Finding a place to park your RV for living in California can be challenging due to various local regulations. Here are some options you might consider:
- Campgrounds and RV Parks: These are the most common places where you can legally park and live in your RV. They offer amenities like water, electricity, and waste disposal. Some popular options in California include KOA Campgrounds, Thousand Trails, and state park campgrounds.
- Private Property: If you have friends or family with private property, you might be able to park your RV there. Make sure to check local zoning laws and get permission from the property owner.
- Long-term Parking Lots: Some long-term parking lots allow RV parking. These might not have all the amenities of a campground but can be a temporary solution.
- Rural Areas: In more rural parts of California, there might be fewer restrictions on RV living. However, you’ll need to ensure you have access to necessary utilities and services.
- Online Communities: Join online forums or social media groups for RV enthusiasts in California. Members often share tips and locations where RV living is permitted.
- Boondocking: This involves parking your RV on public lands managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service. These areas often allow free or low-cost camping, but amenities are minimal.
Make sure to check local regulations and ensure that any place you choose is legal and safe for long-term parking. And nobody wants to call to the police)
Here are some ideas for places where you can park your RV for free or at a low cost while living in the USA:
Free Options
1) Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands.
Many BLM lands offer dispersed camping, allowing you to park your RV for free. These areas are often remote but provide beautiful natural surroundings. Check specific area regulations and stay limits (usually 14 days in one spot).
2)National Forests and Grasslands.
Most national forests and grasslands permit dispersed camping for free. Stay limits typically range from 14 to 21 days.
3)Walmart Parking Lots.
Some Walmart stores allow overnight RV parking for free. Always confirm with the store manager before parking and follow local regulations.
4)Cracker Barrel Restaurants.
Many Cracker Barrel locations allow RV parking for free overnight. Call ahead to ensure the specific location permits it.
5)Truck Stops.
Truck stops like Love’s, Pilot, and Flying J often allow RVs to park overnight for free. Be respectful of truck drivers’ designated spaces.
6)Rest Areas.
Some states allow overnight parking at highway rest areas, though restrictions vary by state. Look for signage to determine if overnight parking is allowed.
7)Couchsurfing for RVs (Boondockers Welcome).
Platforms like Boondockers Welcome connect RV travelers with homeowners who offer free parking on their property.
Low-Cost Options
- Escapees RV Parks. The Escapees RV Club offers low-cost parking at their network of parks across the USA. Membership is required.
- Harvest Hosts. For an annual fee, you can park overnight at wineries, farms, and other unique locations. Usually free after membership, but hosts may encourage purchases of their goods.
- City and County Parks. Many small-town parks offer RV parking for minimal fees, often with basic hookups.
- State Parks. State parks usually have affordable RV camping options with hookups. Fees range from $10 to $35 per night, depending on the park and amenities.
- Elks Lodges. If you’re an Elks member, many lodges have RV parking facilities at a low cost.
- Hipcamp. Similar to Airbnb, this platform lists affordable private camping spots.
- Passport America. Membership provides 50% discounts at participating RV parks across the USA.
- Fairgrounds and Community Centers. Some fairgrounds or community centers offer low-cost RV parking, especially during off-season periods.
- Military Campgrounds. Active duty military, veterans, and their families can access low-cost RV camping at military bases across the USA.
Tips for Success
- Always Research: Rules and availability for free or low-cost RV parking can vary greatly depending on the location.
- Stay Safe: Avoid parking in unsafe or isolated areas, and always trust your instincts.
- Be Respectful: Follow local rules, pack out all trash, and avoid staying beyond time limits.