Can You Legally Sleep Overnight at a Missouri Rest Stop?

It's a more complicated issue than you think. Can you legally sleep overnight at a rest stop? Believe it or not, there are many states where that's illegal. But, what about Missouri? I've done some research and learned exactly what the law says.

One of the more popular travel sites for travelers is Campendium. They've done a very helpful state-by-state guide of where you can and can't sleep at rest stops overnight without breaking the law.

Missouri Department of Transportation has its own guide to the rest stops in the state and it says there are "7 welcome centers, 12 rest areas, and 30 truck-only parking sites" that are located on seven different interstates that cross Missouri.

Back to the original question, can you legally sleep overnight in Missouri at a rest stop? Campendium says the answer is yes.

The states surrounding Missouri have similar lenience. Kansas will allow you to stay for one night at a rest stop, but no camping. Same for Iowa. Illinois is stricter allowing stays of 2 to 4 hours, but it's key to pay attention to what specific signs say at the rest stop you're stopping at in the Land of Lincoln.

There you have it. Sleep overnight at a Missouri rest stop if you dare, but be aware of your surroundings in case you sense iffy criminal elements around you.