
Proponents of Walmart overnight dry camping feel this is rare. They say it increases crime and attracts homelessness to their communities. Opponents of RVs boondocking at Walmart claim that the Walmart camping is dangerous. Many local government ordinances are forcing Walmart to stop overnight parking. These parking lots must accommodate parking for other businesses, too. They are obligated to adhere to the landlord’s wishes. Many stores in city and suburban areas lease their retail space. Walmart boondocking free#
In 2022, about half now allow free overnight parking.
In 2010, three-quarters of all Walmarts allowed RVers to stay in their parking lot. Walmart didn’t have to worry too much about travelers getting in the way of customer parking. The RV Community numbered less than 9 million back then. Stores had huge parking lots to accommodate everyone. Not All Walmart Locations Offer Free Boondockingįrom the 1970s up to the millennium, most Walmarts existed in their privately held buildings, on their deeded land. Get back on the road early in the morning. Don’t Overstay Your Welcome: Officially Walmart overnight camping policy limits say you can stay 24 hours.Even if it’s just a few dollars, it shows youa re grateful for the free overnight parking. Buy Something: Go inside and purchase something.Courteous Walmart boondockers get in and out without fuss. Do not make yourself at home by setting out lawn chairs, slides, landing jacks, etc.
Do Not “Camp Out” by Running Generators, Using Barbecues, etc: This is not a campground.Ask Permission To Park Overnight: Even if you see another RVer parked at the store, it’s always wise to walk in and speak to management directly to ask permission.Small parking lots are one big sign that you should not park there overnight. There might be other clues that make you question if this Walmart location allows free overnight RV parking. Look at the light posts for signs that state no overnight parking. See if there are other RVs parked for the night. Look for signs that it’s OK to park at that Walmart overnight: When you first pull in, check out the parking lot out.
Empty your tanks and other utilities before you pull in for the night
Manage Your Utilities Ahead of Time: Use great RVing apps like RV Life Trip Wizard to plan your route with dump stations in mind. As a member of the RV Community, your actions reflect on those RVers who stay there tomorrow.įollow these easy suggestions to park legally at Walmart boondock) at Walmart, think of yourself as a guest at someone’s home. Please contact management in each store to ensure accommodations before parking your RV.” Walmart Overnight Camping Policy as of 2022 Permission to park is extended by individual store managers, based on availability of parking space availability and local laws. Consequently, we do permit RV parking on our store parking lots as we are able. “While we do not offer electrical service or accommodations typically necessary for RV customers, Walmart values RV travelers and considers them among our best customers. The current Walmart overnight camping policy states: Walmart has adapted its free overnight camping policy due to many factors. He and his wife visited the stores by camping nearby in their RV. If you visit the Walmart Museum near Cave Springs, Arkansas, you’ll see how much Walton preferred driving his 1979 Ford F-150 versus flying. As his business expanded, he had a rule that every one of his stores had to follow. Sam Walton and his family were avid RVers. He attributed his success to the great value and customer service he offered to his customers. Walton’s 5 & 10 became Walmart in 1962 with his first level of expansion. Long ago these retail stores sold household and personal goods originally for a nickel or a dime. In 1950, Sam Walton opened his first five & dime store in Bentonville, Arkansas. How Walmart Camping Started Walmart started in 1950 Big box stores that allow overnight parking.