Kansas through Colorado by RV

July 14, 2019

From Independence, Kansas through Colorado, what route did we take? We found two free overnight parking options and free dump and potable water along our route.

Leg 1: Independence, KS to Elizabeth, CO Route

Route Comments:

  • Costco in Wichita, Kansas (9700 E Kellogg Ave) was an easy in and out with our motorhome and tow car.
  • We were surprised and disappointed by the road conditions on I-70 through Colorado.
    • Our motorhome was rattling a lot.
    • US-24 was a little better but still rough in some parts.
    • We try to stay on highways when we can, which is why we took US-24 to E Woodmen Rd to CO-21.
      • E Woodmen Rd was a nice two-lane road in each direction.
      • This route was similar in miles to the route suggested by Google Maps but seemed like more highway to Jeri, since she was making this decision on the fly.
  • Bass Pro Shops in Colorado Springs, CO is a great FREE overnight parking spot when passing through Colorado.

Leg 2: Elizabeth, CO to Fruita, CO Route

Route Comments:

  • Cabela’s in Thornton, CO is a great FREE overnight parking spot when passing through Colorado.
    • We stayed there on Friday night to avoid driving around Denver and US 285 during Friday traffic.
  • We drove US 285 on Saturday morning and had no issues.
    • We left Thornton, CO around 8:45 am on Saturday on our way to Gunnison, CO.
    • No traffic and no issues with long lines of cars getting stuck behind us.
    • The drive was relatively easy, but I could see how it would be more difficult during traffic, so I am glad we didn’t drive on Friday.
  • FREE dump and potable water at Montrose County Fair/Montrose Event Center off highway US-50 in Montrose, CO.
    • Open to the public during the spring, summer, and early fall.
    • Large, very easy in and out.