Rest Stop Camping: Can You Sleep In Your Camper?

Rest stops are parking lots located along major roads or highways, designed to give travellers a place to get out of their vehicles, stretch, and use the bathroom. Some rest stops have visitor centres, mowed lawns, public WiFi, and heated facilities, while others have more basic amenities. No matter what they look like, they all have one goal in mind: giving travellers a place to take a break. But can you sleep in your camper at a rest stop?

The answer depends on the state. While some states allow overnight parking at rest stops, others do not. Even in states that permit overnight parking, there are usually time limits and restrictions on activities such as camping. Camping typically involves setting up outdoor amenities such as chairs, tables, and grills, which are generally prohibited at rest stops.

So, if you're planning to sleep in your camper at a rest stop, it's important to check the local regulations and respect the rules and restrictions. Remember, rest stops are shared spaces meant to give travellers a place to take a break, so be considerate of others and leave the spots for truck drivers if possible.

Where is it legal to sleep in a camper at a rest stop?

The rules on sleeping in a camper at a rest stop vary from state to state. While some states allow it, others prohibit it. Here is a list of states that permit sleeping in a camper at a rest stop, along with their specific regulations:

• California allows up to eight hours of rest time at rest stops that are open 24 hours daily. Camping is prohibited, and you must remain inside your vehicle.
• Delaware permits overnight parking at its two rest areas. Generally, camping is not allowed, and there are posted time limits, such as a 6-to-8-hour limit at the Smyrna Rest Area.
• Georgia allows for the "normal, customary, and temporary use" of rest areas for resting, sleeping, and other similar activities. There are no defined time limits, but camping is not permitted.
• Idaho allows parking at interstate highway rest areas for up to 10 hours and at rest areas on other state highways for up to 16 hours. Camping or occupying a rest area for any purpose other than rest and relaxation is prohibited.
• Iowa permits overnight parking for up to 24 hours, as indicated by signs posted at rest areas. Camping is prohibited.
• Kansas allows overnight parking for one night only at its rest areas. No camping is allowed.
• Minnesota has a 4-hour limit for rest areas, but overnight parking is permitted only at travel information centers.
• Mississippi allows vehicles to park for up to 8 hours for rest and safety purposes, but recreational camping is not permitted.
• Missouri permits overnight parking at its rest areas.
• Montana welcomes travelers to use its rest areas to beat drowsiness and increase safety.
• Nebraska allows vehicles to park for up to 10 hours at rest areas along Interstate 80. Camping is not permitted at these rest stops.
• Nevada permits vehicles to park for up to 18 hours at rest areas, some of which offer dump stations for RV use.
• New Mexico allows travelers to park for up to 24 hours in any one of its rest stops, limited to one 24-hour stay within a 3-day period.
• North Dakota welcomes overnight parking at its rest areas, and some even offer free WiFi and water.
• Ohio permits overnight parking only at eight service plazas on the Ohio Turnpike, which offer RV parking with electric hookups for a fee. These sites are first-come, first-served, and Ohio does not allow overnight parking at any other rest areas in the state.
• Oklahoma permits overnight parking at its rest areas.
• Oregon does not allow camping at rest areas but permits travelers to stay for up to 12 hours in highway safety rest areas.
• Pennsylvania has a 2-hour limit within a 24-hour period at rest areas and welcome centers managed by PennDOT. However, service plazas managed by the state's Turnpike Authority allow parking for up to 24 hours.
• Rhode Island does not permit camping in its rest areas but allows overnight parking for safety and rest.
• Texas allows parking for up to 24 hours at its rest stops, but no camping is permitted.
• Utah allows "extended stays" at its rest areas but prohibits overnight camping. On-site staff and the state highway patrol monitor travelers taking extended breaks.
• Washington does not permit camping in rest areas but allows stays of up to 8 hours. Many Washington rest stops also offer free coffee.
• West Virginia welcomes travelers and semi-truck drivers to take overnight breaks at its travel plazas, which often have designated areas for large vehicles.
• Wyoming does not allow overnight parking or camping at rest areas, but longer naps are permitted if needed.

In addition to the states listed above, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey (with restrictions at specific locations), Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin do not have statewide laws or regulations regarding overnight parking at rest areas. In these states, pay close attention to posted signs, as rules may vary from location to location. While camping is typically prohibited, overnight parking may be allowed in certain areas.

What's the difference between a rest stop and a truck stop?

While both rest stops and truck stops are places where drivers can take a break, there are some key differences between the two.

A rest stop is a place for drivers to get out of their vehicles, stretch their legs, and use the bathroom. Rest stops are typically run by the state government and may offer some food and drinks, usually from vending machines. Some rest stops also have visitor centres, lawns, public WiFi, and heated facilities, while others may just have outhouses and a patch of vegetation. Rest stops are generally smaller than truck stops and are not commercial businesses.

Truck stops, on the other hand, are much larger and are commercial operations. They are primarily used by large commercial trucks that transport goods on the roads. Truck stops offer a wider range of amenities than rest stops, including gasoline or diesel fuel, restaurants, showers, and stores where you can buy snacks and other daily necessities. Truck stops are often open 24/7 and are known for having cleaner bathrooms than the average gas station. They may also offer additional services such as dog parks.

While truck stops are mainly used by truckers, they are open to all drivers. Regular drivers may be drawn to truck stops because the fuel tends to be less expensive, and the food portions are generous.

In terms of sleeping in your camper at a rest stop, it depends on the state and the specific rest stop. Some states allow overnight parking at rest stops, while others do not. Even in states that permit overnight parking, there are usually time limits and restrictions on activities such as camping. It's important to check the regulations for the specific rest stop you're interested in.

What are the best practices for sleeping in a camper at a rest stop?

Sleeping overnight in a rest stop in an RV or camper is permitted in some states, but there are usually regulations and parking time limits. While rest stops are designed to give travellers a place to stop, use the bathroom, take a nap, stretch, and eat a snack or meal, they are not intended as camping destinations. Here are some best practices to follow when sleeping in a camper at a rest stop:

• Check local restrictions and any posted signs at the rest stop. Most states that allow overnight parking at rest areas explicitly prohibit "camping". This means no chairs, tables, grills, or tents outside your vehicle.
• Choose a rest area with good lighting and 24-hour security if possible.
• Avoid spots that are reserved for truck drivers. Truckers have to follow stringent rules and regulations about how long they can drive and rest, and they are restricted in where they can stay.
• Stay hitched and keep your slides in. This allows for a quicker departure in an emergency situation.
• Park smart. Look for the quietest place in the rest area, away from the road and any semi-trucks, which often run their engines all night.
• Use Reflectix in your windows to block out light, and consider earplugs or a white noise machine to help you sleep. However, you don't want to block out all noise for safety reasons.
• Trust your instincts. If a location feels unsafe, it's best to move on to the next rest area or find an alternative place to park.

How do you find rest stops that allow overnight stays?

Finding rest stops that allow overnight stays is not as straightforward as one might hope. While some states clearly allow overnight parking at rest stops, others don't. And even within states that do allow it, there may be different rules for different rest stops.

The best way to find rest stops that allow overnight stays is to use an app like Roadtrippers Premium, which makes it easy to locate rest areas and other locations that allow RVs to stay the night. You can also refer to local signage and individual states' Department of Transportation websites for more in-depth information.

In addition, welcome centres, visitor centres, and service plazas can be good overnight parking options, as they often have on-site staff who are ready to help tired drivers. Highway rest stops, also known as truck stops, are generally open 24 hours a day and offer facilities like showers, food, and fuel. However, it's important to be mindful of spaces reserved for truckers, as they have strict regulations on their rest periods and may need these areas more than RV or car travellers.

Some states that allow overnight RV parking at rest areas include:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Delaware
• Idaho
• Kansas
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Texas
• Utah
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wyoming

However, it's important to note that regulations for how long you can stay vary between states and individual rest areas, so it's always best to check local signage and state websites for the most up-to-date information.

What are the benefits of sleeping in a camper at a rest stop?

Sleeping in a camper at a rest stop is a great way to save money on lodging while traveling. It is also a safe and comfortable option for those traveling long distances and needing a place to rest for the night. Here are some benefits of sleeping in a camper at a rest stop:

Convenience and Cost Savings

Rest stops are conveniently located along highways and are intended for travelers to take a break from driving. They are usually free to use and do not require reservations, making them a cost-effective alternative to campgrounds or hotels. This can save travelers time and money, especially when traveling long distances.

Safety and Alertness

Taking advantage of rest stops to get a good night's sleep can help keep drivers rested, alert, and safe on the road. Driving while tired can be dangerous, and rest stops provide a place to take a break, stretch your legs, and get some rest before continuing your journey. Well-lit rest stops with good security can also provide peace of mind and a sense of security for travelers.

Basic Amenities

While rest stops vary in terms of amenities, many provide basic facilities such as restrooms, vending machines, picnic tables, and pet areas. Some rest stops may also offer electric vehicle charging stations, Wi-Fi access, small stores, and even trails or walkways for stretching your legs. These amenities can enhance your comfort and convenience during your stopover.

Compliance with Regulations

Sleeping in a camper at a rest stop is generally allowed in most states, as long as you follow the local regulations and respect the difference between overnight parking and camping. Most rest stops have time limits, usually between 8 and 12 hours, and do not permit the use of outdoor amenities such as generators, grills, or tents. By adhering to these regulations, you can ensure a pleasant and compliant stay at the rest stop.

Accessibility and Availability

Rest stops are easily accessible and widely available along major highways, making them a convenient option when you need to take a break from driving. They are typically open 24 hours a day, providing flexibility for travelers. However, it is important to note that some states do not allow overnight parking at rest stops, so checking local regulations is essential before planning to sleep at a rest stop.

Frequently asked questions