While most Walmarts welcome RVers to use their parking lots overnight, there are some rules and simple points of etiquette that you should follow:
1) Check the local municipal laws
Not all towns and cities allow overnight parking in commercial parking lots.
2) Ask the store manager before settling in
Since not all Walmarts allow RV parking overnight in their lots, it is essential that you ask. Head to the customer service desk or ask the store manager if you can park for the night. If you are welcome, they will let you know what part of the lot that they’d like you to park your RV in. You will usually be directed to the outer edge of the lot.
3) Try to stay out of the way
Always be courteous and try to take up as little space as possible when you park. There may be other RVers who need to stop for the night as well. Avoid opening slides unless absolutely necessary and don’t put up your awning.
4) Remember that you are just stopping over and not camping
The parking lot is not a campground. Don’t pull out your barbecue or set up lawn chairs when you are staying in a parking lot.
5) Shop at the store
Stores like Walmart welcome RV campers because it is good for business. If we want them to continue to welcome RVs, make sure to do some shopping in their store while you are there. If they have a gas station, fill up before you leave.
6) Always leave the area cleaner than when you arrived
A few minutes of picking up garbage in the parking lot is a great way to say thank you to the store for allowing you to stay the night.
7) Be quiet
Try to be extra quiet when staying in a parking lot. There may be other RVers as well as houses in the vicinity. Don’t use a generator or start your vehicle in the night unless absolutely necessary. Also remember to keep your music and voices low.
8) Stay Safe
Always assess the safety of the area before setting up for the night. Choose lots that are well lit and have a security presence. If at any time you feel as though it is not a safe option, follow your instincts and find a better place to sleep.
9) No off-leash time for your pets
Most municipalities have leash laws. Regardless, parking lots are dangerous places for pets to run free.
10) Keep your stay short
Only stay in a parking lot for one night at a time. If you need to stay in the area for longer, you can either double-check with the store manager or find another RV-friendly lot to park in each night.
While Walmart parking lots are the most common retail stores to stop at, there are a number of other places that often welcome RV overnight parking. Some Flying J truck stops, Cabelas, Camping World, Superstore, Costco, Home Depot, and Lowes also allow RVers to stay. Always check with store management just to make sure.
The next time you are planning a longer road trip, keep in mind that you can have easy (and free) parking lot stops along the way. Just remember to follow these simple rules to make sure that it goes as smoothly as possible.
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