Car camping is such a fun (and cheap) way to explore. But there are many logistical concerns that you have to think about when you start car camping! So let’s talk about one of the biggest concerns: where do we park our car?? There are more options than you may think! So lets go over our favorites!!
Church Parking Lot
Our absolute favorite place to park is a Church parking lot. They are normally dark enough but not too dark, there isn’t anyone else there and we always feel really safe safe! When we started our car camping journey we read alot about walmart and rest stops but they often feel a bit sketchy or are too bright. On one despret night we came across a church and parked there for the night. We are now regulars!
BLM Land
If you’re looking for a more secluded and rugged camping experience, BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land might just be your answer. BLM land is public land managed by the federal government and offers vast stretches of wilderness and recreation opportunities. The best part? Camping on BLM land is free!! But there are often no amenities which means you’ll need to be self-sufficient and pack in everything you need. But the tradeoff is well worth it, as you’ll have the freedom to camp wherever you want, away from the crowds and noise of established campgrounds. Just be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect any posted regulations. I will caution you to arrive before sunset. There is something really eerie about arriving at BLM land when it is dark. Spots that appear perfectly safe during the day take on a whole new personality at night and make it quite challenging to get to sleep!
Trail Head
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the crisp mountain air. And if you’re hoping to do some hiking during your car camping adventure staying at a trailhead might just be your perfect place to park. The catch to this is that you have to make sure there are no signs banning overnight parking!! Also, if you are in a state or national park there are different regulations so look online first, but most of the time you will have to pay to reserve a camp sight! We have parked infront of a trail head for free many times and had no trouble at all! This also helps you be able to be one of the first on the trail heads and it is always really dark!!
Private Campground
Private campgrounds are another option for car camping overnight. While they may come with a fee, private campgrounds often offer amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and even wifi. Additionally, private campgrounds typically have designated parking spots for campers, making it easy to set up camp and relax for the night. Some private campgrounds may also offer more organized activities, such as group campfires or guided hikes. However, it’s important to note that they may not offer the same level of privacy or wilderness experience as national forests or BLM lands. They are the ideal spot if you are staying in one location for a long period of time and looking to connect with other travelers!
Rest Stops
Rest stops can be a great option for car camping, especially for those on long road trips. Many rest stops have designated areas for RVs complete with picnic tables and restroom facilities. They are a good spot if you are in transit and just need somewhere to get some shut eye before continuing on your drive. However, it’s important to note that some rest stops may have time limits for parking, so be sure to check before settling in for the night. Although they offer some of the benifits of a private camp ground for free there are also some disadvantages that knocked 2 stars off for us! Rest stops dont offer scenic views, they are not private and you will likely have people walking past your car all night, they are right next to the highway so they are often louder than other options and can feel unsafe depending on the town.
Walmart
Many Walmart locations allow overnight parking for RVs and car campers. This can be a convenient option for those who need to stock up on supplies or rest for the night. It’s important to note that not all Walmart locations allow overnight parking, so be sure to call ahead and check with the store manager before setting up camp. Some Walmart stores may also have specific areas designated for RV or car camping. If we were Van lifers we may have different opinions about Walmart but due to the fact that we sleep in out car Walmart falls last on our list of options. They are crowded and very bright and the crowd who is at Walmart at 2 am is often not the crowd we want walking by us sleeping in our car. But we can see the appeal if we were in a larger vehicle.
No matter which option you choose for car camping overnight, it’s important to plan ahead and research the area beforehand. This includes checking for any restrictions or regulations, bringing appropriate gear and supplies, and practicing Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. With a bit of preparation, car camping can be a fun and affordable way to explore new places and experience the great outdoors.