PDDGM wrote:
We have boondocked at Walmart several times while traveling between campgrounds. I have noticed that some have signs stating: No 18 wheelers or RV's. A friend from California told me the other day that a lot of towns out there are passing ordinances to stop the boondocking. Have any of you ran into this, I can imagine it has something to do with those staying extended time in the parking lots. I saw a guy a couple of weeks ago, with the slides out, awning out and BBQ grill set up. In my opinion he was screwing it up for all.
Joe
Joe,
While "other people" often screw things up for the rest of us by doing what you've seen, the restrictions for "over night" stays at many Walmarts stems from multiple reasons. One, there may be campgrounds close, (within anywhere from right next door to a few miles away) that have petitioned local counsils etc. to "Ban" the parking of RVs in Walmart parking lots due to loss of revenue, second, the local Walmart themselves have opted to ban RV stays due to exactly what you and many of us have seen, and that's folks actually camping there for extended periods of time.
On those you'll see awnings out, chairs, tables, mats down, kids toys, (tow bars laying under the coach, indicating the presence of toad) and more. There may be ordinances already in place that prohibit the parking of RVs and or Trucks even before the Walmart was built.
Walmart stated in the past that they are happy to provide "Overnight parking" for weary travelers. That was a while ago and for the most part, many, many RVers were very appreciative of it due to the fact that it was close to fuel, needed supplies, repairs, and of course, it provided for a semi-quiet nights sleep.
We traveled from San Diego to Moab UT for the Easter Jeep Safari for 14 years in a row and, we always stopped at the Walmart in Mesquite NV for rest. I always went into the store and went directly to the store manager and asked permission to stay for our 8-10 rigs or so. I also stated that if there was ANY, problem with us staying, we'd move on.
I also stated that we'd be gone at first light in the morning. The manager was always happy for us to stay there as he/she knew that we'd be in the store for supplies etc. anyway. And, as usual, we were gone by first light in the morning and would travel to a, neat, little "50s" type diner in Parawon for breakfast.
So, as long as you obtain permission, are not there for two weeks while touring that part of the country, are out of the way and not blocking daily customers parking, be courteous in your own parking style, i.e. don't take up any more parking spaces then you need, you'll more than likely be OK to park there. But, do ask in side the store, for permission, even if you see other RVs there.
If there are signs stating "No Parking" for RVs, Trucks etc. and you're dead tired, I'd definitely ask for permission. And don't be mad if they say no. Just move on.
Scott
