Let’s be honest, there are few words more beautiful to an RVer on a long haul than “free dump station.” When you’re clocking hundreds of miles a day crossing the vast, open plains of the Midwest, every dollar saved is a victory. The southbound I-135 rest area near Sedgwick, Kansas, is one of those little gems that makes you appreciate the efforts some states put into supporting travelers. It’s not fancy, it’s not a destination, but it is a clean, safe, and wonderfully free place to take care of the essentials. Located just about twenty miles north of Wichita, it’s perfectly positioned for anyone making the run between Oklahoma City and Salina, breaking up a long, straight stretch of highway with a much needed service stop.
The journey through Kansas can be mesmerizing in its own way. The endless fields of wheat stretching to the horizon have a certain calming effect. But it’s also a drive that demands a good place to pull over, stretch your legs, and reset. This rest area is more than just a pullout. Sedgwick itself is a tiny, quiet farm town, but you’re so close to Wichita that a quick detour for supplies or a bit of sightseeing is totally feasible. We’ve used this stop as a launchpad to visit the Old Cowtown Museum, which is a fantastic living history experience that takes you right back to the days of the Wild West. Seeing the Keeper of the Plains statue at the confluence of the rivers is another iconic Wichita moment. For those of us who prefer to stay out in nature, Cheney State Park isn’t too far off and offers some great lakeside camping. This rest area’s location makes it incredibly strategic, not just for passing through, but for exploring the region.
Pulling into a modern Kansas rest area is usually a pleasant experience. They are typically well designed, with separate, clearly marked lanes for cars, trucks, and RVs. This is a huge plus. You’re not trying to squeeze your rig into a car-sized spot or compete with semis for space. At the Sedgwick stop, you just follow the big blue signs for the “Sanitary Station,” and it leads you right to a dedicated dump pad next to the RV parking bays. Because it’s a state run facility, there’s no attendant. It’s accessible 24/7, which is fantastic for those of us who travel at odd hours. The one major caveat, and this is crucial for anyone traveling in the colder months, is winterization. State maintenance crews will shut down the water lines during freezing weather to prevent the pipes from bursting. So, if you’re traveling between late fall and early spring, you cannot count on the water being on.
The amenities here are what really elevate it from a simple dump station to a top tier rest stop. The most surprising and valuable feature is the presence of four 30-amp electric pedestals. This is incredibly rare for a public rest area. Imagine you’ve had a long day, maybe you’ve been boondocking for a while, and your house batteries are running lower than you’d like. Being able to plug in for a few hours, or even overnight, to get a vital charge is an absolute lifesaver. It can be the difference between a stressful night and a peaceful one. The restrooms are clean, heated, and open around the clock. They also have large trash dumpsters, which is great for getting rid of all the trash you’ve accumulated. A dedicated, fenced dog walk area is another thoughtful touch. After being cooped up in the cab for hours, giving your dog a safe place to run around off leash is a huge relief for both pet and owner.
Now, for the big issue in 2025: the water. Numerous reports from fellow travelers have indicated that the potable water spigots at this location have been capped or are otherwise non-operational this season. This is a significant drawback. It means you can empty your black and gray tanks, but you can’t flush your black tank or refill your fresh water supply. It underscores a cardinal rule of RVing: always be prepared. Never assume water will be available, even if it has been in the past. Always carry a few extra gallons of fresh water with you for flushing your hose and for emergencies. Before you plan your stop around getting water here, it would be wise to try and call the Kansas Department of Transportation for the latest status update.
But let’s talk about the value. The price tag is zero. Free. In a world where some private parks charge twenty dollars or more for a dump, getting it done for free is unbeatable. When you factor in the ability to park overnight for up to 24 hours and the potential for a free electric charge, this rest area provides incredible value for budget conscious travelers. It allows you to save your money for fuel, food, and fun experiences down the road.
To make your visit as smooth as possible, here are a few tips I’ve picked up. The rest area sees a flurry of activity right after dawn when truckers are getting back on the road. If you can, arrive midday when things are much quieter, and you’ll have plenty of space to maneuver around the dump station. The Kansas wind is no joke. It can whip across those open plains with surprising force. When you’re setting up your sewer hose, it’s a good idea to place a rock or a small weight on it to keep it from getting blown around and making a mess. And please, be a responsible visitor. Use the dumpsters for your trash. The local wildlife, including some very curious prairie dogs, will happily tear into any bags left on the ground. This Sedgwick rest area is a prime example of a public service done right. Even with the current water situation, its combination of free dumping, easy access, and bonus amenities like electricity makes it an essential stop for anyone crossing the Sunflower State. Just be sure to bring your own rinse water.
Unnamed Road, Sedgwick, KS 67135
Cost: FREE
Category: Rest stop
No Water
