Katie and Pierce
Planning an RV trip but worried about camping costs? Good news! You can find plenty of places to park your RV without spending money on expensive campgrounds. From big box stores to public lands, there are lots of options for budget-minded RV travelers.
Here are some great spots where you can rest your rig for free.
1. Truck Stop Parking Areas
Truck stops welcome RV travelers and make excellent overnight stops. These locations stay open all night and usually have clean restrooms, food options, and fuel. When you arrive, head to the car parking section rather than the big rig area where truckers park.
Staff at truck stops are used to seeing RVs and generally don’t mind if you stay overnight. Many travelers use truck stops as safe stopping points during long road trips. The main thing to remember is being respectful of truckers who need their designated spaces for mandatory rest breaks.
2. Bureau of Land Management Areas
BLM land gives you some of the most beautiful free camping in America. These public lands are mostly located in western states and allow you to camp for two weeks at a time. You can park your RV in wide open spaces with amazing views and total quiet.
Since these areas don’t have any facilities, you’ll need to bring everything you need including water and a way to handle waste. The trade off is worth it though because you get incredible scenery and complete privacy. Just make sure you camp at least 200 feet away from any water sources or established trails.
3. Cabela’s Outdoor Stores
Cabela’s stores welcome RV customers and understand that outdoor lovers often travel in recreational vehicles. These stores have big parking lots that can handle large motorhomes and travel trailers. Most locations don’t mind if you park overnight as long as you ask permission first.
While you’re there, you can shop for camping supplies, fishing gear, or outdoor clothing. The stores are usually located near highways making them convenient stopping points. Always speak with a manager when you arrive to make sure overnight parking is allowed at that specific location.
4. Friends and Family Properties
Staying with people you know can be one of the best ways to camp for free. Many friends and relatives are happy to let you park in their driveway or yard for a few nights. This option gives you a chance to visit while saving money on camping fees.
You might even get access to their house for showers, meals, or doing laundry. Some people have large properties where you can park away from the main house for more privacy. Just make sure to ask ahead of time and respect their property while you’re there.
5. Highway Rest Areas
Rest areas work well for short stops when you need to take a break from driving. Most states don’t allow overnight camping at rest areas, but you can usually park for a few hours to nap or stretch your legs. These spots have picnic tables, restrooms, and sometimes vending machines.
The key with rest areas is keeping your stay short and simple. Don’t put out awnings, set up chairs, or make it look like you’re camping. Think of it as a quick rest stop rather than a campground. Some states are more flexible than others, so check local rules if you’re unsure.
6. Home Improvement Store Lots
Stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot sometimes allow RV parking in their lots. These retailers have large parking areas that can fit big rigs, and the locations are usually well lit and safe. The best approach is asking a manager if you can park overnight before setting up.
These stores can be handy if you need to buy RV supplies, tools, or materials for projects. They’re often located near other businesses where you can get food or other necessities. Remember that each store has its own policy, so what works at one location might not work at another.
7. Forest Service Camping Areas
National forests allow free dispersed camping in many areas across the country. You can park your RV in designated spots within the forest boundaries without paying fees or making reservations. These locations give you a true wilderness experience surrounded by trees and wildlife.
Forest Service camping works best if you’re prepared for dry camping since there are no hookups available. You’ll find peaceful settings away from crowds and city noise. Check with the local ranger station for current rules and to find out which areas allow RV camping.
8. Cracker Barrel Locations
Cracker Barrel restaurants have a long tradition of welcoming RV travelers to park overnight. Most locations allow this, but their parking lots can fill up quickly during peak travel times. It’s smart to call ahead and make sure they have space for your rig.
The restaurants serve hearty comfort food and often have gift shops with travel items. If you stay overnight, consider eating dinner or breakfast there as a way to thank them for the free parking. Keep in mind that some locations in busy cities might not allow overnight parking due to local laws.
9. Bass Pro Shop Parking
Bass Pro Shops cater to outdoor recreation customers and are generally very RV friendly. Their parking lots are designed to handle large vehicles, and the stores sell camping and RV supplies. Most locations welcome overnight parking, but always check with management first.
These stores are fun to browse even if you don’t need anything specific. They often have impressive displays of boats, ATVs, and outdoor gear. The locations are typically easy to find near major highways, making them convenient overnight stops during road trips.
10. Casino Parking Lots
Many casinos actively welcome RV travelers and some even have special RV parking sections. You don’t need to gamble to park there, but casinos hope you’ll come inside and spend some money. Most are open 24 hours and have security patrolling the parking areas.
Casino parking can be a safe option since the lots are usually well lit and monitored. Some casinos provide maps showing where RVs should park, while others let you park anywhere that fits. Check with security when you arrive to learn about any specific rules or time limits.
11. Walmart Overnight Parking
Walmart pioneered the idea of letting RV travelers park overnight in store parking lots. While not all locations still allow this, many Walmarts continue to welcome RVers. The key is calling the specific store you want to visit and asking if overnight parking is permitted.
When staying at Walmart, park away from the store entrance and don’t set up camp with chairs and awnings. Keep it simple and move on in the morning. Some travelers like to shop at the store as a courtesy, but it’s not required. Remember that local city ordinances sometimes prohibit overnight parking even if the store would normally allow it.
