The Fun Outdoors

Free Overnight RV Parking: Top 30 Places

Are you looking for a way to save money on your next RV trip? Free overnight RV parking might be the solution you’re looking for. With more than 15,000 free RV parking locations in the US and Canada, you can plan your trip without worrying about the cost of accommodation.

While most locations offer free parking, it’s important to follow safety and etiquette guidelines to avoid any issues. Additionally, it’s important to know where NOT to park your RV overnight to avoid any legal issues.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about free overnight RV parking, including top locations, apps and websites for finding free parking, safety and etiquette tips, and additional considerations to keep in mind.

Key Takeaways

  • Free overnight RV parking is a great way to save money on your next RV trip.
  • Understanding safety and etiquette guidelines is important to avoid any issues.
  • Top locations and apps for finding free parking can make planning your trip easier.

[TABLE OF CONTENTS]

Top Locations for Free Overnight RV Parking

If you are an RV owner, you know how essential it is to find a safe and free place to park your vehicle overnight. Fortunately, there are many places where you can park your RV for free. Here are some of the top locations for free overnight RV parking:

Walmart Parking Lots

Walmart is known for allowing RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. This is a great option for RVers who need to rest for the night and do some shopping in the morning.

Not all Walmart locations allow overnight parking, so be sure to check with the store manager before parking.

See Related: Can You Camp In A Walmart Parking Lot?

Rest stops are another excellent option for RVers who need to rest for the night. Most rest stops have designated areas for RV parking, and they are usually free to use.

Keep in mind that some rest stops have a time limit for parking, so be sure to check the signs before parking.

Campgrounds

While most campgrounds charge a fee for overnight parking, there are some free campgrounds available. Websites like Campendium provide a list of free campgrounds in the US and Canada. 

Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities that paid campgrounds offer.

Truck Stops

Truck stops are another option for RVers who need to rest for the night. Most truck stops have designated areas for RV parking, and they are usually free to use.

Some truck stops have a time limit for parking, so be sure to check the signs before parking.

See Related: How Much Do Truck Stops Charge For Parking?

Friends’ and Family Members’ Property

If you have friends or family members who live in the area, you can park your RV on their property for free.

This is a great option if you want to visit with your loved ones and save money on overnight parking.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages millions of acres of public land in the US, and most of it is available for free camping.

You may need to obtain a permit before camping on BLM land.

Business and Retail Locations

Many businesses and retail locations allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. Some of the most popular places to park overnight include Costco, Home Depot, Target, restaurants, Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas, K-Mart, Lowes, and others.

Gas Stations

Some gas stations allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. This is a great option if you need to fill up your tank and rest for the night.

Hotels and Motels

Some hotels and motels allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you need a break from the road and want to get a good night’s sleep.

Many parks allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you want to enjoy the outdoors and save money on overnight parking.

Side Streets

If you can’t find a designated parking area, you can always park on a side street.

Be sure to check the local parking laws before parking.

RV Dealerships

Some RV dealerships allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you need to get some repairs done on your RV while you rest up.

Vacant Lots

If you can’t find a designated parking area, you can always park on a vacant lot.

Always try to get permission from the property owner before parking.

Many casinos allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you want to try your luck at the casino and save money on overnight parking.

Some marinas allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you want to enjoy the water and save money on overnight parking.

Mall Parking Lots

Mall parking lots are another option for RVers who need to rest for the night.

Always check with the mall management before parking.

Movie Theater Parking Lots

Some movie theaters allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you want to catch a movie and save money on overnight parking.

Colleges and Universities

Some colleges and universities allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots.

This is a great option if you need to visit the campus or attend an event.

Hospital Parking Lots

Some hospitals allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. Just check with the hospital management or front desk before parking there.

Some churches allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots (with permission of course).

Apps and Websites for Finding Free RV Parking

If you’re an RV traveler, you know that finding free parking can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several apps and websites that can help you locate free overnight RV parking spots. 

Here are some of the best options available to you:

Mobile Apps

Togo RV is a mobile app that provides a range of resources for RVers, including a comprehensive database of free overnight parking spots.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and it’s free to download.

With Togo RV, you can search for free parking spots based on your location, and you can also filter the results by amenities like Wi-Fi, dump stations, and more.

Allstays App

The Allstays app is another great resource for finding free overnight RV parking. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and it provides information on a wide range of parking options, including rest areas, Walmart parking lots, and more.

With Allstays, you can filter your search results by amenities like Wi-Fi, showers, and dump stations, and you can also see user reviews and ratings for each parking spot.

OvernightRVParking.com

OvernightRVParking.com is a website that provides a comprehensive database of free overnight RV parking spots in the US and Canada. The site is available as part of the Roadpass Pro subscription, which also includes discounts on RV park fees and other resources for RVers.

You can sign up for a free trial of Roadpass Pro on the OvernightRVParking.com website, and you can also use the site to search for free parking spots based on your location.

Freecampsites.net

Freecampsites.net is a website that provides information on a wide range of free camping and RV parking options. The site includes user-generated reviews and ratings for each parking spot, as well as information on amenities like water, toilets, and more.

You can search for free parking spots based on your location, and you can also filter your search results by amenities and other criteria.

RVillage is a social network for RVers that includes a range of resources for finding free overnight RV parking spots. The site includes a map of free parking spots across the US and Canada, as well as user-generated reviews and ratings for each spot.

You can also use RVillage to connect with other RVers and share information on parking spots and other resources.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers is a website and mobile app that provides a range of resources for road trips, including information on free overnight RV parking spots. The site includes a database of free parking spots across the US and Canada, as well as user-generated reviews and ratings for each spot.

You can also use Roadtrippers to plan your route and find other resources like gas stations, restaurants, and more.

Safety and Etiquette in Free RV Parking

When it comes to free overnight RV parking, safety measures and etiquette are crucial. As an RVer, you want to be respectful of your surroundings and other campers while also ensuring your own safety.

In this section, we’ll cover some important safety measures and etiquette tips to keep in mind when boondocking or dry camping.

Safety Measures

First and foremost, it’s important to prioritize safety when parking overnight in a free RV parking location. Here are some safety measures to keep in mind:

  • Always lock your RV doors and windows before going to bed or leaving your RV unattended.
  • Use leveling blocks to ensure your RV is stable and won’t roll away.
  • Keep your valuables out of sight and in a secure location.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a location doesn’t feel safe, it’s better to move on to another location.
  • Have a plan in case of an emergency, such as a first aid kit and a charged cell phone.

Etiquette and Manners

In addition to safety measures, it’s important to be respectful and courteous to other campers and the surrounding community. Here are some etiquette and manners tips to keep in mind:

  • Follow the “leave no trace” principle and clean up after yourself, including trash and waste.
  • Be mindful of noise levels and quiet hours. Respect other campers’ need for rest and relaxation.
  • Don’t overstay your welcome. Most free RV parking locations have a time limit, so be sure to move on before the time limit expires.
  • Respect the property and rules of the location you’re parking in. Don’t park in areas that are off-limits or restricted.
  • If possible, ask for permission before parking overnight on private property.

By following these safety measures and etiquette tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable free overnight RV parking experience for yourself and those around you. Remember to always be respectful and courteous, and leave the location better than you found it.

Where NOT To Park Your RV Overnight

When it comes to free overnight RV parking, it’s important to know where you should not park your RV. While it may be tempting to park your RV in a convenient spot, there are certain places where overnight parking is not allowed or not safe.

Rest areas may seem like a convenient place to park your RV overnight, but many states have laws prohibiting overnight parking. In addition, rest areas can be noisy and crowded, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

It’s best to avoid rest areas unless they specifically allow overnight parking.

Private Property

While it may be tempting to park your RV on private property, it’s important to remember that this is illegal without the owner’s permission.

Even if you think the property is abandoned, you could still face legal consequences for trespassing. It’s best to avoid parking on private property unless you have explicit permission from the owner.

City Streets

Parking your RV on city streets is generally not allowed, especially in residential areas. Not only is it illegal, but it can also be unsafe.

Your RV may block traffic or emergency vehicles, and you may be at risk of theft or vandalism. It’s best to find a designated parking area or RV park instead.

Highway Shoulders

Parking on the shoulder of a highway is not only illegal, but it can also be dangerous. You may be at risk of being hit by passing vehicles, and emergency vehicles may not be able to get through. 

t’s best to avoid parking on highway shoulders and find a designated parking area or RV park instead.

National Parks

While national parks are a popular destination for RVers, overnight parking is generally not allowed outside of designated campgrounds.

In addition, many national parks have strict regulations on RV size and length. It’s best to check with the park before planning to park your RV overnight.

Additional Considerations for Free RV Parking

When it comes to free overnight RV parking, there are a few additional considerations you should keep in mind to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Here are some key factors to consider:

Amenities and Supplies

When parking for free, you won’t have access to the amenities and supplies that are typically available at RV parks or campgrounds.

This means you’ll need to plan ahead and bring everything you’ll need with you, including food, water, and any necessary supplies.

You may also want to consider investing in a generator or other power source to provide electricity during your stay.

Policies and Regulations

It’s important to be aware of the policies and regulations surrounding free RV parking in your area. Some cities and states have specific laws regarding overnight parking, while others may have restrictions on where you can park and for how long. 

Be sure to do your research ahead of time and follow all rules and regulations to avoid any fines or legal issues.

Road Trip Planning

When planning your road trip, be sure to take free RV parking options into account. There are a variety of resources available to help you find free campsites, including websites, apps, and GPS systems designed specifically for RVers.

You may also want to consider joining a camping membership program or looking into options like Harvest Hosts, which offer free parking at wineries, farms, and other unique locations.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Terms and Conditions

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Journey With Confidence

RV LIFE

How To Find Free Overnight RV Parking

' src=

  • RV Trip Planning

overnight parking

It’s Still Possible to Find Free Overnight RV Parking

Traveling in an RV is awesome for a variety of reasons. We love that we have our home with us wherever we go, meaning we can cook, shower, or sleep anywhere we see fit. We also appreciate the fact that we’re always able to finish the day in our own bed no matter where we wander. That said, the thing we love most about RV travel is the ability to save tons of money by avoiding expensive hotel stays. 

Of course, there are still campground and RV park fees to consider. However, those can be avoided, making your RV adventures even more affordable. That’s right, it’s totally possible to find overnight RV parking that costs exactly $0 a night, and sometimes these are the most scenic campsites out there. 

Want to give free camping a try? Here are our top tips for finding free overnight RV parking wherever you roam. 

Places that offer free overnight parking

The first thing to know is that there are a few usual go-to free overnight RV parking spots that RVers look for when they just need a place to stay for a single night. These particular places will not be the prettiest or most comfortable of your RV stays.

However, they are free and tend to be fairly easy to find, making them ideal to use as a quick overnight between travel days. You can find most of these locations while planning your route on RV LIFE Trip Wizard .

These places include:

  • Many Walmarts
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Camping World
  • Rest stops in some states

BLM and USFS

Obviously, it is nice of these businesses to allow overnight RV parking in their lots. However, as we mentioned, those are far from the prettiest or most comfortable places to stay. If you’re looking for somewhere to park your RV for more than a single night, we recommend checking into camping on land owned by the government. This includes land owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the National Forest Service. 

These lands have both designated campgrounds and areas for dispersed camping. In some cases, a permit is required and can be obtained for free at a nearby office. Generally, campers are allowed to stay up to 14 nights in one location. 

Free online resources

Another option for finding free overnight RV parking is to check out some of the articles we’ve written in the past. Our post about free campgrounds with hookups in Texas is a helpful one, as is the one about free campgrounds with hookups in Kansas .

We have many more articles on free camping and boondocking. Do a search and see what you can come up with!

Join Boondockers Welcome  

Okay, so technically Boondockers Welcome isn’t 100% free. However, it is so inexpensive, it could almost be considered free. 

Boondockers Welcome is a camping membership that gives members the opportunity to camp in the driveways and backyards of fellow campers. The cost to join is a mere $50 for an entire year, meaning it pays for itself within only a night or two of camping.

There are a huge number of hosts all across the country too, so finding somewhere to stay with this membership is rarely a problem. Many of these hosts allow longer stays of 5 nights, and some even offer water or electric. 

Free overnight parking etiquette

Once you find a free overnight RV parking spot, you will want to make sure you know and follow general free camping etiquette. This will help ensure that site stays free for all RVers in the future. 

General guidelines are as follows:

  • Pack it in, pack it out — Don’t leave garbage or anything else behind. 
  • Keep quiet during quiet hours — Don’t run generators or make loud noise late at night or early in the morning. 
  • Respect the neighbors — Use common courtesy, giving space between sites when possible and minding your manners. 
  • Care for wildlife — If you’re camping in the wilderness, respect the wilderness. Give wild animals space, don’t harm plants, and leave everything as you find it. 
  • Don’t set up camp in parking lots — If you’ll be staying overnight in a parking lot, avoid putting out chairs, grills, awnings, or slides. 

Use the right tools

If you don’t want to join a membership club and don’t have time to dig through articles or websites for the right campsites for you, the right tools are what you need. Fortunately we know exactly what those tools are, and we’re happy to share them with you. 

The first thing you’ll want to do is hop over to RV LIFE Trip Wizard or download the RV LIFE App and create an account. From there, you can start planning a trip and use the search functions to find all kinds of campsites along the way. These include free and cheap overnight RV parking.

Use the filtering options to narrow down your search based on campground type and price. Next, decide whether or not a stop is for you by reading the included reviews. This is our favorite way to find free camping!

Read more: Do You Know When To Avoid Free Overnight RV Parking?

where to park a travel trailer for free

Finding Safe (and Free) Overnight RV Parking [+Map]

Looking for overnight RV parking? Here is what to look for plus a map of free RV parking locations.

where to park a travel trailer for free

It’s not only retirees on holiday who are responding to the allure of an open road adventure. More and more y oung people are adopting the lifestyle known as "van life." More than 6 million Instagram posts use the hashtag #vanlife. The rise of the minimalist trend, remote employment, and even COVID-19 have all undoubtedly contributed to the increase in popularity of the nomadic lifestyle.

Since more people now own and rent vans and RVs, the number of people camping in RV parks has risen. Finding vacant boondocking spots or campsites has become increasingly difficult for many RVers, however. It is not easy to find a place to park in popular National Parks, and now reservations and permits are required for specific areas that had not held such requirements before.

Finding Safe Overnight RV Parking

There are plenty of choices for RVers looking to park their rigs for the night. When parking, be cautious to verify the local regulations to ensure that you are within the rules. Nobody enjoys being roused at 3 a.m. by the security guard or police!

During the warmer months, many of the most popular campgrounds and RV parks are fully booked months in advance. Remember that there will be fewer parking places in places that don't charge a small fee, and most won't have amenities like showers, garbage disposal, or electricity.

Always look for a popular spot to park overnight. Even though you'll have to cope with more noise, having more people around will increase the likelihood that no one will try to break into your RV while sleeping there.

While establishing a picturesque camp on a vineyard or ranch in the middle of nowhere is appealing, doing so will place you and your loved ones in a location with no GPS or civilization for miles. The likelihood of receiving assistance in the event of an emergency is low. An RV or self-contained camper is a visible target for potential thieves, so parking it overnight in a high-traffic location is a sure way to keep potential thieves at bay.

Staying beneath the glow of a streetlight or parking lot light will help you feel safer. It's also a good idea to put yourself in a surveillance camera's field of view. Although bright lighting might disrupt sleep, they deter burglars and other criminals. When you're in a well-lit location with CCTV, it's considerably harder for a crook to pull off a heist.

Always check for reviews and tips before pulling into a parking area for the night in your RV by clicking on a website or a smartphone app like Togo RV or your Roadpass account. United States laws and regulations, as well as a sense of the local culture, will be included. A major warning sign would be any safety concern or criminal activity.

RV Campgrounds

With so many people who don't know or understand the RV lifestyle, gathering information is essential before hitting the road. However, as any seasoned RVer will tell you, half the fight is locating a campsite with all the essentials, enough room to stretch out, and beautiful scenery.

You can access more facilities than free RV parking locations when you pay to camp. They often have coin-operated washing machines, a clubhouse with a shower room, and cable television. RV parking spaces at resorts are rather roomy, and some even provide shuttle buses to nearby points of interest.

You may find fantastic overnight RV parking options at certain state or city parks . You could even locate a formal campsite on-site and some basic amenities like water and electricity. Depending on the setup, the minimal cost of these may be justified. Like any other choice, it's wise to phone ahead and make sure it's okay to camp overnight or have an extended stay in a park.

Businesses That Allow Overnight RV Parking

Big box store.

During nighttime or bad weather, recreational vehicles may be able to find shelter in the parking lots of some retail chains and big-box retailers. Historically, RVers love Walmart and K-mart.

Several supermarkets have recently begun restricting parking for RVs and other large vehicles, however. Although individual shops may have varying rules, state and city laws will take priority. Be mindful of no parking overnight signs if that's what you're after. Refrain from assuming that every big box store has parking.

To find out whom to contact if you want to leave your RV parked overnight at a shop, you can inquire with the management. To properly express gratitude for their generosity, it is customary to make a little purchase at the store. 

Keep in mind that these parking lots aren't always located in the most peaceful or secure neighborhoods. Apply common sense, stay alert, and remember it's time to leave if anything seems wrong.

Check out Costco, Sam's Club, Lowe's, Camping World, Home Depot, and Menards, in addition to K-mart and Walmart. Remember to seek permission before visiting any of these spots, and stock up on supplies before heading out. Also be sure to properly clean up your trash and respect their space. 

Truck Stops

It's easy to find a truck stop in any of the 50 U.S. states and Canada. Roadtrippers traveling in recreational vehicles are welcome at national chain truck stops, not only truckers. As a rule, many of them won't charge you anything to stay overnight. Instead, the proprietors of truck stops want you to come in and buy something.

Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores and The Flying J are two RV-friendly truck stop chains. Some of these locations will provide not just places to fill your tank, park for the night, and grab some food, but also places to shops where you can stock up on necessities and find RV dump stations.

You can locate particular trip necessities that you wouldn't find in a typical store if you shop at a business that caters to long-distance truckers. Some truck stops are one-stop shops and may even provide laundry facilities and showers for a fee.

Staying at a casino's parking lot for the night is an option for those traveling with recreational vehicles. Casinos continue to welcome tired travelers, but other shopping complexes have clamped down on overnight parking. Additionally, they provide peace of mind due to their safety. It is common practice for casinos to employ full-time security personnel to monitor parking constantly.

Some Restaurants

Aside from being one of the few restaurants that allow free overnight for RVs, most Cracker Barrels also provide excellent service and delicious meals. Most Cracker Barrel locations have spacious parking areas accommodating semi-trucks and large vehicles.

Since most don't have parking lots as vast as those at Golden Corral, it is one of the few on the restaurant directory list that is RV-friendly. Golden Corral is a great place to park RVs and big rigs, but you should call ahead to be sure.

Request permission at any 24-hour establishments; if you can't find free parking, try McDonald's, Denny's, IHOP, or Waffle House.

Gyms and health clubs are fantastic places to stop for a stretch and a shower if you're on a lengthy road trip and need a break from your chair. Those who travel near cities sometimes park near gyms to take advantage of a short exercise and shower facilities.

24-Hour Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Planet Fitness are just a few examples of gyms that provide members with hot showers and exercise facilities for a small or discounted monthly and yearly membership cost. As opposed to offering long-term subscriptions, you may get two or three days of gym access at certain facilities.

While many gyms are located in strip malls, some of their parking lots may be adequate to handle overnight parking. Before you go, it's a good idea to call and find out what's offered and if there are any limits in the area. 

Sleeping at a highway rest stop is possible, but only at specific rest stops. You can only park your RV for a while at rest areas in all states. However, many rest spots don't prohibit sleeping in your car, although they are designed for brief rest breaks rather than overnight camping in an RV or a tent.

There is often a 10-hour time restriction on stays at these places. You should get some sleep if you need to and leave first thing in the morning. Tired driving is dangerous, and no one wants you on the road if that's the case.

Urban Boondocking

Overnighting in a city is known as "urban boondocking." This is a lot trickier and may depend on your RV or van model. Finding a home's driveway to park in is your best chance if you plan on staying for an extended period. Parking for one night on the street is possible, but only if you take the necessary precautions to do it legally, safely, and discreetly .

Overnight RV Parking Map

We've populated this map with points of interest from the blog article, but you're welcome to log your own using Proxi!

Related Articles

Planning a Wedding: The Benefits of Including a Wedding Map

Get Inspired

Adventure awaits.

How would you like to plot your course!?

where to park a travel trailer for free

Living Pioneer

Where to Park RV for Free: 11 Safe Places to Park Overnight

Where can RVs park for free? And which are the stores that allow RV overnight parking? Are there other places to consider too?

If you’re trying to save money by not staying at an RV park or just passing through town, then free overnight RV parking near me holds considerable appeal.

There are ways to do so. But it pays to be polite at all times as you’re effectively an unpaid guest.

Also, typically, you’ll be parked away from other vehicles instead of crammed together like at some RV campgrounds.

If you’re asking, where to park a motorhome, we have the answers. Public parks, truck stops, farms (by arrangement), churches (through reservation systems), RV dealerships, and retail stores with expansive parking lots often allow free overnight RV parking.

Most places won’t have electrical hookups or potable water. So, you’ll need to periodically empty your black and grey water tanks elsewhere.

In this article, we provide 11 safe places to park an RV for free.

Read Also: Free Overnight Parking Walmart: Still Possible?

Parking Spots and Full Hookups

Casino overnight charges vary, online resource, 2. harvest hosts for the best produce, does walmart allow overnight rv parking, walmarts that allow overnight rv parking: is it increasing or decreasing.

  • 4. Truck Stops for Big Rig Acceptance

5. Church for Nondenominational Overnighters

Check with the restaurant manager, look for the signage, number of parking spaces varies between stores, take advantage of the delicious food, be prepared for a quiet night, cabelas rv parking or bass pro overnight parking check with the store manager, knowing what to do is simple, rv dump station, quick tips at cabela’s and bass pro shops, which states allow rest areas, restrictions apply for overnight parking at rest areas, finding the approved rest areas, amenities available at rest areas, quick tips for rest areas.

  • 9. Camping World for the Adventurer

Hard to Find Well-traveled Boondocking Locations

How to find less-populated boondocking locations, boondocking on public land, quick tips for free camping on public or private land.

  • 11. Urban Boondocking for the Daredevil

Related Articles

1. casinos for the bright lights.

Casinos may seem like unlikely free places to park RV. Nevertheless, many see the attraction of offering overnight parking to RV and motorhome owners who might otherwise never visit the casino and wouldn’t likely pay for a hotel room anyway.

Therefore, it’s a marriage of convenience.

Each casino usually has a designated parking area for RVs of different types and sizes including campers. They each have their size limitations for oversized RVs, so check their website to be sure before traveling there.

Many offer full hookups, access to showers, and sometimes the swimming pool too if there is one.

Some casinos offer free parking, others charge a fee during peak periods, and a few have overnight fees regardless of the season.

Stay Overnight at Casinos

While you’re free to enjoy gaming at the casino, it’s not a requirement for a stay.

The buffets are available, and some shows might be laid on during peak season too.

Even when the parking spot is free, casinos keep busy and have the opportunity to provide their hospitality in various ways.

The Casino Camper site is designed to provide current information on the casinos that offer RVs a place to park overnight.

Other than checking on the individual casino’s website, it’s the next best resource.

Harvest Hosts is a paid network of farms, wineries, breweries, and other organizations (over 1,050 and still growing) that permit self-contained RVs to stay overnight for free.

It’s necessary to be a member of the network first, but then you can stay for free.

The Harvest Hosts Classic membership fee is currently $79 annually which compares well to the cost of a one-night stay in an RV resort or RV park.

There’s also their newer Harvest Hosts + Golf plan which includes hundreds of golf courses, country clubs, and access to spa facilities.

While there, you’ll get the opportunity to sample their wares. This might be the local harvest, the latest wines, ciders, cheeses, and more.

The selection depends on where you’re staying, the time of year, and what they produce on their land.

Harvest Host also has a useful mobile app on iOS and Android .

3. Walmart RV Parking

Walmart is one of the most popular RV parking free places. Do some shopping to stock up while you’re there and head on out the following morning.

Where can I park my RV for free near me? With over 4,000 retail locations in the U.S. alone, Walmart is almost everywhere.

What stores allow free overnight parking Walmart ? The number is around 2,000 locations still allowing RVers and van life people to stay there.

Usually, this is for a one-night stay. Some people push this beyond the one night – trying to stretch a single into a triple – but security will move them on.

Approval for Walmart RV parking is steadily decreasing. Some stores have a “ no park Walmart ” sign displayed near the entrance.

In most cases, it’s not a new Walmart policy to allow staying overnight in their parking lot. Many of their stores are open 24 hours.

Also, a high percentage of overnight RVers and Van Lifers go shopping in the store before departing. And local store managers realize this.

However, new city ordinances are increasingly being implemented. These are forcing Walmart store managers to turn away people in the late evening to prevent them from boondocking there.

Checking on a Walmart overnight parking app might also be worthwhile. Nevertheless, be mindful that it’s easy for the per-store information to quickly become outdated.

Also, realize that Walmart overnight camping isn’t advisable. This means no pulling out the awning, setting up the RV camping chairs, and so on. It’s not a boondocking spot!

Read Also: Walmart RV parking

4. Truck Stops for Big Rig Acceptance

Truck stops are usually expansive locations that are open to RVs staying overnight there. They fit right in because the parking spots are designed primarily for long-haul truckers.

Different truck stops offer this feature including Love’s , Flying J. , and some other smaller chains too.

Some of the truck stop advantages include:

  • Paid showers – Not cheap at $12 for untimed usage but they’re clean and well maintained.
  • Affordable refueling.
  • Truck washing station (at some truck stops).
  • Wi-Fi Access – A few dollars for a multi-hour or one-day period (at participating stops).
  • On-site restaurant

To find a truck stop along your route, check AllStays . They have spots for drivers, rest areas, camping locations, and rooms all locatable on a map or by state.

The AllStays information for each truck stop includes details like washroom facilities, laundry, propane availability, dump station for RVs, internet access, and more.

They also have several mobile apps including Camp & RV and AllStays Pro with offline Google map access at every truck stop indicated.

Make it a point to look for RV-designated parking spots to avoid accidentally using one intended for hard-working truckers. Just about every truck stop has them marked.

While it won’t appeal to everyone, many churches provide overnight parking spots for RVers.

It’s up to the individual church as to whether they offer this free service, how many parking spots they have, and how accessible the lot is after hours.

It’s best to search Google for churches along your route to see whether there are any that offer overnight stays to RVers. Then follow up by giving them a phone call or email to double-check if the offer is still available.

No doubt providing a small donation to the church would be welcomed too.

6. Cracker Barrell for a Hearty Meal

When you’re going through a city or town with a Cracker Barrell restaurant, then it pays to consider parking overnight there. They make a good alternative to an expensive RV park or other alternatives, especially when traveling on the interstate.

Whether a restaurant will participate in allowing RVs to park overnight at their Cracker Barrell depends on the manager at that location. We’ve found it’s not a consistent policy from place to place.

Check where the parking is located, if it’s on level ground, and how many spaces there are.

Also, ask about using a slide-out (if your RV has one), turning on the generator, or using the jack or leveling blocks. Some managers may insist on you not using jack pads whereas others don’t mind either way.

where to park a travel trailer for free

Check at Amazon

ⓘ  If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

When pulling your rig into the parking lot, keep an eye out for a sign confirming RV parking is permitted and under what terms. If it’s allowed, it’s probably there somewhere.

Some participating restaurants have only a couple of small parking spots for RVs which are only large enough to accommodate a Class B or C motorhome, whereas others have 5 longer parking bays.

Obviously, in the busier travel seasons, these can get filled up fast on a first-come, first-served basis.

It makes sense to dine out at Cracker Barrell when staying there. This is more or less implied and is courteous when enjoying the free parking.

At night, it gets quiet in the parking lot.

There’s either security or local police driving by just to check on everyone, but you shouldn’t get disturbed at all.

Read Also: Camping and RVing: Which is the Right Choice?

7. Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops for Outdoor and Fishing Gear

Cabela’s is a huge outdoor adventure sports store that has just about everything you could ask for.

They’re now part of the Bass Pro Shops chain, so they have close to 200 locations, combined.

Not all Cabela’s stores or Bass Pro Shops offer free RV camping for trucks or RVs. Cabela’s RV parking policy does vary.

With Cabela’s overnight parking, it’s dependent on the policy of the store manager and isn’t consistently reflected state-wide. Therefore, what stores allow overnight parking is a bit of a moving target!

It’s necessary to either look for signage, call in, or go in person to ask politely about it.

Participating stores usually have a green sign near the entrance directing truck and RV drivers where to go for RV overnight parking at Bass Pro Shops. Sometimes, they even have a dog kennel there too!

In the case of Cabela’s, the policy is that the free overnight RV parking is for customers only. Therefore, plan to purchase in the store if you’re going to use the parking facilities. Fair’s fair.

A few of the Cabela’s stores (which number at least 70) also have a Sani Star dump to empty your tanks without needing to find a dump station elsewhere. We do not currently know of any Bass Pro Shops that offer RV dump station facilities

If you’re making a purchase at a Cabela store and plan to use the station later, then ask for a free code. Otherwise, you can pay separately to use the dump station and pay by card.

With RV overnight parking at Bass Pro Shops, be careful where you situate yourself within the RV/Truck parking area.

The designated parking area is usually located near the back of the store out of view. It is easy for other vehicles to block you accidentally. Therefore, choose your spot wisely to avoid this.

Ask about the most level spots to avoid having your RV or motorhome at an uncomfortable angle or not level.

8. Rest Areas for Relaxed Downtime

Overnight parking at rest areas is possible in some states but is outlawed in others.

It’s necessary to check with the Department of Transportation (DOT) for the relevant state to confirm their current policy on approved rest areas.

As of the summer of 2020, the following states have approved designated rest areas:

  • Mississippi
  • Nor th Dakota

Park Your RV Overnight

Each state has extremely specific restrictions or limitations for parking at rest areas. However, it might still be correct to believe that picturesque rest areas will be ideal places to park and chill near me.

For instance, while Indiana currently has no restrictions on overnight stays, it’s not the same elsewhere.

Idaho rest areas are limited to 10 hours on interstate highways but 16 hours on state ones.

California currently restricts the maximum stay to 8 hours.

Use the AllStays app to locate the rest areas nearest to your current location.

Apply the “Rest” filter to narrow down your search to only rest areas and not truck stops as well.

Bear in mind that rest areas do get closed for various reasons. Therefore, check with the relevant state’s DOT site for the latest information before proceeding.

As you might expect, the amenities vary from state to state and between each rest area too.

Some of the possible amenities include:

  • Wi-Fi internet access
  • Vending machines
  • Recycling facilities
  • Electric hookups
  • RV dump station
  • Pet walking area
  • Center for travel information

Parking spots fill up early. By late afternoon, you could be out of luck!

Ensure you have a secondary place to try for overnight parking nearby in case of a surprise closure or lack of available spaces large enough to accommodate your RV.

Some rest areas will be closed for prolonged periods while they’re being upgraded. There’s usually signage on the interstate to indicate this.

Most rest areas either have security guards or regular Police patrols. However, don’t rely on this. If you’re going to leave your RV, make sure it’s properly secured, and the alarm is turned on.

Read Also: Difference Between Motorhome and RV

9. Camping World for the Adventurer

As the largest supplier of RVs and RV-related goods, Camping World overnight parking is obvious. However, not so fast.

While it was true if you go back a decade or more that these retail stores were sure things for overnight boondocking, that’s not been true for some time.

Nowadays, many locations have fencing around their parking lots, they’re regularly patrolled and do not permit overnight parking.

To be sure that you can stay overnight, it’s best to call the store manager to confirm it first.

10. Free Camping on Public or Private Land for Dispersed Camping Stays

RV camping on public lands (government-owned) is popular in certain parts of the country.

Dispersed camping is essentially camping in the wild. It’s something that is best suited to campervans for their portability or smaller Class B or Class C motorhomes on flatter land. As free places to park overnight, they’re hard to beat!

Free Dispersed Camping

FreeCampsites.net is a current reference for places that travelers have found to spend the night.

It’s an extensive resource for finding cool new places with great views or other conveniences.

The locations may be actual campsites that don’t charge for overnight stays but offer paid facilities like utility hookups, water supply, and other benefits.

Many are open camping areas on public land.

Bear in mind that due to its popularity, it’s not uncommon to go down a dirt road and discover 5 other solo travelers or couples already bunched in together.

To find a good spot for some boondocking, it’s necessary to be quite adventurous.

They’re often discovered by looking at Google Maps to scope out areas that look promising and then trying them out for yourself. This is the best way to avoid being overcrowded when you prefer solitude.

To find new locations to overnight camp for free, check the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or National Forest sites to get information.

It’s not uncommon to be allowed to stay for 10 days or 14 days depending on the type of land and what rules apply there.

In some cases, just moving on to another location still on BLM land is sufficient to restart the 10- or 14-day period again.

Individual states also sometimes have their arrangements. For instance, Washington has their Department of Fish and Wildlife campgrounds and New Mexico has some free land to camp on when you pick up a paid pass.

Park it and pack it out — Don’t leave trash behind. Areas that become trash-filled eventually get closed down.

Don’t Create Problems — Avoid creating a scene by running a generator in the late evening, turning up the music loud, or otherwise creating a nuisance for yourself.

Power to the People — Think about how you’ll keep power going. Having solar panels installed and being able to charge your batteries through your alternator is a good idea.

Supplies – The longer your stay before heading into town, the more supplies you’ll require. This includes drinking water, food that won’t perish, and enough propane to run the stove or heater.

Take Safety Seriously – Ensure you have a reliable First Aid Kit. It’s not a bad idea to think about having something for self-defense, just in case. Pepper spray is easy to get and doesn’t take up much space.

11. Urban Boondocking for the Daredevil

Owners with smaller RVs like a Class B, a campervan, or something else may try their hand at urban boondocking. This is where they find a place to overnight park out of the way but still in the town or city.

If you’re considering doing this, it pays to prepare ahead of time with blackout window curtains and other efforts to be stealthier. This prevents people from calling the cops on you.

It’s important to verify what the local parking restrictions are for that road before parking overnight. Some business industrial estates make for good spots if you believe they’re safe (they get deserted at night).

Urban boondocking is a more advanced strategy. It’s usually better to be prepared first and try other places before graduating to this level.

  • Free Overnight Parking Walmart: Still Possible?
  • RV Dump Staton Cost
  • Motorhome and RV: What’s the Difference Between Them?
  • Difference Between Motorhome and RV

Outdoor Fact

free rv parking

5 Free RV Parking Places That You Were Not Aware Of

When you are on the road, you might be happy to find a way of saving costs. Many RVers complain about the camping fees because spending a night in a decent location could charge more than $30. With the growing popularity of a nomadic lifestyle, campgrounds are becoming busier and their charges are going up day by day. Spending a night at a luxurious camping resort can be priced at $150 or more. What if you get some free RV parking  spots?

The spots for free camping , also known as drydocking or boondocking, are a little tricky to find but not impossible.

Top 5 Free RV Parking Options You Did Not Know About

Most countries have strict parking regulations, so you cannot just pull the travel trailer off the road into an empty space. But, there are still many places to park an RV  across the country. Remember that camping for free does not mean that everything has to be dirt cheap or devoid of fun.

Here are some suggestions for free overnight RV parking :

1. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

The agency is on the administrative charge of a huge amount of public lands, more than 247.3 million acres. They allow dry camping, but the staying period varies depending on the spot’s locations.

free overnight rv parking

If you find a suitable BLM place, call the regional office asking if they permit free RV parking . Don’t forget to ask about the rules and the allowed size of the trailer.

2. RV-Friendly Business Lots

There are some businesses that are friendly to the RVers and offer large parking lots for overnight stays. Some stores that allow RV overnight parking  are Walmart and Camping World. They have large parking lots for that purpose.

For example, Walmart is super-friendly to the RVers and encourages them to park in front of their stores. Some of their parking lots have a designated space for free RV parking .

However, never forget to ask for permission before parking and keep the vehicle away from the entrances so that customers don’t feel annoyed. Big retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s also offer the same facility but expect the vehicle to be away from their entrances.

You should never throw garbage on the streets or dump your tanks on the grounds when parking in these business lots. It is your duty to leave the place as it was before setting up your camper. Also, as a token of appreciation and your good etiquette, purchase something from these stores. Walmart has already become stricter regarding the size and type of RVs. Don’t do anything that leads them to revoke the facility.

3. Free RV   P arking with H ookups

W here can you park an RV  with hookups facilities? Of course, you can!

free rv parking with hookups

Few RVers know that there are camping facilities with hookups that offer either free stay or ask for a small donation. All free overnight RV parking  stations have dumping stations and water and many of them have electric and water facilities . A few of them have full hookups too. One such free campsite is Waylon Jennings Park in Littlefield, Texas.

If you are in Las Vegas or elsewhere that is lined with casinos, you can get free places to park RV  in these entertainment facilities. In particular, the casinos along the NASCAR circuit assign free spots to campers. Demand is skyrocketed during vacations, peak weekends, and NASCAR race weekends, so be prepared to pay a small fee. In fact, it will be wise to steer clear of these spots during the racing events because the fans book everything beforehand.

If you find such a casino, ask the management about free RV parking  and if they have any specific spot. Be careful not to block the regular traffic of the facility by parking in front of the entrance.

5. Truck Stops

These parking facilities have been for trucks, huge rigs, and tractor trailers, but not anymore. Truck stops throughout the country now welcome RVs and motorhomes. These points are the best option if you can’t manage any other place for overnight RV parking .

where can you park an rv

You will be fine if you follow the rules, be polite to others, and don’t create any public nuisance. These truck stops have their own culture that you may find interesting. But, don’t forget about safety. These are temporary stops for all sorts of people. It would be better to keep your valuables locked somewhere and lock the doors and windows when you leave the RV.

Useful Websites to Find Free RV Parking Space

There are many websites where you will get information about where to park RV for free . Some of the most popular and trusted ones are:

1. Free Campsites.

Featuring a user-friendly, simple interface, the website uses a map-based search engine that visitors can exploit to find free and cheap camping areas in their desired locations. They provide an explanation of various types of public lands where RVers can park on.

2. Harvest Hosts .

The website connects you to other people who have ranches, farms, vineyards, or other types of lands. These hosts are willing to provide RV parking space for short-term stays. However, you have to subscribe to a $49/year membership to get the service. Also, Harvest Hosts expects the campers to support the hosts by buying their products or services. But, the experience will be worthwhile. You don’t park in a vineyard or ranch every day, do you?

3. Boondocker’s Welcome .

Another website that requires a $30 membership fee per year. But, it’s a small price to pay for the benefit you get. The platform lets you connect with other RVers who are willing to share their properties with their fellow comrades. With this website, it becomes easier to find free RV parking  space even in the most unexpected places.

There are many other similar websites, some offer free services and others charge a small fee. Whether you are a full-time RVer or a seasonal traveler, they can save you on a rainy day.

Last Updated on September 12, 2019

Related Posts

rv driving

Carlos Perry

Carlos Perry’s passion for outdoor activities can be traced back to 5 years ago when he spent a significant time to conquer beautiful pristine lands and experience different cultures with his best friends. Currently working as a blogger, he takes pride in providing comprehensive contents about camping knowledge, survival skills based on his own experience. A lot of his work was published on well-known travel magazines like: Travel+Leisure, Thrillist

' src=

Please stay out of truckstops. Truck parking is already limited and these guys are out there trying to make a living.

' src=

Harvest Hosts is a $100/yr+ subscription (Dec 2022)

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Motorhome Classes
  • Travel Trailer
  • Fifth Wheel
  • Pop Up Camper
  • Teardrop Camper
  • Hybrid Camper
  • Truck Camper
  • RV Manufacturers
  • Best RV Brands
  • Buying An RV
  • Backup Camera
  • Electric Trailer Jack
  • Portable Generator
  • Portable Refrigerator
  • Portable Solar Panel
  • RV Power Cord
  • RV Surge Protector
  • RV Vent Fan
  • RV Camping Chair
  • Camping Table
  • Portable Dog Playpen
  • Propane Fire Pit
  • RV Leveling Block
  • RV Patio Mat
  • RV Wheel Chock
  • Wood Burning Fire Pit
  • Portable Camping Toilet
  • RV Black Tank Treatment
  • RV Macerator Pump
  • RV Portable Waste Tank
  • RV Sewer Hose
  • RV Shower Head
  • RV Toilet Paper
  • RV Water Pump
  • Towed Vehicle Braking System
  • Weight Distribution Hitch
  • 12-Volt Air Compressor
  • Collapsible RV Ladder
  • Discount Camping Club
  • Good Sam Club Membership
  • Portable Propane Heater
  • RV Mattress
  • RV Step Cover
  • Quick Reviews
  • Full-Time RV Living
  • RV Upgrades
  • RV Boondocking
  • Public Lands
  • Overnight RV Parking
  • Amazon Storefront
  • Must-Have RV Accessories
  • Travel Trailer Accessories
  • Pop-Up Camper Accessories
  • RV Kitchen Accessories
  • Luxe RV Accessories
  • Gifts For RV Owners
  • RVers Online University
  • Talk To RV Mechanic
  • About Camp Addict
  • Events & Press
  • Camp Addict
  • 🏕️ Free Overnight RV Parking

Free Overnight RV Parking: 12 Places That Are Easy, Legal, And Safe

By Kelly Beasley

If you are an RVer, you've been in these shoes: that moment when you decide you were done driving and want to find some free RV parking so you can sleep.

Who wants to spend an average of $35-$40 a night just for a few amenities? I'd rather turn off my engine and crawl into bed  using one of the free options out there .

There are much easier (and cheaper) ways to pull over and sleep than using an expensive campground with facilities for just a few hours. Ouch!

Wait, that's not a Walmart!!?!!

You probably already know about Walmart parking. But did you know that not nearly as many of their stores allow overnight parking as there used to be?

And did you know there are many other options for overnight parking out there? If not, you're about to find out. Overnight free parking is abundant if you know where to find it, especially if you don't need full hookups.

NOTE:  I did not include the  RV camping clubs   Boondockers Welcome  or  Harvest Hosts  in this free RV parking article as they technically cost money and you need to reserve. So they aren't as easy, and they are not free as the below-named places generally are.

Also, please remember,  it is NOT your right to be able to park at these places.  Instead, it is a privilege. Treat it as so.

OR, if you use/try the ones I mention that are, well, bordering on NOT legal, but are still pretty harmless, do it RIGHT and don't stand out or bring attention to yourself OR OVERSTAY YOUR STAY.

Ok, enough yelling at you, LOL. Let's do this!

Walmart Free RV Parking

Free RV parking at Walmart isn't news to you unless you've been living under a rock.

There's a ton of information about how to park at Walmart parking lots on the internet, so I'm not going deep here.

We already have an article 100% dedicated to teaching you the do's and don'ts when taking advantage of  Walmart RV parking  overnight.

In short, Walmart is famous for allowing guest RVers and car campers overnight parking. This doesn't mean they allow CAMPING. You should pull in late-ish, park, eat, and go to sleep, being as 'stealth' and unobtrusive as possible.

Just be aware NOT ALL WALMARTS allow overnight parking anymore. Call and check with the Walmart you are interested in staying at before planning an overnight stay.

Or, use an App such as Allstays to find out if they allow parking or not.

Learn more about staying overnight at Walmart .

Free Overnight Parking At Rest Stops

Rest stops are usually along the way when traveling on interstate and highways.

Some rest areas allow free overnight parking, and some do not. Even if they don't, you can likely pull in and sleep for a couple of hours without harm in an emergency.

When relying on this free RV parking, it's best to TRY to plan ahead by researching that particular rest stop.

Rest stops are great for your pets as well as for an occasional overnight on your way to your destination.

You can use an app such as  Allstays Camp And RV  (My favorite. But not free.) to find rest areas and the  USA Rest Stops  app or a website such as  interstaterestareas.com .

However, they often don't give much more information than just the fact that there's a rest area.

I've never felt unsafe in a rest area. But if you feel iffy or unsure at one, move along and find other overnight RV parking locations.

Truck Stop Camper Parking

Camper parking at truck stops tends to have some controversy attached to it.

The controversy stems from whether RVs should park in the large spots truckers use.

First, know that almost any 'truck stop' gas station allows RV parking spots for the night. Of course, they also expect you to get gas there or otherwise patronize the business as 'payment.'

My second or third night in my RV was spent here at this Flying J Truck Stop. I remember it vividly! NOT parked in a large trucker's spot. But I did do it once. Eek.

The controversy and big stink come from whether it's ok for RVs to park in the big spots. We have already covered our stance on  RV parking at truck stops . (DO NOT park in their spots is our stance. You have other options. They do not. You are on vacation. They are working.)

The bonus of staying at certain truck stops is you can shower there and sometimes even do laundry! Of course, they have restrooms, too.

Get Creative When Parking At Truck Stops

Large truck stops like Love's or Pilot sometimes have pull-through spots MADE for RVs. If this isn't the case, you can try to find an area off to the side where you can park.

I mean, where would you park if you were going in the store but didn't need gas? You'd find a place out of the way. Do precisely that when looking for an overnight spot.

It's going to be a noisy night. Use your earplugs or sound machine or download a sound machine app on your phone and use it!

(I use this iOS White Noise  app.)

Truck stops feel quite safe to me. Never felt in danger or uneasy. They are populated and busy, just like any other gas station.

Just keep your awareness about yourself. And obviously, lock up your stuff.

Learn more about staying overnight at truck stops .

Gas Stations

Not all gas stations have free places to park an RV. If they do, they often don't care if you're there.

It's not like the employee running the register goes outside to check on the parking lot for overnighters. (But they probably have cameras.)

In this event, I'd try to find a spot on the side where I am not blocking any traffic but am also not so far back in the shadows that I become a target for a criminal.

The spots on the left may serve as a good spot for the night as long as there aren't cars parked there anymore.

The bigger the gas station, possibly the better.

I wanted to stay overnight at a Buc-ees (a popular gas station) in Texas once, but they did not allow overnight RV parking. Maybe some do. Whatever gas station you want to try, you'll have to ask.

Your chances of success are probably better in a more rural area than an in-town busy station.

Free RV Parking at Hotels/Motels

You could ask to park... or arrive very late and leave very early.

I've done this a couple of times. Long as it's not a hotel or motel that needs a parking permit, this is a very viable option in some places.

In highly desirable areas where there are city ordinances banning overnighting in a vehicle, the hotels/motels are probably on to people doing this.

You're reaching if you try this in such an area.

Here I was visiting a friend who was staying at this Hilton. I think I stayed overnight in my RV and left in the AM.

I stayed overnight once at a motel next to a truck stop that was JAM packed, and I couldn't find a good spot out of the way.

The motel was across the street. I nestled myself back into a corner, fitfully spent the night, and left early in the morning. I was nervous about being called out.

But anyway, this could be an option for you. You decide whether to ask or to just 'risk' it.

City Park Overnight RV Camping

City parks that allow overnight RV camping may be more off the beaten path than your route. Regardless, some towns will offer free overnight parking for the night in one of their parks.

Be aware that this option, by nature, probably is one of the highest in terms of crime possibilities. Some city parks are havens for the homeless, drug deals, etc.

If there are no dedicated RV parking spots, take up as few spots as possible, off in a corner or side area, and make sure you park so that no-one can park in a spot in front of you and block you in. (My newbie self didn't do that here- this was about day three of my full-time RV journey.)

Being IN town, in a public space, and dark/quiet, the chances are higher that someone may try to break into your tow vehicle or toad in the night. Just be aware.

Otherwise, some parks allow free overnights, and some charge a small fee (especially if they offer potable water or electrical hookups).

It's simply one more option.

Also, be aware that the parking lot may not be very accommodating if you have a very long/large RV.

Washoe City Park, in Anaconda, Montana charged $10 per night. Some charge, some don't. 

Use Google satellite view before you go to determine if you can get around the parking lot and where you could park.

My best suggestion for finding them is to use  Campendium  to see if there's a nearby park offering free overnight RV parking.

Little bonus- if it's nice, there is probably a picnic table you can use in the morning to eat breakfast. Double bonus if you have kids and they have a playground!

Overnight Free Parking on Side Streets

Some cities, such as Salt Lake City, allow overnight free parking on certain streets for X hours or days.

There will be rules. In SLC, in particular, you are only allowed to park an RV on the street for 48 hours .

However, you ARE NOT allowed to STAY in the RV overnight (oops!).

Street parking in Salt Lake City.

If you want to try for this, don't make it obvious you are inside if sleeping is not allowed (and it's probably not). If you can stealth camp, such as in a van, you may be able to get away with parking anywhere in SLC.

Happily, I disconnected my tow vehicle from my trailer, thinking it was OK. I had lights on inside at night. (No, I wasn't overnighting. I was staying. I didn't know that wasn't allowed.)

It wasn't long before I was reported and had to find another RV overnight parking spot.

The moral of the story is to find out what is and is not allowed. This is not an easy feat to do. Still, it's doable to find places to park an RV overnight almost anywhere, and you'll need to do your legwork.

Vacant Lots

I mean... do this at your own risk. This is also a place criminals might be lurking.

BUT, vacant lots might be an option if you are desperately looking for where to park an RV for the night.

You might find a nice open and well-lit vacant lot that will work for free RV overnight parking. (Watch for no parking signs.)

Photo for... you get the idea. I wouldn't try to park here in between a huge movie theater and Walmart if my life depended on it. Its way too non-discrete.

Be aware you may get a knock in the middle of the night. It could be the owner, and it could be the police.

Just be prepared to move on short notice. Don't draw attention to yourself, AKA don't put down your stabilizers, don't put out  slides , don't have your step out, NOTHING. Lights off at night.

This will increase your chances of harmlessly sleeping for the night and leaving early in the AM without intervention. Just remember, these places aren't free campgrounds.

RV Dealerships

Camping World, among RV dealerships, will sometimes allow you to stay overnight.

Simply ask! Call ahead. They will often be exceptionally accommodating and offer free RV camping if they are doing some service work on your recreational vehicle the next day.

Check out all that beautiful, empty pavement! All you have to do is ask.

OR, let them know you are passing through and are in the market for a new rig. They will likely allow you to stay so you can peruse the lot the following day.

I have never utilized a dealership. I DID utilize a parking area at a service center before.

They allowed me and Marshall to park overnight as my axle was on order and getting replaced the next day.

Casinos are one of the best places to park overnight (if they allow it)! Well, they love the ones that come in and patronize their casino, anyway.

Since they have huge parking lots, there is plenty of room. Many allow a few nights (not just one!) of stay in the hopes you will stay to gamble.

You can go inside and use their restrooms.

This casino has a huge dedicated RV park for patrons. However, it's full hook-ups and is NOT free. Check what casino you are looking at to see what their requirements are and if they charge. 

As an overnight camper, you will have to go inside and register, so it's not the  easiest  of free stays.

Again- they aren't necessarily the quietest of stays, depending on the casino. Still, it's an option if there's one on your route.

There may be no room when you arrive. Don't think of casinos as free campgrounds or as a sure thing. Have a backup plan. Or reserve ahead if possible.

Ask Any Business To Park Overnight

Hey, if it's a parking lot and empties at night, it's possible! If you don't arrive too late, simply go in and ask the owner if they would mind if you stayed overnight.

Of course, it wouldn't hurt to patronize the business before you ask for permission.

And be very clear that you aren't going to cause problems, stay more than one night, etc.

The worst they can do is say no!

This works best for businesses that own the building and parking lot and stand alone. This means strip malls are out.

At night, this movie theater will be a big, empty parking lot. Maybe they won't mind if you stay?

Think large furniture stores, movie theaters, and maybe propane stores such as Murdoch's or Tractor Supply. ANY privately owned place could work.

Even places like churches and big box stores (Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, Costco, Petsmart, Lowe's, Home Depot, Sams Club, Top Golf, Kmart, some breweries, to name a few), independent grocery stores, and others are possibilities.

(Some Cabela's even have facilities such as a dump station!)

Ask the manager for permission. Or arrive after hours and take your chance.

If you do ask, kindness goes a long way. If you are kind and courteous when you ask, and the business owner knows you are simply in a jam or you JUST want to stay the night, they might say yes.

Again- this especially works if you drop some greenbacks into their business.

Overnight RV Parking Wherever The Heck

Say you are tired/falling asleep at the wheel and can't drive anymore.

In this case, I would recommend simply pulling over somewhere and looking for ANYWHERE to park. Even if it's at, say, a mall, on the street, a Cracker Barrel, a Bass Pro Shops, a grassy lot, or on the interstate off-ramp. Park and hit the hay.

The worst that can happen here is a cop knocks on your door. Still, if they don't know anybody is inside, what can they do? 

Are they going to have you towed? Not likely. (But if a tow truck driver knocks on your door, you'd better acknowledge it!)

Maybe this parking area would suffice at night.

You may get a written warning citation on your windshield.

Even if you answer, you can tell them you were falling asleep at the wheel, so you pulled over.

A police officer still may direct you to leave, but you can ask them about other places to park an RV for free for the rest of the night.

They will probably know about a place or two where you can park an RV overnight.

I took this yesterday at a Walmart. So much is wrong here. It's the middle of the day. Stabilizers are down. Slides out. Security camera hanging out the window. Awning out. Boxes of stuff out on the others side. He was working on the RV. He's also panhandling. (I saw his panhandling sign). This is camping/living. Not stopping for the night. These people ruin it for everyone else.

Sadly, there may be someday ahead of us when free overnight RV camping is a thing of the past.

Walmarts have already had to cut back on many stores allowing overnight parking because of the people who are essentially squatting in their parking lots or who dump their tanks and litter, cause a ruckus, harass the patrons, and use it as their campground (like the guy above), etc.

Sometimes it's a city ordinance that causes the disallowance. Usually, ordinances like that happen for the same reasons listed above.

Either way, it's 2021, and as of yet, there are still some free camping options out there that don't include RV campgrounds.

Now you have a plethora of choices when it comes to free places to park overnight!

Other places to park overnight for free include staying on BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) or in  national forests ( national forest RV camping ).

But usually, those areas are a destination, not a place for just one night. This is why we didn't include them above - they aren't usually used when you are looking for quick and easy free overnight parking for RVs.

For other public places, follow the rules. And don't stay long, don't fire up your generator for hours (or AT ALL if possible), don't use slides if you don't have to, and keep your stabilizers up and folding RV chairs inside. Then leave early in the morning.

Patronize the business you're staying at if there is one.

Do all of that, and you should be happily on your way the next day, no matter whether you're in a travel trailer or a motorhome.

So, where can you park an RV for free? The decision is up to you! Which of these suggestions are you going to try?

  • If you found this information useful, check out what else we have regarding where to park an RV for free here on Camp Addict .

Author: Kelly Beasley

I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.

Everything for small vehicles where do you put a 45 foot trailer in the 22 foot-long tractor or truck .

That’s a harder ball game for sure. You have to plan out your stops ahead of time. Use Google satellite on maps to see what parking looks like at any potential stop. It’s a PITA, not gonna lie! You can still use some of the overnight options listed here but with your size, space will sometimes not be available. Best to use campgrounds when unsure to avoid major headaches.

About parking at truck stops- The rule we have discovered is: You park where you are told to park. Some locations (Flying J) like to have campers in the front. Pilot has always kept us in the back (their back lots are usually very large). Loves and T/A have put us in with the truckers. One of the most surprising (and quietest) overnights was alongside a fire station. The men were awesome and even tossed us an extension cord. Not a lot of power, but we also did not have to run the generator.

Interesting! Curious, how did the fire station stay come about?

One word of caution about casinos on reservation lands, know the laws. A friend had an accident on reservation casino property and insurance wouldn’t pay out… I don’t know if this has changed. Sovereign nations do not have to comply with regulations you may not be used to being enforced.

While rules are definitely different on sovereign lands, payouts, when one has an auto accident, depend on their insurance provider. It also depends on so many other factors as to whether a payout is warranted.

That said, it definitely IS good to know the laws of the land before visiting or staying on tribal lands. Many people don’t know that they function separately from the US government.

Do be extremely careful when driving on tribal land so you don’t incur a ticket or DUI. If you do, you may need a lawyer experienced in tribal law to help you out of your mess.

I liked all the pictures in this article. I could pick a lot of them out being over here in Tucson. We drive by our Walmart over there near the Costco off Park Rd and boy the RV’s we see…….. some have been there for like a month. And yes slides out…sigh Were not far from that Casino. I remember the days when they didn’t charge…just had to go in an eat a meal. Think Blue Waters up in Parker is the easiest to park in for free. Thanks for another great blog post. We are loving the cool temps over here in Tucson that have finally set in. Cheers~

A MONTH???!!! UGH! That angers me to the max. I understand that there are people who RV because it’s an ‘affordable’ way to live. But they do it by breaking rules and it ends up costing the innocent who ARE following rules. Ugh, ugh, ugh.

Anyway, I think RVing is getting harder and harder. At least doing it the free way. Public lands, overnight short stays, etc. More and more places are implementing shorter stays, and even closing down altogether due to EXTREME trash and stuff being dumped there by people LIVING out there in barely running RVs. (Such as the area one particular area south of Flagstaff.)

All we can do is try to educate and enjoy what we have left.

Marshall is enjoying the Tucson temps, too. Me? I am still up in Colorado for a couple more weeks. Been VERY nice up here, too!

Thank you for your comment, neighbor!

If you’re an Escapee, I highly recommend Days End Directory. It’s a compilation of all the crowd sourced free overnight camping submitted by Escapee members that is published in every Escapee magazine. The online tool is very easy to use. There is a small fee, maybe $15/year. You can accumulate points for submitting new locations and eventually get a free lifetime membership. We use it frequently to find overnight spots you won’t find anywhere else.

Yeah, we know about the Day’s End Directory. Just have never used it. Campendium has been great for us. Maybe we should stretch out our wings a little.

Thanks for the tip!

Kelly!!!! Hey girl, I just love your site. I am a new RVer or I guess you could say “Van’er” because I don’t have an RV as of yet but I’m learning to live with it. I have just been inspired by you thank you so much. In this dismal Dark World of nothing but mean ignorant assholes you have put a bright light in my path and I will continue to push on, head held high and Spirits soaring. You go girl! you are golden! Love Whit

Awe, Whit!!!

This has to be one of the sweetest, most touching comments ever! Thank you for this. : D

I’m flattered and more than happy to hear you are going for it and that maybe I played a small part. That’s awesome!

Well, if you are getting an RV, you know where to look for advice on what are the best brands out there… though I don’t have a ‘best brand’, I got pretty lucky with my Slingshot. Been a FANTASTIC RV! Hope you’re enjoying your van (sounds like that’s what you have?) and best of luck to you in looking for an RV!!!

Thanks again, you made my day. : D

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

How to Find Overnight RV Parking

When you’re on a multi-day RV haul, bouts of rest are often necessary. If sleep is your objective, rather than a full camping experience, paying for a site in an RV park might not be warranted. 

Overnight RV parking can be the solution for resting between drives. There are a plethora of legal, welcoming options for overnight stays in an RV across the U.S. and Canada—most of them free.

In This Article

How to find safe overnight rv parking, locations that typically allow overnight rv parking.

  • The Dos and Don’ts of Overnight RV Parking
  • What to Expect When Overnight RV Parking in Parking Lots

Common Questions About Overnight RV Parking

The Roadtrippers app can help you find safe overnight RV parking . It’s important to use a resource, like Roadtrippers, that vets and allows feedback on the locations listed. A moderated app or website will help you choose a safe location and avoid late-night knocks from law enforcement or management.

Utilize websites and apps that verify the legality and permission of listed overnight RV parking locations. It’s also important that these resources stay up to date and respond to reports of changes in overnighting policies.

The following websites and apps have active moderation to determine the accuracy, availability, and legality of their overnight RV parking listings. 

Van parked in space at local park

Overnight RV Parking by Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers Premium members have access to overnight RV parking locations, providing an accurate and authoritative database of free overnight RV parking locations in the U.S. and Canada. Not only can you see where overnight RV parking is welcomed, you can read reviews and reports from other RVers who have overnighted at the location.

Campendium is a review-based website and app for reviewing RV camping and overnighting opportunities. These includes parking, boondocking, RV parks, campgrounds, and multi-night camping options. 

While Campendium is free to use, Roadtrippers premium members enjoy an ad-free experience. And if you’d prefer an all-in-one experience, Campendium campsites and reviews are all in Roadtrippers too!

Harvest Hosts

Harvests Hosts is a network of breweries, wineries, farms, and other small business locations that invite self-contained RVs to stay overnight at no fee beyond the cost of a yearly membership (however, guests are expected to patronize the business). Harvest Hosts can be used in website and app forms. 

Boondockers Welcome

Boondockers Welcome offers self-contained RVs the opportunity to park on a host’s private property in the U.S. and Canada. Boondockers Welcome is an app and a website with a yearly fee that allows you to locate potential hosts offering their property up for a night of rest at no additional cost. 

While you should never assume that a location permits overnight RV parking, some places are more likely than others to be a viable option. When looking to make a quick overnight stop in your RV, you’ll most likely end up at one of the following types of businesses.

It’s always best practice to get permission from a business or confirm legality with the local municipality if it’s not obvious that overnight RV parking is permitted.

Overnight RV Parking at Businesses 

Places of business with large parking lots and reduced overnight patronage are often permissive of RVs parking overnight at no cost. Oftentimes, this practice is regulated by the city or town, so be aware that some chain stores that often permit overnighting may not be able to in certain areas. 

Always pay attention to signage permitting or prohibiting overnight parking, and confirm permission by contacting staff or management if you’re unsure. 

Overnight RV Parking at Big Box Stores

Big box stores are a common and well-known option for free overnight RV parking. Walmart is a popular option, with many locations permitting overnight RV parking as long as both local ordinances and store management approve of the practice.

Other common retailers that often allow overnight RV parking include Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Camping World, Costco, Kmart, Lowe’s, Menards, Sam’s Club, and The Home Depot.

Overnight RV Parking at Casinos

Many casinos welcome casino patrons to spend the night in an RV in the parking lot. While usually free, RV overnighters are typically required to check in with security. It’s not atypical that overnighters are asked to sign up for a player’s card or otherwise patronize the casino in return for the use of the parking lot.

Some casinos host an RV park or have RV hookups on the property, but will sometimes still allow parking overnight in a lot for free.

Related The Ultimate Guide to Casino Camping in the United States

Overnight RV Parking at Restaurants

Cracker Barrel is the most RV-friendly restaurant chain in the U.S. Most Cracker Barrels permit RVs to spend a night in their lot and have designated pull-through RV parking spaces.

Mom-and-pop style restaurants may also be options for overnight RV parking. If you enjoyed dinner at a restaurant and find yourself ready for a night of sleep, it never hurts to ask the manager.

Overnight RV Parking at Rest Areas and Truck Stops

Rest areas and truck stops are conveniently placed, highly-accessible locations for overnight RV parking. Typically located adjacent to major thoroughfares, these locations are built to accommodate even the largest of rigs.

Don’t assume, however, that overnight RV parking is permitted at all truck stops or rest areas. Some states prohibit the practice or limit the time you can park. Some truck stops reserve overnight parking areas for professional truckers only. Be sure to check the rules of a location before arrival or have a backup plan in case you arrive and find out that overnight RV parking isn’t allowed.

Related Can You Sleep at Rest Stops? All About Overnighting in Rest Areas

Overnight RV Parking in Urban Areas

In some locales, it’s legal to park your RV on a public street and sleep in it. On rare occasions, free or paid public parking lots permit the practice. Permissibility is highly dependent on local laws and ordinances. Accessibility is often limited to smaller rigs. 

When scouting streetside overnight RV parking, pay attention to posted signage and research local laws. 

Perception of safety is subjective, and you may not know if an area feels safe until you arrive. Parking in well-lit areas is good practice. 

When parking overnight in an urban area, be hyper cognizant of your presence. Urban areas aren’t the place to put leveling jacks down or utilize generators. Any disturbance to the local community is likely to lead to a knock on the door asking you to leave.

Overnight RV Parking at Non-Traditional Locations

Across both the U.S. and Canada, you can find non-traditional overnighting locations. Some cities or towns have constructed roadside parks to accommodate weary travelers passing through. Some city or county parks permit overnight parking, often for free, but sometimes for a small fee. 

Museums and roadside attractions occasionally offer RVs the privilege of overnighting in their parking lots, especially after patronizing the location. So do some convention centers with large parking lots. Visitor centers, especially in smaller towns and cities, may be able to accommodate an RV looking to park overnight. 

The best way to find these types of locations is through Overnight RV Parking in the Roadtrippers app.

A call to the local visitor center to ask about safe places to park overnight never hurts. Sometimes you may be directed to a local business or given special permission to park in a location where overnighting is not widely permitted.

The Dos and Don’ts of Overnight RV Parking 

Overnight RV parking is just that—parking your RV overnight so that you can meet basic needs like sleeping and eating. Overnight RV parking is not camping. 

Camping in an RV involves setting your rig up to enjoy time in a location. This means extending RV awnings and arranging your outdoor setup with carpets, lawn furniture, and BBQ grills. 

Overnight parking in an RV means utilizing a parking space or area to shut off your engine and stagnate. No awnings or camping gear should be deployed. Consider refraining from the use of levelers and slide-outs if possible, and always refrain from use if either is destructive or inhibits the movement of others.

In general, if your RV looks like you’re camping, you’re camping. If your RV looks like you’ve just parked it for a short time, you’re parking.

To support sustainable overnight RV parking, RV consumer clubs created the “RVer’s Good Neighbor Policy.” Consider the suggestions below:

  • Stay one night only.
  • Obtain permission from a qualified individual.
  • Obey posted regulations.
  • No awnings, chairs, or barbecue grills.
  • Do not use hydraulic jacks on soft surfaces (including asphalt). 
  • Always leave an area cleaner than you found it. 
  • When feasible, purchase gas, food, or supplies as a form of thank you.
  • Be safe. Always be aware of your surroundings and leave if you feel unsafe.

When parking your RV overnight, also consider the following:

DO park your rig in a position and location that permits an easy exit in the morning. Consider possible obstructions, including being parked in, when settling on an overnight location.

DO look for and respect any posted signage. 

DO park in a space that’s appropriate to the size of your RV. If you have a small RV, don’t utilize a parking spot designed for a large rig (i.e. tractor trailer) if at all possible. 

DO arrive late and leave early, if possible.

DON’T park in a manner that could impede auto or pedestrian traffic.

DON’T run a generator if the noise could disturb the peace of the local environment or your neighbors.

DON’T fill an overnight parking location’s trash cans with your household refuse.

DON’T assume you can park and leave the property. While it’s good practice to patronize a business at the overnighting location, don’t use a location that doesn’t permit camping as a camping area for day exploration.

What to Expect When Overnight RV Parking in Parking Lots  

Overnighting in a parking lot is typically free and often convenient. You should, however, set expectations prior to arrival. Your experience will vary, and conditions at parking lots are known to fluctuate. 

Many parking lots, even throughout the night, are busy places. This is especially true for lots that attract and permit commercial trucks. Be prepared to open your blinds in the morning to a different scene than when you closed them.

Parking lots can be loud. With cars and trucks coming and going throughout the day and night and people patronizing 24-hour businesses, you should expect noise. In addition, if you’re parked near tractor trailers, you may find yourself subjected to other mechanical noises. 

Don’t expect dark skies while overnighting in a parking lot. Most lots keep the lights on all night long for safety. 

Expect few to no amenities, especially in terms of hookups or waste disposal. 

Parking lots aren’t scenic locations. While the hubbub of people coming and going can be interesting, parking lots rarely provide the natural ambiance many associate with RVing. 

Simply expect a place to park your rig so you can refuel, shower, and sleep to prepare for more driving. 

There are plenty of welcoming and safe locations to park an RV overnight. Rest areas, truck stops, big box stores, casinos, and sometimes city parks or visitor centers are all types of locations that may permit overnight RV parking.  Of course, you can always book a night at an RV park or campground—many of which are conveniently located right off the highway and provide hookups.   Roadtrippers is a useful tools for finding a place to park your RV overnight.

Most places that explicitly permit overnight RV parking are also relatively safe. You can increase safety by overnighting in locations that others use for the same purpose and by reading reviews from previous overnighters (available through Roadtrippers).   Other overnight RV parking safety tips include parking in well-lit areas in view of security cameras and parking in a manner that allows you to quickly and easily drive away when needed or desired. 

Some private businesses such as casinos and big box stores permit overnight RV parking in their parking lots. Some cities or municipalities permit overnight parking in specific locations. Many rest areas permit RV parking with a limit on how many hours you can stay. Most truck stops permit overnight RV parking in designated areas.

Rest areas, truck stops, big box stores like Walmart and Bass Pro Shops, casinos, and sometimes city parks and visitor centers are all locations that may permit free overnight RV parking.  Roadtrippers is a useful tool for finding a free place to park your RV overnight.

Overnight RV parking prices can range from free (common) to a few dollars (on occasion) to more (rare).   Rest areas, truck stops, big box stores, casinos, and some city parks, visitor centers, and museums commonly offer free or low-cost overnight RV parking.  Some highly convenient overnight parking locations near major cities may charge similar prices to those you’d expect to see at RV parks.  Of course, you can always pay for a night at a formal RV park or campground.

The legality of overnight RV parking is dependent on local laws and mandates. Private businesses that typically offer overnight RV parking can be prohibited from permitting it by local ordinances. Overnight RV parking is a privilege, not a right, and availability is up to a private business or local government. Always gain permission to park your RV overnight at a location if you’re unsure of the legality.

Get the most inspiring stories from the road sent directly to your inbox.

where to park a travel trailer for free

  • Trip guides
  • Voices from the Road
  • Destinations
  • Trip Planner
  • Sign up Log in Sign out
  • Log in Sign out
  • ROADTRIPPERS MEMBERSHIP

Roadtrippers

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

where to park a travel trailer for free

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option or create a new account with Roadpass.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

RVBlogger

FREE RV Parking Overnight At Walmart (Rules & Safety)

where to park a travel trailer for free

Sharing is caring!

Thanks for your support! If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure here .

Updated April 1, 2024

We spend the night at Walmart quite often. In fact, in the past 12 months, we have spent over 25 nights in Walmart parking lots.

Most RVers know about free RV Parking at Walmart. But do you know all the facts? For example, not every Walmart allows overnight RV parking. And if a Walmart does allow overnight parking, there are some things you should know before staying overnight.

So, whether you are boondocking for one night as a way to keep your campground expenses down, or you’re just tired of driving for the day and need to get some shut-eye, rest assured, there are still plenty of Walmart stores that allow RV overnight parking.

But, as we all know, the world is changing. And so is Walmart. Certain Walmart locations are changing their policies regarding overnight parking, and everyone worries about how safe it is to stay overnight in a Walmart parking lot.

This article serves to address those issues. It also answers many of RVers’ questions about overnight parking at Walmart.

Check out our YouTube video below!

Walmart’s Updated Policies About Overnight RV Parking

Most Walmart stores have allowed overnight parking for RVs in the past, but things have changed over the years. Now, Walmart has updated its overnight parking policy to give individual store locations more decision making power.

While you can expect most things to be the same with every Walmart you visit across the country, things may differ when it comes to RV parking. Depending on local laws, some managers may choose to allow overnight parking or not.

This policy isn’t exactly new, but it does help to clear up some misconceptions about RV parking in Walmart lots.

Over the past five years, we have shown up at about a dozen Walmarts and been told we could not spend the night. Now we always call ahead to ask if we are allowed to spend the night in our RV. We would rather find out while we are on the road so we can choose another location.

In our experience, we still find that most Walmarts allow overnight RV parking.

Do All Walmarts Allow Overnight Parking?

Many Walmart stores allow RVs to park overnight, but not all of them do. We’ve heard RVers mention that only Walmart SuperCenters allow overnight parking. But we know of regular Walmart stores that allow overnight parking too. And we also know of cases where individual Walmart stores have changed their policies regarding overnight parking.

For example, stores that have allowed parking for years suddenly don’t. And the opposite is true too. Stores that have not permitted parking for years have suddenly changed their policy and now allow RVs to park overnight. There appears to be no rhyme or reason as to whether or not they allow overnight parking.

So, how do you know which stores allow overnight parking and which stores do not?

What’s the Back Story About Why Walmart Allows RV Parking Overnight?

There’s a beloved story here that many folks may not know about.  Walmart founder Sam Walton always wanted his RV customers to feel welcome. So, he decided that he wanted them to have a place to stop for the night when traveling the country in their RV motorhomes.

Walmart’s philosophy is that RVers make great customers; therefore, they’ve been welcome to park overnight at Walmart for a long time now. And Walmart is correct! We know hundreds of RVers who regularly shop at Walmart.

Today, however, the sad reality is that RV camping overnight for free at Walmart has become a problem in many areas. In some places, homeless people (and inconsiderate RV campers) have taken advantage of the overnight stay. They’ve littered, caused disturbances, loitered, panhandled, and generally caused problems for the other customers.

Negatives to RV Parking at Walmart

As mentioned above, there are some concerns about homeless people and overall disturbances to consider. Also, there may be city ordinances that prohibit you from staying there overnight, even though Walmart allows it. 

Simply put, use common sense here. Generally speaking, parking your camper trailer or RV motorhome overnight at a Walmart is safe. Check out more of our suggestions below, including the positives of staying here!

As we mentioned we have stayed at dozens of Walmarts and we never had a problem. We did feel unsafe once so we just left and found another location to spend that night. We say always trust your gut.

Positives About RV Parking at Walmart

There are many positives to staying overnight at Walmart. First of all, it’s free! There are no fees to stay overnight. Secondly, stocking up on groceries and camping supplies while you’re there is very convenient. And third, since there are so many Walmart locations, you won’t have to go out of your way to find one.

Also, most Walmarts are near restaurants, gas stations, and other stores. So you can gas up or grab a meal while in the vicinity of a Walmart. When you think about it, staying overnight at a Walmart is a convenient way to save time and money on your RV travels.

Where Should I Park My RV at the Walmart Stores?

Because every Walmart location is different, this one is a tough question to answer.  Basically, look and see where other RVers or truckers have parked their rigs, motorhomes, and camper trailers.

If you don’t see any parked in the Walmart parking lot, go inside the store and ask to speak to a manager. It’s always better to ask for permission and parking advice from the store anyway.

Typically, we end up parking on the side of the Walmart or as far from the front doors as possible so we don’t interfere with customers.

How Can I Find Walmarts That Allow Overnight Parking?

There are several ways to find out which Walmart stores allow overnight parking and also, which stores do not. One way is to use the Walmart Locator . This will take you to a site where you can click on a state and then click on a particular store location. I think it’s a bit incomplete. Here is a screenshot of what you can find.

where to park a travel trailer for free

Allstays is also a useful app for finding Walmarts that allow overnight camping.

Why Would Walmart Deny Overnight RV Parking?

There are several reasons why Walmart does not allow campers to park overnight. Some towns have recently passed ordinances that prohibit overnight parking. So, if a Walmart is in that jurisdiction, they can’t allow campers to park overnight per city laws.

A store might also prohibit overnight stays for safety reasons. Walmart managers typically won’t allow overnight parking in high-crime locations. RVers probably shouldn’t park in high crime areas anyway, as they often have cash on hand, making them a desirable target for criminals.

Finally, homeless people have started living in RVs. They park at Walmart because it’s free, and then they stay for long periods. There are reports of some of these folks begging for money and making a mess in the parking lot. If this happens too often, Walmart may have no choice but to close its parking lot to all overnight visitors in an attempt to avert the homeless problem.

Is It True That Walmart Stores Are Changing Their Policies?

Some campers report being told they couldn’t park overnight in their RVs. Many RVers are concerned that Walmart is changing its policy about overnight RV parking. In the FAQ section of Walmart’s corporate website, one of the questions asks: Can I park my RV at a Walmart store?  The answer from Walmart is:

“While we do not offer electrical service or accommodations typically necessary for RV customers, Walmart values RV travelers and considers them among our best customers. Consequently, we do permit RV parking on our store parking lots as we are able. Permission to park is extended by individual store managers, based on availability of parking space and local laws. Please contact management in each store to ensure accommodations before parking your RV”.

So, based on this information, I think it’s safe to say that Walmart has not changed its policy. However, more managers may decide they won’t allow overnight parking at their location.

Is There a Crime Problem in Walmart Parking Lots?

Many crimes take place in Walmart stores and in their parking lots. The vast majority involve shoplifting and minor assault.

Walmart has been hit with a wrongful death lawsuit against Walmart, alleging that the business knows how unsafe its parking lots are and hasn’t taken proper precautions. The suit is from the family of a man who got into an argument with someone who drove too close to a baby carriage. He got into an argument with the driver and punched him in the face. The driver then shot him in the chest. How is this Walmart’s fault?

That said, crimes are committed against RVers every year at Walmart and other locations, too. But they don’t happen often, and RVers can easily avoid them if they’re smart and careful.

Is It Safe to Park Overnight at Walmart? 

It is safe to park at Walmart overnight, but you must use common sense. Here are some tips that we use to help you stay safe.

  • Call the manager and ask if you can stay. Ask if they’ve had crime issues.
  • Call the local police department, and ask if a particular Walmart is safe. Ask them to keep an eye on the parking lot.
  • Find out if there’s a security guard for the Walmart and introduce yourself. Ask him to keep an eye on your rig.
  • Park in a well-lit area of the parking lot.
  • Take care of everything outside the RV early in the evening. Then lock up and stay in your RV for the night.
  • If you hear anything suspicious, don’t go outside. Call the Police!
  • Lock your RV doors and exterior storage compartments.
  • Trust your gut. If you have a funny feeling about staying, just leave!

parking lot of a Walmart with at least 3 Rvs parking to spend the night

What’s It Like to Stay Overnight at Walmart?

Walmart is a favorite place for RVers and some truckers to spend the night. But what’s it like to stay there?

Well, first of all, since it’s a popular location, you’ll likely see other RVs there spending the night. Assuming everyone has asked the manager for permission, most of the RVs will be parked in the same area. Not everyone does this, so you might only see one or two RVs in different parking lot areas.

There are also no hookups, so your RV must be self-sufficient. Since there’s no electricity, some folks may run their generator overnight, and you might hear that noise. You should also expect the parking lot to be bright since you’ll most likely park in a well-lit area.

You should expect to hear some road noise when you stay at a Walmart. There could be noise from tractor-trailers rolling in to make deliveries. And there can be RVers pulling in at any hour of the night. Many Walmarts are near major highways and busy roads, so expect road noise.

Be a Courteous Guest When You Stay Overnight

Since you’ll probably be parked among other overnighters, please be courteous, considerate, and polite to the other campers. And be kind to Walmart employees. Here are a few universal rules of etiquette while staying at Walmart:

  • Always call ahead and ask the manager for permission to park overnight.
  • When you arrive at the Walmart, introduce yourself to the manager and security guards and ask where to park.
  • Only stay overnight. Leave early the next morning, so you don’t overstay your welcome.
  • Ask the manager what the rules are. For example, ask if you’re allowed to lower your stabilizer jacks, extend your bump-outs, or run your generator.
  • If you can run your generator, try to observe a quiet time of 10pm to 8am.
  • Buy any supplies you need at Walmart. Since they’re kind enough to let us stay, buy something while you’re there as a thank you.
  • Clean up your trash.
  • Clean up after pets if you have any.
  • If outdoors, keep all pets on a leash.
  • Don’t extend your awning and sit in the parking lot
  • Don’t have a barbecue or use an outdoor kitchen in the parking lot.
  • Keep noise levels down when inside and outside your RV.

What If I Can’t Stay at Walmart?

If you can’t stay overnight at a particular Walmart, don’t worry. There are plenty of other places to stay overnight, such as:

  • Flying J Truck Stops
  • Camping World
  • Cracker Barrel – Check out my article on boondocking at Cracker Barrel . It’s very informative.
  • Highway rest areas
  • Costco – Not many people know you can stay at Costco. Check out our  article about staying at Costco too .

Related Questions

1. can anyone sleep in a walmart parking lot.

Whether you’re in an RV or in a car, Walmart doesn’t have any universal rules about sleeping in their parking lots or not. However, if store management prohibits parking your RV overnight in their lot, they probably don’t want you sleeping there either.

If you’re sleeping in a Walmart parking lot that allows overnight stays, always remember to check your surroundings and be cautious. Not every Walmart parking lot is safe, and you don’t want to risk falling asleep in a sketchy area.

2. Can You Sleep in a Walmart Parking Lot in Canada?

The same rules apply to Canadian Walmarts as they do to U.S. ones. You can sleep in many Canadian Walmart parking lots, but always check with the manager first and avoid sketchy areas.

3. Are There Nicer Places Than Parking Lots to Stay Overnight for Free?

Yes! There are some great alternatives to staying overnight in a parking lot, and they’re pretty close to free. There are two camping memberships that I highly recommend if you want to park in some great locations for free.

Harvest Hosts is another membership we belong to that has over 5,000 free places to park overnight. These overnight parking places are gorgeous. There are orchards, wineries, farms, breweries, museums, churches and other unique attractions that allow RVs to stay the night.

The annual membership is only $99 a year and gives you access through their website and App to stay at any of these incredible locations. And they just added an additional membership for only $40 to stay at over 350 golf courses across the country, too!

So, for $139 a year, your price will never go up, and you have over 5,000 gorgeous locations to park overnight! We are members and love our membership!

Harvest Hosts Logo

Boondockers Welcome   is an RV club that offers places to park for overnight stays from people who own private land. They now have more than 1000 locations across North America. The idea is that Boondockers Welcome provides a website directory of fellow RVers willing to let you stay a night or two on their property.

Even though the name is Boondockers Welcome, which gives the impression there are no hookups, many hosts are able to provide electricity and water, as well. Guests are encouraged to offer the host a gift or pay a few bucks if hookups are provided. Most of the time the parking area will be right beside the property owner’s home, or it will be on land that they own but do not live on. And you have the benefit of meeting some great people who can give advice about the area where they live!

where to park a travel trailer for free

Related Articles to Overnight RV Parking at Walmart:

For more information about free overnight parking or camping check out some of our other articles below.

How To Find Free RV Camping Best Places to Go RV Camping for FREE Can I Live in an RV on My Own Property? Harvest Hosts – A Great Way to Camp for Free! Cheap Retirement Living in an RV Does Walmart Have Free WiFi?

Do you have any comments you would like to share about parking your RV overnight at Walmart? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Thanks for reading this article and if you would like to email me directly, please visit our  Contact Page  and send an email.

To see a list of all of our articles check out the Blog Archive !

Mike Scarpignato – Bio

Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.

Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.

We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.

We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.

Mike and Susan from RVBlogger at an RV Show

where to park a travel trailer for free

15 thoughts on “FREE RV Parking Overnight At Walmart (Rules & Safety)”

How many days in a row can you have an RV parked in a Walmart parking lot ? I hear rumours of not more the 30 days?.

excellent info and much appreciated thanks again

I live in my camper full time n that makes my camper my home. Thus, I’m not homeless. I boondock n have noticed many Wal-Mart this year having posted signs stating ” No overnight parking for RVs n Tractor trailer”. So with that being said, Wal-Mart policy IS changing. I’ve noticed this change, especially in North Carolina but I’ve also noticed other places on the east coast too. It doesn’t surprise me tho knowing that Wal-Mart has a contract with FEMA for when Martial Law goes into effect. I prefer nature over people anyway but sometimes u have to be in the townships.

Where our Walmart is located, across a small, residential intersection, is the nearest RV dumping station, at the closest gas station. (I am not sure about terminology, sorry). I work in this area, and there is always plenty of campers. We have three large corporately owned business in about less than a kilometer. The only one that doesn’t allow overnight parking is Staples, and it is posted. We are in northern Canada and in the case of a large blizzard they do allow tractor trailer units to park.

I use the Crime and Place app for iPhone to tell me if a Walmart or any camp spot is in a safe place. Worth every penny.

Thanks for the info!

What a great collection of information. Thank you so much for sharing! My friend and I are taking our first RV road trip adventure and planning to do the free parking lot option for the majority of our journey. Our main concern is the water hookups. Do you have any suggestions on how to best remedy that situation if we don’t have park reservations? Our stops will be Bryce, Zion, Provo and Jackson Hole… Thanks in advance for any direction! Safe travels, Alex

Hi Alex, Many gas stations, dump stations, truck stops, BLM Ranger Stations, or Parks have drinking water available. Just be sure to ask first before filling your fresh water tank. The Sani-Dumps app also lists dump stations that have fresh water available. Just look for the fresh water icon. Hope this helps! Mike

Great article! Lots of good advice.

Hi Liz, Thanks so much for reading the article and for the kind words! I really appreciate it! Mike

Please note that the RV Overnight app while it may appear to be free when you download it, the first step is to sign in and subscribe which costs $24.99.

This was most informative! Thank you.

Hi Mavis, Thanks for the kind words. I spend a lot of time researching and writing my articles so I appreciate hearing that you find it to be useful. Thanks!

We have used Walmart, truck stops (noisy),, and other well lite areas No problems but don’t be jerk and never use the word “camp” you are resting

Hi Bruce, Thanks for your comment. If RVers are nice to Walmart employees (and their customers) and follow the rules Walmart will continue to allow RVers to spend the night. And it definitely isn’t camping. It is simply overnight parking. Thanks, Mike

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

where to park a travel trailer for free

How to Find Free Overnight RV Parking - Trailer Valet

RVing Know How

  • Types Of RVs
  • Tow Vehicles
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • RV Power & Electrical Supplies
  • RV Appliances
  • Living In An RV
  • Travel & Destinations
  • RV Gear Buyer’s Guides

where can I park my RV to live

where can I park my RV to live and travel full-time

Aaron Richardson

  • Last Updated: March 3, 2024
  • 12 minutes read

When you get out on the road to live full-time in an RV, you’ll probably be asking yourself: where can I park my RV to live?

What’s more, you left the confines of a house, mortgage payment, and sticks-and-bricks life to save money, so figuring out an affordable place to park your RV to live is a crucial question for any full-time RVer.

And finally, you probably want the freedom to live in a place in your RV for a period of time before rolling out to your next adventure.

So you need a place to live in your RV that doesn’t lock you in long-term.

The good news is there are many many places all over the U.S. where you can park your RV to live. From camping networks to public lands to rest stops to discount clubs to rented/purchased RV spots, there really is no end to the places you can park your RV to live in it.

But to do this right, it’s important to have an understanding of the types of places you can choose from, how RV parking varies in different regions of the U.S., and how much you might expect to pay.

That’s why this post will break it all down for you – we’ll talk about the different ways to park your RV to live in it, how much to expect to pay, and how to lock in a great spot to live in your RV.

Places to park your RV to live

13 Best Places to park your RV to live

More and more people are living full-time on the road which means there are many places you can live in your RV.

Here are 13 different types of networks and places where you can get into that’ll let you live in your RV for free or nearly free:

1. Workkamping

This is a tried and true method of securing a spot to live in your RV. As the name implies, Workkamping is where you sign onto work at a place like a campground, national park, dude ranch, resort, county fairground, factory, event venue, or any other place that might need workers seasonally.

In exchange for your work, you’ll almost always be given a free spot to live in your RV with your utilities being covered.

In many instances, you’ll also have the opportunity to earn additional pay beyond a free RV spot.

There are tons of Workkamping opportunities all over the United States. The best way to find them is by searching “Workkamping opportunities near [name your place]”.

Amazon Camperforce

2. Amazon Camperforce

There aren’t many folks left who haven’t  ordered something right to their door courtesy of Amazon.

But those packages don’t magically appear on our doorsteps – there is a vast operation of people, warehouses, and shipping trucks that make that happen.

Heck, we even hear that drones are now starting to deliver stuff for Amazon.

But the point is this – if you want a great place to park your RV to live while also doing some great work, the Amazon Camperforce could be for you.

Amazon’s Camperforce is a program that will provide you with a free place to live in your RV in exchange for your working at an Amazon warehouse and helping people get their packages.

You’ll be given a free RV site and be paid for your time. Simply search for Amazon Camperforce opportunities near where you want to be to see if this opportunity is available to you.

3. National/State Park host  

A dream job for many, you can actually live in your RV in the middle of a national or state park.

This really is as awesome as it seems – from epic campgrounds in the middle of Yellowstone to spots deep within the Great Smoky Mountains, you can park your RV and live in a national park if you work as a host.

Hosts are a vital part of national park operations because they check guests into the RV campgrounds and make sure everyone is behaving.

You’d get free access to the park and a place to live in your RV in exchange for your time spent maintaining your campground, checking guests in, and generally keeping your campground in good order.

As you might imagine, these positions are very competitive and only a few of the many who apply are actually accepted.

But you never know until you try!

You can check out the national/state park website of parks you’d want to live at for more info on hosting opportunities.

County Parks

4. County Parks

There are many county parks that offer RV camping.

Camping at these parks is generally very affordable and sits in some beautiful parts of the country.

In some cases, you could even serve as a host at these parks and live in your RV for free.

5. Bureau of Land Management Lands  

The United States has hundreds of millions of acres of land that are federally owned.

Huge chunks of this land – especially in the western United States – are open for free camping when they are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM for short).

By heading to the Bureau of Land Management’s website or searching for “BLM land near me” you can find an array of places to park your RV to live in.

But, there are some drawbacks to be aware of.

BLM lands do not have hookups, so you will need to plan on figuring out your own water, electric, and sewer dump situation.

BLM lands do not have sewer dump stations, so you will need to find a dump station in a town near you. You should never dump your waste on federal lands.

The other drawback is that BLM camping areas are mostly limited to 14 days of use, meaning that after you’ve camped for 14 days, you’ll have to find another spot to camp in.

But with so much BLM land, you can usually find another place to park your RV right around the corner!

Park your RV at approved businesses

6. Park your RV at approved businesses  

Stores like Wal-Mart, Cabelas, and Bass Pro Shop will generally allow you to park your RV for one night while you’re between destinations.

You should always call the store in advance to make sure this is okay because overnight parking is not allowed at every location.

As long as it’s allowed, this option is a great way to park your RV overnight so you can get some rest on those longer road trips.

7. Membership Clubs 

Programs like Thousand Trails and Coast to Coast work by charging a larger on-time fee+annual dues that will then allow you to camp for free or very low cost within their network.

Thousand Trails for example has 193 campgrounds spread around the U.S.

You can buy into one of the 5 Thousand Trails zones to get campgrounds near you or you can buy into the whole network for free camping whenever you’re in a Thousand Trails campground.

Coast to Coast also has many campgrounds in it’s network, but generally still charges $10/night even after you’ve paid the large membership fee.

Thousand Trails and Coast to Coast are just two examples of the many membership camping options out there that’ll let you park your RV and live in it.

A quick search for “RV membership clubs to park my RV” will show you many options.

These membership clubs might seem expensive on the front end, but if you plan to park your RV and live in it in different places for many years on the road, you can quickly start saving a lot of money.

Discount RV Clubs

8. Discount RV Clubs  

There are many discount clubs out there that will help you park your RV to live in it without spending a fortune.

AAA is a common auto club membership for people in the United States, but it will often get you discounts at many campgrounds around the U.S.

Good Sam Club is one of the largest and most popular campground discount clubs that offers discounts at thousands of member campgrounds.

Passport America offers steep discounts at campgrounds around the U.S., but dates to use the discount can often be limited to weekdays or other low seasons for RV parks.

Escapees is primarily a club to help full-time RV’ers get the resources they need to thrive on the road.

Along with this, Escapees also has a large discount campground network that can save you a bundle while living in your RV.

These are just a few examples of the many different discount clubs that can help you live in your RV for much less. By joining a discount club, you’ll be living like a pro on the road. 

9. Harvest Hosts Free Overnight RV Camping

Harvest hosts is a network of farms, wineries, ranches, and other venues that allow RVers to park for one night during trips.

By purchasing a Harvest Host membership, you’ll be able to stay for free in your RV at any of the 1,000+ locations in the Harvest Hosts network.

The general rule is that you stay in your RV for 1 night only and that you support your host by purchasing something at their shop or winery.

10. Boondockers Welcome

Much like Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome is a network of homes, businesses, and venues where you can park your RV for one night for free because you are a member.

Long-Term RV Spot Rental

11. Long-Term RV Spot Rental 

Many RV campgrounds will allow you to rent a spot long-term to live in your RV.

This can be a great option because the campground will almost always give you a steep discount for renting long term.

It’s also nice to live in your RV yet still come home to the same place every night. That way, you can experience the RV life, save money, and hopefully have fun neighbors.

12. Buy an RV spot  

If you plan to live in your RV in one place for many years, you might want to consider buying an RV spot.

While not offered at every campground, some campgrounds will actually allow you to purchase a space for your RV.

Once you pay for the spot, you’ll be living there in your RV for only the cost of utilities.

This can be a great option if you plan to live in your RV on a more permanent basis.

13. Friends and Family

If you know people who have land, why not ask them if you could park your RV to live at their extra space?

Many RVers do this usually in exchange for paying rent.

But another option is to take on work around your friend or family’s home to cover the costs of living on their land in your RV.

There are beautiful pieces of land all over the U.S. that sit unused. If you happen to have friends or family with the space, why not ask them if you could park your RV there for a time?

How much will it cost me to live in my RV?

How much will it cost me to live in my RV

The costs of living in your RV will vary depending on where you want to live , how nice the RV park is, and what kind of creative steps you take to decrease your living costs.

So, the first step you will want to take is to determine the budget you have for living in your RV.

Some people live in their RV for as cheap as $200/month , but these are often in parks or locations that can be run down.

But run down doesn’t always have to mean unsafe or undesirable – you may find an RV parking spot for that price that you enjoy very much.

If you want to park your RV and live in the most scenic parts of the United States, this can be done, but you will generally pay more for that privilege.

In popular areas such as those near national parks, the ocean, or majestic mountains, you can find some RV parks that will charge $800+/month – with some parks costing into the thousands of dollars per month!

Even in these popular areas, however, you can find national lands and Bureau of Land Management campgrounds to park your RV for free. You just won’t have hookups.

The bottom line is that living in your RV can cost a lot or a little depending on how you handle it.

The best way to live in your RV for low cost is either to stay in one low cost RV park for long periods of time or to travel and make use of free/low cost lands.

If you make use of all the strategies above, there is no reason you can’t live in your RV in wonderful locations for less than $4k/year – and oftentimes much less if you take advantage of free camping, campground networks, and discount clubs.

How to lock in a great spot to live in your RV

Locking in a great spot to live in your RV takes time. The best way to start is by first asking yourself some questions:

Do you want to live in your RV primarily in one location or travel around?

What is your ideal budget for living in your RV?

What region of the country do you want to live in in your RV?

Generally, new RVers haven’t yet explored enough to find the one or two spots they want to live in in their RV.

That’s why it’s best for new RVers to take several trips to different locations before deciding the area they would want to live in in their RV.

Once you know where you’d like to live in your RV, then the best way to lock in great spots is doing a fair bit of research ahead of any area you might park your RV.

Call around to RV campgrounds in the area to see what sort of deals they have.

Ask about which discount network is the most popular and gives the best deals for the area where you want to park your RV.

See if there are any campground membership clubs that you could join to save yourself a bundle.

Think if you have friends or family in the area who might offer you a spot to park your RV to live in.

Check classifieds for RV spots for sale or rent. You could also look for anyone with land for rent and call them to see if they might let you park your RV on part of it.

Finding a place to park your RV to live in might seem like a scary task. But there are more and more people every day who are taking the leap into full-time RV living.

That means the options for places to live in your RV are growing every day to fill the demand for RVers needing places to live.

By learning and implementing the strategies above, you’ll find some of the best places to live in your RV at the best prices and with the best people to have as neighbors.

Aaron Richardson

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

Best RV Water Filter

8 Best RV Water Filters For cleaner and tastier drinking water

Can you hookup your rv into house electrical system.

Can I Plug My RV Into My House

Rand Bishop

my county (Walla Walla, WA) doesn’t allow you to live in an RV even if you own it and on your own property. I feel this is wrong and infringes on our liberties and freedoms and actually contributes to the homeless problem in our town. I’m on a mission to prove this law unconstituional. Rand Bishop

Mary

Good luck! That’s not smart considering the huge numbers of displaced people and the pandemic. I hope you can get this changed❣️🙏

mattthew gilmore

mattthew gilmore

i agree and i support your move on this matter

Jon Clark

More power to you my brother. I think folks should be leaving that town until it ultimately turns into Detroit or Flint Michigan. Secondly assemble a list of the local politicians who are supporting those restrictions and make it your mission to unseat them one by one. Lastly if all efforts fail. Go to city hall and burn that bitch to the ground. For legal sake I am quote unquote kidding. Or shall I say allegedly. Isn’t that what those commie bastards say to keep from being sued.? May the force be with you brother and MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN !!

Charlotte McMahon

Charlotte McMahon

I live in California and it’s the same here. I currently am living in my travel trailer in a friend’s driveway and they are making me move. Soi guess I’m looking for somewhere to park my trailer to live so if there is anyone that can help me it would be greatly appreciated. I agree with you on getting this changed cause I was homeless and thank goodness the people I stay with had a family member that eventually needed to get rid of the trailer and I got the opportunity to acquire it. There should be more people out there willing to help. I know it can be hard to trust people but there are good people out there just down on their luck. I thank God every day for these people who opened up their house to me and hardly knew me.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You Might Also Like

What Is An RV Macerating Toilet (And Do You Really Need One?)

What Is An RV Macerating Toilet (And Do You Really Need One?)

12 Full-Time RV Living Myths And Misconceptions You Need To Stop Believing

12 Full-Time RV Living Myths and Misconceptions You Need to Stop Believing

RV Wet Bath_ Pros And Cons You Should Know

RV Wet Bath: Pros and Cons You Should Know

Start typing and press Enter to search

TheCampingAdvisor.com

  • You are here:
  • Home »
  • Blog »
  •  » 9 Tips to Get Motorhomes or Old Travel Trailers for Free

9-Tips-to-Get-Motorhomes-or-Old-Travel-Trailers-for-Free

9 Tips to Get Motorhomes or Old Travel Trailers for Free

  • October 11, 2019 /
  • RVing 101 /
  • By James V. /

Everyone likes a good deal, e specially when that good deal does not cost them a lot of money. The phrase ‘if it is too good to be true then it probably isn’t’, does not apply when you can get an RV for free. These free deals can be and are true.

One of the best ways to get a free RV or motorhome is to ask a friend. Sometimes friends give away their older RVs because they need the space, do not want the storage hassle or for other personal reasons, like a divorce give a way by an angry ex-wife.

To find out the different ways you can get an RV for free just continue to read our article. It explores the issue and sets you on the right path to tracking down your free RV. Getting an RV for free is not a bad thing as long as you do it right.

Tip 1 : Make sure you let friends, family, and co-workers know you are looking for an RV. They may know someone you don’t who is looking to unload theirs as quickly as they can.

Tip 2 : Another place to try is your local RV dealer or repair shop. They may have been in contact with an RV owner who does not want to make the necessary repairs and will get rid of the rig without any money changing hands.

How to Find Free Motorhomes on Craigslist

How-to-Find-Free-Motorhomes-on-Craigslist

Craigslist is an old and tried method of getting a lot of items, products, and services for reasonable prices. You can find an RV for free on Craigslist in their free section. All you have to do is a daily scan of their free section or RV section and you should be able to come across a free rig, eventually.

The problem with scouring Craigslist though is that you need to be quick. Not only do you need to beat other people who have the same quest, you need to beat the people who run the list.

It has been known that the people in charge will flag and remove free RV ads. Why they do it is unknown. One probable reason is that they may be thinking it is some sort of scam.

There are a lot of reasons why these ads disappear so a daily run through of Craigslist is probably the best way you are going to find a free RV.

Tip 3: check the classified sections of your local newspaper and the nearby towns. You never know when someone has tired of their RV life or wants to make an upgrade. The classifieds are easy to go through and you should find a good RV for nothing in them.

Other Ways to Find Free RVs Near Me

Other-Ways-to-Find-Free-RVs-Near-Me

To find a free RV near you, there must be someone willing to part with it for no cash in return. That may take some time to do and patience is something that is needed for your search.

Besides checking with your friends, co-workers or family members you can try local classified papers that sell for very cheap and have no news in them. These newspapers are strictly made to sell items including RVs.

You can check the local laundromats, supermarkets and post office bulletin boards as some people do not have the money to advertise their free RV and look for cost-free alternatives.

Another way to find free RVs near you would be to do an internet search or a Facebook search. People post their vehicles on these outlets as they reach more people.

Also, the different RV forums may have some leads for you and some have message boards that may include postings for free RVs. Once you put your mind to it, there are a lot of different ways to find a free RV near you

Tip 4 : You can place an ad stating that you will remove old RVs from someones’ property for no cost to you or them. The only thing about this is that some you remove may not be in fixable or livable condition.

Are Free Motorhomes Worth The Trouble

Are-Free-Motorhomes-Worth-The-Trouble

Yes, and no. If you like tinkering on older vehicles including RVs then a free one may be just the ticket to make a little extra money. You can fix it up and resell it at a cheaper but profit-driven price.

They can also be worth it if you are homeless and need a place to stay until you get your life back together. There are endless possibilities that make getting a free RV worth it. There are also endless possibilities that make it not worth your time and trouble.

With older RVs you may not be able to get the parts you need to fix it up. Or there just may be far too much damage to the frame. The money and time needed to rectify that issue won’t be worth it in the long run and you could get a used RV for the same cost or less.

Or the RV has just too much mold and mildew behind the walls. Removing both would be too time-consuming and you may ruin a wall section or appliance, etc. Just trying to get to the mold and other contaminants.

Then determining if the free RV is worth it or not is ultimately up to you. This is an issue that may split the husband and wife with both taking opposing sides. It is best to have your spouse support you before you take the project on and bring the old RV to your home.

Some things to consider also will be storing the RV. Do you have the space in your yard or driveway? Are you allowed to store your RV on your property? How ugly is it? And other questions you need to answer before taking the plunge.

Tip 5 : or you can place an ad in different locations saying you are looking for a free but livable RV. You do not have to accept bad RVs because you made it clear that the unit has to be livable.

Old Travel Trailers For Free

Old-Travel-Trailers-For-Free

Looking for a free older travel trailer is the same as looking for a free RV. You have the same sources and resources to use and you will still have to use a little patience as you may be told about some really bad ones before you find that pearl.

There are lots of places you can go look and an RV dealer may be one good place to go. They may have taken an old travel trailer in on trade but can’t resell it. They may let you take it off your hands for nothing.

Like the old saying goes, ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’. There is no harm in asking people either. Dealers and private owners may want to just get the old thing off their property. It looks ugly and neighbors may be complaining.

Plus, you may have to be willing to travel a little distance to retrieve those old travel trailers. They may not all be in your neighborhood but in a town or city a few miles away.

The key is to know where to look and who to ask. There is always a free travel trailer somewhere in the country at some point in time.

Tip 6 : There is an old saying’ you get what you pay for’. When you are paying nothing for an RV you may get the worst of the worst. Be careful of those RVs that come from hurricane areas. They may be filled with mold and other harmful contaminants.

How to Drive an RV For Free

One of the best ways to drive an RV for free is to get a job driving new models across the country to their new homes. There is a high demand for these transportation drivers and you can make a fairly good salary if you are careful.

Here are some benefits of becoming a transport driver:

  • Your schedule is flexible - you can drive when you want or customize your driving schedule around your normal on.
  • You can work for a variety of employers - you are not tied down to just one RV company. If one company doesn’t a rig ready to go another may.
  • ​ You do not have to drive fast - normally the company gives you lots of time t get the RV to its destination. This allows you to go slow and see the country as you drive.
  • ​ It is a good way to earn a second income - help prepare for the future and get your bills paid off faster by driving as a second job. It certainly beats selling for multi-level marketing companies.
  • ​ Make it a family affair - some companies may allow you to bring your wife along with you as well as your kids. This gives them a break from normal life and introduces them to a new way to travel.
  • ​ It's a great job - for those who like to travel.
  • It's for spontaneous people as well - transporting an RV can be done on a whim when you feel like getting out of the house for a while.

Here are some of the negatives that come with driving an RV for a relocation company:

  • You have to get yourself to the company and back home again on your own. The company doesn’t pay for these parts of your employment.
  • You cannot change the driving window. These are set in stone and cannot be changed. You have to complete the task before that window expires.
  • ​You have to pay your personal expenses including food and other necessities.
  • ​You need a good driving record and possibly a commercial driver’s license and experience.
  • Each company comes with its own set of negatives.

Tip 7: You can always enter a contest if you want to get an RV for free. Of course, this may take several entries and a little extra money to do but in the long run, you may beat the odds and bring the grand prize home.

RV Relocation from Chicago

RV-Relocation-from-Chicago

There are companies in Chicago, Illinois is the RV capital of the world, that need people to help them relocate their RVs. The pay is set and you may have to pay some of your own expenses but the opportunity to see the country can beat that negative with ease.

There are also rental companies that are looking for people to drive their RVs back to another location. They trade a lower rental fee in lieu of payment and you can drive the RV from Chicago to LA in no time.

What creates this need is a glut of one-way rentals that have left the final destination outlet overstocked and other outlets understocked. You can get some great deals driving one Way RV rentals back to their point of origin.

Tip 8 : expand your search to include RV forums, online RV companies and more. Use the internet to your full advantage to get that elusive free RV. Also, keep an open mind and look at other states that are far from home.

RV Relocation From Phoenix

Phoenix is the same as Chicago. There are many rental and other companies, like dealers, who need someone to drive an RV to their new home across the state or the country.

All you need to do is get on your computer and do a little research. There are tons of companies that are looking for people to take advantage of their cheap offers to get an RV back to its starting point.

It may take a little time to find the right company to go with but that time is well spent when you get to save money on your RV expenses.

Tip 9 : You can also make some trades for your RV. These trades can be antiques or other items of value that makes sure you do not spend a lot of money out of pocket.

How to Get a Cheap RV Tips

How-to-Get-a -Cheap-RV-Tips

Just about everything we have said up to this point applies to this category. You can talk to friends, co-workers and family members to see if they have or know of someone who has a cheap RV for sale.

Or you can use Craigslist, Facebook and other social media outlets, and even RV forums to find that once in a lifetime RV deal you can’t pass up. On top of that, you can talk to dealers who have taken in older RVs and want to get rid of as quickly as possible.

Then since RVs are alike a traditional house except they have wheels, you can do some creative haggling and make nice trades for a cheap RV. You may have a spare vehicle you do not need. You can make the offer and hope the seller likes your creativity.

There are lots of possibilities to get a great RV for a cheap cost. All it will take is a little brainstorming on your part to get the right idea that should work for you.

Are Free RVs Junk?

Are-Free-RVs-Junk

This is a good question to ask yourself before you start your search for a free RV. Some people will get rid of junk passing it off as a livable unit and even disguising the bad sections to make it look better than it should or does.

When you start your search, you have to be prepared to face this reality. There are a lot of junk RVs out there whose owners would love to get rid of as quickly as they can and they are not all honest or ethical.

But, and it is a big but, you will find a lot of good RVs among the junk. They may need a few repairs and some engine fine-tuning but they are out there waiting for you to take them home.

You just have to be patient and know which ones you can fix and which ones you need to pass by.

What to Look For in a Free RV

Before you start your search for a free RV, you need to make up your mind about the purpose of your search. If it is for personal use, then you need to know what to look for when you come across free RVs.

If you have to put a lot of money into refurbishing the rig, then you are defeating the purpose of your search. Here are some things to look for when trying to find a decent free RV:

  • 1. Engine - does it turn over or start when you turn the key in the ignition. If you hear a clicking noise then the only problem may be the battery or generator. You may not want to rebuild or replace the engine as that will take a lot of money if you can get parts.
  • 2. Parts availability - you may want to strike some older models off your list because parts just cannot be found for them. Free is a good deal until you learn you can’t use the RV for anything but a paperweight.
  • ​ 3. Licensing - you should talk to your local DMV and see how much a temporary registration and driving permit will cost. That is if the RV is drivable. Or if it isn't checked into the cost of towing or hauling the RV from its home to yours.
  • ​ 4. Hidden expenses - we have just mentioned 2 hidden expenses that come from picking up a free RV. You will need to do some research to find more hidden costs to make sure the free RV doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg.
  • ​ 5. Appliances - what kind of shape are they in? Do they still work or will you need to repair them as well? Parts for the appliance may be hard to get if the RV is too old. You can replace them if you remodel the interior.
  • ​ 6. Remodeling costs - is the RV in good enough shape and is it worth the expense of remodeling. You can change the floor plan to fit your specific needs but again, is it worth it or will it cause a divorce?
  • ​ 7. Holding tanks - what kind of shape are they in? Will they still work or will you have to make some parts repair or replacement? Holding tanks are vital to an RV and you need these in top shape if you want to use the vehicle.
  • ​ 8. Tires - can you still drive on them or do you need to replace them before you leave the location of the RV? Tires are not necessarily cheap when it comes to RVs.
  • 9. Purpose - a free RV may be worth it if you want to turn it into a recording studio for your son’s band or a guest house for your mother in law. But still, it needs to be in fairly good shape for those activities.

Some Final Words

People like free stuff. It makes them feel good, and it helps them keep their finances under control. With the expense of a new RV looking for a free one will make someone feel really special, as long as they get the one they want.

To find these little gems, there are lots of avenues you can use to track them down. Some are free, just ask people, and others may cost you the price of an ad. It will depend on you which avenue you choose to use.

Don’t forget that the internet can save you a lot of time and money if you look in the right places. All you have to do to guide your search is to know exactly why you want the RV in the first place.

Related Posts

Does CarMax Buy RVs? (CarMax RV Trade-In Guide)

300 Lbs Over Payload: What Happens If I Exceed My Payload?

Thor Vegas Problems (Windshield, Battery, Fridge, Swivel Chair)

Leave a Comment:

From Yosemite to Acadia, National Park Week 2024 kicks off with free entry

where to park a travel trailer for free

National Park Week kicks off April 20 with free entry to every national park in America. 

That’s not just capital NP national parks like Grand Teton and Olympic , but all 429 sites within the National Park System , ranging from national battlefields to seashores.

Entry fees are only waived that first day, but there are special activities planned throughout National Park Week (and many sites don’t charge entry fees anyway).

"With countless options of things to do and see, there really is something for everyone in our country’s national parks,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said in a statement.

What travelers should know:

What is the purpose of National Park Week?

The first National Park Week in 1991 marked the 75th anniversary of the National Park Service.

The next wasn't until 1994, but since then, it’s become an annual, presidentially proclaimed celebration across America’s ever-growing list of national parks, according to National Park Service spokesperson Kathy Kupper.

“During National Park Week, and throughout the year, I encourage people to discover and enjoy the natural, cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities available in national parks and through National Park Service community programs,” Sams said.

How long is National Park Week?

National Park Week spans nine days. It runs from April 20 through April 28. 

Each day will spotlight a different parks-related theme.

◾ April 20: Discovery

◾ April 21: Volunteers 

◾ April 22: Earth Day 

◾ April 23: Innovation 

◾ April 24: Workforce Wednesday 

◾ April 25: Youth Engagement 

April 26: Community Connections 

◾ April 27: Junior Ranger Day

◾ April 28: Arts in Parks 

Travelers can find their nearest park through the National Park Service and National Park Foundation’s Find Your Park site.

What is the most visited national park? Answers to your biggest park questions

Are national parks free on Earth Day?

Not this year. Earth Day is April 22. 

Last year, it happened to coincide with the first day of National Park Week when parks offer free entry. 

However, this year, the first day of National Park Week is April 20.

When are all US national parks free?

There are five more free entry dates this year:

◾ April 20 : First day of  National Park Week

◾ June 19 : Juneteenth

◾ Aug. 4 : Great American Outdoors Day 

◾ Sept. 28  : National Public Lands Day

◾ Nov. 11 : Veterans Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day was also an entry-fee-free day in January.

Certain groups like military service members, veterans , and U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities are eligible for free entry any time of year. Fourth graders and their families are also eligible for free park visits through the Every Kid Outdoors program.

Visitors should note some parks charge fees for parking , access to specific facilities, and other things, even when entry fees are waived.

What activities can people do when visiting the national park?

Activities vary by date and location and can be found on the National Park Service’s event calendar . Junior Ranger Day events include the chance to build biplane models at Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama and learn about the history of dogs in Hidatsa villages and earn a BARK Ranger badge for their own pups at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site in North Dakota.

“Of course, we hope that kids will want to protect parks and want to make sure that we pass on parks to the future generations of kids, but in order to do that, we have to make sure that we are letting kids come to our parks to have fun, to fall in love with nature, to fall in love with history and culture,” Caitlin Campbell, interpretation and engagement coordinator for the National Park Service, told USA TODAY.  “Our primary objective is to make sure that kids feel welcome in parks and know that parks are a fun and safe place where they belong.” 

All year long, kids of all ages and abilities are invited to take part in the free Junior Ranger program in parks and online .

"They can find Junior Ranger programming probably pretty close to where they live," she said. "Any day of the year, they could celebrate (being a) Junior Ranger, but we hope that they celebrate during National Park Week."

  • Cast & crew
  • User reviews

The First Omen

The First Omen (2024)

A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church, but encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy that hop... Read all A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church, but encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy that hopes to bring about the birth of evil incarnate. A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church, but encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy that hopes to bring about the birth of evil incarnate.

  • Arkasha Stevenson
  • Keith Thomas
  • Nell Tiger Free
  • Ralph Ineson
  • Sonia Braga
  • 126 User reviews
  • 130 Critic reviews
  • 65 Metascore

Official Trailer

  • Father Brennan

Sonia Braga

  • Sister Silva
  • (as Sônia Braga)

Tawfeek Barhom

  • Father Gabriel

Maria Caballero

  • Father Harris

Bill Nighy

  • Cardinal Lawrence
  • Carlita Scianna

Ishtar Currie-Wilson

  • Sister Anjelica
  • (as Ishtar Currie Wilson)

Andrea Arcangeli

  • Sister Romano

Anton Alexander

  • Father Spiletto

Mia McGovern Zaini

  • Pregnant Woman
  • Red Headed Girl
  • Smoking Nun
  • All cast & crew
  • Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Burning Questions With Nell Tiger Free

More like this.

The Omen

Did you know

  • Trivia The First Omen was very nearly given an NC-17 rating--largely for the disturbing birthing sequence. But after resubmitting the film to the MPA four times--with the problematic scene still included with every resubmission--the MPA eventually relented when it was cut down from its original 13 seconds to its final form receiving an R rating.
  • Goofs The fashion used by the supporting characters, as well as the extras in the film, do not belong to the early seventies, but to the middle of that decade. Additionally, the song "Daddy Cool" by the group Boney M. is heard in a scene. This song was released in 1976 and the film is set in 1971.

Father Brennan : [from trailer] How do you control people who no longer believe? You create something to fear.

  • Connections Follows The Omen (1976)
  • Soundtracks Ave Satanis written by Jerry Goldsmith (1976) arranged by Mark Korven

User reviews 126

  • Apr 4, 2024

New and Upcoming Horror

Production art

  • How long is The First Omen? Powered by Alexa
  • April 5, 2024 (United States)
  • United States
  • Official Site
  • Điềm Báo Của Quỷ
  • Viterbo, Italy
  • 20th Century Studios
  • Phantom Four Films
  • Abbey Road Studios
  • See more company credits at IMDbPro
  • $30,000,000 (estimated)
  • $10,328,198
  • Apr 7, 2024
  • $19,366,657

Technical specs

  • Runtime 2 hours

Related news

Contribute to this page.

The First Omen (2024)

  • See more gaps
  • Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Production art

Recently viewed

11 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter

When you travel in a pack, that's a pretty big deal.

preview for This Loaded Funnel Cake Weighs 7 Pounds!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it?

Well, at these 11 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not.

Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides , this is the list for you.

Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)

a group of people on a swing

Where : Elysburg, Pennsylvania

Season : April - November

What's Free : Entry — plus parking, entertainment and picnic facilities

fireworks over a city

Where : On the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois

Season : Open year-round

What's Free : Entry, as well as select entertainment and fireworks

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, you'll find 3,300 feet of family fun — with a view you can't beat. While some of its beloved attractions (including The Centennial Wheel) are ticketed, there's plenty to enjoy gratis : entry, the summer fireworks (considered some of the best in the country) and Chicago Live!, a performing arts festival featuring music, dance, theatre, spoken word, improv, vocal performance and more.

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

a large roller coaster with people walking around with Luna Park, Melbourne in the background

Where : Wildwood, New Jersey

Season : March - October

What's Free : Entry

The Garden State's contribution to this list, Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks, consists of three separate piers, which collectively hold more than 100 rides and attractions — plus two water parks. While you need a ticket to enter the aquatic areas, the ride sections are pay-per-ride, so they're open to anyone visiting the Wildwood Boardwalk (which is 2.5 miles long and filled with all kinds of classic boardwalk goodness). Pro tip: Plan your visit on a Friday to enjoy the boardwalk's Friday Night Fireworks.

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

santa monica beach and pier

Where : Santa Monica, California

Another boardwalk beauty! Santa Monica's famed pier is home to concession stands, biking routes, fishing spots and Pacific Park: Los Angeles's only admission-free amusement park. The model is pay-per-ride, and if you're looking for panoramic views of the Southern California coastline, you'll want to shell out for these two rides: Route 66 West Coaster Roller Coaster, which offers you views from 55 feet up, and the Pacific Wheel, the only solar-powered ferris wheel in the world, which takes you up as high as 130 feet.

Luna Park in Coney Island

a group of people on a ride

Where : Brooklyn, New York

Season : March - October *

NYC's Coney Island is iconic and worth a visit in and of itself. While there, stop by the free-to-enter Luna Park. The bright and bold amusement park with a slightly retro feel — a match to the turn-of-the-century aesthetic of the island — is home to adult favorites Cyclone and Thunderbolt, plus plenty of kid-friendly rides, including Sky Tykes, Tony's Express and Leti's Treasure.

* 2023 saw the park's inaugural Frost Fest, a holiday-themed event from November to January. While it's yet to be confirmed if it'll return for 2024, here's hoping!

Hershey's Chocolate World

young boy visiting the hershey express in hershey's chocolate world

Where : Hershey, Pennsylvania

What's Free : Entry and the Hershey's Chocolate Tour

Hershey Park, the resort devoted to the iconic candy company, is a treat — albeit one you do have to pay to enter. But if it's a quick (and possibly educational) trip you're after, stop by Hershey's Chocolate World. Not only is it free to enter, but it also boasts a free attraction: Hershey's Chocolate Tour. The factory tour gives you a chance to see how the chocolate gets made and a free taste at the end. (If you have little Wonka fans at home, this is for them!)

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

2017 aerials from drone shoot, day 1, retouched

Where : Santa Cruz, California

What's Free : Entry and entertainment

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk not only has an "open gate" policy, but it has a ton of free entertainment options too. There's something for everyone: Friday night movies on the beach, live music, trivia nights, acrobatic performances and DJ Dance parties are all complimentary for visitors.

Fun Spot America

a girl riding a go kart

Where: Orlando, Florida Kissimmee, Florida Fayetteville, Georgia (right outside of Atlanta)

What's Free : Entry and parking

Fun Spot America offers free entry and free parking. The best part? You'll find those perks at all three locations (one of which is a stone's throw from Disney World, if you're already visiting). Now, onto the important things, a.k.a. the best rides in each park: In Orlando, it's the Quad Helix Go Carts. In Kissimmee, it's the Mine Blower, the only wooden coaster in Florida that goes upside down. And in Atlanta, it's the ArieForce One, complete with 3,400 feet of steel track and a 154-foot lift hill. (Gulp!)

DelGrosso's Park & Laguna Splash

a large pool with people in it

Where : Tipton, Pennsylvania

Season : May - September

Pennsylvania is officially the reigning queen of free-entry amusement parks, because this marks its third one on this list — and it's a good one. DelGrosso's, located mid-state in Tipton, has both free entry and free parking. But what makes it especially cool is its theme: Italian, complete with its own Leaning Tower of Pisa. Cute, right? The lazy river also features tipping wine barrels. Plus, there's gourmet Italian food — seriously!

Adventurer's Amusement Park

a group of boys riding in a small amusement park ride

One more for the Empire State! Located on the Gravesend Bay, Adventurer's Amusement Park is a quaint, almost fair-style park with an open-gate, pay-per-ride policy. All the classics — go-karts, slides, a ferris wheel — are there. Plus, it's only 15 minutes from Luna Park. All the better to go park hopping!

And One More to Look Forward to...

forever in your mind visits walt disney world resort

Recognize that duck? Surprise! Yes, Walt Disney World is getting added to this list — but in a very specific way. Starting in 2025, all guests staying on property at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida can enter one of its two water parks, Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon, at zero cost! The only restriction? Free entry only applies the day you check in. But hey, if you're arriving during Florida's scorching summer, you won't want to wait.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

over the shoulder view of young asian woman shopping online for flight tickets on airline website with laptop, entering credit card details to make mobile payment at home camera and passport on the table travel planning booking a holiday online

The Best Caribbean Resorts for Families

a resort with a pool and umbrellas

Best All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

glacier bay national park and preserve, alaska

The Best Alaska Cruises

the map of universal studio's forthcoming epic universe land in orlando

Universal's Epic Universe Will Live Up to Its Name

three beautiful women sitting on the stairs of the city streets eating pizza

25 Fun Girls' Weekend Getaway Destinations

vrbo vacation rentals of the year 2024

Inside Vrbo's Vacation Rentals of the Year 2024

view of canal in amsterdam

20 Best Places to Visit in April

anaheim exteriors and landmarks 2023

20 Surprising Disneyland Freebies

family running and splashing into sea together with body boards

The Best Family Vacation Ideas

ladies celebrating bachelorette party

The Best Bachelorette Party Destinations

young african american couple on vacation exploring

Romantic Weekend Getaways

Bald eagle.

Local Contacts

Home

MDC invites veterans to fish for free April 20 at Bennett Spring State Park

Search news, stay in touch with mdc.

Stay in Touch with MDC news, newsletters, events, and manage your subscription

Our Magazines

Xplor Front Cover March-April 2024

Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.

Conservationist cover 04-2024

A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.

  • April 2024 (39)
  • March 2024 (91)
  • February 2024 (48)
  • January 2024 (73)
  • December 2023 (58)
  • November 2023 (69)
  • October 2023 (60)
  • September 2023 (73)
  • August 2023 (72)
  • July 2023 (49)
  • June 2023 (60)
  • May 2023 (70)

MDC Media Staff

Angler fishing from spring

LEBANON, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites veterans to fish for free April 20 at Bennett Spring State Park’s Veterans’ Free Fishing Day event.

At Veterans’ Free Fishing Day, which will be 7 a.m.to 3 p.m. , fishing is free for all veterans. There will be no license or daily tag fee. All veterans can pick up their free daily trout tag at the park store on April 19 or any time during the event on April 20.

During the event, a part of the park’s Zone 2 fishing areas will be specially stocked and reserved for anglers who are veterans. Veterans will be able to fish in other zones at the park, too. Adjacent to the fishing area, volunteers will be hosting a hospitality tent featuring fly tying demos, lessons, casting instruction, and the latest adaptive fishing equipment. Learn more about this event at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/192532

This event is sponsored by MDC and Bennett Spring State Park. To get more information about the event, call the Bennett Springs Hatchery at 417-532-4418 or e-mail Hatchery Manager Ben Havens at [email protected] .

WLWT News 5 and Weather

  •   Weather

Search location by ZIP code

Free parking program for electric vehicles in cincinnati coming to an end.

  • Copy Link Copy {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

where to park a travel trailer for free

GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTS

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

A popular perk for electric vehicle drivers is going away in the city of Cincinnati.

City manager Sheryl Long says the free parking incentive program will end this summer.

It was started in 2008 to give people more of a reason to purchase all-electric vehicles. The city says since then, it's slowly grown and now more than 2,000 vehicles are registered for free parking at city-owned parking meters.

Because of that growing number, and the demand for parking downtown, the city will start to remove that incentive.

Applications for permits close next week, on April 15, which is also when permit holders will be notified.

Then, on July 1, the program will officially end, and the free parking for electric vehicle owners will be over for those city-owned spaces.

  • Skip to global NPS navigation
  • Skip to this park navigation
  • Skip to the main content
  • Skip to this park information section
  • Skip to the footer section

where to park a travel trailer for free

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect.

  • Learn About the Park
  • News Releases

News Release

Celebrate national park week with free park entrance on april 20.

National Park Week 2024 April 20-28 with stylized image of sunset, mountains, trees, and a bird

NPS Graphic

Contact: Mary Plumb, [email protected]

PAGE, Ariz. – Everyone who loves National Parks is making plans for National Park Week, April 20 through 28, 2024. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area joins National Parks nationwide by providing free park entrance on Saturday, April 20.

Here is a week-long list of ways to celebrate:

Saturday, April 20: Discovery . To kick off National Park Week and encourage you make that new discovery,  entrance fees are waived  on April 20! Join our partners at the annual community cleanup (8 a.m. to 12 noon),  Page Attacks Trash !

Sunday, April 21: Volunteers . Use your time and talents as a volunteer in your national parks.  Find Glen Canyon volunteer opportunities  for a single event or long-term position. Monday, April 22: Earth Day .  Join the global celebration  encouraging education and stewardship of the planet's natural resources. Many parks are hosting volunteer events. You can also find ways to  practice conservation at home . Tuesday, April 23: Innovation . History of our nation's innovation is preserved in national parks. Also learn about the innovative projects happening in parks or through our programs today. Wednesday, April 24: Workforce Wednesday . Meet our incredible workforce of employees, interns, fellows, volunteers, contractors, partners, and more.  Consider joining our team ! Thursday, April 25: Youth Engagement . Calling the rising generation of stewards!  Learn about the opportunities for youth and young adults  to get involved and see what your peers are up to. Friday, April 26: Community Connections . Learn about the important work our programs and partners are doing in communities across the country both within and outside of our park boundaries. Saturday, April 27: Junior Ranger Day . For kids (and kids at heart),  become a Junior Ranger  through in-person or online activities to learn about special places or topics. You may even earn a Junior Ranger badge! Sunday, April 28: Arts in Parks .  Home of many arts  past and present, find your muse creating arts within parks.

Follow National Park Week on  social media  and join the fun all week using #NationalParkWeek.

Plan like a park ranger by following these useful tips before your adventure begins. Have every park at your fingertips! Use the free NPS App , where visitors can plan a trip, find things to do and places to visit with interactive maps, tours, accessibility information, and more!

Prior to visiting, visitors are encouraged to be aware of current park alerts  and  safety information .

The park wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable National Park Week!

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area’s 1.25-million-acres stretch from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, proposed wilderness areas, and a vast panorama of human history.

Last updated: April 11, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 1507 Page, AZ 86040

928 608-6200 Receptionist available at Glen Canyon Headquarters from 7 am to 4 pm MST, Monday through Friday. The phone is not monitored when the building is closed. If you are having an emergency, call 911 or hail National Park Service on Marine Band 16.

Stay Connected

  • Twitter / X
  • Readers' Choice
  • Food & Drink
  • Arts & Culture
  • Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards logo

Vote for your favorite vintage trailer hotel!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

You don’t have to own an RV to enjoy the trailer camping experience. These 20 vintage trailer hotels — nominated as the best in the U.S. by an expert panel — transform restored Airstreams and vintage trailers into unique accommodations set amid some of the nation’s best scenery. Which vintage trailer hotel would you most like to check into? Vote for your favorite once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 6 at noon ET. We'll announce the 10 winners on Wednesday, May 15.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

You don’t have to own an RV to enjoy the trailer camping experience. These 20 vintage trailer hotels — nominated as the best in the U.S. by an expert panel — transform restored Airstreams and vintage trailers into...   Read More

Best Vintage Trailer Hotel Nominees

Asheville River Cabins

Photo courtesy of Mike Belleme Photograhy

Asheville River Cabins

Arden, North Carolina

The beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains is on full display at Asheville River Cabins, a scenic hideaway located in the western reaches of North Carolina. In addition to cabins, the property also comes equipped with Airstream trailers that offer full kitchens, private fire pits, and gorgeous views of the French Broad River.

AutoCamp Cape Cod

Photo courtesy of AutoCamp Cape Cod

AutoCamp Cape Cod

Falmouth, Massachusetts

Perched on the edge of one of New England's finest sailing destinations, AutoCamp Cape Cod provides guests with three different varieties of high-end Airstreams. The Classic Airstream Suite comes equipped with a private patio complete with a fire pit, while the Vista Airstream Suite measures in at 31 feet long, providing guests with plenty of room to relax.

AutoCamp Yosemite

Photo courtesy of AutoCamp Yosemite

AutoCamp Yosemite

Midpines, California

Yosemite National Park is renowned across the globe for its incredible ecotourism opportunities, and for those hoping to discover its splendor from a plush vintage trailer, AutoCamp Yosemite is a top destination. While there are three distinct types of Airsteams to choose from around here, each one provides guests with amenities ranging from private patios to panoramic windows.

Bay Point Landing

Photo courtesy of Josh LeClair

Bay Point Landing

Coos Bay, Oregon

Situated in Coos Bay by the wetlands of Oregon’s southern coast, Bay Point Landing is a lovely destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Guests can stay in modern cabins, airstream suites, or on RV campsites. Amenities include a relaxing clubhouse, a fitness center, a heated saltwater pool, and an activity room.

Blue Skies Retro Resort

Photo courtesy of Sarah Huddleston Photography

Blue Skies Retro Resort

Willow City, Texas

Located in the Texas Hill Country, just outside charming Fredericksburg, Blue Skies Retro Resort is as fun as it looks. Guests can pick from five classic Shasta campers with their own private yards. The property’s outdoor amenities include a wood-burning fireplace, Wi-Fi access, and a shared propane grill.

Camp LeConte Luxury Outdoor Resort

Photo courtesy of Ian Nicely

Camp LeConte Luxury Outdoor Resort

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

At Camp LeConte in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, travelers can choose between three retro camper sites: Glamping at Tiffany’s, Miss Daisy, and The Ruby Slipper. All guests — whether staying in the campers, safari tents, treehouses, or tent sites — enjoy free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and a picnic pavilion.

CampV

Photo courtesy of Austin Halpern

Naturita, Colorado

Located on more than 120 acres at an old Vanadium mining camp just outside Naturita in southwest Colorado, CampV is a getaway for creative dreamers. The property includes air-conditioned Airstream trailers equipped with cooking essentials, a Nespresso coffee machine, luxury amenities in a private bathroom, and an outdoor fire pit and table. Take advantage of the Wi-Fi to stay in touch with civilization as much as you want or simply disconnect and enjoy the high desert solitude.

The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms

Photo courtesy of Schnepf Farms

The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms

Queen Creek, Arizona

The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms sits amid a working peach farm in the San Tan Mountains of Arizona. Visitors can stay in one of nine refurbished trailers, each equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, private bathroom, microwave, coffee machine and a front yard with patio furniture and a fire pit.

El Cosmico

Photo courtesy of Nick Simonite

Marfa, Texas

For those wishing to explore the idyllic depths of West Texas, El Cosmico comes equipped with a wealth of dazzling accommodations. Vintage options span from the Small Trailer — an 11- to 13-foot space with a kitchenette and shared outdoor bath — to the king-size Extra Large Trailer, a sprawling space that measures up to 42 feet long.

Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground

Photo courtesy of Liudmila Chernetska / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground

Buellton, California

Just northwest of Santa Barbara, the tiny city of Buellton offers a charming escape in the form of Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground. Beyond the cozy cottages and cabins, guests can spring for a Superior Vintage Trailer and make full use of its in-unit air conditioning or head out to the private fire pit for a night under the glow of the stars.

Hart's Camp

Photo courtesy of Hart's Camp

Hart's Camp

Pacific City, Oregon

Hart’s Camp celebrates the nostalgia of summers past through their seven unique Airstream rentals. Each has its own private site with air conditioning, bathroom, and kitchen, as well as amenities like flat-screen TVs with cable, free Wi-Fi, gas grills, fire pits, and access to European-style bikes.

Hotel Luna Mystica

Hotel Luna Mystica

El Prado, New Mexico

Equipped with a massive fleet of trailers built from roughly 1950 to 1972, Hotel Luna Mystica provides a wide range of options for anyone visiting northern New Mexico. One of the oldest models — a 1950 Spartan Mansion — offers a full bath and living area with gorgeous mountain views, while the 1972 Mobile Scout provides plenty of space thanks to its 50-foot shared deck.

JuneBug Retro Resort

Photo courtesy of JuneBug Retro Resort

JuneBug Retro Resort

Weaverville, North Carolina

JuneBug is a collection of 10 vintage campers on 50 acres in western North Carolina that doubles as a vacation destination and unique event space. This resort is located in a remote valley with a half-mile stretch of riverfront, and the restored campers range from a 1950 Spartan Tandem that sleeps four to a cozy 1963 Shasta Astrodome, all equipped with modern amenities. Enjoy the multi-level treehouse during the day, relax in a hammock hanging over a creek, or rent the entire venue for a wedding or reunion that will not be forgotten.

Lake Bastrop North Shore Park

Photo courtesy of LCRA Parks

Lake Bastrop North Shore Park

Bastrop, Texas

The 182-acre Lake Bastrop North Shore Park caters to tent and RV campers, but it also offers five Airstream rental campers. Each sleeps up to four people and includes air conditioning, a private bathroom, kitchen, and a grill.

The Shady Dell Vintage Trailer Court

Photo courtesy of JERRY SHRIVER

The Shady Dell Vintage Trailer Court

Bisbee, Arizona

The Shady Dell celebrates all things vintage in their decked-out trailers, where guests make their coffee in percolators and cook over charcoal grills. Many trailers include a private toilet and sink, with shower facilities just a few steps away.

SkyStream Resort at SkyPark Camp + RV Resort

Photo courtesy of SkyPark

SkyStream Resort at SkyPark Camp + RV Resort

Skyforest, California

SkyStream Resort, just steps from SkyPark at Santa's Village, is a special enclave of the SkyPark Camp + RV Resort. It offers guests a chance to stay in vintage Airstream trailers that have been restored and modified to offer comfortable accommodations. Amenities within each trailer include a DreamCloud mattress, a fireplace, air conditioning, a mini refrigerator, and custom bedding. Each one also has a patio with a gas fire pit, two Adirondack chairs, and a picnic table with benches.

Sou'wester Historic Lodge & Vintage Trailer Resort

Photo courtesy of Sora Blu

Sou'wester Historic Lodge & Vintage Trailer Resort

Seaview, Washington

The Sou'wester is a collection of over 30 vintage trailers and buses in the southwestern corner of Washington near the Pacific coastline. With many original features, they give a pure glimpse into mid-century traveling life — a 1953 Airstream, a 1969 Boles Aero, a silver 1947 Spartan, a rare 1952 Westcraft, a converted Blue Bird bus with clawfoot tub, and many more. The property includes a Finnish sauna, tea trailer, and wellness trailer, and it sponsors workshops and camps.

The Trailer Pond

Photo courtesy of Craft and Cluster

The Trailer Pond

Paso Robles, California

Situated in Paso Robles, California, the Trailer Pond at Alta Colina is an enclave of vintage trailers on the 130-acre organically farmed Alta Colina Vineyard. Wine is included in the overnight stay experience, and it’s known as one of the most unique spots to stay on the Central Coast of California.

The Vintages Trailer Resort

Photo courtesy of Gregor Halenda

The Vintages Trailer Resort

Dayton, Oregon

The Vintages Trailer Resort, situated in Willamette Valley, has a “neighborhood” of rental trailers. Each unique trailer comes with pour-over coffee, bathrobes, hotel-quality linens, and a propane grill for cooking. Park amenities include a pool, general store, complimentary cruiser bikes, and a nearby dog park.

Waypoint Ventura

Photo courtesy of Waypoint Ventura

Waypoint Ventura

Ventura, California

Located by the beach, Waypoint Ventura offers 20 beautifully restored trailers that include individual decks or seating areas, Frette linens, free Wi-Fi, televisions, microwaves, refrigerators, and Zenology bath amenities. Guests can make use of complimentary bikes, communal fire pits, lawn games, and grills.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Allison Tibaldi

Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chelle Koster Walton

Chez Chesak

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Chez Chesak

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jamie Davis Smith

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Jenny Peters

Kim Foley MacKinnon

Kim Foley MacKinnon

Kim Foley MacKinnon is an award-winning editor,...   Read More

Kim Foley MacKinnon is an award-winning editor, author and journalist based in Boston, MA. She is the executive editor of  Girl Camper Magazine  and is currently serving as the president of  SATW   (Society of American Travel Writers). There is nothing she loves more than a road trip and discovering offbeat places to eat. She owns a 1981 13-foot Scamp travel trailer, a fiberglass "egg," which serves as her tiny home on the road.  Kim has also authored many guidebooks, with her most recent being " 100 Things to Do on Cape Cod & the Islands Before You Die." 

Kim Foley MacKinnon

Melanie Reffes

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Melanie Reffes

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Molly O'Brien

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

Tamara Gane

10Best Editors

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

10Best Editors

COMMENTS

  1. Where Can You Park Your Camper For Free?

    There are many places around the U.S. that allow you to park your camper for free. Walmart, Cracker Barrel restaurants, Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas, and other retail outlets also allow RVers to park on their properties. Be sure to check in with the manager and follow any rules or requirements. During our recent travel time, we called a Cracker ...

  2. 25 Free Overnight RV Parking Locations

    24. Planet Fitness. Some Planet Fitness locations allow RVers to park overnight if you have a membership to the gym. It's a great place to park for the night and get a workout in the morning! 25. Harvest Hosts. Harvest Hosts is by far our favorite free (or almost free) overnight RV parking location.

  3. How to Find Free RV Overnight Parking Near You

    Find RV Overnight Parking Near Me. Here are three tools for finding places to park your RV for free: Allstays app — No RVer should be without this app that will show you all the places — free and otherwise — where you can park your RV overnight. Simply set the app filter to free parking, and you'll find free overnight RV parking near ...

  4. Where to Park Your RV for Free on a Road Trip

    According to Alyssa Padgett, author of A Beginner's Guide to Living in an RV, the average price of an RV park is around $45 to $50 per night, but that price can vary dramatically. Depending on ...

  5. Free Overnight RV Parking: Top 30 Places

    Business and Retail Locations. Many businesses and retail locations allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. Some of the most popular places to park overnight include Costco, Home Depot, Target, restaurants, Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas, K-Mart, Lowes, and others.

  6. How to find a safe place overnight RV parking

    Cracker Barrel. Most Cracker Barrels are RV-friendly, have designated RV parking spots, and 24/7 surveillance. "Being a woman on the road, solo, these are my number one go-to spots," Lindsey says. "They're more common on the East Coast and in the South.". Overnight RV Parking at Cracker Barrel.

  7. How To Find Free Overnight RV Parking

    The first thing you'll want to do is hop over to RV LIFE Trip Wizard or download the RV LIFE App and create an account. From there, you can start planning a trip and use the search functions to find all kinds of campsites along the way. These include free and cheap overnight RV parking. Use the filtering options to narrow down your search ...

  8. How to Find Free Overnight Parking

    Finding Free Overnight Parking Near Me. The next step is to find free overnight RV parking. There are two types of free RV parking: those that are meant for a quick overnight only, and those that allow actual camping. In this section we'll discuss the former. When it comes to finding someplace you can park overnight and catch some zzz's ...

  9. How To Find Free Overnight RV Parking

    4) Our Favorite Way to Find Free Overnight RV Parking. 4.1) OvernightRVParking.com. 5) Benefits of Overnight RV Parking. 5.1) No Need to Unhook or Set Up Camp. 5.2) Quick, Free, and Safe Place to Sleep. 5.3) Convenient When on a Long Journey.

  10. Finding Safe (and Free) Overnight RV Parking [+Map]

    Big Box Store. During nighttime or bad weather, recreational vehicles may be able to find shelter in the parking lots of some retail chains and big-box retailers. Historically, RVers love Walmart and K-mart. Several supermarkets have recently begun restricting parking for RVs and other large vehicles, however.

  11. Free RV Parking Near Me: Where To Sleep Overnight While Traveling

    Still, the following places will let you park up and catch a good night's sleep. 1. A Walmart Parking Lot. Walmart recognizes the value of RV travelers in their marketing plan. Afterall, they are a popular place to get the discount camping items you need, and most also offer food to restock the cooler.

  12. How to Find Free RV Overnight Parking Near You

    2. RVParky. It is made by RVers, for RVers, and claims to provide the largest database of RV parks and campgrounds across the United States and Canada. The free app provides complete information about each campground, including nightly prices (if applicable), amenities, photos, and reviews. 3.

  13. Where to Park RV for Free: 11 Safe Places

    1. Casinos for the Bright Lights. Casinos may seem like unlikely free places to park RV. Nevertheless, many see the attraction of offering overnight parking to RV and motorhome owners who might otherwise never visit the casino and wouldn't likely pay for a hotel room anyway. Therefore, it's a marriage of convenience.

  14. 5 FREE Places You Didn't Know You Could Park an RV

    Most countries have strict parking regulations, so you cannot just pull the travel trailer off the road into an empty space. But, there are still many places to park an RV across the country. Remember that camping for free does not mean that everything has to be dirt cheap or devoid of fun. Here are some suggestions for free overnight RV ...

  15. Free Overnight RV Parking: 12 Easy & Safe Places

    Overnight Free Parking on Side Streets. Some cities, such as Salt Lake City, allow overnight free parking on certain streets for X hours or days. There will be rules. In SLC, in particular, you are only allowed to park an RV on the street for 48 hours. However, you ARE NOT allowed to STAY in the RV overnight (oops!).

  16. How to Find Overnight RV Parking

    Overnight RV Parking by Roadtrippers. Roadtrippers Premium members have access to overnight RV parking locations, providing an accurate and authoritative database of free overnight RV parking locations in the U.S. and Canada. Not only can you see where overnight RV parking is welcomed, you can read reviews and reports from other RVers who have overnighted at the location.

  17. Where Can You Park an RV for Free in the United States?

    5 Low-Risk Places to RV Camp for Free. 1. Business Lots. There are a number of businesses these days that are RV-friendly, and several of them set large spaces aside for that purpose. Many also provide security. In all cases, if you need to use their facilities: ask permission,

  18. 15 Overnight Parking Options (Other Than Walmart Camping)

    1. Harvest Hosts. A Harvest Hosts membership allows you to overnight at thousands of wineries, breweries, museums, farms, and golf courses throughout the USA and Canada. The $99 flat-fee membership allows you to stay overnight at as many of its host locations as you want.

  19. FREE RV Parking Overnight At Walmart (Rules & Safety)

    Always call ahead and ask the manager for permission to park overnight. When you arrive at the Walmart, introduce yourself to the manager and security guards and ask where to park. Only stay overnight. Leave early the next morning, so you don't overstay your welcome. Ask the manager what the rules are.

  20. How to Find Free Overnight RV Parking

    Big Box Stores. Walmart is not the only big box store that offers free overnight RV parking locations. You can find free camping grounds in many other big box stores like Cracker Barrel, Cabela's, Denny's, and IHOP. Not all of them allow free overnight RV parking but the store usually has this information on their site so make sure you ...

  21. The Ultimate Guide For Finding the BEST Spots to Park Your RV

    AllStays is an app that features an interactive map with over 60,000 RV parks and campgrounds, gas stations, rest areas, stores, low clearance areas along the road, RV dealers, etc. While it costs $9.99 to download, it is extremely helpful for finding more than just a place to park.

  22. Where Can I Park My RV To Live Legally!

    9. Harvest Hosts Free Overnight RV Camping. Harvest hosts is a network of farms, wineries, ranches, and other venues that allow RVers to park for one night during trips. By purchasing a Harvest Host membership, you'll be able to stay for free in your RV at any of the 1,000+ locations in the Harvest Hosts network.

  23. 9 Tips to Get Motorhomes or Old Travel Trailers for Free

    There is always a free travel trailer somewhere in the country at some point in time. Tip 6: There is an old saying' you get what you pay for'. When you are paying nothing for an RV you may get the worst of the worst. Be careful of those RVs that come from hurricane areas. They may be filled with mold and other harmful contaminants.

  24. National Park Week 2024 guide: Dates, free entry, and more

    National Park Week kicks off April 20 with free entry to every national park in America.. That's not just capital NP national parks like Grand Teton and Olympic, but all 429 sites within the ...

  25. The First Omen (2024)

    The First Omen: Directed by Arkasha Stevenson. With Nell Tiger Free, Ralph Ineson, Sonia Braga, Tawfeek Barhom. A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church, but encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy that hopes to bring about the birth of evil incarnate.

  26. These Amusement Parks in the U.S. Are Completely Free to Enter

    What's Free: Entry and parking . One more for the Empire State! Located on the Gravesend Bay, Adventurer's Amusement Park is a quaint, almost fair-style park with an open-gate, pay-per-ride policy

  27. MDC invites veterans to fish for free April 20 at Bennett Spring State Park

    At Veterans' Free Fishing Day, which will be 7 a.m.to 3 p.m., fishing is free for all veterans. There will be no license or daily tag fee. All veterans can pick up their free daily trout tag at the park store on April 19 or any time during the event on April 20.

  28. Free parking program for electric vehicles in Cincinnati coming ...

    the city manager says the free parking incentive program will end this summer. IT STARTED IN 2008 TO GIVE MORE PEOPLE A REASON TO PURCHASE ALL ELECTRIC VEHICLES. THE CITY SAYS.

  29. Celebrate National Park Week With Free Park Entrance on April 20

    PAGE, Ariz. - Everyone who loves National Parks is making plans for National Park Week, April 20 through 28, 2024. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area joins National Parks nationwide by providing free park entrance on Saturday, April 20. Here is a week-long list of ways to celebrate: Saturday, April 20: Discovery.

  30. What is the Best Vintage Trailer Hotel for 2024?

    Yosemite National Park is renowned across the globe for its incredible ecotourism opportunities, and for those hoping to discover its splendor from a plush vintage trailer, AutoCamp Yosemite is a top destination. ... All guests — whether staying in the campers, safari tents, treehouses, or tent sites — enjoy free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and ...