Every Cabela’s store has a different policy about overnight parking, but many of them allow or even encourage it. Have you ever stayed overnight with your RV in a Cabela’s parking lot within the last year? If so, what was your experience like?
While Cabela’s doesn’t offer any hookups or potable water, some of the stores do have dump stations or water stations, so you might not be completely without amenities.
Many RVers say they feel welcome at Cabela’s, especially because of the wide parking areas and well-lit lots. Some locations even have designated RV parking sections, giving you a bit of peace of mind when pulling in for the night. Others note that staff were friendly and didn’t mind a quick overnight stop, especially if you made a purchase or asked permission.
That said, not every experience is perfect. A few travelers have reported noise from nearby highways or early-morning deliveries. Some locations may also have stricter local ordinances or security patrols that limit or prohibit overnight stays. That’s why it’s always smart to call ahead or check online reviews before banking on a night there.
Still, staying at Cabela’s can be a great fallback when you’re between campgrounds or just need a quick overnight rest. The combination of large lots, potential amenities, and the ability to restock on gear or snacks makes it a convenient option for road-weary RVers.
There are 177 Cabela’s stores across the U.S. and Canada, which means there’s a good chance you’re near one right now. Take a look at their store locator map if you want somewhere free to stay overnight.
RELATED
- Tips for finding free (or nearly free) overnight RV spots
- 9 things to know about overnight parking at Cracker Barrel
- How to stay free overnight in your RV in a small town
- Poll: Do you feel safe when staying overnight in a Walmart parking lot?
RVDT2634
We didn’t stay in the parking lot, but rather in the Cabela’s campground in Sidney, Nebraska…the headquarters site. What a treat!
The Cabela’s in East Hartford CT has the largest parking lot I have ever seen for a single store. And the best part, there is generally no one there. That Cabela’s happens to be a good stopping point for us for one night while on our way to our Workamping jobs in New Hampshire. We use it every April.
In previous years, but not the last. A couple stays turned expensive. 🙂
Thank you for the question, RV Travel! No, never. But neither have I ever been to a Cabela’s. Cracker Barrels? Yes, thrice. Walmart? No, never. Bass Pro Shop? No, never. Guess we don’t get out much. 😉 Have a great day and safe travels! 🙂
We used to overnight at various Cabelas and have also stayed at their campground in NE.
Mitchell, SD Cabelas was a favorite on trips west, but they haven’t allowed overnighting for around 5 years now. We always bought something there, patronized the local Wal-mart and Culvers. Now we just drive past and Mitchell sees none of our travel $.
We used to stop at Walmarts but so many no longer offer the option that I always make sure to have alternative resources. We have also stayed at a Costco (after asking permission). We would stay at a Cabela’s but haven’t been near one when we needed a place. Living out west, we do a lot of dispersed camping and state parks. We avoid private parks as much as possible, especially resorts.
When heading from eastern WA to the Idaho panhandle, we have stayed at Cabelas in Post Falls, ID a few times. It has a nice large parking lot and we always find things that we like to purchase.
No, but stayed at Anchorage, AK, place a couple of times. Parking lot had a pond and staff always friendly.