Instead of walmart...home depot?

Tried Walmart once, no thanks. Way to many people coming and going at all hours.
Only other parking lot we tried, and actually loved was Costco. They close at 8 pm and open at 10 am so the parking lot was essentially deserted the entire time we were there. I have always preferred to stop at campgrounds or a relatives place along the way, it gives the kids a chance to run and unwind. Luckily I have an Aunty who has a beautiful farm halfway between my place and the mountains.

There's nothing magical about Walmart, I have overnighted at many different restaurants and stores.

To each his own, but not for us. While in transit, we've spent a few quick overnighters at rest areas, and once at Cabelas. Without prior permission, I would be sleeping with one eye open, and I don't care for that.

Having said that, I've never been in the position of it being late, and not having anywhere to overnight. If I was forced, I might park at a grocery store, and make sure to patronize them in the morning. That way, I would be in compliance with the signs that say "for customers only". You can disagree with me if you want to, but my opinion is that you shouldn't park on private property without permission.

GordonThree wrote:
Keep in mind ignorance of the law is no defense. Municipalities don't have to post no overnight signs in parking lots. They can have one small sign at their courthouse or township hall that meets the statutory requirements of notifying the public.

Keep in mind that most LEOs have far better things to do than hassle you for spending a few hours in an empty parking lot overnight, and really do not want to be involved in that kind of non-problem. Keep in mind that in areas where Wally Docking is a hot topic, it is typically as a result of pressure from campground owners who feel they you are taking money out of their pockets, or citizens who have had it with ones that turn into homeless camps. In those locations, the fact that you are not welcomed is going to be far from a secret, and you will typically know by the numerous signs AND the security guard who zooms up to your door as you shut down, warning you to move on.

I have stayed at Wal-Marts and other places clearly marked "no overnight parking" and done so with a significant number of other RVs and Trucks doing the same. I have also had security at my door as soon as I pulled up, in late afternoon, as I was heading in to shop at a Walmart. They were there to warn that there was a real issue with parking overnight, and to offer other nearby options. As for spending a minute contemplating the danger of hidden, unposted ordinances, and the danger of being cited? Sorry life is too short to worry about theoretical non-events. I have yet, after decades of reading about and spending nights at Walmart, EVER met, or heard of anybody who suffered worse that a polite knock, and "sorry, but you need to move". That being a very rare event, indeed.

FWIW have stayed at Lowes and Staples in situations where it was late and I was reaching my driving limit, with nothing else in visual range. Always try to find the least conspicuous area in their lot that is well lit. Both have excellent free wifi routers that usually blanket their parking lots with coverage, if it matters.
Have also done one or two Cracker Barrels and Walmarts across the country, because we're just passing through, and they're often just off our route/highway. Not difficult to find and get to, and then get back on course next morning.

Agree it depends on local ordinances. AND local enforcement. Occasionally I see RVs parked in a large parking lot shared by Lowes and Target. Have no idea what our local ordinances say though. Asking the associated store is always the best idea.

The Bass Pro Shop North of Montgomery I65 had several spots that has tall bushes around it for parking overnite. The one we had also had a 120V 15/20A Receptacle haha... That was kinda neat. We ate breakfast the next morning at their adjoining restaurant...

Roy Ken

I too like to use campgrounds, support those owners... BUT I have stayed at a Cracker Barrell, due to mechanical issues. Went in and talked to the manager, she said no worries... about 20 minutes later there was a knock on our door, it was the manager with a bag of free food. We try and stop at that particular one every trip south on 95 in SC

in late and out early...not planning on setting up anything (like I've seen done way too many times). I would normally ask if they are open. Might be worth it to spring for the Allstays pro ap...maybe. I thought it had to be posted but i guess that makes sense.
Donna

Keep in mind ignorance of the law is no defense. Municipalities don't have to post no overnight signs in parking lots. They can have one small sign at their courthouse or township hall that meets the statutory requirements of notifying the public.