Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores is a well-known name across the United States, synonymous with quality, convenience, and comprehensive services for professional truck drivers, RV travelers, and motorists. Since its humble beginnings in 1964, Love’s has evolved into one of the nation’s largest
and most beloved travel stop networks, boasting over 650 locations across 42 states. This article explores the inspiring journey of Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores, its business model, services, and why it remains a top choice for travelers nationwide.
Origins and Growth
Founded by Tom and Judy Love in 1964 in Watonga, Oklahoma, Love’s began with a small self-service filling station. With a modest $5,000 stake from Judy’s family, the Loves leased an abandoned gas station in Watonga, taking the first step toward what would become a travel stop empire. Initially, it was a low-grade filling station, but the couple’s vision transcended the norm of simple gas stations.
Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Love’s expanded by introducing Country Stores, which offered travelers a wider variety of goods and services beyond fuel. The first official Country Store opened in Guymon, Oklahoma, in 1972, setting the foundation for Love’s signature blend of convenience store and travel stop.
By 1981, Love’s had opened its first Travel Stop in Amarillo, Texas, catering not only to passenger vehicles but specifically to professional truck drivers by offering amenities like diesel fuel and parking facilities. This expansion into truck stops significantly bolstered Love’s footprint and reputation.
A Family-Owned Legacy
What sets Love’s apart in the travel stop industry is its status as a family-owned and operated business. The founding family remains actively involved in the company’s operations and vision. This hands-on approach has allowed Love’s to maintain high-quality standards and a customer-first culture. Tom Love, the company’s founder
and executive chairman, continues to provide leadership, ensuring the company stays true to its roots while embracing innovation.
Services and Amenities
Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores are much more than simple gas stations. They provide a comprehensive range of services, including:
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Fuel Services: Love’s offers multiple fueling options, including gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and, increasingly, electric vehicle charging stations as part of their commitment to expanding sustainable travel options.
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Convenience Stores: Their Country Stores offer fresh food, snacks, beverages, and travel essentials. Love’s Fresh Kitchen program features fresh sandwiches, salads, and beverages to keep travelers energized on the road.
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Restaurants: Many locations host popular branded food franchises such as Dunkin’, Subway, Godfather’s Pizza, and more—offering travelers a variety of dining choices.
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Truck & RV Amenities: Dedicated parking spaces, showers, laundry facilities, CAT scales, and truck maintenance services make Love’s a one-stop destination for truckers.
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Technology: The Love’s Connect app allows customers to reserve RV hookups, check in, and control utilities remotely, enhancing traveler convenience.
Expansion and Innovation in 2025
Love’s continues to innovate and grow aggressively. In 2025, the company announced plans to open 20 new travel centers and remodel 50 existing locations, investing over $1 billion to modernize its nationwide network. These expansions focus on improving services for truck drivers, RV travelers,
and even electric vehicle users by incorporating fast-charging stations.
One example is the New Iberia location in Louisiana, which opened in March 2025 and includes 63 truck parking spaces, multiple diesel bays, showers, laundry, fresh food options,
and a dog park—reflecting Love’s commitment to driver comfort and convenience.
Why Choose Love’s Travel Stops
Travelers choose Love’s not just for fuel but for the total experience. The blending of extensive facilities, diverse dining choices, and traveler-focused conveniences distinguishes Love’s from typical gas stations. Professional drivers especially appreciate the availability of ample parking and maintenance services, while casual travelers often rely on the fresh food and clean restrooms.
Customer feedback consistently praises Love’s for its friendly service, clean facilities,
and modern amenities, making it a preferred stop on many cross-country routes.
High Authority Resource
For those interested in more detailed company information, updates on expansions,
and strategic initiatives, the official Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores website serves as the definitive resource. It offers insights into the company’s history, current projects, job opportunities, and the latest news affecting travelers and employees alike.
Read More: Who Owns Love’s Gas Stations: Ownership and Management Overview
Conclusion
From a small filling station in Oklahoma to a multi-billion-dollar travel stop network spread across 42 states, Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores exemplify growth rooted in family values, innovation,
and customer focus. With a consistent focus on enhancing traveler experiences
and expanding modern amenities, Love’s is well-positioned to remain a top choice for motorists and professional drivers for decades to come.
