I think the one factor you may be overlooking is the simple fact that people in the small towns you will be passing through almost certainly do not want you or anyone else visiting. If you plan on sleeping in the car and limiting your dining options to drive-thru's and gas stations, you would probably be OK. But definitely do not expect anyone to welcome you into their town/restaurant/hotel. I completely sympathize with you, but I think a camping adventure in a very desolate place is about the only viable option at this point, assuming you can locate a place to camp.