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RVs actually have a big impact on the American economy. The RV industry in the United States brought in more than $114 billion in 2019 alone. That's why so many businesses out there support RVers by allowing them to park overnight for free or for a small fee.
RVers looking for a place to crash for the night can often be found at Cracker Barrel parking lots. And while the restaurant chain has never officially said RVers are welcome to stay overnight, they also haven't said they're not allowed.
So, what's the deal with Cracker Barrel overnight parking? Here's everything you need to know about RVing at Cracker Barrel.
Does Cracker Barrel Allow Overnight Parking?
The answer is yes, Cracker Barrel does allow RVers to park overnight in their parking lots. In fact, the company has even been known to hand out Cracker Barrel RV parking passes to RVers who ask for them.
According to the Cracker Barrel website, most locations can accommodate RVs. If you want to know the Cracker Barrel overnight parking locations, make sure to look up the location to see if they're RV or bus accessible.
With that in mind, let's get one thing clear – not all Cracker Barrels are RV-friendly. There have been reports of some locations asking RVers to move along. But for the most part, you should be able to park your RV overnight at Cracker Barrel without any issues.
What to Expect When Parking at Cracker Barrel
When it comes to RV parking at Cracker Barrel, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, certain Cracker Barrel parking lots are designed for cars, not RVs. That means you might have to get a little creative when it comes to parking your RV.
In some cases, you might have to park in the back of the lot or in a side lot. If you're not sure where to park, just ask the Cracker Barrel host when you arrive.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Cracker Barrel overnight parking is first-come, first-served. That means there's no guarantee you'll be able to find a spot to park your RV when you arrive.
If the parking lot is full, you might have to find another spot for the night. However, Cracker Barrel employees are usually pretty understanding and will try to help you find a place to park if they can.
Cracker Barrel Overnight RV Parking Tips
Now that we've answered the question “does Cracker Barrel allow overnight RV parking?” it's time to give you some tips on how to make the most of your stay.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be respectful to the surroundings
For starters, you're parked at a Cracker Barrel – a family-friendly restaurant. That means you need to be respectful of your surroundings. Keep the noise down, don't play music loudly, and make sure to pick up any trash you might have.
- Show the restaurant employees appreciation
Of course, Cracker Barrel employees are used to having RVers stay overnight in their parking lot. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't show them appreciation. A little kindness goes a long way, so make sure to say thank you to the employees whenever you see them. Maybe buy them a coffee in the morning or leave a nice note.
- Only stay for a single night
While Cracker Barrel is RV-friendly, they're not an RV park. You can't simply treat it like one and stay for weeks at a time. When you get to the parking lot, make sure to talk to the staff and let them know you're staying there. Park for the night, then the next morning, pack up, and move on.
- Leave the parking lot in a good shape
This goes hand-in-hand with being respectful of your surroundings. When you're finished with your stay, make sure to leave the parking lot in the same condition (or better) as when you arrived. That means picking up any trash, sweeping up any dirt or debris, and making sure your RV doesn't leak any fluids.
- Stay safe at all times
Last but not least, it's important to stay safe at all times. When you're RVing, there's always a risk of something going wrong. So make sure to take precautions and be prepared for anything. For example, it's a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand in case of an emergency.
Do's and Don'ts of Camping at Cracker Barrel
Now that you know the ins and outs of Cracker Barrel RV parking, it's time to learn the dos and don'ts of camping at Cracker Barrel.
First of all, do be courteous to other Cracker Barrel customers and employees. Remember, you're a guest on their property, so make sure you're not being disruptive.
Also, do take advantage of Cracker Barrel's RV-friendly amenities. Most locations have RV hookups, so you can enjoy the comforts of home while you're on the road.
When it comes to don'ts, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, don't overstay your welcome. Cracker Barrel allows RVers to stay for one night, so make sure you don't try to stay longer than that.
If you plan on using the bathroom, drinking coffee, or grabbing something to eat, emember to clean up after yourself and be considerate of other Cracker Barrel customers.
The Bottom Line on Cracker Barrel RV Parking
Cracker Barrel RV parking is a great option for RVers looking for a place to spend the night. Just keep in mind that not all Cracker Barrels are RV-friendly, so make sure to call ahead before you arrive.
If you do find an RV-friendly Cracker Barrel, make sure you arrive early and park in a safe, legal spot. And finally, remember to be courteous to other Cracker Barrel customers and employees. RV parking at Cracker Barrel can be a great experience as long as you follow these simple tips.
