For decades, RV travelers have relied on generous businesses like Cracker Barrel, Cabela’s, and Bass Pro Shops for convenient, free overnight parking. These stops were a well-kept secret among road warriors—offering a safe, often quiet place to rest without the fees or scheduling hassles of a campground. But as RV travel has exploded in popularity, these companies are evolving how they interact with the RV community. Let’s take a look at what’s changed—and what’s stayed the same.
From Unspoken Hospitality to Official Policy
In the past, overnight RV parking at these businesses was an unofficial perk. RVers knew to arrive late, leave early, and always ask permission. Now, policies are becoming more structured—partly due to increased traffic and abuse of the privilege.
Cracker Barrel, for example, has long been known for welcoming RVers, even offering designated RV/bus parking spaces at many locations. But with the influx of travelers post-2020, some locations are becoming stricter—often due to local ordinances or limited lot space.
Similarly, Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops (now under the same parent company) are seeing a shift. Some stores have installed security gates or posted signs limiting overnight stays. However, others have doubled down on RV-friendliness by adding amenities like dump stations, potable water, and overnight areas.
Why the Change?
These changes are happening for a few key reasons:
- Overuse and misuse: Some RVers stay multiple nights, leave trash behind, or block customer access.
- Local regulations: In many cities, overnight parking is banned or limited by law.
- RVer volume has surged: With the boom in remote work and van life, more travelers are using these lots—sometimes turning them into makeshift campgrounds.
What RVers Can Expect in 2025
Going forward, the experience at these locations may vary. Some key takeaways for travelers:
- Always ask permission—even if the location is known to be RV-friendly.
- Use tools like AllStays or Campendium to read recent reviews of specific store policies.
- Keep it low-impact: No slide-outs, no generators, and no setting up camp—treat it like a quick overnight stay, not a mini-vacation.
Stores Embracing RV Travelers the Right Way
Despite some tightening of policies, a number of locations are going above and beyond to welcome RVers. Cabela’s in Sidney, Nebraska, for instance, features full pull-through RV sites with hookups. Some Cracker Barrel locations are even marked in RV apps specifically because of their oversized vehicle accommodations.
Final Thoughts
As RV travel continues to evolve, so too will the businesses that support it. Cracker Barrel, Cabela’s, and Bass Pro Shops may be adapting, but they’re still valuable allies for responsible travelers. By staying informed and respectful, RVers can ensure these overnight stops remain available for years to come.
Have a favorite RV-friendly location or story from a Cracker Barrel stop? Let us know in the comments below or tag us on social media!
