Every now and then, as an RVer, you crave something different. You’ve had your fill of the hustle and bustle, the constant noise, and the crowded lanes of the big travel centers. Sometimes, you don’t want efficiency at the cost of chaos. You just want a quiet, private, out of the way place to take care of business. You want to be able to empty your tanks without an audience, without the pressure of a line forming behind you, and without the rumble of a hundred diesel engines in your ears. For those moments, a place like Spare Feet Shops RV & Storage on the west side of Amarillo is the perfect answer. This isn’t a pit stop; it’s a sanctuary. It combines the primary function of a secure RV storage facility with the practical need for an on site dump station, available for both its tenants and for drive in visitors looking for a more low key experience.
Its location on Soncy Road is part of its unique character. This road runs along a historic alignment of old Route 66, and you can feel that vibe in the air. It’s a part of town peppered with modern amenities but also with relics of a bygone era, like the quirky 2nd Amendment Cowboy statue and some of the classic vintage motels that hint at the Mother Road’s glory days. You’re not right on top of the interstate here. You’re set back in a more commercial and suburban area, which contributes to the quieter atmosphere. This location is also incredibly practical if you’re planning to spend a little time in Amarillo. You’re just minutes away from the city’s medical district, the Westgate Mall, and the surprisingly beautiful Amarillo Botanical Gardens. Access back to I-40 is seamless, making it an easy starting point for day trips out to Cadillac Ranch or the curious Helium Time Columns Monument.
Using a dump station at a storage facility is a fundamentally different process, and it’s important to know what to expect. This isn’t a 24/7, pull up and go operation. You’ll need to plan your visit around their business hours, which are typically something like 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. The best practice is to always call ahead. You’ll likely need to stop by the office to pay the fee and get instructions, or they might give you a keypad code for the gate over the phone. Once you’re inside, the pace is entirely your own. The staff can direct you to the dump station, which is often located in a wide, spacious lane next to the covered storage bays. The keyword here is privacy. You won’t be dodging semi trucks, distracted tourists, or anyone else. It’s usually just you, your rig, and the task at hand, which can be a wonderfully calming experience.
Let’s decode the amenities, because a storage facility offers a very different set of perks. They do have water available, with a potable spigot right at the dump lane. A fantastic piece of insider knowledge is to bring a water pressure regulator. Storage facilities and some campgrounds often have very high water pressure, sometimes over 60 psi, which can damage your RV’s plumbing if you’re not careful. It’s a small, inexpensive tool that can save you a world of hurt. For those looking to store their rig, some of the parking spots offer 15 amp electric hookups. This is a great feature, as it allows you to keep your batteries trickle charged and healthy, preventing them from dying while you’re away from your rig for an extended period.
Now for the things they don’t have. It’s crucial to set your expectations correctly. This is not a travel center. There is no fuel, no propane, and no public restrooms. You’ll need to plan your fuel stops elsewhere; luckily, there’s a Love’s just a couple of exits down the interstate. Facility rules also typically restrict pets, so you’ll need to arrange for a pet break before or after your visit. And like many smaller operations, you should plan to pack out your own waste, as they don’t have large dumpsters for public use. What you are getting instead of these services is security. The entire facility is usually well lit, fenced, and monitored by cameras. That security is the main selling point, offering peace of mind whether you’re just there for thirty minutes to dump your tanks or leaving your rig for a week while you fly home from Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport.
The cost for dumping isn’t usually published online. You’ll need to call for a quote. The fee is often comparable to or even lower than truck stops, and here’s a great tip: if you’re renting a storage spot, even for a short term, the dump fee may be waived entirely. This can be an incredible value, especially if you need to park your rig for a few days to visit family or catch a flight. The value here isn’t measured in speed, but in serenity and security.
A few pro tips can make your visit even better. If you need one of those spots with an electric hookup, it’s wise to book it ahead of time, especially during the winter months when snowbirds are storing their rigs. Because you’re in a spacious storage lot and not a tightly designed travel lane, the sewer inlet might be a bit farther from where you park. Bringing an extra length of sewer hose, say a 15 or 20 foot one, ensures you can always reach without having to reposition the rig. The Panhandle wind kicks up a lot of dust, so giving your rig a quick rinse before putting it into storage can save you a lot of cleaning effort later. And since you’re on Soncy Road anyway, use the opportunity to combine errands. The street is lined with supermarkets and RV supply shops, so you can restock your pantry while your tanks are draining.
So what’s the final word on Spare Feet Shops? It represents a fantastic, mellow, and secure alternative for the RVer who values privacy above all else. It’s the perfect choice if you’re planning on storing your rig, even for a short time, or if you simply want to avoid the chaotic energy of a busy travel center. It’s not the right fit for the traveler in a hurry, but for those who appreciate a slower, more deliberate pace, it’s a hidden gem. Just remember to call first for the gate code and the current fees, and you’ll roll out of Amarillo feeling refreshed and worry free.
14601 Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX 79119
(806) 641-6789
Cost: Price not available
Category: Storage facility
Has Water
sparefeet.com/location/amarillo-tx-storage-units