If you’re like most travelers gearing up for a long road trip, you’re probably hoping to power through the miles with just a few quick breaks. But let’s be real—between packing, laundry, cleaning the house, and tossing last-minute snacks into the cooler, you might end up more exhausted before you even start the engine.
That’s where rest stops come in handy. South Dakota, with its wide-open highways and scenic views, has plenty of rest stops for tired drivers. But before you pull over for a nap, it’s worth knowing the rules about how long you can stay—and what you can and can’t do at these roadside havens.
How Long Can You Stay at a South Dakota Rest Stop?
According to The Boondocker’s Bible, a trusted resource for road travelers and campers, you can legally stay at a South Dakota rest stop for up to 3 hours—if you’re driving a non-commercial vehicle like a car, van, or RV.
However, if you’re behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle, such as a semi-truck, the allowed rest period extends to 10 hours. This aligns with federal rules that require truck drivers to take mandatory rest breaks for safety.
Can You Sleep in Your Car at a Rest Stop?
Yes, you can sleep in your car, but only during that allowed time window—3 hours for regular drivers, 10 hours for commercial ones. Resting is the purpose of these stops, after all. South Dakota understands that tired drivers are dangerous drivers.
That said, camping is not allowed at South Dakota rest stops. So while napping in your front seat is fine, setting up a tent, rolling out a sleeping bag on the grass, or breaking out the portable grill is not.
What Happens If You Overstay?
The South Dakota State Code doesn’t clearly list a specific fine for overstaying at a rest stop. However, it does mention that enforcement officers have the right to issue fines for violations, and overstaying the posted time limit or camping could be considered a petty offense.
There’s no exact dollar amount listed in the public statutes, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore the rule. A fine may still be issued if authorities determine you’re not following rest stop regulations.
Real Talk: Will You Get in Trouble for Sleeping Too Long?
In most cases, if you’re not causing trouble, making noise, or turning the rest area into your personal campsite, chances are no one will disturb you during a short rest. Many travelers report sleeping a few hours without issue—especially overnight—before hitting the road again.
Still, it’s best to respect the 3-hour rule and keep things low-key. Avoid drawing attention to yourself, and if you need more sleep, consider a nearby hotel, campground, or other legal overnight parking option.
Tips for Using South Dakota Rest Stops Comfortably
Plan breaks every few hours to avoid fatigue.
Use the restrooms, water fountains, and vending machines—most are open 24/7.
Park away from truckers if possible—they have longer rest time rights.
Avoid spreading out items or leaving trash behind.
If you’re in an RV, avoid extending awnings or using slide-outs.
Rest stops in South Dakota offer a safe, legal way to take a break when you’re on the road. Whether you’re grabbing a quick nap or just stretching your legs, knowing the time limits and rules helps you stay within the law and avoid unnecessary fines.
With a 3-hour limit for personal vehicles and 10 hours for commercial drivers, you’ve got enough time to rest, recharge, and keep going safely on your journey.
While the law allows short-term rest, remember that overnight camping isn’t allowed, and overstaying could bring a fine—even if the exact amount isn’t listed. Respect the space, and it’s likely you won’t have any issues. Safe travels!
FAQ: Sleeping at South Dakota Rest Stops
How long can you sleep at a South Dakota rest stop?
Up to 3 hours for personal vehicles, and up to 10 hours for commercial trucks.
Can you camp at a rest stop in South Dakota?
No, camping is not allowed. This includes tents, grills, or outdoor setups.
Will I be fined for sleeping too long?
Possibly. While the law doesn’t state a clear fine amount, it does allow authorities to issue penalties for overstaying or camping.
Can I sleep overnight in my car at a rest area?
Not legally. The 3-hour rule means overnight stays are discouraged unless you’re a trucker on a required break.
What’s the best way to rest without breaking the rules?
Keep your nap short, don’t make a scene, and avoid any signs of camping or setting up outside your vehicle.