When you’re an RVer, loyalty has its rewards. For those of us who are fans of the Pilot Flying J network and its myRewards program, there’s a third fantastic option right on the main drag in Oak Grove. The Pilot Travel Center #439, located at 12900 Fort Campbell Boulevard, effectively rounds out what you could call the “Oak Grove trifecta” of truck-stop dump stations. It provides another reliable, 24/7 solution for your tank-dumping needs. While the price isn’t listed publicly on their website, you can expect it to be right in line with its sister chain, Flying J, at around the $10 mark. Just like the other stops, it features well-designed pull-through RV lanes, which minimizes the stress of backing up or unhooking your tow vehicle, making it a particularly convenient choice when the other nearby travel centers might be a bit crowded.
The location serves as another excellent hub-and-spoke base for exploring the region. If you find yourself staying in the Oak Grove area for a few days, this Pilot’s location is convenient to the Valor Hall events center and the nice riverfront restaurants in nearby Clarksville, Tennessee, offering a bit more variety for your downtime. You could use the dump station here to get your tanks squared away, then head about 45 minutes east to spend a day at the beautiful Lake Barkley State Resort Park, which is a fantastic spot for hiking and, during the right season, spotting bald eagles. And if one of those classic Kentucky thunderstorms rolls through, the unique Duck Donuts and charming boutiques in downtown Hopkinsville provide a great rainy-day escape.
The on-the-ground experience at a Pilot will feel very familiar to anyone who frequents Flying J, as their layouts are nearly identical. The dump island is clearly marked and easy to access, you’ll find a non-potable rinse-water spigot right next to the drain, and you can handle the payment either inside at the counter or through the myRewards Plus app on your phone. However, this particular Pilot boasts a feature that sets it apart and can be a real game-changer for some RVers: a few 30-amp electric pedestals located near the back of the lot. This is a rare and valuable find at a truck stop. If you’re planning to park overnight, being able to plug in can be a huge bonus. As for traffic patterns, you’ll want to avoid Sunday evenings. That’s when the weekend vacationers are all heading back towards Nashville, and the service bays can get pretty backed up. Your best bet is to schedule your stop for mid-week if you can.
The amenity package here is solid. You’ll have access to non-potable water for rinsing, and there are separate spigots for potable water if you need to fill your fresh tank. The showers and laundry facilities are clean, and if you’re part of their loyalty program, you can earn credits toward free showers, which is always a nice perk. The gas and diesel pumps are set up with wide-swing lanes, making it easy for even the longest trailers to maneuver. There are also plenty of industrial-grade trash bins near the exits for easy disposal of your waste. For pet owners, there’s a grassy strip near the billboard that works for a quick walk.
The standout amenity, of course, is the limited number of 30-amp electric hookups. These are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s a good idea to have your power cable handy. Being able to plug in overnight to run your refrigerator and a few other essentials without having to listen to your generator hum is a luxury. Just be aware that this Pilot does not have a propane refill station, so you’ll need to head to the Flying J down the road if your tanks are low. There is also no on-site repair bay, so the Speedco at the Love’s is your best bet for any mechanical issues. If any particular amenity is critical for your stop, especially those electric pedestals, it is absolutely essential that you call the store ahead of time to confirm their availability before you pull off the highway.
While the price isn’t posted, you can assume it will be competitive with the other stops in town. The real value at this Pilot comes from the hidden perks. The frequent-fueler program often issues credits for free showers or drinks, which adds up over time. And if your rig could really use a 30-amp plug to keep things cool overnight, the ability to score one of the limited pedestals could easily justify choosing this Pilot, even if the dump fee were a dollar or two higher than the competition. For a smooth visit, check the myRewards app, as they sometimes feature discounted dump fees on Tuesdays. Here’s a great insider tip: when you pull up to the dump station, try to park with your nose facing out. The lanes here have a very slight slope towards the sewer drain, which helps gravity do its job more effectively. And finally, be sure to avoid that Sunday afternoon rush. This Pilot provides another fantastic, well-lit, and app-integrated solution along I-24, with the incredible bonus of potential electric hookups, making it a top-tier choice for a convenient and comfortable stop.
12900 Fort Campbell Blvd, Oak Grove, KY 42262
(270) 439-0153
Cost: Price not available
Category: Truck stop
Has Water
locations.pilotflyingj.com/us/ky/oak-grove/12900-fort-campbell-boulevard