HELPFUL INFO:
Traveling east, just 15 miles further there is a much larger picnic/parking lot that seems much more appropriate, with the added benefit of the railway much further away (on the north side of the highway).
We did not park here, but it seems to be the best oversized vehicle picnic/parking lot in the area. Plus the railroad is on the North side of the highway ( a bit farther away). I'll drop a 'from the road' photo as we passed by.
(Context: We parked an RV at the Jolly picnic area west of this one, and it was tight ... we see now this one is much more appropriate).
Very nice, large parking area... big enough for numerous oversized vehicles. Road noise fairly negligible.
Yes, as of this date, the train came through 3x during the night, and due to the roadway that crossed the tracks, they had to sound the horn. Honestly it wasn't too bad, but yes, we heard it each time.
All in all I was pleased with this pull out and will add several photos.
IMPORTANT NOTE for OVERSIZED VEHICLES:
If you are heading south and pull in with an oversized vehicle, it would be best to use the lot closest to the highway, as there is an exit at the end to continue your southbound travel.
IF YOU PARK in the lot farthest from the road you must turn around WITHIN THE LOT as there is no exit at the end (it's the incoming lane from Northbound traffic). In our case it was no problem as the lot was not full in the morning, but it certainly could have caused a headache if all of the big rigs that had used the lot during the night were still there when we were ready to leave.
Added bonus:
There is a great LONG straight dirt farm road for walking or running if that is important for you. I did a nice 5k and got to enjoy a stunning Texas sunrise.
Smaller than expected, but yes it works.
US82 & 287 on the north side as noted ... Railroad on the south side, so expect to hear the train whistle as there is a road crossing the railroad just 1/4 mile west of the picnic area. Honestly, it wasn't too bad.
I've added photos showing the 4 total parking cutouts. 2 for cars, and 2 for bigger rigs. Our 37' motorhome with a jeep in tow barely fit, but worked (especially since we don't expect this to be a popular stop for the night due to its proximity to the highway and railway.
A great quick stop in the CENTER (ie: left lane exit/entrance to freeway). Good spot to stretch the legs, take a pet walk or even for young-ins to run around for a few minutes and climb some rocks, as it is fenced from the parking area (with open gateways). Lidded trash and as well. Plenty of car and RV parking.
Directions:
I-70 Exit 140 at Gypsum and turn south. Turn right on the frontage road (Old Highway 6) and go 1.5 miles past the roundabout. Take a left to the Gypsum Recreation Area.
Directions from website:
https://www.blm.gov/visit/boulderbalancing-rock-camp
From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 10 miles to the U.S. Highway 95 north exit. Exit north and take U.S. Highway 95 approx. 18 miles to BLM Route NN035 - Cable Road. Turn right on Cable Road and drive approx. 3 miles. The camp will be on your right hand side.
Now called Wanaaha Casino.
(Roadtrippers also has that listed, but the entry is Yelp sourced info, not specific to Road Trip folks, so I will leave my review here and have added several current photos).
A great little stopover spot when traveling along 395. About 20 spots, a few with full hookups ($40), and the rest are basic with no hookups ($25), potable water available onsite near the entrance. Very pleasant. Well lit, but not excruciatingly so! Slight road noise from 395, but not bad.
To park:
Pull into the overflow parking lot, then pick a spot in the mini-RV park (at the back of the overflow parking lot).
Once you’ve chosen, go to the Cashier’s desk inside the Casino. They will need your ID and your rig’s info. Payment is CASH ONLY. You will receive a card for your RV window.
This little RV park is nice and clean. They have a few spots for bigger rigs, so that was good for us. (I posted a pic showing a few big rigs). They do a great job offering a lot of spaces in a small area. I was impressed with how kind and considerate the office staff was.
Access was good and was a great place to overnight while visiting friends in Seattle for dinner.
Updated web address: https://mountainshadowsutah.com/