Overnight Parking vs Camping – A Simple Explanation

Overnight RV Van Life Parking Camping 2023

Do you know the difference between overnight parking and camping?

Many people aren’t aware there’s a difference or they’re confused about the differences.

In this post, I’ll explain the simple difference between overnight parking vs camping and how to find places to spend the night or stay a while.

Overnight Parking vs Camping

I use a few apps/websites when I’m looking for a place to overnight park or camp. These apps/websites include information and reviews from fellow Nomad’s and Camper’s.

  • FreeCampSites.net is free. They focus on boondocking and free camping but you’ll also find some info for overnight RV parking and cheap camping. The filtering options are helpful in finding what you’re looking for. For example, I use the filter to find free dump stations and places to shower.
  • iOverlander.com is free. They provide info for overnight parking and paid camping. The filtering options are helpful in finding what you’re looking for.
  • Campgrounds.RVlife.com offers a free and paid version. I currently use the free version which provides info and reviews for paid camping. I use this app/website a lot when reserving a campground I’ve never been to.

These are the resources I use most but there are a multitude of resources available. The resources you find useful depend how you travel, where you travel and what your needs are.

The free resources may have paid options or may become paid services in the future (which seems to be the trend).

Overnight Parking – Explained

Parking should be pretty self explanatory.

You pull in, you put it in park, you sleep, you leave.

People may or may not realize you’re in your rig but, for all practical purposes, it should appear as though you’ve simply parked your vehicle.

A Word About Overnight Parking

Sadly, some people don’t care and/or feel entitled to park where they want and do as they please with no regard or respect for other’s.

Our ability to park overnight is a privilege – not an entitlement.

Unfortunately, the rest of us pay the price for those who abuse this privilege as more places are banning overnight RV-Van-Vehicle parking.

Camping – Explained

Camping is very different from overnight parking.

Depending on your rig, when you camp you may:

  • Level your rig
  • Get out the grill 
  • Put out the slides 
  • Pull out the awnings 
  • Set up the lawn chairs 
  • Have a small get-together 
  • Make the place your temporary home 

Your camping activities extend outside of your rig.

The Difference Is Simple

When it comes to overnight parking vs camping, what you do inside your vehicle is up to you.

The difference is whether or not you take your activities outside your vehicle.

  • In an Overnight RV Parking area: Keep your activities inside your vehicle. 
  • In a Camping area: You can extend your activities to the outside world.    

Updated November 2023

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