States that Allow Overnight Parking for Motorhomes

For many motorhome operators, knowing all the laws that pertain to the vehicles is difficult. One such rule is which states allow motorhomes to park overnight at rest areas. We all know that some RV driving days can turn into grueling jaunts. So when you’re trying to get from Point A to Point B as quickly and safely as possible, a quick overnight stop at a rest area is a good way to get some shut-eye.
Skipping the time it takes to find a campground gets you on the road early the next day, but how do you know where you can legally park a motorhome? Here’s a video on overnighting at a rest stop from the TrippinYogis

Retail store parking lots often make it clear about the legality of parking on their property. When “No Overnight Parking” signs are posted, you need to find another place to spend the night.

When there are no signs posted about overnight parking, an individual has to decide on his own if it’s worthwhile to test the local laws.

There are numerous handy RVer websites with information about overnight parking at rest areas. Make sure the information posted on this sites is current.

The folks at RVLife.com did some digging and found six states that clearly allow overnighting in a motorhome. Here they are.

California
“Stay up to 8 hours in any 24 hour period.”

Idaho
Occupancy of the rest areas on interstate highways is limited to eight (8) consecutive hours. Occupancy of rest areas on other routes of the State Highway System is limited to sixteen (16) consecutive hours.”

Minnesota
All other motorists are permitted to stop at rest areas for up to six hours at a time. See Commissioner’s Memorandum No. 108 (PDF).”

Oregon
12 hours and propane or camp stoves are allowed.

Ohio
There are hookups for motorhomes at eight service plazas on the Ohio Turnpike.

Washington State
Park in designated parking areas for a maximum of 8 hours, unless otherwise posted.