Georgia law distinguishes a temporary rest in a vehicle from camping. The state has no law specifically banning people from simply sleeping in their cars, but local ordinances may set separate limits.
For example, Roswell’s code prohibits camping on public property, including parks, and includes sleeping in one place for a substantial, prolonged period in its definition of camping.
What state law says about rest areas
Georgia Code § 32-6-6 prohibits camping at rest areas. It makes an exception for the normal, customary and temporary use of designated state highway properties by people traveling in vehicles. That use can include resting, sleeping, eating or similar activities. The exception covers temporary stops, not setting up camp or staying for an extended period.
Rest areas listed around Georgia include I-16 east at Milepost 44 and west at Milepost 46 in Laurens County; I-20 east at Milepost 103 and west at Milepost 108 in Morgan County, and both directions at Milepost 181 in Columbia County.
On I-75, listed stops are northbound at Milepost 46.7 and southbound at Milepost 48 in Cook County; southbound at Milepost 76.3 and northbound at Milepost 85 in Turner County; northbound at Milepost 107 and southbound at Milepost 118 in Dooly County; southbound at Milepost 179 in Monroe County; and northbound at Milepost 308 and southbound at Milepost 320 in Gordon County. The list also includes I-475 north at Milepost 7.7 in Bibb County and I-95 south at Milepost 38 in Glynn County.
Other places drivers may consider
A study by American River Wellness included the Georgia Wellness Center on I-95 in Port Wentworth among its top rest stops in the country. The center has drink and snack machines, indoor picnic tables, an interactive educational area and a photo opportunity with a Forrest Gump statue.
Truck stops and campgrounds are common options for people who need to sleep in a vehicle. Walmart, Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops, Sam’s Club, Costco, 24-hour gyms, Home Depot and Lowe’s have also historically been popular with car campers. Drivers considering a store lot should check with management beforehand to confirm whether parking there is allowed.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported more than 600 deaths in drowsy-driving-related crashes in 2024.
Yolonda Harris
News Now Georgia
