Commercial Parking Lots...

[jchw]

I've been to two of our local Wal-Marts and when I ask the store manager on duty about parking overnight in my Mountaineer, I get a blank look. And they routinely have rigs parked in their lots overnight!!

I understand that there's a Wal-Mart directory ($$) for their stores that will allow overnight parking in their parking lot, but was wondering if there are any other sources for this kind of information, what the "rules/etiquette/etc." are (extend slideouts, extend front jacks, etc.). I also understand that there are "community rules" that may prevent such overnight parking. Truck stop overnight parking is not acceptable to the spouse.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. We leave San Antonio for Orlando (I-10) on 3/31...

John

[Emmel]

jchw, I'm sure someone will come along shortly with more info, but you might do a search and find a site that explains just what you're asking.

[ols1932]

quote:Originally posted by jchw

I've been to two of our local Wal-Marts and when I ask the store manager on duty about parking overnight in my Mountaineer, I get a blank look. And they routinely have rigs parked in their lots overnight!!

I understand that there's a Wal-Mart directory ($$) for their stores that will allow overnight parking in their parking lot, but was wondering if there are any other sources for this kind of information, what the "rules/etiquette/etc." are (extend slideouts, extend front jacks, etc.). I also understand that there are "community rules" that may prevent such overnight parking. Truck stop overnight parking is not acceptable to the spouse.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. We leave San Antonio for Orlando (I-10) on 3/31...

John

John,
Here's the code of etiquette we abide by:

1. Obtain permission from a qualified individual.
2. Park out of the way.
3. No awnings, chairs, or barbecue grill.
4. Avoid using slide-outs if at all possible.
5. Do not use your leveling jacks on asphalt.
6. Limit your stay - one night maximum!
7. Purchase gas, food, or supplies as a form of thank -you
when feasible.
8. Always leave an area cleaner than you found it.
9. Practice safety precautions.


Orv

[nailbender]

Orv, I like and completely agree with your code of etiquette. If all RVer's would abide by your code, we would be welcomed in more places.

It is not always a WalMart store policy that prohibits parking, it is usually the city or county where the store is located that prohibits overnight parking.

[BillyRay]

most places that don't allow it will clearly have signs marking so at the entrance.It's not a Walmart policy that forbids it, but a local zoning ordinance. Walmart welcomes people...but sometimes they aren't allowed by local town laws.

[jrgwdenner]

John, another spot for overnite parking, one that we use whenever possible, are Cracker Barrel restaurants. They usually have spots for RVs behind the store. But it'll cost you....breakfast in the morning! There is very little traffic between 9:00 pm and 6 am.

[exav8tr]

John, Here in Anchorage a couple years ago, the local CG owners complained to the city council about Walmart allowing parking and Walmart voluntarily agreed to post signs for no parking overnight. Our local Walmart looked like a campground before that. People used slides, barbques, lawn chairs and whatever. I really thought it looked trashy. As always, some of the few spoil it for the many......

BTW, This site: http://www.discoveryowners.com/cginfolinks.htm has listings of Walmart sites that do not allow overnight parking.

[D and M On The Road]

Another thought of where to park (at least in California) when needing a free place for a few hours/or an overnight rest is a casino parking lot. Most of them actually have designated RV parking. Usually inexpensive, good food inside too.

[jchw]

Thanks all...

I figure between AAA state directories, Good Sam directory, KOA directory and Woodall's directory, we "should" be able to find a place to pull in to at night that won't take an arm and a leg...

John & Belinda