by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — It may not be your thing, and that’s fine. But for many out there, it is almost a rite of passage when traveling across much of the South. And then, once experienced, the whole adventure turns into a must-stop event when you reach one of its 54 locations.
Buc-ee’s.
Pretty much a department store inside an exceptionally clean, super-sized convenience shop, mixed with a deli market, barbecue joint, grocery store and scores of fuel pumps. All with a beaver-themed twist.
You can refuel for much less than surrounding stores, grab a full-size meal, some clothing, home goods, candy and other snacks, get a car wash and, of course, some beaver nuggets. As well as a ton of other things.
As we pulled into the parking lot Tuesday afternoon, the place was already buzzing with Jeeps of every color and configuration. Lift kits, oversized tires, rooftop tents, and trail badges galore. Buc-ee’s seemed like it was an unofficial meet-up spot, with Jeepers swapping stories, admiring builds and grabbing last-minute snacks and supplies.
With our load-in time not scheduled until early Wednesday, we were able to spend some time on our first day looking over what was, at one point, the world’s biggest convenience store.
At 74,707 square feet, the place, as we said before, is loaded with all kinds of stuff. When it opened in June of 2023, it replaced a Texas location for the world’s largest title. However, a new Texas spot in Luling retook that title in 2024.
But when you pull off I-40 and turn into this Buc-ee’s, titles do not matter. All you see is vast size.
”You always hear about how cool it is stopping at a Buc-ee’s,” said Amy Hawley, 28, of Lexington, Virginia. “Everyone says it like nothing you’ve ever experienced at a convenience store. So when they opened up this one a few years ago, we were so excited to stop and see what the whole thing was about.”
Inside, the energy was electric. People were loading up on those beaver nuggets, barbecue, snagging Smoky Mountain-themed Buc-ee’s merch, and grabbing plenty of water and other drinks. The aisles were filled with Jeep-themed shirts, hats and even a few custom decals that felt tailor-made for the event.
Outside, the parking lot felt like a serious Jeep event. Conversations between enthusiasts ranged from popular off-road locations to different gearing setups. Most vehicles had ducks adorning dashboards and sported modifications like wheels, tires, bumpers, lift kits, winches and side armor.
”We specifically booked our vacation for this week, just because we can come in early and stop here, and see so many cool Jeeps in this parking lot,” said Alex Martin, 36, of Toledo, Ohio. “You don't see too many spots that feel like a Jeep event, before an actual Jeep event."
Buc-ee’s started back in 1982 as a modest gas station in Clute, Texas. Its founder, Arch Aplin, carried a nickname ‘Beaver’ and owned a Labrador retriever he called Buck. So, as Aplin’s business grew, it wasn’t long until he incorporated both names into a nameplate.
The company expanded in 2003 with its first travel center, and now has a cult following that rivals many other high-end corporations.
The Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion is held annually in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and draws north of 50,000 Jeep owners, as well as fans from across the country. The town transforms into a sea of seven-slot grilles, custom builds and trail-ready rigs.
This year’s event is set for August 21-23 at the LeConte Center and the surrounding area. Daily admission includes access to both vendor areas and runs $20 per adult and $10 for kids (5 and under free). Tickets are sold only at the gate.
So here are some top tips for those travelers who may encounter a Buc-ee's this summer:
Embrace the Megastore Experience
Buc-ee’s isn’t your typical gas stop—it’s a mega-convenience center worthy of its own detour. Expect sprawling layouts, vast parking lots, and the luxury of over 100 fuel pumps.
Restrooms That Become Part of Your Trip
Famous for their cleanliness—some stores employ custodians whose only job is to maintain them—Buc‑ee’s restrooms are award-winning and an attraction in their own right.
Your One-Stop for Snack & Souvenir Surprises
Expect everything from Beaver Nuggets and kolaches to fudge and brisket sandwiches. The snack bar is a must-visit location, and you’ll also find quirky merchandise like branded apparel, home décor, and even hunting gear.
A Store Named with Heart
The name “Buc-ee’s” comes from founder Arch “Beaver” Aplin III’s childhood nickname, his beloved Labrador retriever Buck
Relentless Expansion, with Southern Roots
From its launch in Texas in 1982, Buc‑ee’s has grown to 54 locations across the South and beyond—adding states like Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia and more to its footprint.
No Trucks Allowed—Designed for Road-Trippers
Despite its size, Buc‑ee’s locations are not truck stops like a Loves or Flying J. The chain intentionally bans 18-wheelers to focus on travelers in regular vehicles, ensuring quick access and smoother traffic flow.
