Finding RV friendly gas stations when traveling can sometimes be tricky. Not all stations are built for large vehicles. But with the right tools and strategies, you can easily locate stops that welcome RVs.
We will show resources to help in your search. Knowing where to refuel during your journey means one less thing to worry about. Let’s explore options to pinpoint gas stations with RV hookups from the start of your journey.
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How to Find RV Friendly Gas Stations
With some planning, it should be easy to find RV friendly gas stations. Follow our guide to know how to locate suitable filling spots:
1. Plan Your Route
You must plan your route before starting the journey, and one key part of planning is finding camper friendly gas stations along your route. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere with no place to fuel up that can handle your large vehicle.
Look up major brands like Flying J, Love’s, and TravelCenters of America (TA) since they often have large parking lots and pumping areas meant for big rigs and motorhomes. Check their website or app to see locations along your planned route. You can also search “RV friendly gas stations near me” online to discover local options. Map out these stops in your travel plans.
Once on the road, keep an eye on your tank level. Don’t wait until the fuel light comes on to search for the next stop. Having a general idea of distances between fills allows you to find stations before the last minute. Also, choose some backup gasoline options near your route in case of closures or other issues.
2. Use Google Maps
Google Maps is an invaluable tool for finding gas stations that allow RV refueling. One unique advantage is you can see a station’s layout using “Street View,” which makes it easier to determine whether it can accommodate a rig.
Some gas stations just aren’t friendly for large vehicles. Their pumps may be too close together or the lanes too narrow to navigate easily. Using Street View will let you scope out if there’s enough room to maneuver a motorhome in those stations.
Beyond checking out the physical layout, Google Maps is great for measuring distances between stops. It helps with planning out the stops to avoid running low on gas.
3. Take Help from Online RV Communities
One of the most reliable ways to find RV friendly gas stations is asking your fellow travelers. When you’re traveling to a new area, it’s not always easy to know which stations have ample space and pumps for RVs. That’s where online RV communities can provide valuable information from experienced RVers.
There are many forums and Facebook groups devoted to recreational vehicles. Simply ask if anyone can recommend gas stations suitable for filling up a 30-foot motorhome in the region you’re headed. Chances are, other RVers have been there before and know the best places to refuel. People will often list specific stations, providing details like pump clearance, room for maneuvering, amenities onsite, and locations.
It’s so helpful to get first-hand insights when planning a route. Don’t be shy about polling the group with your travel plans. Fellow RVers are always happy to assist with pit stop suggestions. Community members may even share maps or GPS coordinates for the suggested stations.
4. Use an App
Finding suitable fuel stops is half the battle when driving long distances with an RV. Using an RV friendly gas stations app takes that hassle out of the equation. A few taps and you’ll get reliable options right at your fingertips.
Here are 5 apps to find your next RV-friendly refueling stop:
i. GasBuddy
GasBuddy is a popular choice for RVers. Not only does it show gas prices, but you can also filter for diesel fuel and stations that can accommodate large rigs.
The app also shows plenty of user reviews for the available stops, so you’ll know what to expect before you get there.
ii. RV Trip Wizard
As you add stops along the way, the app will point out gas stations that allow RV access. That way you won’t end up somewhere you can’t find any refueling option. You can customize your trip however you like and see fuel suggestions on the generated itinerary.
iii. iExit
As you ride along the highway, the iExit app identifies upcoming exits along with the services available there, such as gas stations.
If you’re running low, it’s reassuring to see your options so you’re not left stranded anywhere unsafe or too small for your tank size.
iv. AllStays Camp & RV
If you want one app that covers everything, AllStays Camp & RV is the answer. As the name suggests, it provides information on campgrounds. But you can also rely on it to locate open rest areas or gas stations that have big fueling lanes. The offline maps are useful when you’re outside cell service.
v. Love’s Connect
Love’s Travel Stops is a top chain for RVers, and their app shows you where the closest one is. Not only do you get real-time gas prices, but you can also check what amenities each store has like bathrooms or shopping. They aim to make refueling on the road as comfortable as possible.
5. Know Your RV
One of the most important things you can do to find RV friendly gas stations is to accurately measure your RV’s height. This will allow you to easily check if a station can accommodate your rig before arriving there. Most standard fuel pumps have a clearance height of around 13 feet, so anything taller will need to seek out stations specifically designed for larger vehicles.
To measure your RV’s height, use a tape measure along the center of the roof starting from the ground. Make sure to account for air conditioning units or other protrusions that could impact clearance.
Once you know the height, pay attention to signage at stations. Many clearly list their maximum height to guide vehicles in. Don’t assume a station is accessible just because it’s along your route. Always have backup options in mind, especially for taller rigs.
