I recently wrote a post about whether staying overnight in a rest stop is legal. Typically speaking, you may stay overnight in a self-contained camping vehicle like an RV. It is only illegal to pitch a tent, put up a different camping structure, or cook outdoors. If you simply sleep in your RV, then you are okay to stay overnight.

Rest areas also typically have rules about the number of hours you can stay parked at the site. Those change from state to state.

That post illustrated one important way that rest areas are useful for RVers. It got me thinking about other ways that rest stops benefit RVers, which led me to write this article.

So, here is a guide on how to find rest stops with RV dumps plus some helpful tips and information about dumping.

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Why Use a Dump Station?

Rest stops with RV dumps.

A dump station is a location where raw, untreated sewage can be sent into the sanitary sewer system. Most people that utilize dumps stations are owners of RVs or other motor crafts like boats equipped with toilet facilities.

Using a dump station to dump raw waste is the safest and most responsible way to dispose of raw human waste.

Dumping waste tanks in the wild is illegal, and violators can receive a ticket for doing so. You certainly don't want a run-in with poop cops!

Where Can I Find a Dump Station?

Generally speaking, dump stations can be found anywhere there is a demand for one. Places frequented by travelers, like RV parks, gas stations, and truck stops, is the most common place to look. Of course, many public campgrounds and private campgrounds have dump station facilities.

Typically, dump stations can be found at:

RV Park

National Park

State Park

Campground

Rest Stop

Marina

Travel Center

Gas Station

Truck Stop

Of course, when you're settled in a campground or a place frequented by RVers, it's easy to find a dump station. But what about when you're out on the open road? If you are on the Interstate your best shot is to find rest stops with RV dumps.

As you likely know, a rest stop is a public pull-off on the side of the road. They have restrooms, picnic areas, trash cans, pet relief areas, and maps for traveling motorists. Some even have welcome centers attached to the site.

Some states call rest stops by different names, such as Interstate Rest Areas.

Many rest stops have RV dump sites, for free or a nominal fee.

How Do I Find Rest Stops with RV Dumps Near Me?

Not all rest stops have RV dumps so you need to plan ahead as much as possible. You don't want to end up on a wild goose chase with a full blackwater tank.

Luckily, finding rest stops with RV dumps is easier than it's ever been thanks to helpful apps and websites. Here are a few great resources that will help you locate nearby and even free RV dump stations:

RVDumpsites.net

This site is specifically for RV dump stations in the U.S. I think it's easiest to use because you can search by state, city or map. The results are shown on a map view, so you can see where the stations are relative to your specific location or where you're headed.

SaniDumps.com

SaniDumps is probably the most comprehensive site of dump stations online. It lists dumpsites all over the world, not just the United States. They list private, public, RV park, non-park, municipal, truck stop, campground, camping, resort, commercial, and, of course, rest stops with RV dumps. They also show pay, donation, and free dump station options.