There’s a certain kind of hypnosis that sets in when you’re driving I-40 across the Texas Panhandle. It’s a long, straight shot through a landscape that’s vast, flat, and humbling. The sky feels enormous, and the miles just seem to unspool in front of you. On a drive like that, you’re not just looking for any stop; you’re looking for a reliable, no nonsense place to reset. That’s exactly what you get at the Love’s Travel Stop at Exit 60 in Amarillo. This is store number 250, and it’s a classic example of what Love’s does so well: a straightforward, affordable dump station, easy to navigate RV lanes, and that friendly, down to earth hospitality you come to expect. Its location just west of the downtown area means you can handle your business, maybe grab a fresh kolache from the bakery inside, and be right back on America’s Mother Road in practically no time at all.
This isn’t just a stop in the middle of nowhere; it’s a gateway to some of the most iconic roadside Americana you’ll ever see. Amarillo is a High Plains city that punches way above its weight when it comes to quirky, unforgettable attractions. The Love’s is your perfect logistical hub for exploring it all. Just a few miles west of the exit is the legendary Cadillac Ranch. Ten classic Cadillacs, buried nose down in a dusty field, silently begging for you to leave your mark with a can of spray paint. It’s a pilgrimage for any RVer with a creative streak. Then, about thirty minutes to the south, you have the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” Its crimson cliffs and stunning rock formations offer a dramatic contrast to the flat plains, and it’s filled with RV friendly campgrounds and scenic drives.
Your stop at Love’s can be the launching point for an incredible day. Empty the tanks in the morning, then head over to The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Even if you don’t attempt the famed 72 ounce steak challenge, it’s a spectacle worth seeing. Afterward, you can work off that meal with a hike along the Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro, a trek that rewards you with sunset photos you’ll be showing off for years. This Love’s isn’t just a dump station; it’s the place you fuel up, both literally and figuratively, for a true Texas Panhandle adventure.
Now, let’s get down to the reality of the truck stop experience here. Love’s facilities, while also running 24/7, can have a slightly different layout than their competitors. At this location, the RV dump inlet might be situated parallel to the regular auto gas bays rather than over by the big rig diesel islands. It’s a small difference, but it’s good to know what to look for as you pull in. You can still expect brisk turnover, plenty of bright lighting for those late night or early morning stops, and friendly attendants who are used to guiding rigs of all sizes. The one environmental factor you absolutely must be prepared for is the wind. The Panhandle is famous for it, and a sudden gust can make handling a sewer hose an interesting challenge.
Let’s break down the amenities, and there’s one major, critical point to cover right up front. This location does not have a water rinse hose at the dump pad. Let me say that again, because it’s a deal breaker if you’re not prepared: there is no water available for rinsing your hose or flushing your tank. This is absolutely essential information. You must bring your own non potable water with you, at least a couple of gallons in a dedicated jug, just for this purpose. It’s a small bit of forethought that makes all the difference between a smooth stop and a messy, frustrating one.
On the plus side, pets are welcome here, and they even have a designated dog run. After hours spent cooped up in the cab, having a safe, fenced area for Rover to stretch and run is a massive bonus. This is also a one stop shop for both fuel and propane. You can fill your vehicle’s tank and your rig’s LP tanks without having to move, which is incredibly efficient, especially if you’re about to head into the windy, cooler environment of the canyon. Like most big travel stops, they offer clean showers and coin op laundry machines, a perfect way to freshen up after a dusty day exploring Cadillac Ranch or hiking in the canyon.
Perhaps the most surprising and valuable amenity is the limited number of overnight RV spots with 30 amp electric hookups. These are first come, first served, so you can’t count on them, but if you get lucky, they are a lifesaver. If one of those notorious Panhandle windstorms kicks up and makes driving unsafe, having a place to hunker down with power is a huge relief. One final quirk to note is the lack of large public trash dumpsters. You’ll need to plan on packing out your trash with you. It’s an odd omission for a travel center, but something to be aware of.
The cost is one of the biggest selling points. At a flat ten dollars, it’s a fantastic deal, often cheaper than what regional campgrounds might charge non guests just for dumping. When you factor in the affordable propane and the free use of the dog park, the value proposition is extremely high. That ten dollars buys you a lot of convenience, as long as you remember the water situation.
A few top tips for your visit: always be mindful of the wind. On a blustery day, it can whip your bay doors around and turn a simple task into a battle. Secure your hose firmly and maybe even wear some eye protection. If you’re planning on making your mark at Cadillac Ranch, you can often pick up a few cans of spray paint right inside the Love’s store. To beat the morning rush of long haul truckers, try to arrive before 8 a.m. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand; while most places take cards, some sites have been known to prefer cash for a standalone dump fee, so it never hurts to ask at the counter. And if Palo Duro is on your itinerary, fill up all your water jugs here before you head to the canyon, as services and water sources on the trails are limited.
So what’s the final takeaway? The Love’s in Amarillo absolutely nails the essentials for the I-40 traveler. It offers an affordable dump, the convenience of dual fuel options, and fast, friendly service right on the main route. It’s the perfect base camp for exploring the area’s iconic sights. The critical piece of advice is to bring your own rinse water. If you can remember that one simple rule and brace yourself for the wind, you’ll leave topped up, emptied out, and ready to conquer Cadillac Ranch or the rugged, beautiful trails of Palo Duro Canyon.
14701 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79124
(806) 358-2551
Cost: $10
Category: Truck stop
No Water
loves.com/locations/250