Let me tell you about a little spot I’ve got bookmarked in my GPS for whenever I’m navigating the beautiful but often congested stretch of Florida’s Suncoast. If you’ve ever tried to find a quick, easy dump station around the Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg area, you know the drill. You’re usually stuck choosing between a packed travel plaza right off the interstate, where you’re dodging eighteen wheelers and impatient vacationers, or a state park that requires a bit of a detour. But tucked away in Pinellas Park is an option that splits the difference perfectly: Florida Covered Storage. Now, I know what you’re thinking, a self storage facility? But stick with me here. This isn’t your typical chaotic stop. It’s a low key, wide open place that offers a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively, when you just need to get your rig’s necessary business done and get back to enjoying the sunshine.
It’s located right on 66th Street North, a main artery in the area, so it’s not some hidden backroad adventure to get there. The beauty of this place is its primary function. Because it’s a storage facility, it’s designed for big vehicles, trailers, and boats. That means wide lanes, generous turning radii, and none of the tight squeezes you find at a gas station that decided to add a dump station as an afterthought. You trade the bright lights and hustle for a more relaxed, controlled environment. It’s a place to dump, charge up your house batteries, and roll out without the stress. It’s a haven for those of us who would rather spend our afternoon with our toes in the sand on Madeira Beach than circling a fuel island for the third time. One very important thing to know, though, is that this isn't a 24/7 operation. Since it’s a private business, their hours and even the price for transient RVers like us aren’t plastered all over the internet. A quick phone call before you head over is absolutely essential. But if you plan ahead, you’ll find this spot is a genuine gem in the urban landscape of Pinellas County.
The location itself is surprisingly strategic for a day of chores and exploration. Pinellas Park is more than just a suburb; it’s got its own unique character. If you’re a gearhead like me, or just appreciate classic engineering, you have to make a little detour to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum. It’s not your typical muscle car collection. This place is full of incredibly rare, innovative front wheel drive cars from brands you’ve probably never heard of, like Tatra and Voisin. It’s a fascinating look at automotive history. After you’ve serviced the rig, maybe the dog needs a good run. A few minutes away is Freedom Lake Park, a fantastic local spot with plenty of shade, a couple of pretty ponds, and a really nice, fenced off leash area where your four legged co pilot can burn off some pent up energy.
For a true taste of wild Florida, you can’t beat Sawgrass Lake Park. It’s a massive 400 acre park with an incredible boardwalk that winds you right through a classic cypress swamp. I’ve spent hours there just watching the wildlife. You’re almost guaranteed to see roseate spoonbills, alligators sunning themselves on the banks, and a whole host of wading birds. It’s a fantastic place to stretch your legs and reset your mind after being on the road. And from this central spot in Pinellas Park, you’re just a stone’s throw from everything else. A twenty minute drive west and you’re watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. A twenty minute drive east and you can dive into the world class Florida Aquarium or the museums in downtown Tampa. This dump station isn’t just a utility stop; it’s a launchpad for the whole Tampa Bay region.
Using a dump station at a self storage facility is a different experience. It’s slower, quieter, and more methodical. You’ll likely pull up to a big security gate and have to punch in a code or buzz the office. It’s a good idea to have checked in with the staff on the phone beforehand so they know you’re coming. Once inside, you’ll feel the difference. The lanes are built for moving vans and large RVs, so there’s no anxiety about clipping a mirror or taking a turn too tightly. You won’t be fighting for position with a trucker trying to get to the diesel pumps. At Florida Covered Storage, the dump station itself is on a clean, concrete pad. And here’s a huge bonus: they have potable water and 30 amp electrical pedestals right there. This is a game changer if you’ve been boondocking for a few days and your house batteries are crying for mercy. You can plug in and give them a good, solid charge while you’re emptying the black and grey tanks. It’s a small thing that makes a huge difference. Just remember to build a little cushion into your travel day. These places typically lock the gates in the early evening, so it’s not a late night option.
Let’s talk about the amenities in RVer terms. The available water is great for rinsing your tanks and the pad, but always, always use a dedicated “dirty” hose for anything related to the black tank. Keep your fresh water gear completely separate to avoid any chance of contamination. The electric hookups are a lifesaver. A quick half hour charge can bring your system back from the brink. The "No Pets Allowed" policy specifically at the station means you’ll need to keep your dog inside the rig or plan that walk at Freedom Lake Park for right after you’re done. The biggest thing to plan for is what’s not there. No gas, no propane, no showers, no laundry, and crucially, no trash disposal. You’ll need to fill up the tank and the propane elsewhere, and you must be prepared to pack out your own trash. For full timers, that’s second nature, but it’s an important reminder.
The cost is a bit of a mystery until you call, but you can make an educated guess. In this part of Florida, a dump fee at a private facility usually runs between $10 and $20. Have some cash on hand just in case, but be sure to ask what payment methods they take when you call. Even if it’s at the top end of that range, think about the value. For twenty bucks, you get a stress free environment to maneuver your rig, you can fill your fresh water tank, and you can give your batteries a much needed boost. For anyone towing a large fifth wheel or driving a big Class A, the peace of mind that comes with all that space is worth every penny.
A few tips for a smooth visit: That phone call is your first and most important step. Confirm the hours, the cost, and the procedure for getting in. Secondly, have your dump kit ready to go before you even pull up to the gate. I keep a dedicated bin with my sewer hose, elbow adapter, disposable gloves, and a gallon jug of rinse water. It saves so much time and fumbling around. Finally, be a good steward of the space. Clean up after yourself, rinse down any spills on the pad, and move out promptly once you’re done so the next person can get in. It’s just good road etiquette. This is a fantastic, slightly unconventional stop. It combines the convenience of an urban location with the quiet and space of a private facility. As long as you call ahead and are prepared to pack out your trash, it’s a top tier choice for servicing your rig in the heart of the Suncoast.
10666 66th St N, Pinellas Park, FL 33782
(727) 376-7867
Cost: Price not available
Category: Self-storage facility
Has Water
floridacoveredstorage.com