AK Boondocking
Exit Glacier Road is just outside of Seward and is really the only boondocking area near town. The road is only open during the summer...
Alaska
California


Riverside, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Riverside offers a relaxed Inland Empire lifestyle with easy access to Los Angeles, Orange County, and desert escapes, making it a practical home base for travel healthcare professionals who want variety without big-city congestion.


San Diego, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
San Diego is a laid-back coastal city known for sunshine, ocean breezes, and distinct neighborhoods that each offer a different pace of life. For travel healthcare professionals, it’s a popular assignment destination thanks to major hospital systems, outdoor-friendly downtime, and the ability to balance demanding shifts with beach walks, good food, and quick weekend escapes.


San Bernardino, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Set against the backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains, this Southern California city offers a mix of urban convenience, cultural diversity, and access to outdoor adventure. With proximity to Los Angeles, desert parks, and ski slopes, San Bernardino is a great base for travel nurses looking for California sunshine without the LA price tag.


Sacramento, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
California’s capital city is where history meets modern vibes. Sacramento is packed with charm, from tree-lined streets and Gold Rush roots to its thriving food scene, riverside trails, and big-city amenities. Travel nurses here enjoy access to major hospitals, great weather, and easy weekend trips to wine country, Tahoe, and the coast.


Salinas, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Known as the “Salad Bowl of the World,” Salinas is a vibrant agricultural city just inland from Monterey Bay. Surrounded by rolling hills and coastal breezes, it offers a unique blend of farm-town charm and proximity to some of California’s most stunning coastline. It’s a great home base for travel nurses who want mild weather, rich culture, and weekend trips to the ocean.


Crescent City, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Tucked along California’s rugged North Coast near the Oregon border, Crescent City is a nature lover’s paradise. With its iconic redwoods, coastal views, and small-town friendliness, it offers a peaceful escape for travel nurses who love cool temps, outdoor adventure, and a slower pace of life.


Arcata, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Tucked into California’s remote Redwood Coast, Arcata is a quirky, progressive town filled with natural beauty and local charm. With Humboldt State University, a thriving farmers market, and proximity to the beach and redwood forests, it’s a dream for nature-loving travel nurses looking for peace, culture, and cooler coastal weather.


Modesto, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Modesto offers affordable living, diverse dining, and a central location with easy access to both mountains and coast. Known for its agriculture, tree-lined streets, and proximity to major healthcare facilities, Modesto is a solid assignment for travel nurses who want California living without the massive price tag.


Bishop, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Known as the "Mule Capital of the World" and surrounded by the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains, Bishop is a small, scenic town packed with big outdoor adventure. For travel nurses, Bishop offers wide-open spaces, peaceful mountain views, and a tight-knit community while still providing access to solid healthcare facilities and year-round recreation.


Sonora, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Known as the “Queen of the Southern Mines,” Sonora sits right in California’s beautiful Gold Country. It’s a charming mountain town full of Old West character, close to Yosemite National Park, with excellent outdoor recreation and a peaceful, small-town vibe. Travel nurses here enjoy mountain air, friendly locals, and plenty of weekend adventures right outside their door.


Chico, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Nestled in the northern Sacramento Valley, Chico offers a blend of small-town charm, vibrant college town energy (thanks to CSU Chico), and beautiful outdoor spaces. Known for its parks, rivers, and warm weather, Chico is perfect for travel nurses who want affordable living, good healthcare facilities, and plenty of nature right outside their door.


Fresno, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Fresno, nestled in California's Central Valley, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With its proximity to national parks and a vibrant local culture, it's an ideal destination for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and recreational activities.


Eureka, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Eureka, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros


Clearlake, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Clearlake, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros


San Leandro, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to San Leandro, CA! Nestled on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, San Leandro offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Known for its diverse community, historic neighborhoods, and proximity to major healthcare facilities, it's an ideal location for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and a comfortable lifestyle. 💰 Cost of Living San Leandro's cost of living is approximately 35% higher than the national average , with


Cedarville, California | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Cedarville, California, is a charming small town nestled in Modoc County's Surprise Valley. With a population of approximately 437, it offers a tranquil environment surrounded by natural beauty. The town sits at an elevation of 4,652 feet, providing stunning views of the Warner Mountains and nearby alkali lakes. Wikipedia+1Airbnb+1 Cost of Living Cedarville's cost of living is generally lower than the California average, making it an affordable option for travelers. Housing


Lava Beds NM | CA Boondocking
We were so lucky to find this spot just minutes outside of the park. Tucked in the forest among large lava rocks is this peaceful...


Humboldt-Toiyabe NF | CA Boondocking
Although this IS on the California side, it is in the Reno, NV metro area. We absolutely LOVED this location. We spent a solid two weeks...


North Joshua Tree BLM
This is an easy, no frills, desert boondocking site at the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park.
Idaho


Boise, Idaho | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Boise, ID! Boise, the capital of Idaho, is a dynamic city nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its vibrant downtown, rich Basque heritage, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, Boise offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With a population of approximately 235,000, it provides a welcoming community for travel nurses seeking both professional growth and leisure activities. 🌦️ Weather Overview: Month-


Coeur d'Alene, Idaho | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Coeur d'Alene, ID! Nestled in northern Idaho, Coeur d'Alene is a picturesque city known for its stunning lake views, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant downtown area. With a population of approximately 44,000, it offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Coeur d'Alene's location provides easy access to both natural beauty and urban conveniences, making it an appealing spot for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and lei


Pocatello, Idaho | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Pocatello, ID! Nestled in southeastern Idaho, Pocatello is known as the "Gateway to the Northwest." This city offers a blend of rich history, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal destination for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and leisure activities. 💰 Cost of Living Pocatello boasts a cost of living approximately 13.7% lower than the national average, making it an affordable choice for residents. BestPlaces Me


Nampa, Idaho | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Nampa, ID! Located just 20 miles west of Boise, Nampa is the second-largest city in Idaho and part of the Treasure Valley. It combines affordable living with access to outdoor recreation, local wineries, and a growing downtown scene — making it an ideal spot for travel nurses looking for a little bit of everything. 🍇🏞️ 💰 Cost of Living Nampa’s cost of living is about 8% lower than the national average , making it one of the most affordable options in the Boise


Caldwell, Idaho | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Caldwell, ID! Nestled in the heart of the Treasure Valley, Caldwell is a city that beautifully blends its rich agricultural heritage with modern amenities. Known for its vibrant community events, burgeoning wine scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, Caldwell offers a welcoming environment for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and leisure activities. WorldAtlas 💰 Cost of Living Caldwell's cost of living is approximately 2% higher than the


Hell's Half Acre | Idaho Boondocking
This is a site we scoped out but did not stay at. We really wanted to because it looked like a great place to explore and learn. However,...


Twin Bridges Park | Idaho Boondocking
We did not actually stay at this park but we did drive through it. We stopped by on a Saturday in April and the entire park was full so...
Montana


Shelby, Montana | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Shelby is a quiet Hi-Line town in northern Montana known for its wide-open prairie views, friendly small-town atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Travel healthcare professionals who take assignments here often appreciate the slower pace, minimal traffic, and proximity to Glacier National Park and the Canadian border. While it’s a small community, Shelby offers a comfortable base for travelers who enjoy nature, quiet evenings, and exploring Montana’s rugged land


White Sulphur Springs, Montana | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Nestled between the Big Belt and Little Belt Mountains, White Sulphur Springs is a small-town gem in central Montana known for its natural hot springs, endless outdoor adventure, and welcoming rural charm. It's a peaceful and scenic home base for travel nurses looking to unplug and explore the rugged beauty of Big Sky Country.


Billings, Montana | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Billings, MT Nicknamed the "Magic City" for its rapid growth, Billings is Montana’s largest city and a major hub for healthcare in the northern Rocky Mountain region. 🏔️ With a backdrop of rugged cliffs, expansive plains, and access to some of the West’s most iconic landscapes, Billings is an incredible base for travel nurses who want both career growth and weekend adventures. 💰 Cost of Living Billings offers a cost of living about 3% lower than the national aver


Choteau City Park | MT Boondocking
We are starting to love City Parks. Yes, it is a small fee of $10/night be we found it worth it. There is water (even at some of the...


Freezeout Lake WMA | MT Boondocking
This boondocking spot had some of the most amazing "Big Sky" sunsets and loads of birds. We enjoyed solitude here and while a few people...


Washoe Park | MT Boondocking
This one is not free but at $10 per night, it's pretty darn close. We stayed here for a couple of nights actually as it is beautifully...


Homestake Pass | MT Boondocking
We absolutely loved this area! There are tons of places to park all along the road, just depends how far you are willing to go in. You...
Nevada


Elko, Nevada | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Elko, known as the "Heart of Northeast Nevada," is a vibrant city nestled along the Humboldt River. With a population of approximately 20,500, Elko offers a blend of Western heritage, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community. It's an ideal destination for travel nurses looking for a mix of professional opportunities and recreational activities.


Winnemucca, Nevada | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Nestled in northern Nevada, Winnemucca is a charming city known for its rich Basque heritage, scenic landscapes, and welcoming community. It's an ideal destination for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and leisure activities.


Reno, Nevada | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," Reno offers a unique blend of urban excitement and outdoor adventure. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, it's a haven for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and recreational activities.


Ely, Nevada | City Guide for Travel Health Care Pros
Welcome to Ely, NV! Ely is a historic mining town nestled in eastern Nevada’s White Pine County. Known for its dramatic mountain views, wide-open skies, and vintage Americana charm, Ely offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle with a strong sense of community. It’s a great fit for travel nurses who enjoy nature, solitude, and a break from the hustle of big-city life. AreaVibes+2Niche+2Salary.com+2 💰 Cost of Living Ely is an affordable place to live, especially compared to na


Silver Springs Scout Camp | NV Boondocking
We stayed in the entrance to this area for one night. To be honest, we aren't sure if it was allowed but there were no signs that said we...


Dayton, NV BLM | NV Boondocking
If you like wide open spaces, this is for you. We enjoyed staying here and felt pretty safe - even leaving the rig to go explore. We...


Tonapah, NV BLM | NV Boondocking
This overnighter was just a small parking lot next to the BLM office in the town of Tonapah. It was a great spot for passing through...
Oregon


Portland, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Portland, known as the "City of Roses," offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With its vibrant neighborhoods, renowned food scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, it's an ideal destination for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and recreational activities.


Springfield, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Nestled in the southern Willamette Valley, Springfield offers travel nurses a blend of small-town charm and access to urban amenities. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, Springfield is an ideal destination for those seeking both professional opportunities and leisure activities.


Hermiston, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Nestled in Eastern Oregon, Hermiston is a charming city known for its warm community, agricultural heritage, and sunny climate. As a travel nurse, you'll find a welcoming environment, affordable living, and a variety of recreational activities to enjoy during your assignment.


Medford, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Medford, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros


Stayton, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Stayton, OR! Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Stayton is a picturesque town known for its historic charm and proximity to natural wonders. With a population of approximately 8,000, it offers a tight-knit community atmosphere with easy access to larger cities like Salem and Portland. Stayton's scenic parks, historic landmarks, and vibrant local events make it an appealing spot for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and a tranquil liv


Roseburg, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Roseburg, OR! Nestled in the heart of the Umpqua River Valley, Roseburg is known for its lush landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures. With a population of approximately 23,000, it offers a small-town feel with the amenities of a larger city, making it an ideal spot for travel nurses seeking both comfort and exploration. 💰 Cost of Living Roseburg boasts a cost of living approximately 9% lower than the national average. The median home


Albany, Oregon | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
Welcome to Albany, OR! Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Albany is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Hub of the Valley," it offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an inviting destination for travel nurses seeking both professional opportunities and leisure activities. 💰 Cost of Living Albany's cost of living is approximately 10% higher than the national average but remains 1% lower than the Oregon avera


Coos Bay, Oregon: A Guide for Travel Nurses
Coos Bay, Oregon: A Guide for Travel Nurses Coos Bay, located on Oregon's picturesque southern coast, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you get acquainted with the area. City Life 🌆 Coos Bay serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the southern Oregon coast. The city boasts a rich history, visible in its historic downtown area with early 20th-century architecture. The waterfront a


Three Rivers Casino (Florence) | OR Boondocking
We don't normally include lot docking as we prefer to stay in dispersed sites and run our generator. Given the difficulty in finding...


Crater Lake (Annie Sno Park) | OR Boondocking
This lovely site has an upper parking area that is easy to get to and makes for an easy overnight. You can also go further down the road...


Oregon Coast Hwy | OR Boondocking
I must preface this post and say that I am not sure if this is actually a legal place to park. We cannot locate the original post that...
Utah


Clear Creek Canyon | UT Boondocking
We found this location by accident as we were following directions from a spot on free campsites. It was clear others have camped here as...


Paria River BLM | Utah Boondocking
This was a little scary to drive to at night but in the morning we were blessed with an incredible view. We were alone as it was kind of...


Moab BLM | Utah Boondocking
I imagine this place is pretty hopping in the summertime. There is plenty of space and the road goes in quite a ways. As it was, there...


Twin Hallows Canyon | Utah Boondocking
This is a great location between Kanab and Zion National Park. We stayed here for two separate nights and it was a convenient spot just...


Hole in the Rock BLM | Utah Boondocking
If you're looking for a great place to stay near Peek-a-boo and Spooky Slot Canyons, you can't beat this spot. Situated just outside of...


Mexican Hat BLM (Monument Valley) | UT Boondocking
Calling all rock climbers! This place was soooo much fun. And even if you are not into climbing, the hiking is beautiful. You can even do...
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