Journey with Confidence RV GPS App RV Trip Planner RV LIFE Campground Reviews RV Maintenance Take a Speed Test Free 7 Day Trial ×
 

Go Back   Thor Forums > Thor Community Forums > Travel | Camping Spots | Roads and Routes
Click Here to Login
Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
 
Old 10-01-2018, 11:25 PM   #1
Senior Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Hurricane 29M
State: Texas
Posts: 2,672
THOR #11781
Pilot/Flying J

Anybody use them for fuel, dumping tanks or overnighting?

__________________
Lt Keefer
2018 Hurricane 29M
CHF, Saf-T-Plus, SumoSprings
Lt Keefer is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-01-2018, 11:53 PM   #2
Senior Member
 
Miramar Owner's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Miramar 34.4
State: Iowa
Posts: 794
THOR #4488
I have never used them for dumping but I often fueled there and have spent the night as well. They are like most other high volume stations...some are easy to get into and others are not. Best bet is to check out on Google Maps for aerial view. As far as spending the night, that too varies. Some have trailer/camper spots and others have just the truckers area, which can be rather noisy unless you are running your AC.

I have a Good Sam membership and enjoy the discount on gas so I'll usually check them out first. Honestly, just for a quick overnight, I prefer Walmart...quieter.
__________________
Miramar Owner is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-02-2018, 12:08 AM   #3
Senior Member
 
Mr Sunshine's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2023 Jayco Precept 31UL
State: Florida
Posts: 2,914
THOR #1589
We generally like them, especially for the 5c/gal discount with the Good Sam card. The gas price before discount is usually the lowest in the area. Both FJ and Pilot stations are often jammed because of that fact.

We especially like the Flying Js with an RV island. Sometimes, rather than wait for a pump we can easily get in and out, we'll go across the road to a station that has a higher price and no customers. We picked up a free guide that tells which ones accept the discount card, which ones have an RV island, etc.

We leave the overnight parking to the trucks. If we need an overnight place, we'll find somewhere else without the refer noise and the trucks coming and going.

We have used their dump station, and they are usually easy to get to. They do charge for using the dump station.
__________________
Life is better when you cry a little, laugh a lot, and are thankful for everything you've got!
Mr Sunshine is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-02-2018, 12:18 AM   #4
Site Team
 
revjeffrey's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 24.1 Windjammer
State: Illinois
Posts: 1,179
THOR #7074
All three. One time when I was fueling up I walked inside to buy a coffee and while ringing out, I asked the cashier girl what their policy was on motor homes parking like the Semis do? She said they welcomed it, but I should park on the side because the Semis could be loud. When I built my house I added a dump station. I usually dump at home that way I rinse out a few times with hot & cold water.
__________________
Rev. Jeffrey 2017 Thor Axis 24.1 E450 Windjammer.
Silver Safe-T-Plus Steering Control
SSF-106-40 SumoSprings Solo Front Bump Stop SSR-107-47 SumoSprings Rear Bump Stop
Hellwig 7718 Front Sway Bar & 7180 Rear Sway Bar
Koni FSD Front Shocks 8805-1042 / Koni FSD Rear Shocks 8805-1043
revjeffrey is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-02-2018, 01:44 AM   #5
gmc
Senior Member
 
gmc's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Hurricane 32A
State: Florida
Posts: 1,873
THOR #2829
I've used them for all three...
Mostly fuel - but some can be tight especially if towing (needing gas island vs diesel).
Only dumped there once - after 'boondocking' in a relatives driveway and they were the closest location I found to empty tanks. Typically handled at the CG before heading home. Small charge, but no problem.
Only stayed overnight once too... Had a small side section for RV's. But like Miramar Owner - for an overnight I would opt for Walmart instead. I do have a 12v fan in bedroom that helps with white noise to drown out neighboring trucks.
__________________
Greg
Not yet retired...
Florida (Michigan transplant)
2014 Hurricane 32A
2000 Infinity (previous)
gmc is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-02-2018, 02:29 AM   #6
Senior Member
 
mountainsam's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Gemini 23TR
State: California
Posts: 981
THOR #6701
We purchase fuel at FJ and Pilot often when travelling. Occasionally we will spend the night if I can find a hidden corner somewhere. I consider them better than most and the discount adds up. Coffee is pretty good also.
__________________
2017 Gemini 23TR Ford chassis w/ power stroke 3.2
DW, Daughter and 2 dogs, Sofie (black lab/boxer) and Phoebe (schnoodle)
mountainsam is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-03-2018, 07:58 PM   #7
Senior Member
 
azadv's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Outlaw 29H
State: Arizona
Posts: 108
THOR #10400
I've stayed overnight but not too often due to truck noise/activity. Perfer Walmart like others have mentioned. I've found that most Walmarts are OK to stay at overnight unless there are city codes against it. My choice for overnights is Cabelas, I've always had good luck at every single one even if there are city laws that are supposed to prevent it. Good example was in Anchorage, the Walmarts and Fred Meyers there didn't allow overnight stays but even though there were signs put up a tow company at every place in town, including Cabelas, there were probably 10-15 RV's there overnight. Every one I've stayed at had a dump station too, coin operated I think $5 or so, and they have designated RV parking areas. SUPER RV friendly. Many casinos also allow overnight and since they are on Indian land usually they aren't necessarily subject to city laws. Also check http://freecampsites.net for real folks input on places, it's helped me out several times in tought spots.
azadv is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2018, 02:20 AM   #8
Member
 
Bucket List Inn's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: ACE 30.4
State: Michigan
Posts: 95
THOR #13168
We’ve done all 3. Although we just got a new motorhome when we were hauling a 37 foot 5th wheel and well over 55’ with the truck I would seek out Pilot/FlyingJ. I’d get fuel back with the Semi’s unless they had RV islands. If I’m “parking” for the night I usually will not stay in the back with the trucks. I’ll find a spot out front. Some have specific RV parking spots.
Others have mentioned places to park for the night. I’d like to add Cracker Barrel restaurants and I understand Lowe’s and Home Depot allow RV at night.
__________________
Bucket List Inn is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2018, 11:34 AM   #9
Junior Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Thor Axis 24.1
State: Florida
Posts: 10
THOR #13049
Flying Js

I've done all 3 at various Flying Js, and have even used their showers on a journey from Florida to Ohio last spring. The showers are great!! I researched the ones that have RV spaces so I wouldn't have trouble parking my RV, and overnighted exclusively at the Flying Js on that trip.

As an "older" (ahem) single female travelling solo, I've always felt safe overnighting there in my RV. And breakfast at the attached 'Dennys' before I hit the road is another plus!!

Leaving for Florida in about 2 weeks, and will do the Flying Js again on that trip.
__________________
Motoko is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-07-2018, 03:02 AM   #10
Junior Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
State: Illinois
Posts: 20
THOR #857
Quote:
Originally Posted by Lt Keefer View Post
Anybody use them for fuel, dumping tanks or overnighting?

Use them almost exclusively for fuel. Being a 38' gasser towing a Jeep I prefer the RV Islands, found at most Flying J and some Pilots, for easy maneuvering in and out. 3 to 5 cent discount with Good Sams Card brings price down and I've found it is in line with other stations in the area. We always plan fuel stops ahead of time and check Google earth for access. Have dumped a couple of times, also conveniently located at RV Islands. You didn't mention, but propane fill is also a plus. We have not stayed overnight but wouldn't be opposed to doing so. In my opinion, Flying J/Pilot get an A for being RV friendly.
__________________
trek5 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-13-2018, 07:16 PM   #11
Junior Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
State: Nevada
Posts: 24
THOR #10325
We use them both when traveling and they used to let you use the dump if you buy fuel otherwise they charge $3 to $5, if you are going to use the dump station ask if they will charge you to weigh your Rig its usually free when buying fuel as well. Since we rarely dry camp it isn't needed often. And yes the stations are usually packed due to the gas usually being the lowest around.
__________________
alarmingfriend is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-13-2018, 09:40 PM   #12
Junior Member
 
Tiflog18's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas 24.1
State: South Dakota
Posts: 27
THOR #11771
A GREAT app freeRVparking shows all free parking. Mile posts, rest areas, Walmart, Cabelas, Bass pro, Flying J, Etc. Best app Ever!
__________________
Tiflog18 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-13-2018, 10:37 PM   #13
Junior Member
 
Karilyn's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 31S
State: Virginia
Posts: 15
THOR #7613
Quote:
Originally Posted by Lt Keefer View Post
Anybody use them for fuel, dumping tanks or overnighting?
We look for them every trip we take. We have never dumped there however with their RV discount card, RV fueling lanes and adequate parking areas, it is our go-to place to stop, especially the Flying J's. We have even considered staying overnight as opposed to looking for a Walmart to stay in. They often have showers and laundry facilities too, if you needed these.
__________________
Karilyn is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-13-2018, 11:23 PM   #14
Senior Member
 
simidrm's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Tuscany 40ex
State: Ohio
Posts: 443
THOR #12726
I see a lot of post where people use flying J/pilot's fuel but I personally would not use there diesel unless it was a only option because I work on semi's for a living and during cold weather almost every fuel issue breakdown I go to the customer had been fueling in these and fuel filters were completely jelled up so I am not sure if its because of undertreated fuel or they buy the b20 (20%biofuel) which causes the problem but I like marathon stations as they don't use biofuels in there diesel.
Found that out from talking to the fuel delivery guy who fills the tanks at stations.
__________________
simidrm is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 01:31 AM   #15
Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: ACE 29.4
State: Pennsylvania
Posts: 59
THOR #6457
Quote:
Originally Posted by Lt Keefer View Post
Anybody use them for fuel, dumping tanks or overnighting?
We rate them overall as excellent. A good source of discount at the fuel pumps with our Good Sam discount, The stations with dedicated RV fuel islands are outstanding. As far as overnight parking, it is the same as any Walmart, etc. Remember, it is a busy place at certain times of the day. They really do have products and services available that you may need.
__________________
AndyT1183 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 10:41 AM   #16
Member
 
Brand: Still Looking
State: North Carolina
Posts: 56
THOR #5767
never use Pilot ot J

I do not use them at all. Fuel is cheaper anywhere even with that discount. Why not spend 30-40 dollars and sleep in a real spot.
__________________
Howard1257 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 11:39 AM   #17
Junior Member
 
tbl5142's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: RW28
State: Florida
Posts: 24
THOR #12200
We use Flying J/Pilot on almost all of our trips. Download the MyPilot app, it allows you to search for the stations with ony RV Fuel Lanes, Bulk Propane, RV Dump Stations, etc... this allows you to by pass those Flying J/Pilot's that are too tight for the larger RV's. Whenever we do spend the night, we do not park in the back with the truckers, it's more of a courtesy thing, as we are retired we're not usually in a rush as the truckers are working, trying to make money, we like to try to stay out of their way, but if the Flying J/Pilot has RV parking, we may use it. Walmarts are usually quieter, and many of them have Murphy Gas close by.
__________________
tbl5142 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 04:58 PM   #18
Member
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas 24.1
State: Wisconsin
Posts: 59
THOR #10872
Just an FYI on Cabela's: sign up for their free membership and the dump is free, or make a purchase and the dump is free. They usually have water too!
Quote:
Originally Posted by azadv View Post
I've stayed overnight but not too often due to truck noise/activity. Perfer Walmart like others have mentioned. I've found that most Walmarts are OK to stay at overnight unless there are city codes against it. My choice for overnights is Cabelas, I've always had good luck at every single one even if there are city laws that are supposed to prevent it. Good example was in Anchorage, the Walmarts and Fred Meyers there didn't allow overnight stays but even though there were signs put up a tow company at every place in town, including Cabelas, there were probably 10-15 RV's there overnight. Every one I've stayed at had a dump station too, coin operated I think $5 or so, and they have designated RV parking areas. SUPER RV friendly. Many casinos also allow overnight and since they are on Indian land usually they aren't necessarily subject to city laws. Also check http://freecampsites.net for real folks input on places, it's helped me out several times in tought spots.
__________________
Off Our Rocker RV
Living and Loving Our Crazy RV Life

www.offourrockerrv.com
Off Our Rocker RV is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 06:45 PM   #19
Site Team
 
16ACE27's Avatar
 
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: ACE 27.1
State: Florida
Posts: 14,129
THOR #7035
Quote:
Originally Posted by Howard1257 View Post
I do not use them at all. Fuel is cheaper anywhere even with that discount. Why not spend 30-40 dollars and sleep in a real spot.
Substitute "Diesel" for "fuel" and your statement may be correct. Their gas is as cheap as most if not cheaper.
__________________
Ted & Melinda
2016 ACE 27.1
2016 Chevy Sonic Toad - Selling
2020 Chevy Colorado Z71 Trail Runner Toad
2024 Chevrolet Trax 2RS - Soon 2B TOAD
16ACE27 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-14-2018, 07:02 PM   #20
Senior Member
 
Brand: DRV
State: Texas
Posts: 311
THOR #9543
I don’t know where you guys are shopping and won’t dispute anyone’s word, but I have NEVER found any truck stop, Pilot, Flying J, Love’s, etc., to be cheap. I have Sam’s, Good Sam’s and other discounts but it’s been my experience, east coast to west, that they are 30 to 50 cents higher than other places. Yes, it’s often times more convenient due to space, but 35 gallons at .50 more is $17.50 on just one fill up. I use Gas Buddy to find my fuel.
__________________
2017 36RSSB3--2012 F350 KR, LWB, SRW, bilsteins, 1 1/4" anti sway bar, bilstein steering stabilizer, airlift air bags, on board wireless compressor, 295/20 tires at 4080 pounds each, oversized finned aluminum diff and trannie pans, all synthetic fluids; KEM, Tyrant, and PIP tunes with SCT X4 programming, G37 2017 Turbo, ATS Stage I towing transmission and torque convertor, Edge CTS gauge monitoring.
clev is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are Off


» Featured Campgrounds

Reviews provided by

Disclaimer:

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by Thor Industries or any of its affiliates. This is an independent, unofficial site.




All times are GMT. The time now is 06:34 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.8
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Content Relevant URLs by vBSEO 3.6.0 PL2