Interstate rest stops can be an oasis in the distance on long travel days. They’re a great spot to stop when you need a bathroom break, to stretch your legs, or to grab a snack.
They’re also big-rig friendly, making it easy to get in and out.
However, many RVers wonder if interstate rest stops have RV dump stations. Are you curious too? Let’s take a look.
What Is an Interstate Rest Stop?
An interstate rest stop is a public-use facility on the side of an interstate, typically maintained by the state. Amenities will vary. However, you can generally find restrooms, a vending machine or two, and sidewalks to take a short walk to stretch your legs.
Rest stops may allow overnight parking, which makes them great for RVers and semi-truck drivers to pull in and catch some Zs.
You may even find that some will have overnight security, which can be comforting whether you’re sleeping or just making a quick pit stop.
Do Interstate Rest Stops Have RV Dump Stations?
Some rest stops do have RV dump stations, but not all. In our experience, most rest stops across the country do not.
However, some states seem to be more RV-friendly than others.
For example, if you drive I-5 down the west coast through Washington, Oregon, and California, you’ll find quite a few dump stations available along the route.
Mississippi is also known for having RV dump stations at interstate rest stops.
How Do I Find RV Dump Stations?
You don’t want to tow your RV around a random town looking for a dump station. Do some research in advance. Many private campgrounds, RV parks, and state park campgrounds have dump stations.
It never hurts to look up the nearest campground and inquire if they’d let you dump your tanks and potentially fill up your fresh water tanks. Some places are more accepting of this than others. However, most of them are typically willing to show some hospitality and let you dump.
Some great online resources can make it easy to find RV dump stations. Websites like Campendium, RV Dumps, and Sani Dumps are great resources. You can plan your route and find the most convenient spot to dump your tanks.
Is There an App for RV Dump Stations?
There’s an app for just about everything, including RV dump stations. Some of the most popular apps RVers use for finding dump stations include Campendium, iOverlander, and AllStays. These apps typically use your GPS location and make it easy to find RV dump stations near you.
They typically provide reviews from other users letting you know any helpful information like detailed instructions, tips for navigating to them, and any costs.
Some RV dump stations may not be accessible for larger rigs. So make sure you do some research before heading to them.
How Much Does It Cost to Empty RV Tanks?
Costs typically vary based on location. You can normally expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 to empty your RV tanks. This is a pretty standard price range across the country.
We’ve seen campgrounds that have a somewhat à la carte approach at their dump stations too. Some will have different charges based on what you need to do. You may have a small fee for dumping your tanks, filling up freshwater, and disposing of trash in a dumpster at these locations.
However, sometimes you can get lucky and find an RV dump station that is 100% free. They’re rare, but they do exist. Whether it’s a campground or rest stop, it’s a good day when you find a free place to dump your tanks.
Do Truck Stops Have Dump Stations?
Just like rest stops, some truck stops have RV dump stations. However, there’s no rhyme or reason which places will have them. Some of the major chains of truck stops like Loves, Pilot, and TA have them at some locations.
Many of the large truck stops have mobile apps that you can use to see what amenities they offer. If you find the right truck stop, you can fill up on fuel and empty your tanks all at the same place.
Finding a Dump Station Doesn’t Have to Be Hard
Finding a place to dump your tanks doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Using a few apps or making a call can help you find a nearby dump station that will allow you to empty your tanks.
Whether you find a gas station, campground, or interstate rest stop, you can use RV dump stations all across the country. It may surprise you what unique locations will have them. Have you ever dumped your tanks at an RV dump station at a rest stop?
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I would be especially interested in comments about the rest stop rv dump stations on the Atlantic coast/South East Coast area of the USA. Thank you.
According to https://www.rvdumps.com many interstate rest areas in Georgia have them.
Several rest stops in Wyoming have RV dump stations. Check the state rest stop site. However not all such equipped rest stops are listed. I know the rest stop at Evansville has such a facility.
I have read that Iowa has dump stations at rest areas but have no personal experience to verify that.