Cracker Barrel Crackpots

Marine359 · 05-02-2021, 08:49 AM

We sometimes “boondock” at Cracker Barrel as a halfway rest stop to destination. We usually pull in before 5pm and get a good spot. Too many times a motorhome pulls in late, parks next to us, and turns on their generator. We’re thinking, oh they’ll shut it down by 10pm. But NO, they leave the damn thing on all night. We, without generator, and wanting to open windows for ventilation, are kept awake all night while the motorhome guy luxuriates in air conditioned and sound insulated comfort. Do these nutso folks also do that at state and national parks? Should I unpack my portable genny and fire it up next to them? I hate the thought of escalating.

I am interested in hearing from other Cracker Barrel Boondockers and how they deal with this kind of nuisance.

SeeTheUSA · 05-02-2021, 09:05 AM

This “sound conditioner” or maybe more appropriately called a “white noise” device, can be easily adapted for use in your 12 volt RV. The power supply, or “wall wart,” converts whatever you normally plug it in to such as a 120 volt AC outlet, and runs the machine on 12 volts. I simply cut off the power adapter then wired the cord into a 12 volt source, in my case a bedside lamp. I leave it bedside permanently, ready to use whenever an annoying noise keeps me from sleeping.

https://yogasleep.com/products/zohne

DavidM · 05-02-2021, 09:52 AM

General protocol for staying at Walmarts, Cracker Barrels, etc is no generator and no slides although the latter is often compromised.

We stayed at a Cracker Barrel a few weeks ago on our way down to NC. They had a couple of long truck/RV spaces that were too narrow for slides. When I called to ask if it was ok to stay there (always a good idea) they told me I could also pull in along the back next to some trees. That let me run the slide out without bothering anyone.

Later about 9:00 a BIG DP pulled in looking for a spot but the ones next to the trees were full by then. He parked on the opposite side of the parking lot and we couldn't tell whether he used a generator or not but it was cold that night so if he did it wasn't for A/C. In any case we couldn't hear it over the nearby Interstate noise.

David

RocknRoll · 05-02-2021, 11:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SeeTheUSA

This “sound conditioner” or maybe more appropriately called a “white noise” device, can be easily adapted for use in your 12 volt RV. The power supply, or “wall wart,” converts whatever you normally plug it in to such as a 120 volt AC outlet, and runs the machine on 12 volts. I simply cut off the power adapter then wired the cord into a 12 volt source, in my case a bedside lamp. I leave it bedside permanently, ready to use whenever an annoying noise keeps me from sleeping.

https://yogasleep.com/products/zohne

Agree about a sound machine as I purchased one the end of last year after a negative Wal-Mart experience.

I purchased this one and runs on USB for 25% of the price.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...8GZUNL5N&psc=1

SeeTheUSA · 05-02-2021, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RocknRoll

Agree about a sound machine as I purchased one the end of last year after a negative Wal-Mart experience.

I purchased this one and runs on USB for 25% of the price.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...8GZUNL5N&psc=1

Nice! I already had the one I mentioned, but if in the market for another would sure take a look at what you have.

wyocamper · 05-02-2021, 01:47 PM

Our generator is under our bed and makes a great white noise device when we end up at a walmart/truck stop/truck parking/rest area. Drowns out a lot of the truck noise.

Marine359 · 05-02-2021, 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RocknRoll

Agree about a sound machine as I purchased one the end of last year after a negative Wal-Mart experience.

I purchased this one and runs on USB for 25% of the price.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...8GZUNL5N&psc=1

Thanks,
Bought it today for twenty bucks.

Wayne M · 05-02-2021, 02:19 PM

Ear plugs!

I'm so hard of hearing I probably would not hear anything.

Blastvalve · 05-02-2021, 06:17 PM

There are several white noise apps out there for phones as well. I have one on mine for hotel stays when working, has come in handy when I get the room by the elevator or ice machine.

I also have a small battery operated fan I get in the coach, helps to move air and the noise is a nice plus.

Al Humboldt · 05-17-2021, 08:39 PM

It’s my understanding that CB courtesy is that you don’t use a generator. If you’re going to use a generator, go to Wally World with the truckers who are idling all night. Slide outs? Only if there’s room. We like staying at CBs because they are generally quieter than Walmarts or Rest areas even though most are next to the highway.

Elkman · 05-24-2021, 06:09 PM

I have gone and knocked on the door and asked the occupant to turn off the generator if it is after 10 pm. If they do not then I call the local law enforcement to come out and chat. So far it has worked but I do worry about the gun nuts that may shoot out through the door.

I avoid the places like Cracker Barrel and Wal-Marts and believe it is safer to be at a state rest stop. If the gates are open I have found that cemeteries are very quiet places to spend the night.

Al Humboldt · 05-24-2021, 06:24 PM

I have felt very safe at Cracker Barrels but I suppose in the wrong city that feeling might dissipate. It’s definitely the quietest as opposed to Walmart or rest areas.