February 29, 2024
3 Best Truck Stops: California
We are working our way down the alphabet, exploring the best truck stops in each state, and this time, we’re driving through California. The Golden State has fewer truck stops than some of its neighbors, but there are still some worth checking out for truckers working the West Coast. Knowing the locations of even some truck stops will be helpful when looking for somewhere to fuel yourself and your truck.
Joe’s Travel Plaza II
Located off I-5 at exit 441 in Westley, CA, Joe’s Travel Plaza is a popular destination for truck drivers. Servicing Northern California, Joe’s offers amenities for truckers and other roadsters. Get some dinner on-site at Denny’s or Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. If you’re there after hours, the 24-hour convenience store offers hot coffee, sandwiches, and plenty of snacks to fuel up with. Joe’s also has showers, laundry facilities, and more to maximize your stop-over.
Pilot Truck Stop, Hesperia
Some locations become favored in states like California, where chain truck tops are more common. There are many Pilot Truck Stops in California, but the one near Hesperia is a favorite primarily because of the Outpost Café next to it. When the amenities of a truck stop all seem to sing the same tune, truckers may look for specifics that set certain locations apart, and the best food often becomes the deciding factor. Stopping at this Pilot and not visiting the Outpost Café would be a waste. With loaded breakfast options like the Roadkill omelet and Ol’ Fashioned Bar-b-que for dinner, you’re sure to leave happy and satisfied.
Finding good food on the road isn’t always easy, especially in areas with smaller populations. This is when it becomes essential to pay attention to chain truck stops like other Pilot or Flying J Travel Centers and document which ones have better food options.
Garlic Farm Travel Center
Garlic Farm Travel Center is another interesting truck stop in Gilroy, CA. Truckers may overlook Garlic Farm in a state where chain stops reign supreme, but it’s an option for truckers to stop and refuel when heading to and from the Bay Area. The self-proclaimed West’s “most comprehensive” truck and travel stop offers showers, laundry, lounges, and a general store bound to satisfy cravings.
Knowing truck stops in each state will help you on your run when looking for somewhere to stop and rest. If you come across truck stops you’ve enjoyed that aren’t on our list, share your findings with us and other fellow truckers. More states are coming soon!
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