Every seasoned RVer knows the name Flying J. It’s a beacon on the highway, a promise of hot coffee, clean restrooms, and a place to get all your road chores done in one fell swoop. For those of us navigating the stretches of I-70 through the historic coal country of Pennsylvania, the Flying J at Exit 49 in Smithton is a perfect example of why this network is a road warrior’s best friend. It’s the quintessential all-in-one solution. When your sensors are screaming and you need fuel, propane, and a place to empty the black tank, a spot like this feels like an oasis.
This isn’t just a gas station with a sewer hookup out back. This is a full-scale travel center, built on a large plot of land right off Fitz Henry Road, designed from the ground up to accommodate big rigs and RVs. The moment you pull in, you can feel the energy. It’s a place of constant motion, with trucks and motorhomes coming and going at all hours. That 24/7 rhythm is part of its appeal. It doesn’t matter if you roll in at 2 in the afternoon or 2 in the morning, the lights will be on and the services will be available.
One of the best things about the Pilot Flying J network is their loyalty program, specifically the MyRewards card. For RVers, this is a must have. While the standard fee for using the dump station is usually around ten dollars, it’s often completely free if you have their card and fuel up. Before you even pull up to the dump lane, it's worth walking inside to clarify the policy for that specific location, but more often than not, your fuel purchase gets you a free dump. It's a system that just makes sense, rewarding you for doing something you were going to do anyway.
Finding the dump station is easy. Just look for the dedicated RV fuel lanes, which are almost always separate from the commercial truck diesel islands. This is a huge plus, as it means you’re not competing with an 18-wheeler for position. The dump inlet is typically marked with bright yellow posts, making it hard to miss. The lanes are pull-through, another godsend for anyone towing a long fifth wheel or driving a big Class A with a car behind it. There’s no need to unhook or attempt a tricky backing maneuver. You just pull in, do your thing, and pull forward.
The on-the-ground experience is pure efficiency. You’ll usually find an automated payment kiosk at the station. Even if you’re expecting it to be free with your rewards card, you’ll likely need to swipe the card to activate the system. The concrete pads at these high traffic locations are almost always well sloped, ensuring good drainage. It’s a small detail, but one you appreciate when you’re not left with a puddle of mystery water at the end. The real beauty of a stop like this, though, is the ability to multitask. While your tanks are draining, your travel partner can be inside grabbing snacks, or you can be planning your next move using their Wi-Fi. Better yet, you can knock out a load of laundry or even grab a hot shower. After a few days of boondocking, that simple luxury can feel like a five star resort.
Let’s break down the amenities, because that’s where a place like this truly shines. You’ve got your dump station with potable water for filling your fresh tank and a separate rinse spigot. You can get propane tanks filled at the service bay, which is a lifesaver when you’re running the furnace on a chilly night. The dedicated RV island dispenses both gasoline and diesel, so all rig types are covered. Inside, you’ll find the showers and laundry facilities. A pro tip is to use the Pilot Flying J app to reserve a shower ahead of time. You can see the wait times and get in line virtually, saving you from standing around.
The only real downside for some travelers is the pet policy. While your dog is welcome to walk around the grassy perimeter of the property, they are not allowed inside the main travel center building. This can be a bit of a juggle if you’re traveling solo. It usually means a quick hand off with your partner or making sure your pet is secure in the RV before you head inside. For trash, you’ll find oversized dumpsters in the parking lot, perfect for getting rid of a few days’ worth of bagged garbage. And if you run into minor trouble on the road, the onsite Truck Care service center can be a real trip-saver, handling things like tire repairs or other small mechanical issues. Just don’t expect to find electric hookups for an overnight stay; this is a place for servicing and refueling, not for camping.
In terms of cost, even if you have to pay the ten dollar fee, the value is undeniable. When you factor in the convenience of getting fuel, propane, supplies, a fresh water fill, and a tank dump all in one stop, the price is more than fair. The time you save by not having to run around to three different places is worth every penny.
So, what’s the final word? The Smithton Flying J is a workhorse, a reliable and incredibly convenient stop for any RVer on I-70. It’s busy, yes, and you’ll be sharing the space with professional truckers, but the efficiency is unmatched. To make your visit smoother, try to arrive mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as that tends to be the lightest time for traffic. Always pull forward to a parking spot after you’re done dumping before you go inside, just to keep the lane clear for the next person. For its 24-hour access, full suite of services, and the potential for a free dump, this spot is an essential bookmark for any RVer’s logbook.
122 Fitz Henry Rd, Smithton, PA 15479
(724) 872-4050
Cost: FREE
Category: Truck stop
Has Water
locations.pilotflyingj.com/us/pa/smithton/122-fitz-henry-road