There's a certain magic to cruising down Route 66. You're not just driving; you're tracing history, following the ghosts of road-trippers past. But even on the most nostalgic journey, modern realities creep in, and one of the most pressing is the blinking red light on your black tank monitor. When that light starts flashing somewhere in the rolling hills of the Ozarks, your romantic quest for kicks on Route 66 quickly turns into a very practical search for a dump station. Tucked right alongside the historic highway near Waynesville, Missouri, you’ll find Lamplight Lane RV Resort, a spot that feels like it was put there specifically to solve this very problem.
Our journey was taking us from Springfield toward St. Louis, and we were making a point to stay on the old road as much as possible. Waynesville is a classic stop, the kind of small town that keeps the spirit of the Mother Road alive. You’ve got your quirky photo opportunities, like the famous Frog Rock, and that giant steel Route 66 shield right on the courthouse square. It’s pure Americana. We were planning to spend some time exploring, but the tanks were getting full. Finding Lamplight Lane was a huge relief. It’s not some sterile, modern travel center; it’s a proper campground, nestled in the woods, that welcomes travelers who just need to use their facilities.
What I appreciate about a place like this is the atmosphere. Unlike a busy truck stop where you’re just another vehicle in a long line, a campground dump station feels more relaxed. We pulled into Lamplight Lane and were immediately struck by how peaceful it was. The sites are shaded by tall pines, and the whole place has a quiet, settled feel. We checked in at the camp store, and the folks there were incredibly friendly, giving us directions to the pull-through bay and some tips on things to see in town. The dump station itself is situated on the main loop road, and there’s plenty of room to maneuver, even for a big rig like ours. This is a huge plus, as trying to navigate tight corners with a trailer in tow can be a stressful experience.
The station was clean and well-maintained, with a solid concrete apron that kept things tidy. They had both potable and rinse water spigots, clearly marked and separated, which is always a good sign. You can tell the owners take pride in their facility. Because the resort offers so many full-hookup sites, the communal dump station doesn’t see a ton of traffic from overnight guests, which means less waiting for day-trippers like us. We were in and out in about twenty minutes, which is just about perfect. It’s worth noting that access is typically during office hours, so if you’re planning a late-night arrival, it’s a good idea to call ahead to see if they can accommodate you with a gate code or other instructions.
One of the unique things about this area is its proximity to Fort Leonard Wood. The main gate is only about a ten-minute drive away. This is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it means the area is well-supported with services. On the other, as the staff at the camp store wisely pointed out, graduation weeks at the fort can bring a major spike in local traffic. So, a quick look at the fort’s calendar can save you a lot of time and frustration. It’s that kind of insider knowledge that you only get from talking to locals.
While we didn’t stay the night, we took a little walk around the grounds. The place is very pet-friendly, with plenty of grassy areas for our dog to enjoy. They also have modern bathhouses and a laundry facility, which are godsends on a long trip. If you were staying for a few days to explore the Mark Twain National Forest or just soak in the Route 66 vibes, this would be an incredibly comfortable base camp. A really interesting amenity they offer is a connection with mobile RV repair techs. If you’ve ever had a valve start leaking or a water pump fail in the middle of a trip, you know how valuable that service can be. It’s a rare and thoughtful perk for a smaller campground to offer.
When it comes to cost, the price for a day-use dump was in line with what we’ve paid at similar private parks along major routes. For the convenience, the cleanliness, and the peaceful environment, we felt it was a fantastic value. Always call to confirm the fee, as prices can change, and it’s good to know if they prefer cash or take cards. For guests staying overnight, of course, dumping is included with their site. One thing to note is that day-use visitors might be asked to pack out their own trash, so just be prepared for that possibility.
My advice for a smooth visit is simple. Phone ahead, especially during the peak summer tourist season when Route 66 is buzzing with activity. Try to arrive in the morning to avoid the afternoon rush of campers checking in. And have your supplies ready. The red Missouri clay can stain, so having a good pair of gloves and some cleaner for your hoses is a smart move. If you do find yourself waiting in a small line, you’re just a short walk from some of those classic Route 66 photo spots.
In the end, Lamplight Lane RV Resort is more than just a place to empty your tanks. It’s a peaceful, welcoming outpost on one of America’s most iconic highways. It offers a much-needed service with a personal touch, allowing you to get back to your adventure without the stress and chaos of a typical travel plaza. For anyone RVing through the Ozarks on the Mother Road, this place is a definite must-add to your itinerary.
26215 Highway 17, U.S. Rte 66, Waynesville, MO 65583
(573) 774-2727
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
lamplightlanervresort.com