Date:         Wed, 4 Jul 2001 11:28:46 -0400
Reply-To:     Timothy Hannink <tjhannink@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Timothy Hannink <tjhannink@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      Re: Enroute Camping
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Walmart allows RV's to stay overnight in their parking lot at most of their
US stores. Make sure to ask the Walmart manager before setting up camp.
Camping at the Walmart in Kissimmee, Florida is prohibited by local
ordinance but there are no signs in the lot to point out this fact. It
probably has something to do with the proximity of this particular Walmart
to Disneyworld.   8:>)

Tim Hannink
Winter Park, Florida
Goldibox - 1987 Wolfsburg Edition Westfalia Camper
http://home.earthlink.net/~tjhannink/

----- Original Message -----
From: "diverse_imaging@yahoonixthespam" <diverse_imaging@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, July 03, 2001 6:29 PM
Subject: Re: Enroute Camping


> Very helpful information, but color me stupid (and a newbie), but what is
> WalMart's policy on overnight parking in their parking lot?
>
> TIA ...
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "pensioner" <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Tuesday, July 03, 2001 10:03 AM
> Subject: Enroute Camping
>
>
> > Based on the premise that if you look and act like the rest of the sheep
> ...
> > they'll think you're just another sheep.
> >
> > Much has been written on the list regarding "stealth" camping over the
> > years.  The advantage of the vanagon is that it doesn't look like an RV
> > unless of course you have the top up.  We all know about the Wal-Mart
> policy
> > regarding overnighting in the parking lot.  BPOE (elks club) often will
> let
> > one overnight at in  a lodge parking lot.  In smaller towns, asking
> politely
> > at the local constabulary (sheriff or police station) regarding
permission
> > to overnight on the street or in a parking lot will illuminate the local
> > customs.
> >
> > One very important aspect is that you will just be staying the night,
> sunset
> > to sunrise, and then moving on.  Make this clear in your inquiries.
> >
> > National Forests often have an "enroute" camping philosophy that will
> allow
> > you to "overnight" in any area that is not specifically marked as "No
> > Camping".  These philosophies change with the fire danger situations.
> Check
> > locally.
> >
> > Bureau of Land Management areas are literally "your land".  Overnighting
> and
> > "camping" is generally allowed anywhere in the area.  Check with your
> local
> > BLM folks to ascertain the local guidelines.  Depending on conditions,
> they
> > may have some restrictions.
> >
> > Church parking lots are often just fine too, but you should inquire.
> >
> > On many state highways and even interstates there are vista points that
> are
> > not marked "no camping" or "no overnight parking"  After dark in, before
> > dawn out, generally presents no problem.
> >
> > Official truck stops or truck plazas usually have parking and
overnighting
> > areas where the professionals park their offices.   Your CB will help
you
> > find the good ones.  They also have hot showers for use, usually at no
> > charge.
> >
> > Be as inconspicuous as you can.  Nothing outside the van.  Curtains
drawn
> > but front curtains not installed.  I leave a 6-8 inch gap in the rear
> > curtain.
> >
> > Your choice of personal protection and a bright flashlight should be
> easily
> > at hand.  Lock all the doors.  Do not open any window or door except to
a
> > uniformed L.E.O. who has shown you their photo id at your polite
request.
> > If asked to move on by anyone else, politely do so. Do not open doors or
> > windows, just power up and drive off.  (remember, the top is down).
> > Minimize any conversation, politely and quietly move on.  Assemble your
> kit
> > and thoughts somewhere down the road.
> >
> > If asked to allow a search of your vehicle, politely refuse and ask why
> such
> > a search is necessary.  Ask if you are suspect in a crime.  If the
answer
> is
> > no, you might politely state that you are not inclined to discuss your
> > affairs with a  peace officer at this time, accept whatever citation is
> > written and move on. (illegal parking is an infraction and does not
> justify
> > a search).
> >
> > Do not overnight in any "rest area" under any circumstances.  Kristin
> taught
> > us a heavy lesson.  If you don't feel "safe" in your intended overnight
> > location, you aren't.
> >
> > cheers,
> >
> > pensioner
>
>
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