Have you ever pulled into a quiet-looking spot, got settled in, and just as you drift off, a knock on the window shatters the peace? You must understand the local rules to avoid the dreaded words: “You can’t park here.” Here are six camper van parking regulations you need to know to save you from stress and potential fines.
Public vs. Private Land
The first thing you need to know about finding a legal parking spot is the difference between public and private land. National Forests and other public lands that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages often welcome dispersed camping for up to 14 days at no cost. These areas typically require you to camp at least 100 feet from water sources and roads.
However, private land belongs to an individual or company, and parking there without permission is trespassing. Always look for signage indicating land ownership before you decide to park for the night. OnX Hunt, Gaia GPS, and similar apps can help you identify landownership boundaries using your phone’s GPS.
City Ordinances and Zoning Laws
Every city has its own rules regarding overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles. Some cities have specific ordinances that prohibit sleeping in a vehicle within city limits, while others are more lenient. These laws are part of the city’s zoning code, which dictates how individuals can use the land.
San Francisco, Los Angeles, and similar cities have strict no-sleeping ordinances with fines ranging from $75 to $1,000. Conversely, Sedona, Arizona, and some areas in Colorado are more van-friendly. Familiarize yourself with the municipal code on overnight vehicle lodging for clarity before arriving. Look for terms such as “habitation of vehicles” or “overnight parking restrictions.”
Overnight Parking at Businesses
Many large retail stores have allowed overnight RV and van parking. However, this policy is not universal and can vary at each location. Walmart used to be a common parking choice for some time, but as of 2025, they’re more likely to prohibit overnight stays. The decision often rests with the store manager and local ordinances.
Camping World and some 24-hour gyms also commonly allow overnight stays. Your best bet is to call the store ahead and speak with the manager to ask for permission. Park away from the main entrance after getting the go-ahead and avoid using your slide-out or awning.
Rest Areas and Truck Stops
State-run rest areas can seem like a convenient option for a quick overnight stay. However, regulations vary widely by state. Montana and Wyoming permit overnight sleeping for 8-12 hours. Virginia and Pennsylvania strictly forbid overnight sleeping, with posted time limits of two to three hours. Signs at each rest area clearly state the rules.
Truck stops are privately owned and generally more accommodating to overnight guests, as they cater to professional drivers who must rest. Major chains, such as TA/Petro, Pilot Flying J, and Love’s, typically welcome van lifers, especially if you fuel up or make purchases. Many offer showers, laundry services, and Wi-Fi for a small fee.
Dispersed Camping on Public Lands
Dispersed camping is camping on public land outside of a designated campground. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) manage vast tracts of land where they often permit this type of camping for free. Popular areas include Quartzsite, Arizona; Moab, Utah; and the Alabama Hills in California.
The stay limits are typically 14 days in one spot before you must move at least 25 miles away. You must follow Leave No Trace principles: Pack out all trash, camp on durable surfaces, and stay at least 200 feet from water sources. This option gives you solitude and beautiful scenery, but also means no cell service, water, or restroom facilities.
National and State Parks
National and State Parks offer designated campgrounds with amenities and sometimes electrical hookups, providing a secure and legal place to park. These spots typically require a fee of $15-50 per night, and you might need to reserve your spot well in advance through Recreation.gov or ReserveAmerica.com, especially during peak seasons (May through September).
Yellowstone, Yosemite, and other popular parks book up months ahead. While they offer a great experience with access to nature, hiking trails, and visitor centers, they don’t offer the spontaneity that many van lifers seek. They are an excellent option for a planned stop and often provide the safest overnight parking with rangers present.
Apps and Online Resources
Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate these rules alone. Several apps and websites are available that help van lifers find safe and legal parking spots. iOverlander, Campendium, and The Dyrt provide user-generated reviews and information on everything from free campsites to stealth spots.
FreeRoam and Campendium excel at finding free dispersed camping locations, while apps such as AllStays and RV Life focus more on paid campgrounds and RV-friendly businesses. Park4Night offers international coverage if you’re traveling beyond the US. These tools can take the guesswork out of finding a place to rest for the night, and many apps work offline once you’ve downloaded the data.
Respect and Etiquette
No matter where you park, practicing good etiquette is essential for the entire community. This means being quiet, clean, and respectful of your surroundings and any neighbors. Avoid setting up camp in places where you are trying to be discreet.
Don’t dump gray water or black water on the ground—use proper dump stations. Keep noise levels down, especially if you’re using generators (if allowed, and typically only during daytime hours). Pack out all trash and leave your spot cleaner than when you found it. A little consideration keeps parking spots open for others. Consider joining Facebook groups for your area to share information about parking spots and local regulations with fellow travelers.
You must know a few camper van parking regulations to make your journey smoother and get a good night’s rest. Remember to always have backup plans, carry printed maps in case of poor cell service, and maintain a flexible attitude when spots don’t work out as planned.
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