Parking Camper Vans: Exploring The Best Spots

Camper van owners have a variety of options when it comes to parking their vehicles overnight. Some of the most popular options include parking in Walmart, Target, or Costco parking lots, as well as truck stops, rest stops, and street parking. National and State Parks, as well as RV parks, are also great options, although they may require reservations and have different rules and fees. For those seeking a more remote experience, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land offers dispersed camping for free, but with limited amenities. Campgrounds, such as KOA and Harvest Hosts, provide well-maintained sites with various amenities, but they can be expensive and require reservations. Overall, there are many options available for camper van owners to consider when planning their trips and deciding where to park overnight.

Truck stops

• Try to avoid parking in designated truck spots, as these are usually reserved for semi-trucks. Look for dedicated RV spots or park in the auto parking area if there are no other options.
• Be mindful of the space you're taking up. Truckers need room to manoeuvre their large vehicles, so try to give them as much space as possible.
• Be respectful and courteous to truck drivers. Remember that they are often working long hours and may be tired.
• Buy something from the truck stop to show your support and appreciation.
• Be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding overnight parking at truck stops. These can vary from state to state.
• Keep your camper van low-key and don't set up camp. Truck stops are meant for short stops, not extended stays.
• Plan ahead and be flexible. Truck stops can fill up quickly, especially at night, so have a backup plan in case you can't find a spot.
• Take advantage of the amenities offered by truck stops, such as showers, laundry, and restaurants.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Truck stops can be busy places with a lot of traffic.
• If possible, call ahead to confirm that overnight parking is allowed and to ask about any specific rules or guidelines.

Casinos

Some casinos, such as the Oneida Casino in Green Bay, Wisconsin, offer designated RV parking spots that are first-come-first-served. Others, like the Pala Casino RV Resort in San Diego, California, have built an entire RV resort on their property with full hookups and amenities like a dog park and complimentary trash pickup.

Before planning your trip, it's always a good idea to do some research and call ahead to confirm that the casino allows overnight parking. Websites and apps like Allstays Camp & RV and Casino Camper can help you find RV-friendly casinos.

• Kla-Mo-Ya Casino, Chiloquin, Oregon
• Harrah’s Casino Cherokee, North Carolina
• 12 Tribes Lake Chelan Casino, Washington
• 12 Tribes Omak Casino, Washington
• Ameristar Casino Hotel, Vicksburg, Mississippi
• Angel of the Winds Casino, Washington
• Akwesasne Mohawk Casino, New York
• Seneca Allegany Casino, New York
• Black Mesa Casino and Travel Center, Arizona
• Kewadin Christmas Casino, Michigan

Supermarkets

In some cases, it may be possible to park overnight in a supermarket car park. This is more likely to be acceptable in quieter areas or larger towns where there is a "long stay car park". However, it is always best to check the signs carefully and be prepared to move on if asked. One forum user recommends asking permission from the customer service desk, explaining your situation, and perhaps even eating in the supermarket restaurant, as they may be more inclined to let you stay.

Schools

Camper vans are small and can fit into standard parking spots, so parking them during the day is usually not a problem. However, parking overnight is a different matter.

Certain schools allow people to park in their lots for a short period if necessary. However, it is important to check with school administrators before doing so, and it is best to avoid parking at a school unless you or your child have attended that school. School parking lots should only be used as a last resort and outside of school hours.

In addition, it is important to be mindful of the fact that parents are rightfully hyper-aware of their children's safety, so parking near schools or playgrounds is generally not recommended.

It is also worth noting that the laws and guidelines for camper van parking vary depending on the location, so it is always a good idea to research the specific regulations of the area you plan to visit.

Campgrounds

When it comes to booking a campground, it is recommended to reserve in advance, especially if you plan to arrive late at night or will be camping in a popular area during high season. Additionally, when booking, it is important to check the campground's regulations and ensure you book the correct type of site for sleeping in your vehicle. National Parks Service campsites, for example, require you to book sites labelled as RV, RV non-electric, or standard non-electric.

While campgrounds offer a range of amenities, it is important to note that they can be more expensive, with prices varying depending on the location and facilities offered. However, they provide a great opportunity to dump grey tanks, refill water, and enjoy a hot shower.

If you're looking for a more secluded and peaceful camping experience, private campgrounds may not be the best option as they tend to be less secluded and private. Instead, you might want to consider dispersed camping in National Forests or other federal lands, which offer free camping with minimal amenities.

Frequently asked questions