Not All Stops Are Created Equal: VLC Location Types
Vanlife is romanticized for a reason, but behind every dreamy mountain sunrise or starry desert night is a lot of logistics. It’s not just about where to go next, it’s how to get there, where to park when you do, whether you’ll feel welcome, and if you'll be alone or surrounded by strangers.
When VLC was started, it wasn’t just to make things easier. It was to make things feel more like home. We’re building a network you can trust: a map of safe, community-oriented places that won’t leave you doomscrolling reviews or waking up to a knock on your window.
To help make that vision real, we’ve rolled out three distinct types of VLC locations, each with their own vibe, purpose, and use case. Whether you're craving connection, a place to just exist, or a quick layover on the way to your next big adventure, we’ve got something for you.
Homebases: Stay Awhile
What they are: These are the heart of VLC - the full experience. Homebases are curated, community-led spots where you can slow down, drop anchor, and exhale. They’re fully staffed by camphosts who bring the good vibes with weekly potlocks, campfires, movie nights, or whatever fits their own personal style.
Who they’re for: Nomads craving stability, solo travelers looking for built-in community, and anyone hitting that “I just need a break” moment.
Ideal stay: 1-90 days
Perks: Super discounted monthly rates, reliable amenities, and that feeling of being known.
Examples:
Joshua Tree, California: The original VLC that started it all - desert magic just outside Joshua Tree National Park with everything you need to station yourself throughout the fall, winter, and spring.
Selma, Oregon: Tucked into Oregon’s Illinois Valley, VLC Selma is a forested haven bordering hundreds of miles of BLM forest.
Molalla, Oregon: Just an hour outside of Portland - a cozy ranch retreat nestled near rivers and hiking trails, perfect for slow living.
Interested in camphosting at one of these rad locations? Learn more and apply here.
Partners: Try Something Different
What they are: These are independently owned and operated locations that get us. Maybe it’s a hostel that welcomes vans, a funky campground on a working ranch, or a vintage trailer hotel with a communal firepit. They're not run by VLC, but we’ve been there, vetted them, and know the hosts are the real deal.
Who they’re for: Adventurers looking for variety, travelers passing through a new region, or folks who want to mix up the vibe without sacrificing connection.
Ideal stay: 1-14 days
Perks: Unique setups, access to local culture, and host communities that are happy to have you.
Examples:
Taos, New Mexico: Situated between the desert, forested mountains, and the Rio Grande Gorge - a funky and artistic hostel with a brewery next door.
Tucson, Arizona: From desert hikes to dive bars, enjoy easy access to all that Tucson has to offer from this retro roadside (and vanlife-friendly) gem with loads of community charm and a space to breathe.
Pit Stops: Just Land Somewhere
What they are: These are our “soft place to land” locations. Usually undeveloped land shared by fellow nomads who’ve put down roots or possibly even local city or community parks. They might be raw or off-grid, but they’re safe, intentional spaces made by people who understand exactly what it means to be out here. Think of it like crashing on a friend’s couch if the couch was a piece of wild land with a killer view.
Who they’re for: People in transit, those on a budget, or anyone who just needs one night of peace without the noise of an RV park or the risk of a knock at midnight.
Ideal stay: 1-3 days
Perks: Simplicity, privacy, and supporting nomads who are building something for the rest of us.
Examples:
Spearfish, South Dakota: At the base of the Black Hills of Western South Dakota, this city-managed campground offers large shared parking areas for boondock-capable rigs within walking distance to downtown.
More coming soon! We’re onboarding nomad-owned land all over the U.S. so you can have a place to pull over, recharge, and feel safe, even just for a night.
Are you a landowner looking to offer a safe place for nomads? Check out how it works and apply to partner with us.
Why It Matters
Burnout is real. We’ve all felt that moment when finding a place to sleep feels heavier than driving 300 miles. We believe that better infrastructure for nomads starts with knowing what kind of place you’re looking for and trusting that when you get there, it’ll feel like it was made with you in mind.
This is just the beginning. As we continue growing the VLC network, we’re not just adding pins to a map. We’re building a web of trust, belonging, and rest stops for the soul.
Whether you’re looking for a new community, a beautiful view, or just a safe place to put the van in park… we’ve got you.
See you out there!
