Safest Welcome Centers/Rest Stops

[Shellron]

I'd like to read what you consider the safest welcome center and/ or rest stop for resting ones eyes, especially in the evening hours. I would particularly like to know about the South Carolina and North Carolina welcome centers. Has anyone ever heard of any incidents at these places? I would not stop at any rest stop but the welcome centers.

I remember stopping at the rest stop in Virginia at roughly mile marker 155 and it was so dark, I didn't feel safe. I know I will need a break somewhere along the way.

My uncle actually pulls into a hotel parking lot at an interchange for a rest rather than a welcome center. He feels safer doing this. Your thoughts would be appreciated.

[RocklandRVers]

We rarely use rest areas and certainly not at night. About the only time we look to pull over is if I am getting so sleepy I can't keep my eyes open or if our dog (sometimes my wife too) just can't hold it until the next fuel stop.

We, like your uncle, feel safer pulling over in other places especially truck stops. We particularly like Flying J. I have their RV Club fuel discount card which gives me added incentive to patronize them. They also have a special parking area just for RVs separate from the truckers. We have spent the night there a few times.

[Shellron]

Thanks for your comments. So are there any Flying Js in southern North Carolina or northern South Carolina you would recommend? I would be stopping at roughly 1:00 -2:00 AM and need about 4 hours of sleep. Ron

[snowdog]

The SC Welcome Center has a security patrol and the county mounties are always there. I wouldnt worry too much

[RocklandRVers]

There is a Flying J located about an exit or maybe 2 past South of the Border in Dillon, SC. They all look alike to me. I have stayed in one in VA (around exit 104) and one in Columbia, SC overnight. I have stopped in Dillon, SC, Brunswick, GA and some in PA to rest for a couple of hours and eat a bite. Some have Chinese fast food, others have Deli food. Most have a larger buffet or sit down restaurant. They have nice showers too.

Besides Flying J, we have stopped in Petro and TA Travelcenters. They also have RV parking in most locations and I have always felt safe given the high level of activity going on.

[Shellron]

Snowdog,

The SC welcome center was just as you said. It was patrolled and well lit. Also just busy enough to feel safe. It is a newer welcome center so the layout of the place is well-thought out. Thanks for the good advice.

Ron