Parking Your RV: A Guide to Safe and Legal Overnight Stops
TL;DR: From campgrounds to public lands and store lots, here’s how to find safe, legal, and sometimes free overnight RV parking—plus tips on avoiding legal trouble.
RVing is getting more popular for a reason: it’s a great way to travel without having to deal with flights or hotels, while being able to bring pets and all of your belongings with you. But with all of the pros, there’s one big con: figuring out how and where to park.
It can be stressful making sure you’ve booked stays in advance, and if you prefer boondocking, making sure that you’re legally allowed in the spot you chose. Crowded campgrounds and a lack of campsite availability are known to stress out most RVers, but by mixing in a variety of options, including public lands, Harvest Hosts locations, and rest stops, you will never be out of options. Read on for helpful tips that make finding safe and legal overnight stops much easier!
RV Camping Locations Available
There are so many options available to RVers in America, whether they’re in a rural area or closer to civilization. Although this isn’t a fully comprehensive list, we’ll go over four popular options, including campgrounds, public lands, and Harvest Hosts locations. For even more options, check out our Ultimate Guide to Free RV Camping.
1. Campgrounds and RV Parks
The amenities of campgrounds and RV Parks are hard to beat. With full hookups, pools, and outdoor activities, staying at campgrounds is a popular choice for a reason. But these perks add up: with nightly camping fees ranging from $30-$100 a night, staying at a campground every night isn’t economical for most.
But there are some ways to cut costs down if you’re not ready for a life of boondocking. Booking during sales and special offer periods are a great way to save in the long run. Campground discount programs like Harvest Hosts’ Campground Partners Program are another great way to go, which gives Members discounts on nightly camping fees at campgrounds across North America.
