Did you know that it's not only possible but very probable that you can RV across North America and never pay for camping? RV'ers who are experienced boondockers or dry-campers (camping without hookups) prepare themselves for such RV'ing adventures, easily find free places to stop and sleep for the night practically anywhere.
It matters little whether it's city or country, simply scout the area for suitable free camping locations. If you have a smaller, stealthier RV, all the better for residential city streets, some parks and parking lots.
While scouting an area, be sure to look closely for any "no trespassing or no overnight parking" signs. My RV is a cargo van that I've built out into an RV and it's totally stealth; nothing on the outside to give it an RV appearance. I can park it in any parking space, even underground parking lots. Because of this, I've been able to stay overnight on residential city streets without ever being harassed. Not all RV's can do this, however. So, as long as overnight parking is not prohibited, you should be fine in an RV.
Walmart comes to mind when parking in lots. Walmart, for the most part welcomes RV'ers to spend a night in their parking lots as long as you do not interfere with customer traffic. Some Walmart's request getting permission from the local manager. Some Walmart's prohibit overnight parking and signs are usually posted in these lots indicating so. I would highly recommend heeding any signage and respect the owners of the lots. Some Cabela's welcome RV'er and some even have dump stations. Cracker Barrel also comes to mind as a welcome place to park for the night, but a call to the manager of that store would be in order and ask for permission. I've never been turned down.
I would recommend you be honest with the manager and let them know your intentions. Take time for a friendly chat. I might also recommend that you not use their welcome to their lots to turn your overnight stay into a "camping" stay. By this I mean, do not let out your roll outs out and don't set up your lawn chairs and portable grill. Leave the place cleaner than it was when you arrived. During my travels and overnight stays in parking lots, I have seen many RV'ers set up a table, chairs and cook in these parking lots. Not a good idea and it leaves a bad impression on the lot owner for the RV'er that just wants a place to park for the night.
It's also a good idea to keep yourself and your RV in presentable condition. I think we've all heard that first impressions are important. People will judge by your appearance. If the lot owner sees that you make a good appearance, he (or she) will know that you will be considerate of their property as well.
Stores and casino parking lots that are open 24 hours usually have security guards on duty, especially during the nighttime hours. If you have an opportunity, talk with them and let them get to know you a bit. Tell them of your plans to shop the store and spend the night in their lot. Perhaps offer to bring them a cup of coffee and show them your RV and where you're parked.
Try to be as inconspicuous as possible. Don't park there with interior lights on and music blaring into the night. Don't overstay your welcome and spoil it for others. If you have not asked for permission to stay the night in a store or casino parking lot, don't be surprised if you get a door knock after dark and are asked to move. If that happens, move right away, don't argue. Again, be friendly and ask if them if they know where you might go for the night. Chances are good the person asking you to move will know where you might go.
Be positive and pay it forward. If someone has helped you along the way to find free campsites, show your appreciation and pass it along to others.
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Until next time…