Discovering 17 Incredible Sites That Beat Walmart Camping
Are you looking for alternatives to Walmart Camping? You’ve come to the right place. After five years on the road, we’ve discovered some fantastic spots that are superior to Walmart. We’re excited to share them with you, especially if you’re a new RV owner who is eager to explore. Whether you’re traveling from coast to coast or heading south for some warmth, we’ve got you covered with these exceptional resources. We’ve compiled a list of 17 locations where you can camp overnight, some of which are free, and others require membership. Keep these locations in your back pocket for your next road trip. So, how did we find these gems?
Best Apps for Discovering Overnight Parking
Looking for the top apps for finding overnight parking? Look no further! We recommend checking out AllStays app, Compendium app, and RV Life. However, keep in mind that Campendium is exclusively available on iPhones, but it can be accessed on a computer. Although these apps are browser-based, we recommend using them on your computer since they are easier to navigate than on an iPhone app, which may require reading glasses.
Exploring the Best Places for Overnight RV Parking: City Parks and Casinos
Let’s dive right in. Our first recommendation is casino parking lots. Numerous casinos throughout the country allow for overnight parking, and you don’t have to be a big-time gambler to take advantage of this perk. Here’s what you need to know: many casinos have attached campgrounds, but this is not always the case. If there isn’t a designated campground, you can still park overnight in the casino’s general parking lot. However, they may expect you to utilize their services, such as gambling or grabbing a bite to eat. Not only can you enjoy a game of craps at a casino, but you can also park your RV in their spacious parking lots, away from the noise. If you’re uncertain about where to park, simply ask security for assistance. They can provide you with information about parking regulations and time limits.
County and city parks and recreation are also excellent locations for overnight RV parking, and they’re often found in unexpected places. These parks are more prevalent in the Midwest region and have become a personal favorite of ours.
Exploring Alternative Overnight Stays: Comparing Small Towns and County Parks to Overnight Parking At Walmart
If you’re looking for a place to park your RV overnight, small towns and county parks are a great option to consider. These areas usually have nearby grocery stores and gas stations, making it convenient for travelers to access essential services. Small towns also offer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling cities, which can be a much-needed break for some people. Additionally, these well-maintained county and city parks are excellent places to park your RV overnight.
When searching for these parks, websites like Allstays Pro and Campendium can be helpful in finding them. It’s also advisable to check reviews and photos online to ensure the area is safe and secure.
For many new campers, overnight parking at Walmart may seem like the only option for overnight parking. However, there are plenty of other options out there that are worth exploring. While overnight parking at Walmart is great when there are no other options, it can be noisy and may not provide the best experience. Therefore, we have compiled a list of alternative resources so that you never have to be in a pickle.
Next, we have the fairgrounds camping, which are similar to county and city parks. When there are no shows or county fairs going on, you can still use the hookups and sites that are typically reserved for RVs and vendors. This is an excellent option for year-round camping, and you can usually call ahead or check online to confirm availability and pricing, which is typically around $10-20.
Most of the time, these locations are quiet and peaceful. However, we did stay at a fairground once where there was some kind of event or wedding going on, so it was a bit noisy. But even then, it didn’t feel unsafe, just a little loud.
Boondockers Welcome: A Community-Based and Economical Solution for Overnight Camper Stays
Our next suggestion is Boondockers Welcome reviews, a fantastic resource that we frequently use. Initially, I was hesitant to join the program, as I believed it was illogical to spend money to save money. However, I was mistaken, and the benefits of this community-based platform have been tremendous. We have made friends with other travelers and hosts along the way, and it has been an incredibly enriching experience. Even though our loved ones are still apprehensive about the concept of staying on someone else’s property, we were also skeptical initially.
Harvest Hosts: An Unusual and Friendly Way to RV and Connect with Fellow Travelers
At first, we were hesitant to try Harvest Hosts reviews because the idea of staying on a stranger’s property seemed a bit strange. However, after our first stay in Virginia, we quickly realized how amazing the hosts and the experience can be. They are incredibly welcoming and often go above and beyond to make you feel at home. From cooking dinner to sharing stories around a fire, you really get to know your hosts and other RVers who share a like-minded connection. While the membership covers dry camping or boondocking rv on the host’s property, many also offer additional hookups for an extra fee. We love it when hosts provide full amenities, such as a pull-through site, water, sewer, and even WiFi access. It’s a unique and memorable way to connect with fellow travelers and experience different parts of the country. Harvest Hosts is a nice option compared to overnight parking at Walmart.
Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops
These stores can be a great way to save money while on the road. One place to check out is Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops, where you can find everything from hunting and fishing gear to camping supplies. For example, did you know that the largest Cabela’s in the country is located in Hamburg, Pennsylvania? This location also offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. If you stay overnight, you can use their dump station for a small fee or get it for free by making a purchase in-store. Cabela’s overnight parking and Bass Pro shop overnight parking are an excellent choice from overnight parking at Walmart.
Cracker Barrel: A Safe and Comfortable Option for Overnight RV Parking
It can be a great experience, so it’s worth checking out. Another great option is Cracker Barrel overnight parking. Wow, Cracker Barrel! They serve bomb breakfasts, making it the perfect spot to start your day. Even their dinners are super tasty. Yes, once we discovered Cracker Barrel overnight parking, we stopped overnight parking at Walmart. Once you park at Cracker Barrel, you’ll never look back. And why is that, you ask? Well, to speak freely, Cracker Barrel just feels safer. It’s clean, welcoming, and has designated RV parking sites. These sites are pull-through, but keep in mind that you can’t disconnect or set up all your gear. They’re just meant for sleeping while staying connected. We usually have dinner at Cracker Barrel and make a night out of it. Then, we wake up early and hit the road again.
One time, we were driving from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and we didn’t feel like cooking dinner. But we knew that even if we arrived late, we could still get a late dinner at Cracker Barrel. It was amazing to go to bed on a full stomach of chicken-fried goodness. Before we move on, it’s worth mentioning that it’s proper etiquette to buy dinner or breakfast at Cracker Barrel before leaving. It’s a way to support them and show appreciation for allowing us to park there.
Exploring BLM Land for Boondocking: A Cautionary Tale
BLM Land, or Bureau of Land Management, is a type of public land managed by the government that is free to access. It’s a great option for those who want to go boondocking and stay off the grid, relying on their own resources like generators, solar power, and internal tanks. However, it’s important to be cautious when camping on BLM land, as Barb and her companion found out the hard way.
While BLM land offers beautiful scenery and the freedom to camp anywhere, there are some things to be aware of before setting up camp. For example, it’s important to have a good understanding of the area and its surroundings, as well as the rules and regulations of BLM land. This includes knowing where you’re allowed to camp, where you can’t camp, and what types of activities are allowed.
Barb and her companion found out the hard way that not all BLM land is suitable for camping. They set up camp in a beautiful spot only to be woken up in the middle of the night by a group of off-road vehicles tearing through the area. They quickly packed up and left, realizing that they had camped in an area that was designated for off-road vehicles.
This cautionary tale reminds us of the importance of doing our research before camping on BLM land. Make sure to check for any restrictions or closures, and always be aware of your surroundings. With the right preparation and knowledge, BLM land can provide a wonderful opportunity for boondocking and exploring the great outdoors.
BLM land can be found in remote areas, and the roads leading to it may not be paved. It’s essential to check the map, photos, and description of the area to determine if it’s suitable for your rig. Some reviews can also give you insight into whether or not the area is “big rig friendly.” While some spots may be a bit daunting to reach, others can offer breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
It’s also important to note that camping on BLM land land has a two-week stay limit, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that camping on BLM land land is more popular in the western part of the United States, particularly in states like Arizona and Utah. However, the summer months can be extremely hot in these areas, making it challenging to rely on your rig’s air conditioning.
Lastly, it’s crucial to follow leave-no-trace principles and respect the environment. Pack out what you pack in, don’t leave any trash, and avoid disturbing the natural surroundings. With these tips in mind, you can safely and responsibly enjoy boondocking rv on BLM land. BLM may not have the conveniences of overnight parking at Walmart but it has it’s own unique characteristics.
Love’s Gas Stations
Now offer RV sites with hookups for overnight parking, providing convenience and comfort to RV travelers. These sites can be reserved ahead of time or are available on a first-come, first-serve basis through a kiosk where customers can swipe their card and reserve a spot for the night. However, since parking spaces can fill up quickly, it is recommended to arrive early. While parking next to truckers can be noisy, it is an option when no other places are available.
Love’s rv stops also offer a range of amenities such as food, fuel, laundry facilities, and showers, which are kept clean and well-maintained for truckers and RV travelers alike. Although it’s not a camping spot, these overnight stays are ideal for getting some rest before hitting the road again.
It’s worth noting that Love’s rv stops with RV sites are currently more common in western states such as Arizona and Utah. During the summer, it’s essential to plan accordingly as these areas can get hot, and running AC all night may not be possible.
In summary, Love’s rv stops provide a convenient and comfortable option for RV travelers to park overnight and hook up. It’s important to be aware of the noise level and arrive early, but the range of amenities and the opportunity to rest and recharge for the journey ahead make it a viable option. Love’s is a great option instead of overnight parking at Walmart.
Harvest Host Membership Program: A Unique and Convenient Way to Camp Overnight
Harvest Host is a membership-based program that offers safe and unique overnight camping experiences for RVers and travelers. Similar to Boondocker’s Welcome, this program is specifically geared towards businesses such as wineries, breweries, and diners. With Harvest Host, you pay a fee for the year and gain access to a variety of participating locations.
During a recent trip from California to Florida, we stayed at Peggy Sue’s Diner, which was a memorable experience. We called ahead to reserve a spot, and when we arrived, we felt safe and secure among the other RVers and truckers. We respected their rules and even supported their business by grabbing a bite to eat before hitting the road.
Harvest Host locations offers a diverse range of locations to choose from, including wineries and even alpaca farms. Although we haven’t tried any of the winery experiences yet, we’ve been eyeing them up for a while. The only concern is that my partner might get carried away and buy too many bottles of wine.
It’s worth noting that most of the time, Harvest Host locations only allow for a one-night stay, and some may offer hookups for an additional fee. Overall, Harvest Host is an excellent option for those seeking a unique and convenient way to camp overnight. Harvest Host locations is a great alternative to overnight parking at Walmart.
Expert Tips for Overnight Parking at Rest Areas and Truck Stops
Rv rest stops can be a great alternative to overnight parking at Walmart and a convenient spot for a quick lunch break while on the road, but have you ever considered staying overnight at one? While it’s important to respect truckers and leave enough parking spaces for them, Rv rest stops and truck stops can be a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch. However, it’s important to note that every state has different rules and regulations regarding overnight parking. Some states strictly prohibit it, while others allow up to 8 hours of parking.
If you’re unsure about the regulations in a particular state, it’s always best to do some research beforehand. When you arrive at an rv rest stops, pay attention to any signs that indicate no overnight camping. This usually means that setting up a tent or any similar activity is not allowed. However, parking your vehicle for the night is typically allowed in designated areas.
To avoid inconveniencing other travelers, it’s recommended that you park your vehicle in designated parking spots and refrain from extending your slide outs or setting up any outdoor equipment. By following these tips, you can safely and conveniently spend the night at a rest area or truck stop while on your road trip.
More Tips for Finding Unique and Convenient Overnight Parking Spots for RVers
Are you tired of relying solely on Overnight Parking At Walmart for your overnight stays while on the road in your RV? Look no further than Allstay’s Pro Tips to help you discover alternative and surprising options for parking your camper for the night.
Firstly, it’s important to get permission to park overnight, as regulations and rules vary from location to location. Regional airports often have airport camping spots available for overnight stays, so be sure to check out the apps that provide such information. Strip malls and big shopping malls are also good options, as they often have ample parking. Churches and hospitals are two other unexpected locations that some RVers have found to be safe and accommodating for overnight parking.
Additionally, Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, and Home Depot are popular spots for RVers to park overnight. However, it’s important to note that every city has different parking regulations, so always call ahead to ask permission before parking overnight. Convention centers, where concerts and events are held, are also potential locations to consider.
It’s worth noting that some National Forests campgrounds allow first-come, first-served parking, while others require online reservations.
Remember, it’s crucial to respect parking regulations and always ask permission before parking overnight. By exploring these alternative parking options, you may discover new and convenient spots to rest for the night while on the road in your RV.
Overnight parking at walmart.