If you’ve ever traveled along the highways of the Southeast, chances are you’ve spotted a Cracker Barrel just off the interstate. These classic roadside stops are known for their cozy country vibes and hearty meals – and for travelers in RVs, they sometimes offer something even better: a free overnight spot! On a recent trip through Virginia, we gave Cracker Barrel boondocking a shot in Abingdon, VA, just off I-81. Here’s how our first boondocking experience went and what you should know before you park at a Cracker Barrel.
“Campground” Overview: The Cracker Barrel Parking Lot in Abingdon, VA
With its close proximity to I-81, this Cracker Barrel was incredibly easy to get to. The parking lot offered about eight designated RV spots, but the spaces were pretty narrow. We actually had to pull our steps in to ensure enough room for the neighboring RV to park. It’s an experience that’s definitely a bit different than a traditional campground, but it worked well for a quick overnight stay. The lot itself didn’t offer much shade, which might be a plus if you’re relying on solar power. While we don’t have slideouts, the parking space width probably wouldn’t accommodate them – something to keep in mind if you need that extra room. Despite being close to the highway, the lot was relatively quiet, offering us a peaceful night’s rest.
Accessibility and Nearby Amenities
Cracker Barrel’s location off I-81 couldn’t be more convenient for road-weary travelers looking for a quick stop. The area felt safe, and the friendly staff made us feel welcome as we settled in for both dinner and breakfast. We also found a Walmart and gas station nearby, making it easy to stock up on essentials and fuel. The gas station was a bit snug for larger trailers, but they did have an air machine, which came in handy when topping off our tires.
Amenities: Going Bare-Bones
As expected, boondocking at a Cracker Barrel means going without hookups – no water, sewer, or electric connections here. However, if you’re prepared for a night of dry camping, it’s a good setup. We brought along our Anker battery pack, which allowed us to power a few essentials, such as lights and our TV. This was especially helpful since we couldn’t run our AC, and it was a warm night, but a quick freshen-up with personal wipes stored in the trailer kept us comfortable. We used about 53% of our battery pack, which held up well for the night. Beyond basic parking, Cracker Barrel’s front porch with rocking chairs and easy access to a trash can helped make the stay pleasant. We enjoyed a casual dinner and breakfast, and staff interactions – from hosts to servers – were consistently friendly.
Activities and Recreation in Abingdon
If you need a quick restock on supplies, Abingdon’s nearby Walmart and gas stations have most essentials. With limited recreational options on site, we spent our evening relaxing in the trailer with the animals, catching up on some TV via our phone’s hotspot (which had solid cell service here). If you’re traveling with pets, the parking lot has enough room for short strolls, which was perfect for quick walks with our dog.
Cost and Reservations
One of the best perks of staying at a Cracker Barrel is the price tag – it’s free! However, given that there are only about eight RV spots, it’s smart to arrive by 7 PM to snag a spot. Reservations aren’t available, so it’s all first-come, first-serve. Being free, this option offers great savings, especially for travelers on long road trips needing a quick break.
Safety and Connectivity
We felt secure staying at this Cracker Barrel, which had good lighting and a welcoming environment. It’s always reassuring to know there’s a friendly team inside the restaurant, and this location had a clean and safe vibe. While Cracker Barrel doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, we had no trouble using our phone’s hotspot, allowing us to stream shows and relax comfortably in the trailer.
Our Experience: A Cozy Night in Close Quarters
This trip marked our first boondocking experience, so it was a learning opportunity! With limited space, especially in the trailer’s back area, we spent most of the night relaxing in bed, watching TV, or sleeping. Bringing our dog and cats added to the cozy feel of the night, and we were glad to have packed everything from wipes to our battery pack to make it a comfortable stay. The next morning, after a warm Cracker Barrel breakfast, we packed up and continued our journey. Thanks to Hurricane Helene rerouting our trip, the scenic drive from North Carolina to Kentucky was mostly traffic-free. Our trusty battery pack held up, the animals stayed content, and the journey continued smoothly.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a safe, convenient, and budget-friendly overnight spot, Cracker Barrel in Abingdon, VA, is a fantastic option. With a cozy meal just steps away and friendly staff, the experience combines classic roadside convenience with a unique camping adventure. Just remember, this type of stay means going without hookups, so pack accordingly and plan for some close quarters. For anyone new to boondocking, this spot offers a relaxed way to get your feet wet. Have you tried staying overnight at a Cracker Barrel before? Share your experience with us in the comments, and don’t forget to follow our journey for more travel tips and campground insights!
Tags: Cracker Barrel RV camping, Abingdon VA, boondocking tips, free overnight camping, dry camping, RV travel tips, Cracker Barrel parking lot, Virginia RV travel, Highway 81 camping, RV battery pack
