To straightforwardly answer the question, it is generally legal to sleep in a Walmart parking lot as long as you are parked in a designated parking spot and not blocking any areas. However, each Walmart store may have its policy on overnight parking, and some may prohibit it. Ideally, you should check the laws of the city or town you are in, as some municipalities may have regulations regarding overnight parking in commercial parking lots.
You must also consider that even if it is technically legal to sleep in a Walmart parking lot, it may not be the most comfortable or safe option. Many Walmart parking lots are located in busy areas and may be noisy or bright at night. Additionally, some Walmart stores may have security personnel who may ask you to leave the parking lot if they see you sleeping there.
Read further to know how to legally sleep in a Walmart parking lot and find alternatives for legal campervan parking.
Why Do People Consider Walmart?
Many people turn to Walmart as a convenient option when it comes to overnight parking. With thousands of locations across the country and 24-hour operations, it can be easy to find a Walmart store with a large parking lot where you can park your vehicle for the night.
But is it legal to sleep in a Walmart parking lot? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.
First, you must understand that each Walmart store is independently owned and operated, which means they can set their policies regarding overnight parking.
Many municipalities have regulations regarding overnight parking in commercial parking lots, and these laws may differ depending on the location. Some cities may prohibit overnight parking in all commercial parking lots, while others may have specific regulations for Walmart parking lots.
For example, the city of Los Angeles prohibits overnight parking in commercial parking lots, which includes Walmart parking lots. However, Seattle allows overnight parking in commercial parking lots, as long as you are parked in a designated parking spot and not blocking any areas.
Things To Take Under Consideration When Sleeping In Walmart’s Parking Lot
If you are considering sleeping in the parking lot of a Walmart, there are a few things you should take into consideration:
Store Policy
As mentioned earlier, each Walmart store is independently owned and operated, and they can set their policies regarding overnight parking. Before you set up camp for the night, be sure to check if the store you are at allows overnight parking.
Local Laws
Even if a Walmart store allows overnight parking, you still need to check the laws of the city or town where the store is located. Some municipalities might have some rules regarding overnight parking in commercial areas.
Safety
Sleeping in a Walmart parking lot can be risky. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Keep valuables out of sight, lock your doors and windows, and be aware of who is around you. In case of an emergency, prepare a plan of action so you can call someone for help when required.
Comfort
It goes without saying that sleeping at Walmart may not be the most comfortable option. Many Walmart parking lots are located in the center of the city, and its hustle and bustle may not be pleasant. Bring earplugs, an eye mask, a comfortable sleeping bag, and a blanket to make your experience more comfortable.
Hygiene
Of course, you will need to use a bathroom. When sleeping in the parking lot, you may not have access to a restroom or shower, so you will need to plan accordingly. It would be best if you did some research on public community showers before parking somewhere.
Weather
Be prepared for the weather, whether it be hot or cold. Bring appropriate clothing and blankets to keep yourself warm or cool. You must equip your vehicle according to the weather as well.
Vehicles Maintenance
It is helpful to occasionally assess the condition of your vehicle, such as tire pressure, oil, coolant, and brakes, before sleeping in the parking lot.
Respectful
Be respectful of the store and its customers. Please do not leave any trash or litter, and make sure to leave the parking spot in the same condition you found earlier. Just remember it is you who is parked on their premises.
It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan if overnight parking is not allowed or if you feel unsafe in the area. Other options for staying, such as campgrounds, rest areas, or truck stops, might come in handy.
Options For Legally Parking And Sleeping In Your RV
If you love traveling on the road in your camper, then here are some other places you can legally park your vehicle:
Campgrounds
One of the most popular RV parking options is at a campground. Many campgrounds offer hookups for electricity, water, and sewage, as well as amenities such as showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. National Parks, State Parks, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land have campgrounds that you can stay at for a night or longer.
RV Parks
Another option for parking your camper is at an RV park. These are similar to campgrounds but are specifically designed for RVs and often have more amenities, such as swimming pools, game rooms, and playgrounds.
Rest Areas
Rest areas along highways and interstates often have designated areas for overnight parking for RVs and campers. These areas may not have hookups for electricity and water, but they are convenient for overnight stays.
Bureau Of Land Management (BLM) Lands
Many BLM lands allow overnight camping, and it’s free of cost in most cases. However, you will need to check the local regulations and get a permit if required.
Walmart And Other Commercial Parking Lots
Some Walmart and commercial parking lots may allow overnight parking for RVs and campers. It is important to check the store’s policy and the laws of the city or town where the store is located before parking your camper.
Boondocking
Boondocking is the practice of camping in a remote, undeveloped area without hookups. This can be a great option for those who enjoy a more secluded camping experience, but it’s important to check the local regulations and get a permit if it’s required.
FAQs Regarding Sleeping In Walmart’s Parking Lot
Can I Sleep In My Camper In A Walmart Parking Lot Overnight?
It depends on the store’s policy and the laws of the city or town where the store is located. Some Walmart stores may allow overnight parking, while others may prohibit it. Additionally, some municipalities may have regulations regarding overnight parking in commercial parking lots. Please do not act on it before checking with the store and local government before sleeping in your camper in a Walmart parking lot.
Will Security Or The Police Ask Me To Leave?
This will depend on the store’s policy and the laws of the city or town where the store is located. Some Walmart stores may have security personnel who may ask you to leave the parking lot if they see you sleeping there.
Is It Safe To Sleep In A Walmart Parking Lot With My Camper?
Sleeping in a Walmart parking lot can be risky. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Keep valuables out of sight, lock your doors and windows, and be aware of who is around you. Additionally, it might help to check the crime rate in the area before sleeping.
Will I Have Access To Electricity And Water?
Again, the store’s policy has a lot of say in this. Some Walmart stores may have electrical hookups and water available for overnight campers, while others may not. It’s important to check with the store before sleeping in your camper in their parking lot.
Can I Use The Store’s Restroom Or Shower While I Am Parked In The Lot?
This will depend on the store’s policy. Some Walmart stores may allow overnight campers to use the store’s restroom and shower facilities, while others may not. Make yourself familiar with the policies before taking this step.
What Should I Do If I Am Asked To Leave Or If It Is Not Allowed?
If you are asked to leave or if overnight parking is not allowed, it’s important to comply with the store’s policy or the laws of the city or town. Look for alternative options such as rest areas, truck stops, or campgrounds.
Bottom Line
Most Walmart shops in the US have no problem with you parking your RV in their parking lot. However, a lot depends on the rules and regulations of the Walmart you are sleeping in. If you camped your campervan in their parking lot and no one has asked you to move, then the wise thing to do is not to overstay your welcome, and when management asks you to leave, you must do so respectfully. Always have a back plan to fall on; happy camping!
I love crispy fried chicken, jogging, brisk walk, and I do sleep tight at night.