Discovering Community Through Boondocking: Duane’s Story

The relationship between Duane Cyrus and Boondockers Welcome started with a simple question: “Where are we gonna stay?” That question was one he and his wife wondered about when they bought their Winnebago Solis 59PX. Traditional campgrounds didn’t appeal to them, and the Walmart and Cracker Barrel parking lot experiences were far from ideal.

Duane heard about Boondockers Welcome through his industry connections and saw it as the perfect alternative to campgrounds and parking lots. As the dealer training manager for Winnebago Motorhomes, Duane has a unique perspective on RVs and RVing. However, it’s not just working with RVs that gives him street credibility—Duane and his wife are lifelong campers. 

Why Duane Chose Boondockers Welcome

When we asked what motivated him and his wife to become Boondockers Welcome Hosts, Duane admitted that he was after the app. When you join Harvest Hosts and sign up as a Boondockers Welcome Host, you get free access to a fantastic, easy-to-use app.  While the app made life as a Host easy, Duane quickly realized the true reward of membership was meeting people—from every part of the world. 

The Boondockers Welcome app leads people to his quiet, countryside property in Upstate New York. Duane and his wife enjoy the excitement of receiving stay requests, but the friendships and stories shared with fellow travelers make hosting such a rewarding experience.

A Day in the Life of a Host

Speaking of the app, it’s what starts the entire process. Members search for by location and availability. The Boondockers Welcome app makes communication simple. To ensure people enjoy a great experience, Duane and his wife have a unique method for optimizing the app. One responds by email, the other sends a text—it’s one way they make sure everyone “is comfortable and has what they need” for a successful stay.

Setting up as a Host was simple for Duane and his wife. With three acres of space, they have ample room for Members to park and stay comfortably. They have a pad for small vans or Class Cs, a fire pit, and a picnic table—all available for Members to use.

One thing the app comes in handy for is letting people know about rig limitations. Like Duane, some Hosts cannot accommodate larger rigs, and the app is the perfect place to communicate that and any other critical information. 

Flexibility and clear communication have been key to their success as Hosts. The Boondockers Welcome app helps make it possible. 

As a Host, you never know who will reserve a stay. Hosting has allowed Duane to connect with a diverse community of travelers. That community often includes solo travelers who appreciate the safety and personalization Boondockers Welcome offers.

Memorable Moments as a Host

When we asked Duane about guests who stand out, he talked about a family from England, touring the U.S. in their van. These Members impressed Duane and his wife, but the Hosts also made an impression on the family who said, “Loved our stay here. Hosts were a lovely couple who were really helpful with some advice on boondocking in the US. They even helped us remove our import stickers from our van!! Would definitely stay here again if we are passing through.”

Heart-warming testimonials from previous guests make the Harvest Hosts experience even more memorable for Hosts. Another Member, Glenda2022 shares, “We were warmly welcomed by our hosts at Frosty’s Acres. This was our first Boondockers Welcome experience, and our hosts made it so easy and comfortable.”

Memorable moments often come from gifts received from guests (although gifts are not required). One woman gifted Duane’s wife with a hand-made apron, another guest brought the gift of beer. When people bring gifts, it’s usually something from their hometown, making the gift extra special.

Should You Be a Boondockers Welcome Host?

Duane encourages people to give Hosting a try. It’s easy and brings him and his wife a lot of joy. The time investment is minimal, and the Boondockers Welcome platform offers a flexible and rewarding way to meet new people and create lasting friendships.

The way Duane sees it, “The RV industry has been good to me and my family, this is a small way we can give back a little.”

If you’re considering becoming a Boondockers Welcome Host, Duane’s advice is simple: “Just do it.”  

Do you know someone who would be a great Boondockers Welcome Host?  Let us know here!