From free Walmart parking lots and BLM boondocking to Airbnb, Good Sam Club campgrounds, and boutique hotels — every budget, every style, every situation covered.
Thousands of travelers sleep for free every night in Walmart parking lots. It's legal, generally safe, and Walmart corporate policy allows it — though individual store managers can opt out.
Call the store ahead of time — ask to speak to a manager
Arrive after 9pm, park in the back or side of the lot
Keep a low profile — no chairs, awnings, or BBQ grills outside
Leave by 8am and buy something as a courtesy
Use the Walmart app or AllStays to find locations
The AllStays Camp & RV app ($9.99) shows which Walmart locations allow overnight parking, plus Cracker Barrel, Cabela's, and other free overnight spots along your route.
Get AllStaysAffiliate link — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you
Good Sam has over 2 million members and is the most recognized name in RV and camping memberships. The $29/year membership pays for itself after just 3 nights at affiliated campgrounds.
For road trippers who camp regularly, the 10% discount at 2,000+ campgrounds, combined with roadside assistance and fuel discounts, makes this a no-brainer investment.
Filter by budget tier. Click any option to see the full guide.
Many Walmart locations allow overnight RV and car camping. Always call ahead — store managers have final say. Pull to the back or side of the lot, arrive after dark, leave by 8am.
Bureau of Land Management land covers millions of acres across the western US. Most allows free dispersed camping for up to 14 days. No hookups, no facilities — bring everything you need.
Stay overnight at wineries, breweries, farms, and museums across North America. Self-contained RVs only. Wake up at a vineyard or a working farm.
A network of RV owners who host other RVers in their driveways for free. Think of it as Couchsurfing for RVs. Great for meeting people and getting local tips.
Good Sam is the largest RV and camping membership club in North America with 2,000+ affiliated campgrounds. Members get 10% off nightly rates.
KOA is the world's largest system of privately owned campgrounds. Consistent quality, amenities like pools and laundry, and a KOA Rewards program.
Hipcamp connects travelers with unique camping spots on private land — farms, ranches, vineyards, and forests. Often more scenic and private than traditional campgrounds.
Budget motel chains with predictable quality and nationwide coverage. Motel 6 is pet-friendly at no extra charge. Book direct for best rates.
Rent a room, apartment, or entire home from local hosts. Great for longer stays, groups, or when you want kitchen access. Filter by price and read reviews carefully.
Vacation Rental By Owner — focuses on whole-property rentals. Often better for families or groups needing multiple bedrooms.
Mid-range hotel chains with reliable quality, free breakfast (Hampton), and loyalty programs. Book through their apps for member rates and free cancellation.
Independently owned hotels with unique character, local design, and personalized service. Often the best way to experience a destination's culture.
Glamorous camping — safari tents, treehouses, yurts, and geodesic domes with real beds, linens, and sometimes private bathrooms.
| Option | Cost/Night | Hookups | Shower | Pets | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart Parking | Free | No | No | Yes | Car/RV campers |
| BLM Boondocking | Free | No | No | Yes | Self-sufficient RVers |
| Harvest Hosts | ~$99/yr | No | Varies | Varies | RV owners |
| Good Sam Campground | $20–$55 | Yes | Yes | Yes | RV + tent campers |
| KOA | $30–$70 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Families |
| Motel 6 | $45–$80 | N/A | Yes | Yes, free | Budget travelers |
| Airbnb | $60–$200 | N/A | Yes | Varies | Groups, long stays |
| Boutique Hotel | $150–$400 | N/A | Yes | Varies | Experience seekers |
Our AI Trip Planner finds lodging options at every stop on your route, filtered by your budget and preferences.

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