Rest Areas.. What's not to like?

It depends on the rest stop, and on the truck stop. Either one can be less than desirable, depending on the area they’re in. Obviously, no amenities other than restrooms at rest areas, but if you’ve got everything you need in your truck, that’s not an issue. Personally, I will always find a truck stop, but I’m pretty picky about them.

 

I like rest areas if I have everything I need of course. (Coffee for the morning and dinner for tonight.) I find them darker then most truck stops now and being dark, I get a better night sleep as well. Most of the time I can arrange it where I have a grass island close by for the blue dog as well. In mot truck stops the chances of someone backing into you, go way down as well. Now....with all that said, if I get a bad vibe, on down the road I go.

 

Like @JReding said, it depends on the rest area or truck stop. Some I thought were great for varying reasons (The MN welcome center on WB on 94 and the one on 70 just East of Indy come to mind off the top of my head), other totally suck.

I know some guys that won't park in them because they are state land and DOT has been known to come in and do inspections and hassle you at certain ones but I never had a problem. Have seen it done though.

 

I have seen rest stops in PA with no bathrooms. Sign is posted on the interstate to that effect. There are trees around, so I guess you could go into the trees and do your business.

 

Honestly, it depends on the state. Some states, the rest areas are fabulous. Others, it sickening. Still others have a reputation for troopers bothering you. I'd rather be at a rest area than a truckstop any day.

 

Nothing wrong with em.
If you know that's what it's gonna be at the end of the day, you can get a shower mid day so you can alleviate the birdbath..
Be aware that at some places.. not all.. just be wary.. shady characters hang out looking for "hook ups" in the rest room.
Some places like Florida, or South Texas can be places you need to watch your Six at all times when your out of the truck.
Bad things happen more frequently there than others, seemingly.

Just plan. And watch your back.
Bad people prey upon those that don't pay attention.

 

I'm a rest area kinda guy. But I always have food and drink to last...plus my HotLogic!
I think the best one I've ever been to is the WV Welcome Center going west on I68. Dig a hole for a pool and you've practically got yourself a resort.

 

The rest areas on I 90 in Ohio are very nice with free showers.

 

Nothing sexist, but I wish they’d let men design the parking so they’re not so tight.