1. Rest Area on I-10, Texas
This rest area near mile marker 345 on I-10 was once a popular stop for travelers seeking rest. However, due to safety concerns and incidents of theft, overnight parking is no longer permitted. The Texas Department of Transportation has enforced this policy to ensure the safety of travelers. Signs are posted indicating the no overnight parking rule, and enforcement is strict.
Travelers are advised to seek alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Ignoring the parking restrictions can lead to fines or being asked to move by law enforcement. It’s important to plan your route accordingly and respect local regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
2. I-25 Welcome Center Rest Area, Trinidad, Colorado
This rest area right at the Colorado border used to welcome road-weary drivers with free maps, clean bathrooms, and a quiet place to park. Overnight parking was never technically allowed, but for a long time officials looked the other way. That changed after reports of break-ins and suspicious activity made it clear the location wasn’t safe anymore. Travelers now find security patrols moving them along at night.
Because of its position just north of New Mexico, a lot of folks still try to crash there. Unfortunately, it’s become a hotspot for theft targeting vehicles that look like they’re parked for hours. Bathrooms also close in the evenings, leaving the place less secure and less convenient. It’s a good reminder that welcome centers are not a safe bet for overnight stops in Colorado.
3. Chesapeake House Travel Plaza, I-95, Maryland
The Chesapeake House in Cecil County is one of the busiest travel plazas on the East Coast. At one time, plenty of car campers and vanlifers slipped into the lots overnight, assuming the 24-hour setup meant it was safe. But with its high traffic and a three-hour parking limit enforced by Maryland authorities, overnight stays have become both unsafe and illegal. The heavy foot traffic also makes you more visible to anyone looking to take advantage.
There have been reports of thefts and even altercations in the parking area after dark. It’s not the peaceful rest stop many imagine when they’re exhausted from driving. Instead, it’s crowded, noisy, and risky if you try to bed down. Travelers are better off finding a legit campground or a safer overnight option nearby.
4. New Jersey Turnpike Rest Areas, New Jersey
The New Jersey Turnpike is a major highway connecting various parts of the state, with several rest areas along its route. However, overnight parking is prohibited at these rest areas. This policy is in place to maintain the flow of traffic and ensure the safety of travelers. Signs are posted at each rest area indicating the no overnight parking rule.
Travelers looking for a place to rest overnight should consider nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Ignoring the parking restrictions can result in fines or being asked to move by law enforcement. It’s advisable to plan your journey with these restrictions in mind to avoid any inconvenience. Always adhere to posted signs and local regulations to ensure a smooth trip.
5. Florida Turnpike Service Plazas, Florida
Florida’s Turnpike Service Plazas are well-equipped with various amenities for travelers. However, overnight parking is not allowed at these plazas. This policy helps manage the high volume of traffic and ensures the safety and cleanliness of the facilities. Signs are clearly posted indicating the no overnight parking rule.
For those needing to rest overnight, it’s recommended to seek accommodations at nearby hotels or designated campgrounds. Failure to comply with the parking restrictions can lead to fines or being asked to leave by security personnel. Planning ahead and respecting local regulations will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
6. New York State Thruway Rest Areas, New York
The New York State Thruway is a major transportation route with numerous rest areas for travelers. However, overnight parking is prohibited at these rest areas. This policy is enforced to maintain traffic flow and ensure the safety of all travelers. Signs are posted at each rest area indicating the no overnight parking rule.
Travelers needing a place to rest overnight should consider nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Ignoring the parking restrictions can result in fines or being asked to move by law enforcement. It’s advisable to plan your route with these restrictions in mind to avoid any issues. Always adhere to posted signs and local regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.
7. Pennsylvania Turnpike Rest Areas, Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Turnpike is a major highway with several rest areas along its route. However, overnight parking is not permitted at these rest areas. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of travelers and maintain the cleanliness of the facilities. Signs are posted at each rest area indicating the no overnight parking rule.
For those needing to rest overnight, it’s recommended to seek accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Failure to comply with the parking restrictions can lead to fines or being asked to leave by security personnel. Planning ahead and respecting local regulations will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
8. Rest Area on I-70, Ohio
This rest area near mile marker 123 on I-70 used to be a quiet spot for travelers to rest overnight. However, due to safety concerns and incidents of theft, overnight parking is no longer permitted. Signs are posted indicating the no overnight parking rule, and enforcement is strict. Travelers are advised to seek alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas.
Ignoring the parking restrictions can lead to fines or being asked to move by law enforcement. It’s important to plan your route accordingly and respect local regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip. Adhering to posted signs and local regulations will contribute to a smoother travel experience.
9. Rest Area on I-75, Kentucky
Located near mile marker 98 on I-75, this rest area was once a convenient stop for travelers seeking rest. However, due to increasing incidents of vandalism and unsanitary conditions, overnight parking is no longer allowed. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has enforced this policy to maintain safety and cleanliness. Signs are clearly posted indicating the no overnight parking rule.
Travelers are encouraged to find alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Failure to comply with the parking restrictions can result in fines or being asked to leave by law enforcement. Planning ahead and respecting local regulations will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
10. Rest Area on I-40, Tennessee
This rest area near mile marker 215 on I-40 was once a popular stop for travelers seeking rest. However, due to safety concerns and incidents of theft, overnight parking is no longer permitted. The Tennessee Department of Transportation has enforced this policy to ensure the safety of travelers. Signs are posted indicating the no overnight parking rule, and enforcement is strict.
Travelers are advised to seek alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Ignoring the parking restrictions can lead to fines or being asked to move by law enforcement. It’s important to plan your route accordingly and respect local regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
11. Rest Area on I-20, Georgia
Located near mile marker 45 on I-20, this rest area was once a convenient stop for travelers seeking rest. However, due to increasing incidents of vandalism and unsanitary conditions, overnight parking is no longer allowed. The Georgia Department of Transportation has enforced this policy to maintain safety and cleanliness. Signs are clearly posted indicating the no overnight parking rule.
Travelers are encouraged to find alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Failure to comply with the parking restrictions can result in fines or being asked to leave by law enforcement. Planning ahead and respecting local regulations will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
12. Rest Area on I-5, California
Located near mile marker 250 on I-5, this rest area was once a convenient stop for travelers seeking rest. However, due to increasing incidents of vandalism and unsanitary conditions, overnight parking is no longer allowed. The California Department of Transportation has enforced this policy to maintain safety and cleanliness. Signs are clearly posted indicating the no overnight parking rule.
Travelers are encouraged to find alternative accommodations at nearby hotels or designated camping areas. Failure to comply with the parking restrictions can result in fines or being asked to leave by law enforcement. Planning ahead and respecting local regulations will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Always check for any updates or changes to parking policies before your trip.
This post 12 Overnight Parking Spots That Are No Longer Safe for Travelers was first published on Greenhouse Black.
