A desert wash (or desert dry wash or arroyo) is a risky place for nomads who are boondocking in desert areas. Desert washes can flood, even if there is no rain or clouds anywhere in site, since floodwaters can travel some distance from the source event before soaking into the ground or finding a permanent watercourse. This can put you and your vehicle at risk.
In the U.S., where large areas allowing dispersed camping can be found in the desert Southwest, vandwellers need to be aware of washes. Park on higher ground and watch for natural and human-created warning signs.