This started under Alexander I beleive. The associations of motels etc felt that Travelers stopping for a few hours or overnight were taking away business from them, So close them and don't worry about policing and so forth.
I wish I had had an interest in recording these things over the years.
People use to travel and overnight or catch a few hours in the car and even packed lunches etc.
We had roadside tables on state highways. I think all of them are gone now.
however of 840 parkway nearer I40 I think there is a nice picnic area, maybe a couple. If the Governor didn't close them down.