Is overnight parking allowed at Louisiana rest areas? How long can you stay at a Louisiana rest area? Is camping permitted at Louisiana rest areas? What are the full Louisiana rest area rules?
Louisiana Rest Area Rules
The State of Louisiana has not adopted any laws or administrative rules specifically about use of its highway rest areas. In addition, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has not posted any signs with respect to how long you can stay at a rest area, overnight parking, or camping.
This is not to say that you can remain at a rest area indefinitely. In recent years, rest areas in Louisiana now include 24 hour on-site security, usually in the form of a Sheriff’s deputy. If you extend your stay too long, a deputy will check on you.
How Long Can You Stay at a Louisiana Rest Area?
The DOTD has not specified any maximum time limit for staying at its rest areas. Generally, you are allowed to remain at a rest area as long as you need to recuperate well enough to resume driving safely.
Is Overnight Parking Permitted at Louisiana Rest Areas?
Yes. Because Louisiana rest areas are open 24 hours a day, you can arrive at a rest area during night time hours and park overnight. With no specified maximum time limit, you are allowed to park overnight.
Can You Sleep Overnight at a Louisiana Rest Area?
Yes. There are no rules or laws against sleeping in your vehicle while at a Louisiana rest area. And because there is no maximum time limit, that would also include overnight sleeping.
Is Camping Allowed at a Louisiana Rest Area?
Yes, camping is allowed as long as you don’t draw too much attention to yourself.
Generally, the DOTD doesn’t mind travelers spending extra time to enjoy their rest area facilities. They just don’t want you to create too much pubic commotion, nor draw too much attention to yourself. They want you to sleep inside your vehicle, and keep your belongings inside as well. This means keeping your camping gear inside, your patio equipment, your barbecue grill, and most importantly your pets. If you can do that, then technically camping is welcome.
Many Louisiana rest areas have facilities that could be used as part of recreational camping. These include picnic tables, cooking grills, children’s play areas, pet exercise areas, scenic viewing areas, paved trails, and kiosks with historical information. You are welcome to enjoy rest area facilities and grounds for recreation. But, don’t draw too much attention to yourself, and stay inside your vehicle at night.
Listing of Louisiana Rest Areas
The DOTD publishes a listing all of its rest areas and welcome centers… http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/administration/dotdaz/definition.aspx?termID=267