There’s a certain kind of magic to driving through the mountains of West Virginia. The roads twist and turn, climbing up steep grades and then dropping into lush, green valleys. It’s a beautiful drive, but all that winding and sloshing can do a number on your holding tanks. As you’re making your way along U.S. 19, with the promise of adventure in the New River Gorge just ahead, the last thing you want to worry about is a full black tank. That’s why knowing about the simple, serviceable RV dump station at the 500 Vankirk Drive parking lot in Beckley is such a relief. It’s not fancy, but it’s strategically located just minutes from the I 77 and I 64 interchange, making it the perfect mountain town relief valve before you hit the trails or the rapids.
Beckley serves as the unofficial gateway to America’s newest national park, the New River Gorge. And what a park it is. This is not a place for passive sightseeing. This is a rugged, wild landscape that invites you to get out and play. The gorge is famous for its world class rock climbing on the hard sandstone cliffs and its incredible mountain biking trails that cater to all skill levels. But the true legend of the New River is its whitewater. The river offers some of the most challenging and exhilarating Class IV and Class V rafting runs in the entire country. It’s a bucket list destination for any true adrenaline seeker. But the area is also rich in history. You can take a tour of the Exhibition Coal Mine, where you descend 1,500 feet underground in an authentic man car. Guided by a veteran miner, you get a firsthand look at the dark, challenging world of coal mining that shaped this entire region. It’s a powerful and unforgettable experience. And when you’re ready for a break from all the adventure, you can head over to the Tamarack Marketplace, just off Exit 45. It’s a beautiful facility that showcases the work of West Virginia’s best artisans, from pottery and glass to woodwork and textiles. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir of your trip.
Using a dump station located in a large, mixed use parking lot like this one requires a certain mindset. You should expect a truck stop vibe. The area is dominated by fuel islands, a convenience store, and the constant hum of commercial traffic. The dump inlet itself is usually located on the far edge of the pavement, out of the way of the main traffic flow. The good news is that these lots are designed for big rigs, so you’ll have plenty of pull through space for your trailer or toad without having to disconnect. The lighting is generally bright enough for you to feel safe using it at night, but be aware that truck traffic is often at its peak in the early morning hours as drivers start their day. It’s a functional, no frills setup that gets the job done.
When it comes to amenities, this location provides the basics that a traveler on the move needs. They have both potable water and a rinse bib, which is a huge plus. You can fill up your fresh water tank before heading into the park, where services might be limited. The on site gasoline and diesel pumps mean you can refuel your rig at the same time, which is especially important before you start tackling those steep mountain climbs. Inside the convenience store, you’ll likely find pay per use showers and restrooms. After a long day of hiking or rafting, a hot shower can feel like the ultimate luxury. There are also standard trash bins available, which are great for offloading all the gear and wrappers you accumulate on an adventure. Just be sure to use heavy contractor bags if you’re disposing of muddy rafting gear to avoid making a mess. For the safety of everyone, it’s best to keep your pets inside the RV. A busy truck lot is no place for a furry friend to be wandering around. You won’t find amenities like electric hookups, propane, or laundry facilities here, so you’ll need to plan for those chores elsewhere.
The cost for dumping is not usually posted, but these types of parking lot operators generally follow the regional truck stop rates, which typically fall in the ten to fifteen dollar range. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you can find a number for the convenience store, or simply go inside and ask before you pull up to the dump station. This will allow you to confirm the price and see if they accept credit cards, which they usually do.
Here are a few tips to make your stop go as smoothly as possible. The best time to arrive is on a weekday in the mid afternoon. This allows you to avoid the morning convoys of coal trucks and the lunchtime rush at the fuel pumps. If you’ve just come from a day on the river, your gear is probably going to be caked in mud. Use the outside water taps to rinse everything off before you pack it away in your storage bays. It will save you a massive cleanup job later. One important thing to note about this particular lot is that it has a slight downhill pitch. It’s not dramatic, but it’s enough that you’ll want to use your wheel chocks to make sure your rig stays put while you’re unhooked or working with your hoses. And here’s a pro tip: after you’ve done the dirty work, drive over to the Tamarack Marketplace. While your fresh water tank is slowly refilling from your own supply, you can go inside and enjoy a fantastic “Taste of West Virginia” meal. It’s the perfect way to reward yourself for a job well done.
So what’s my final verdict on the 500 Vankirk Drive dump station? For RVers heading to the New River Gorge, it’s an essential and perfectly placed pit stop. It delivers exactly what you need, right when you need it: a place to dump your tanks, take on fresh water, refuel, and grab a shower. It’s a quick, dump and go solution that allows you to focus on the real reason you’re here, which is to experience the incredible natural beauty and adventure of West Virginia. Just remember to call ahead for pricing if you can, bring your wheel chocks for the slope, and you’ll be back on the road to your next adventure in no time.
500 Vankirk Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
Cost: Price not available
Category: Parking lot
Has Water
