Ep. 246: Love's Adds RV Sites | Travel Camping RVlife

[@kennypascoe4752]

As a truck driver myself I am very happy and proud of Loves going above and beyond for ALL of its patrons! I also am an avid RV’r myself as well and here’s another reason to keep The Loves my number one go to stopping point

[@GrandAdventure]

That's terrific Kenny, thanks for sharing your perspective! And keep on truckin'.

[@lauraroberts8879]

Recently returned from 3 wks in FL. Tent camping with my cat. Getting camp sites was impossible in some areas. I spent 13 nights in campgrounds and 8 in 8 different Love's Travel Stops. All but one had spotless bathrooms and all employees were super friendly. I always bought gas, ate my dinner and breakfast in their restaurant, made purchases in their store, and even took advantage of their private showers. I made sure I thanked the workers who seemed to go over and beyond with their service. Yes, I would have preferred to be in my tent in a campground, but felt it was a safe place to sleep when that wasn't an option.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for sharing your experiences Laura! Sounds like you had good ones.

[@Tay-no8ci]

half the country is in florida.

[@crazyelf3839]

I'm glad your experience in Florida was good. Here in Florida, some places are being purchased by Parakeet Communities and Lakeshore Management. When they take over a mobile home or RV park, they don't change the name. For example; here at Paradise Lakes RV Park in Volusia County (Deltona), they've kept the original name. An honorable name that's been around since 1968! NOW,These scumbags are violating laws and health codes! Do some research. You'll be glad you did!

[@RodeoJoe1981]

As a trucker and an rver, this is great as long as they don't take away from truck parking. There is a huge shortage of truck parking across the country both Canada and US.

[@GrandAdventure]

Joe, these are being built in another area of the property, so it's not taking away any truck parking. If anything it may prompt RVers to get a hookup spot instead of a truck space.

[@RodeoJoe1981]

@@GrandAdventure that's great, happy to see that!

[@gabecicale1860]

It's great that someone is trying to fill a much-needed niche. The only negative that I see, and this is based on the video, is that there are no pull-throughs. This is always a major issue when we are looking for an easy overnight place to park. In fact, it would seem to be relatively easy to make all of their sites pull-throughs as it is rare that anyone with a motor home is not towing a vehicle.

[@GrandAdventure]

Here's hoping that Love's is taking note of all of the valuable feedback being provided here by commenters like yourself, Gabe.

[@geraldsouthard7092]

Thanks for the reporting. Great news. Will be looking forward to the rollout nationwide. As a Class A pusher tugging a Jeep four down, would have appreciated a pull thru so we would not have to decouple for an overnight stay. For those that don’t know, you should not backup when towing four down.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks Gerald. Hopefully Love's is taking note of some of the feedback and comments here.

[@clagueb3686]

What's it take, five minutes to unhook?

[@SharonRepici]

@@clagueb3686 one more opportunity to miss something and hurt your toad. Yes, quick to hookup, but then what? Is site long enough to hug my Jeep, or will I have to park in customer lot where it becomes an item of interest at 3:09 a.m.? It’s not asking much for pull-thru sites and probably less chance of damage to hookups if a newbie isn’t backing for the second time since driving off dealer’s lot.

[@reality_rv628]

Last summer was a nightmare for RV'ers! Roads were so busy, so many newbies out there, all the campgrounds were crowded and expensive - RV Parks, State Parks, private parks, BLM areas overcrowded, etc., all had stay limits and gas wasn't even that expensive yet! (~$3.50/gal) and I think it'll be even worse this year. So this season (and possibly beyond) we are absolutely loving staying stationary. Yes, we found a nice smaller RV park in a semi-rural area near the Oregon coast (30 miles) - and very affordable with all amenities ($600/mo+elec). Plus we're able to have a small containers garden to help save money on food. A couple farm stands nearby, major grocery 12 miles away, lots of fun and interesting things to do in the area in our tow - a VW Bug which is great on gas. Plus taking time to just relax and not think about where we're going next or how much it's going to cost us. That's the way we're saving money and living affordable in our RV during these expensive times. We've been full-timers for 7 years now and RV'ing just isn't what it used to be.

[@GrandAdventure]

Honestly, we've never seen a summer season like 2021. Not only were things packed and booked, but the heat sent many boondockers running to hookups, yours truly included. At one point we were in Montana and I was so frustrated trying to find a hookup spot I hopped onto KOA's website, just because I could search the whole state at once. Out of 18 KOAs in Montana, not a single site was available. Sounds like you found a sweet situation in Oregon!

[@sgtevmckay]

As a vanlifer, the Missus and I have taken advantage of Love’s services and ability to get a quick overnight stay. The service for us has always been excellent, the showers fast to access, and having food/restaurants when we do not feel like cooking. We are deeply grateful for Love’s generosity and convenience. Finding out this information about RV spots is excellent news. Hopefully the prices iron out a bit. I have been tempted to contact Love’s in regards to having a loyalty card for travelers. A mix between their truck driver loyalty card and the gas vehicle loyalty card. I am now inspired to write to them promptly so that maybe a loyalty card for travelers can be obtained. Offering points and conveniences that would be appealing to travelers directly. Thanks for the news :)

[@GrandAdventure]

Hopefully Love's is listening to the feedback here Sgt., including yours. Thanks for watching, and thank you for your service!

[@sgtevmckay]

@@jerrydixon Considering that Love’s charges $20 just to dump a black tank! At least at the Love’s we have stayed at that offer a dump. I also said that I hope they get the price nailed down. I do believe $40+ a night excessive, but this is my opinion. I am used to free overbite stays. I have no immediate need for full hookups, unless my battery’s get really low.

[@LuisVillalobosYT]

@@jerrydixon I think it is. Again, on a pinch…. Traveling cross county, in the summer, you can run your AC, (or winter with a electric heater) if it’s two of you, split the cost at $20 ea it’s cheaper than a hotel. Is it a crazy deal? No. Will you go there for vacation? No. If the loves happen to be half way your destination, no hotels in site and you need those amenities, not bad.

[@geraldkoth654]

Perfect for an overnight while jumping a day at a time from one longer term stay to another. I have always used KOA for that. Loves makes it one stop shopping with an easy fill up without adding another stop.

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your perspective, Gerald, and thanks for watching! One stop shopping indeed.

[@tufftrucker40]

Good now maybe they'll stay out of the truck parking area so truckers can get the needed rest.

[@GrandAdventure]

@@tufftrucker40 we all have to get along and be respectful of each other's needs, and that goes both ways.

[@danbailey96]

@@tufftrucker40 why is a Trucker any better then anyone else ?

[@tufftrucker40]

@@danbailey96 it's a truck stop. It's in the name

[@OdysseyCamper]

THIS IS AWESOME! Love’s is my favorite travel stop and I usually tuck in near the trucks. It’s a good place to grab a shower and some decent food, with good fuel prices. Discordant diesel sounds lull me to sleep, but I understand why some people don’t like it. Adding RV spots away from the trucks is a brilliant move! It also frees up the truck spots. Truckers need their rest and I’d imagined it’s a bit frustrating to find the spots filled by RVs. Kudos to Love’s for finding a need and filling it. Thanks for the story; I wouldn’t have heard about it without you. Like/Sub/Bell folks!

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks OC! Not surprised that you find the sound of diesel engines soothing, even though they don't run on #cornoil.

[@bobflop2285]

I always thought pilot and flying j was better wifi trucker Lounge

[@snookrookie]

My wife asks what planet are you from?

[@GrandAdventure]

@@snookrookie 😄

[@pugmalley]

I am sure most of them just assume it is an RV being pulled by a hotshot. But yes I would be annoyed if I pull in to find 10 spots taken by just some random joe in an RV and there are no spots left for me. I am fortunate I run in the MN, WI, IA, SD, ND area where there are more options.

[@garymann5998]

Great to see someone is looking out for people who love to travel with an RV, thanks for sharing Marc, travel safe

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks Gary, same to you!

[@rgs360]

Love's is a great company to support as well, since they are much like Chick-FIl-A in that they support many very good philanthropic activities. The management is known as a very involved and caring group of folks. We always prefer Love's to Pilot/Flying J and in general they seem to care much more. So if you do stop there, PLEASE keep it clean and be respectful as they are providing a valuable and safe harbor that would be nice to keep around for all travelers.

[@GrandAdventure]

Great information and perspective, thanks for sharing that and thanks for watching!

[@jdderstine]

Stayed at one in Tennessee. I loved it .. easy reservations to make, pay and perfect stay.

[@GrandAdventure]

That's great feedback, Jeff. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@bulletsonofagun7413]

Didn’t see a pull through site. I have a 42 footer with a toad. But it’s early yet, they may have some in the works. Thank you loves, we appreciate you.

[@GrandAdventure]

Hopefully they're paying attention to the ample feedback they're getting here.

[@adriannurse1502]

Last summer we were heading home and our water pump went out. We tried finding a campsite for the night, but had no luck. So we dry camped in a parking lot overnight. The next day we rolled into a friend's house. He had a replacement water pump waiting and a complete tool collection. We changed the pump at his house then checked into a campground. We were still a few days from home. Having water makes a huge difference. That night I would have been glad to pay Love's $42 for full hookups. After all they are right on the highway and you are only looking for a safe place to stay the night.

[@GrandAdventure]

Great example on where these would come in handy, Adrian. In our opinion these aren't for every circumstance, but when you're in a pinch and you need hookups for a night these sites fit the bill perfectly.

[@davetelling]

I think that this is a good idea, but I'd just be happy with a place to park away from the truck engine noise - no hookups, just a quiet spot and a trash can nearby.

[@GrandAdventure]

Here's hoping that Love's is taking note of all of the valuable feedback being provided here by commenters like yourself, Dave.

[@shawnbebout]

Good place for a quick overnight. Full hookups good for showering and dumping your tanks.

[@GrandAdventure]

Agreed, Shawn. Thanks for watching!

[@bobbliss9607]

I retiared from driving over th road, and LOVE'S is a wonderful truckstop. It's clean, safe, and the folks at LOV'E'S are great.

[@GrandAdventure]

We've often had great experiences, Bob, as long as you don't need someone to fill your propane. 😉

[@AcmeRacing]

I slept at a Flying J travel center that had a separate RV lot once. At around 2 AM a trucker drove through and blew a train horn just to be a jackass. Even when there's designated parking that's not taking a truck space some truckers resent RVs at truck stops.

[@GrandAdventure]

That's most unfortunate to hear; however, there will of course be jackasses of all types everywhere.

[@johnbaatenburg6190]

Something absolutely needed for those of us traveling. And contrary to what others say and believe, $42.50 is a reasonable price to pay for something convenient and clean with hookups.

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate the feedback, John. We think that it's a bit high for what it is, but still -- it has a place and a purpose.

[@RVTIPSANDTRAVELS]

Thanks for sharing Marc, I can get about 3-4 hours on the road before I'm done with it for the day. This could be a great option for us to explore a little further out by having a dedicated place to rest.

[@GrandAdventure]

That's its purpose, and it seems to serve it well. Thanks so much for watching!

[@bunsguns8222]

This is awesome, I mean why not. Walmart should follow suit, charge money and provide a service, and make more money while people are there.

[@GrandAdventure]

It's the same theory as the casinos that have added electrical pedestals. Get folks to stop and spend some money.

[@martelvonc]

Wow, this is great news! Thank you Love's!

[@GrandAdventure]

And thank you for watching, Martha.

[@robertorion6559]

Thanks. It is always good to have options.

[@GrandAdventure]

Indeed it is Robert, you're most welcome and thanks for watching!

[@Sprintervan1]

Thanks for the info!! I had no idea!! $42 is a bargain for the convenience of water fill, sewage dump and a safe overnight stay being right off the highway. Looking forward to more in the future!

[@GrandAdventure]

Our pleasure, Tim. Thanks for watching!

[@luannkelly5071]

Oh, I can't wait for this video to upload! What exciting news!! Oh, as a mostly boondocker, $42 is high. For me, on SSDI, that's a week of groceries. Oh well. Good to know it's an option though!

[@GrandAdventure]

Hope you like it Luann!

[@TeamBuffaloOutdoors]

Absolutely agree!

[@luannkelly5071]

Okay, this is perfect for refueling, dumping, getting water , and recharging between boondocking locations!

[@GrandAdventure]

@@luannkelly5071 that's pretty much how we see it, too.

[@rickcampbell4920]

Great info, I saw the Chandler AZ Loves off the 10 had a separate set of RV pumps a couple of weeks ago, now full hookups, Awesome!

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for watching, Rick! No RV hookups in Chandler yet, but they're likely coming.

[@PhotographybyTimWMoore]

This is really good news for long distance travelers!

[@GrandAdventure]

Indeed it is Tim, thanks for watching!

[@NedbLegocity]

First time visitor & subscriber! I’m a ‘local’ trucker , home daily, but prefer love’s as my fuel stop, they’re usually clean and the staff are always working hard to provide a welcoming environment. I’m searching for my next RV as well, and will definitely be using love’s as an en route stay when I go traveling in the future.

[@GrandAdventure]

We're thrilled to have you along, Ned. Thanks so much! And best wishes for finding that perfect next RV.

[@johnm6399]

I have driven, up and down the east coast many times through the years. The first time ever ,last year, I drove from Philadelphia to Reno. I was totally impressed with the way Love's is set up for the traveler, it's the best I have seen on the road. The employees were all wonderful no matter which one i was in.

[@GrandAdventure]

We appreciate hearing your perspective, John! Thanks too for watching.

[@sonofabutcher7003]

Clever move. Recognizing a need and opportunity. Hopefully others follow their lead.

[@GrandAdventure]

We completely agree, Gregg. THanks for sharing your perspective!

[@GrandAdventure]

@@RickMartinKZbin perhaps Walmart will take notice. Thanks for watching, and for your perspective.

[@hamhouke]

This is a really mixed development for nomads, IMO. The rates are very high. The national average for a full hookup campsite is somewhere between $40-50 a night, but can often be found for much less in more out of the way locations. If they begin requiring any RV that parks overnight to use this service it will result in a massive loss of free parking availability. Converting free parking into paid (and expensive) parking with hookups isn't a very good deal for folks that are on the road continuously.

[@GrandAdventure]

Can't disagree with that one bit. It remains to be seen how they'll treat their free overnight parking in locations that add this service.

[@nia6849]

It is a rip-off for paying $40-$50 overnight.

[@GrandAdventure]

@@nia6849 That depends. If everything else is full and it's a steamy 80ºF for an overnight low, we'll gladly pay for a good night's sleep under a/c. If you have to dump anyway, the fee you'd pay to dump helps to offset the cost of the spot.

[@garlandcampbell7994]

We just went across the west from Colorado to California and returned via southern Arizona, New Mexico and back to Colorado. Loves, Maverick, Pilot and Chevron were consistently .30 to .50 a gallon more for diesel fuel, with Chevron the worst, most expensive costs. This was consistent in all state. We avoided all four places whenever possible. Just FYI.

[@rexpippenger3559]

The Love's in McPherson, Ks., just added a large rv parking area. The Abilene, Ks., TA Travel Center has also added rv sites. Both are fenced.👍

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for that update, Rex!

[@chil5150]

👍 BIG thumbs up to Love's, hopefully Pilot/Flying J will follow the initiative. My only concern is that Love's is not doing this as some magnanimous gesture toward RV travellers, they want to make money and I would hate to see ever escalating prices. After all, they don't charge trucks to park overnight and $42.00 buys a lot of water and electricity.

[@GrandAdventure]

You bet, Chris! They're a business after all, and a business exists to maximize profit. I'm somewhat confident that they did their due diligence through market research to see what the market was willing to pay for the hookups. And as far as we know RVs can still park there overnight without charge if they don't want the RV spaces.

[@danshelburne1948]

Some do if u DON'T buy fuel there.

[@clagueb3686]

If it was free people would be living there full time.

[@jupiter6647]

Yeah, also that word magnanimous doesn't exist anymore... Don't ever "whine" about well truckers this, and truckers that. That's what little kids do about things they don't understand. Obviously you don't fully grasp the "VAST" amount of NECESSITIES @ CONVENIENCE to EVERYONE'S lives " TRUCKERS" bring. We All should be saluting them!! Carry on..

[@Gene.Guazzo]

why would you think for one minute that any corporation makes any moves for any reason except for money. Maybe because i have been corporate most of my life but when you see a large company do anything, it’s all because the board of directors say “ we need more money”

[@nwlady1844]

Really appreciate Love's welcoming attitude to RV's. Always buy gas... food... and other items as a "thank you"... Would love to see videos on Love's truck stops.

[@GrandAdventure]

If we overnight in one, it'll make that episode. Thanks NW Lady for sharing your point of view!

[@thewanderingpinto5979]

Its nice that Loves is offering this option for those who need it. However when we are just looking for an overnight spot when traveling we are not looking for full hookups. The only thing we may need it electricity for heating or air conditioning. Ohio turnpike has several of their service plazas have RV spots with electric for $20 a night. That's what would be nice when traveling. When your tired from traveling you just want to park plug in and rest, not deal with water and sewer lines.

[@richarddegen6184]

$42 at Loves in Oklahoma.....ripoff

[@GrandAdventure]

That's terrific to hear about those Ohio rest stops, TWP! We wish more states would do stuff like that.

[@davidcanter2376]

I shocked that someone didn't think of this before

[@GrandAdventure]

Hopefully others will follow too, David.

[@bradleyevans8147]

Buckee's is really popular here in Texas. I think that this would be a good idea for them as well.

[@GrandAdventure]

Mrs. GA said the very same thing. Hopefully other brands like Buc-ee's will take notice. FWIW, I've gotten more comments here in Utah on my Buc-ee's baseball cap than you can possibly imagine.

[@camperbum]

I think this is a great opportunity for all the truck stops, I've been to many of them when I was a driver, they have a lot of room to do this, just remember, it's a Truck stop where they are not all going to be happy with rvs in their way, just like a lot of rv'ers don't like trucks 😉 thanks Mark...

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your perspective, Dave. I have to see keeping trucks and RVers out of each other's hair as a good thing.

[@camperbum]

@Grand Adventure yeah, not all of us are also rvers, and most rv driver's don't know any truck drivers 🙄

[@GrandAdventure]

@@camperbum about 50% of the insurance claims that I handle in my professional life are trucking claims. So yeah, we get it. 😉

[@HanweyWeasner]

Loves is probably the number one choice when traveling this is a great episode and great news for me since I’m a huge fan lol thanks for the update

[@GrandAdventure]

Glad to hear that you found the information useful, thanks for watching!

[@HanweyWeasner]

@@cactusjackNV lived near a bucees for over 6 years went all time it would be my my fav also if they were everywhere! lol but i see thats there spreading out! i saw there building one in Tennessee now thats a big step up from Texas and Florida

[@GrandAdventure]

@@cactusjackNV Mrs. GA said the same thing. Hopefully other brands will take notice.

[@debinvenice]

They should be creating pull-throughs. Folks with toads who can't back-up don't want to detach and re-hook up for a quick overnight stay.

[@GrandAdventure]

Deb, hopefully the folks at Love's are catching the feedback being provided here.

[@TonyRehrmann]

As a hybrid owner, I'm never comfortable with my bunks out in high-traffic or unprotected areas and would never feel safe in a parking lot. Dedicated spaces addresses this well and I would absolutely spring for a night here on a long haul.

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your perspective Tony, thanks for watching!

[@randycessna4403]

Great video. The info is good. As far as tips to LOVES...REMEMBER SOME PEOPLE CANT BACK WELL. I'm a retired mix. Part truck driver part county corrections officer. Try to make your spots where you pull through.Some have no experience backing. And other campers won't be woke up.Maybe have two spots here,two over there.BUT PULL THROUGHS.CHECK OUT THE SPOTS AT TEXAS ALABAMA COUSHATTA RESERVATION. INGENIOUS.YOU HAVE A PROBLEM. IF YOU HAVE BACK INS,TOO MUCH LIGHT IS REQUIRED.THIS WILL DETER OTHER CUSTOMERS ONCE THE WORD GETS OUT.THAT SITE ON THE VIDEO COULD HAVE THE TABLES REMOVED,THEN CAMPERS COULD PULL THROUGH. TOW VEHICLES COULD HAVE RESERVED SPOTS UP IN DIRECTION OF THE STORE.WHAT ABOUT THE NICE TABLES? DISCARD THEM.LET CAMPERS BRING THEIR OWN!! LOVES...YOU SAVE MONEY. PLUS,LESS PAPER ON THE GROUND. MOST LITTER WILL NOT HAPPEN BUT IM A SENIOR. IF A BIG WIND BLOWS A WRAPPER OR SMALL PAPER TOWEL AWAY...OH WELL. SO MAKE THESE SLOTS OPEN SO CAMPERS WONT BACK OVER OTHER CAMPERS OR PERMANENT HOOK UPS.this advice was free.

[@GrandAdventure]

Hopefully Love's is paying attention to the valuable feedback that folks are providing in these comments. Thanks for sharing yours.

[@billiesetser9333]

Great story. Now if we can get a fuel discount like Pilot/Flying gives Good Sam members.

[@GrandAdventure]

Great point Billie!

[@garynelson9538]

We've been RVing for 20yrs. Started out with our Motorcycle and a tent, to our 42' Pusher. Our best overnight spot was behind an abandon building in Tenn last year. I thought we hit-a-lick. WRONG. When we woke up the next morning, we were surrounded by Semi's. But being the professionals they were, they left me a path out from behind the building. That was cool. Now I know next time, to pull around up to to exit end of the Driveway and allow space for exit.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Gary, and thanks too for watching!

[@danm9290]

Great idea but seems like water and sewer are unneeded at every site and adds to the cost. If one needs those a central station would suffice. Even electric could be optional and billed to credit card. Just my $.02.

[@GrandAdventure]

Interesting ideas, Dan. Hope Love's is listening.

[@dougcorarito9150]

Stayed at the one in Cordele, GA for a night on our way back to FLA. We loved it. (no pun intended). I appreciate good design and these parks are a model of efficiency. Good for you Loves! I want to see more parks like this.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for sharing your experience Doug!

[@TheLakingc]

Wish they would on I90 west of Spokane! They had no potable water, no dump and charged my son with Down Syndrome nearly $10 for 3 bottles of water. I called before sending him in. I said i wanted a gallon or biggest bottles of the cheapest water they had. I was sick from the heat and dehydration. I decided to never go to Loves again. The one in Idaho would not help either. They said they had no water or dump station, either! I was so sick and needed help, but they insisted i come in to ask for assistance. There was a long line, i could see. We left. Very disappointing. Even the Rest stops had no drinking water and their hoses were cut where they did have dump stations, so no clean out. We drove 30 miles out of our way to where we could get help. It was a tough trip. Like a bad dream. Private campgrounds would only let members in. I hope things get better.

[@GrandAdventure]

Sounds like a lot of frustration LK. On the positive side, it's our understanding that they'll be deploying many more of these RV sites at many more locations.

[@sherylcrowe3255]

Thanks ✌️

[@ExtremeRVing]

Great info and all we can say is "about time"! We have stayed many a night over at Loves (and Pilots) before so that we could have a large lot to stay in, dump station, fuel, a few groceries, laundry if we needed, they're great stops. This is just the icing on the cake! Thank you! 🌺🌷

[@GrandAdventure]

We like having options, and this is another option. Thanks as always for watching!

[@jefferythayer6103]

Thanks for the valuable information 👍. I'm recently retired, and appreciate these stops, no matter what they charge. It's a brief way, to recharge, to get started, to the new, " adventure 😀day ".

[@GrandAdventure]

Right on Jeffery! Happy to hear that you found the info useful, and thanks for watching.

[@DeanJohnson67]

love it...always stop at loves on y long trips......now eventually I can opt for an overnight at one when they are available

[@GrandAdventure]

Happy to let you know, Dean. Thanks for watching!

[@robhoffman2070]

Great idea, except these are back in sites. Pull through sites would accommodate Motor Homes that are towing a car, so you would not have to disconnect. Some of the Ohio State Turnpike Plazas have such pull through sites.

[@davidroman1654]

Sometimes Pull through are not an option to build due to location of the truck stop. I think it is great that they are even doing this. Also a "pull through" is nice with a 32' bumper pull but I do know how to back my trailer wherever I need to.

[@robhoffman2070]

@@davidroman1654 I agree, it is a good idea and I concur with fact that space could be an issue for not building pull trough sites.

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your perspective Rob, and that's wonderful to hear about the Ohio Turnpike spots.

[@robhoffman2070]

Also, the Ohio State Turnpike Plaza RV sites are only electric for $20.00 a night. However, they do have a potable water fill site.

[@SharonRepici]

@@davidroman1654 we MotorHome drivers can also back up safely, but not with our roads attached. If we have to unhitch it creates the question of where do we safely park them for the night.

[@iamburl2667]

I use loves always very clean safe places

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for your feedback! And for watching, too.

[@nicholefisher7807]

Sweet!!! As a newbie to full-time I tend to get myself into some "situations" so this is comforting as an option. However thanks to you Mark and all your videos we are finding some great places on "our" Grand Adventure. Cheers😁

[@GrandAdventure]

That's fantastic to hear Nichole, thank you so much!

[@edwardduval8486]

A sweet Grand adventure your advice about easy travel plans and quick clean safe place to stay overnight where you can get some rest.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks Edward!

[@timaz1066]

Thanks for the video. I flat tow my car so I wish they were pull thru

[@GrandAdventure]

Hopefully Love's is taking notes.

[@JosieB2017]

I think it’s a good idea, but when I’m doing a “quick” overnight I don’t want to unhook my tow vehicle. Maybe Loves might think to add some pull thru sites in the future?

[@GrandAdventure]

Many folks have offered the same comment, Susan. Hopefully Love's is taking notice.

[@ceciliapetrowsky2572]

Why would you have to unhook?

[@JosieB2017]

@@ceciliapetrowsky2572 Its almost impossible to back a motorhome with a tow vehicle. The wheels will turn opposite and you will jackknife your tow car

[@ceciliapetrowsky2572]

@@JosieB2017 Ok. We have a fifth wheel so didn’t think of that. I saw a video where someone tied something around the steering wheel of the car and was able to back in.

[@GrandAdventure]

@@ceciliapetrowsky2572 those with motorhomes flat-towing a vehicle behind need to unhook that vehicle to reverse. Folks pulling fifth wheels or travel trailers of course don't have that issue.

[@cathymisze3163]

I love that they are putting these in great for overnight stop.

[@GrandAdventure]

We're fairly pleased as well, Cathy. Thanks for watching!

[@nickbaugh244]

I've been traveling a long time and I've got in some heated arguments about parking my fifth wheel in the back of truck stops.. but that's probably the same truck driver that tries to run trailers and RV's off the road... 🤔. Now when you pull in the back of a truck stop and it says RV parking that is awesome

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your perspective, Nick.

[@johnpurdum8126]

Fantastc for quick overnight to dump and refresh the rig. With various fast food inside, a night off from cooking dinner too.

[@GrandAdventure]

You pretty much summed it up, John. Thanks for watching!

[@daviscrt]

I stopped at love's a few times for overnighters. In Lodi, ca. Which is 45 min from my house. Love's has 6 RV spots. Congrats on getting the roaming feature on your starlink. Thanks Don

[@spudbono5747]

I did not know that! Do they charge?

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks Don! That roaming is the true game changer for Starlink.

[@daviscrt]

@@spudbono5747 I'm sure they do

[@kathyfann]

Thank You so much. I always leave before Dawn

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for watching Kathy! You're a much earlier riser than we are. 😄

[@marvelousmarv-marvelousper4886]

That was good information Marc. I was Marvelous of you to reach out and give some LOVE'S!

[@GrandAdventure]

The puns are rolling today! 😄 Thanks Marv!

[@NotThatBob]

This is great news. But I must admit that I personally have had no issues finding free night parking. Most often travel centers have spaces to small for 18 wheelers to park, but perfect size for my truck and Airstream. Then there's the Highway rest stops. Often they have pump-out stations for free and as of yet, I've always found parking. Lastly, I'll pay a KOA for a night's parking. With hookups I can shower all I want and flush my tanks. I became a member because these places are just so practical. Only once I couldn't find one with a spot, close to where I wanted to stop. Fun and safe travels RV friends. Pray for a fuel price drop soon.

[@GrandAdventure]

Hear, hear on the fuel prices Ron! This option adds electric for a/c on those nights when you'd need it, as opposed to just free overnight parking. If you need to dump anyway, that helps to offset part of the cost of the spot. And in many states there are shorter limits at rest areas that don't permit a full overnight. Safe travels to you as well! Thanks for watching.

[@NotThatBob]

@@GrandAdventure So true about power. Anyhow thanks for reporting on the positive.

[@leighmcqueeney9848]

We had a very small accident on the way to Phoenix and spending 2 hours sorting it out made us too late to make it. We were very grateful to Loves for being able to stay overnight. Filled up the RV, of course. Keep up the good work Marc. The two Tasmanians off grid at Sedona.

[@GrandAdventure]

Oh no! Glad to hear that it was "very small." Safe travels, and enjoy Sedona! It's such a beautiful area.

[@moretoliving2236]

I have nothing but positive things to say about Love's. I have stayed en route to Utah and on way back from Colorado in 2021. I am glad they are doing it.

[@GrandAdventure]

Hey MTL! Along that route, the Love's in Green River, UT is one of the first 12 locations to add these spots.

[@moretoliving2236]

@@GrandAdventure i hope to make it there again. So far my ambitious plan is falling through but i am getting all ducks in a row before that.

[@GrandAdventure]

@@moretoliving2236 here wishing you both successful planning and execution.

[@stevertherver3887]

Thanks for the info, Marc! Another trick in our bag for finding a quick, convenient stop for a one nighter.

[@GrandAdventure]

You bet Steve! Thanks so much for watching.

[@michaelshaffer1624]

I'd be happier if they would add designated RV fuel lanes. If you are driving a gasser (vs a DP) it can be a real challenge to find a fuel island that allows for an easy exit after fueling. I've always loved the Flying J RV fuel islands.

[@GrandAdventure]

That's why we always patronize Maverik while traveling in the Intermountain West. All of their newer or redesigned stations have RV fuel lanes with both gas and diesel, super long-handled windshield squeegees, and free dump stations with potable water.

[@SharonRepici]

You might consider applying for a TSD card where you can fuel up on the big truck side with a discount. I know you can’t use it at Flying J, but haven’t seen Loves in discussions one way or another. Bonus, fuel flows MUCH faster on that side.

[@foodpornchef6484]

Bucees we waiting ✋️ ✋️ ✋️ for ur site

[@GrandAdventure]

Mrs. GA said the same thing. Given the love for Buc-ee's in the RV community that seems like a no-brainer.

[@laurachutchison9604]

Genius! Makes me wonder why they didn't do this sooner.

[@GrandAdventure]

And perhaps others will take notice and follow suit.

[@garymccarver5006]

That's a crazy high price for just a short overnight to get some sleep. If you need to dump tanks and refill fresh water I kinda get it. I'm very self sufficient and can go days without needing either. But I would happily pay $20.00 for a place to stop for the night with no hookups. I wish someone offered that.

[@GrandAdventure]

Here's hoping that Love's is taking note of all of the valuable feedback being provided here by commenters like yourself, Gary. That said, if you DO need to fill/dump, and you back out that cost, the remaining price for hookups really isn't that bad.

[@laughingram7287]

Like you said….”in a pinch”. However, I don’t mind the diesels running. I worked on ocean tugs and ships for 29 years. It’s when they stop running - that’s when I would wake up! I am thankful for Loves, Pilot and Flying J. They are sure handy. We like to stop at the Flying J in Barstow to either fill up with water when we are heading out of California or dumping our sewage when we are coming back into California. Ram 👍🏼👍🏽

[@GrandAdventure]

Any port in a storm, right Ram? And yeah, I'd imagine that the sudden silence when the diesel quits would shock you straight up in bed.

[@amydecker6207]

Love's is so traveler friendly. We van camp, and the plan for future trips is to overnight in their parking lots when we need a simple sleep/shower stop. We will gladly spend our money there.

[@GrandAdventure]

Appreciate your feedback Amy, thanks for watching!

[@michaeltablet8577]

This is great news! I'm sure other travel centers will follow. Thanks for the videos! Always helpful!

[@GrandAdventure]

Our pleasure Michael, thanks as always for watching!

[@GrandAdventure]

@@jerrydixon for those who want or need it, it is. You may not share the opinion of others; that's why they're called opinions and not facts.

[@michaeltablet8577]

@@jerrydixon once all the travel centers start competing it will come down.

[@ScottDLR]

Could be very handy! Thx for the vid.

[@GrandAdventure]

You're most welcome Scott, thanks for watching!

[@paulshannon4576]

I didn’t like Love’s when I was a semi driver because most of the time they had very small lots and were crowded and they would park at the pumps. Keyword “away from truck parking” I’ve warned friends NOT to park with the semi’s, I’ve been sideswiped, backed into in the semi. Fiberglass doesn’t hold up well.

[@GrandAdventure]

As a claims adjuster for a company that insures truckers, I can vouch for that, Paul.

[@carlvangorkom8788]

Would be great to see pull thru sites. Motorhomes pulling tow can not back up without unhooking.

[@GrandAdventure]

Here's hoping that Love's is taking note of all of the valuable feedback being provided here by commenters like yourself, Carl.

[@josephhawke2257]

another great vidieo, thankyou..

[@GrandAdventure]

Thank you Joseph!

[@jimmymcclosky3786]

We have stayed at Love’s many, many times beforehand while traveling. Thank You for the this great information.

[@GrandAdventure]

Our pleasure, Jimmy. Thanks for watching!

[@hfd413]

Just another informative video from professional videographer Marc Guido. Nice to see a large chain trying to address a missing link in RV travel. I'm suprised Buc-ee's hasn't thought of this.

[@GrandAdventure]

Thank you CO! Perhaps this will inspire others like Buc-ee's to follow suit.

[@been2all505]

Good to know!

[@GrandAdventure]

And thanks for watching!

[@GimpyCamper]

I do like this, but I'm unlikely to use it at that price point. I'm sure there are plenty of people that will and like you said, it is a good tool for the toolbox. I like that it is able to be reserved. Also we would need to keep in mind the dump station fee at a lot of these places is $10-15 so if you need to dump, you may be more inclined to think about it. As you said, the list is smaller and smaller. I've only had one stop where I couldn't find an approved overnight stop and had to stay in a Walmart in Wyoming that was marked as not allowed, and fully expected the knock, but it never came. I had read on RV parky that multiple people never have had issues beforehand. Although, on my previous trip to Charleston, SC my free overnight at Cabelas ended up costing over $100 by the time I went in the store and got some goodies. lol

[@GrandAdventure]

Great to hear your perspective, Barratt. You probably slept through that knock. 😄 Great point about backing out the value of the dump fee, too. $40 would sound much better to me on a hot night when I'd appreciate a/c. But as we've seen they seem to be using dynamic pricing -- since we learned about this we've watched the prices go down and again back up.

[@cyclonejunior]

I love Love's. Their stores are the best and I make an effort to plan my routes along Love's stores. So glad to see this happen

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks for both sharing your perspective and for watching, Brian!

[@RCPSU4]

Makes me hopeful that Love's competition (TA, Sapp Bros., etc.) start adding spaces like these at some of their locations.

[@GrandAdventure]

Agree completely.

[@robertfarnam4597]

Nice to see a backup plan in the event you’re not making the progress you’d like

[@GrandAdventure]

Exactly Robert, these spots serve that purpose.

[@suzannesmith6794]

We have a Loves here in Normal Bloomington Illinois Has many RV sites.

[@tomweyerts162]

Thanks for the information on loves I will certainly keep track of that thanks for all you do

[@GrandAdventure]

You're most welcome Tom, thanks for watching!

[@scenicdriveways6708]

Great video Marc. JT

[@GrandAdventure]

Thank you as always JT!

[@SevenBears1]

Hey good buddy.. Getting out on the road now so I'll catch this episode later.. Thanks GA

[@GrandAdventure]

Safe travels J!

[@melodyassaro]

I’m late sorry. Had to go see sunset and boy was it beautiful

[@GrandAdventure]

Saw your pics, it sure was!

[@melodyassaro]

@@GrandAdventure thank you

[@Neonmars31]

Thanks for the post

[@GrandAdventure]

You are welcome Claudio, thanks for watching!

[@allanpolk2681]

The lack of parking spaces has long been a problem for truckers. It is very frustrating for a commercial driver to pull into a rest area only to find a car or pickup parked in a space reserved for RVs or tractor trailers. People fail to realize that the commercial drivers are regulated by electronic logs, and violations of those logs carry stiff penalties. Also, those commercial drivers are REQUIRED BY LAW, to take 10 hr. breaks to reset their electronic log before resuming their trip. For a passenger vehicle to be parked in a space meant for a commercial truck is often placing a driver that needs rest, in a dangerous and often illegal situation because it is parked in a truck space, when there are plenty of spaces for four wheeled vehicles that are unoccupied. I have encountered this problem on many occasions in my 24 years of driving OTR, and have had to continue driving when I desperately need to be parked to get rest. So I also am glad to see spaces being provided for RVs. But considering that RV drivers are NOT regulated by stringent DOT laws, it is obvious that commercial vehicles should take precedence over a vehicle that is ON VACATION. Just sayin . . .

[@GrandAdventure]

We most certainly understand your perspective Allan. If everyone would be more conscious and understanding of everyone else's needs, things would go much more smoothly.

[@allanpolk2681]

@@GrandAdventure So true, in a perfect world. God bless. 🙏🏼

[@SharonRepici]

Not all RVers are on vacation and a tired RVer is a huge danger on the highway. If a rest stop is marked for us we feel no guilt utilizing a spot. I do agree with you about smaller cars parking in the 60’ lanes, what were they thinking?

[@allanpolk2681]

@@SharonRepici Sharon, I agree. ANY tired driver on the road is a danger, regardless of what they are driving; big truck, RV, SUV, car, what ever. It is axiomatic however that that 18 wheeler is going to do a lot more in a crash from a driver that’s not alert, than any of the previously mentioned vehicles, the exception being the RV, which some can weigh upwards of 30,000lbs. Nothing to play with in it’s own right; but compared to a big truck which can weigh 80,000lbs or more it’s still comparatively light. All deadly in a crash. Yikes.

[@joemeyer2726]

Only use truck spots with generator pay reserve parking fee with reward points, reward points for showers groceries as well

[@chainsawcabinetshop492]

About 20 years ago, I had a chat with a Loves manager in a remote Texas area (ranch country). They had just purchased one acre of ground and paved it to provide 42 more truck parking spots. At that time it had cost over ONE MILLION Dollars just to develop those 42 spots, just think what it is costing to develop full service RV spots today. At $42.50 it will take along time to ever recoup the initial cost let alone the upkeep.

[@GrandAdventure]

No doubt. Just look at the costs to develop an RV park today. The barriers to entry are substantial.

[@arthurbrumagem3844]

Most people don’t want to hear that places like Loves spend so much money so people can “ park “ for free. Insane ,isn’t it

[@TheSunfire96]

WOW!!! You were right Marc that is a bit high!!! If you need a place it's an option!!

[@GrandAdventure]

Especially on a hot, steamy night. ;)

[@randygerdes]

Fantastic! Thanks, Marc. And thanks, Dale!!

[@GrandAdventure]

Thank YOU Randy!

[@eadamson64]

They had me at dog park 😍

[@rockytherock8705]

Iam a truck driver and I've come to realize that loves is NOT the best truck stop so I tend to bypass them when possible, but like you said IN A PINCH it's still a place to park and somewhat safe to lay my head down and get some rest after a long day out on the road. Thanks for you video and opinion and advice, be safe out there. NEW SUBSCRIBER. ~Rocky~

[@GrandAdventure]

Thrilled to have you along, Rocky! We appreciate what you and your fellow truckers do. And this is just one more arrow in the quiver.

[@HerSoulVacation]

Guido, you are a great host! I know how hard it is to make these videos, especially from the road, but you don’t miss a beat (is that how you say it? 🤷🏽‍♀️) Thank you for the informative video! It’s good to know that there is that option even if it’s for 1 night to get services (dump, water, etc), charged all gadgets and keep going the next day. Safe travels!

[@GrandAdventure]

Thanks Claudia! That really means a lot, I appreciate it.