Not all Texas Rest Areas are "wide spots in the road" will little comfot but a ladder over the pasture fence for "relief".
FYI:
San Angelo, Texas is known as the LARGEST city in the United States to be located more than 5 miles from an Interstate Highway ! In fact, the nearest IH is 60 miles to the south (I-10), followed by 90 miles to the north (I-20) where you'll find the nearest citiy of similar size, Abilene, TX. Basically, we are "in the middle of NOWHERE.
Northwest of San Angelo, TX, along US87, along the very short stretch of that highway that cuts across the southwest corner of Coke County, lies a BEAUTIFUL Rest Area with a stone visitors' center and all the creature comforts. There are stands of pecan & live oak trees, shade, and AMPLE parking for cars, trucks and RVs (and MVs), far enough from the main lanes for peace and quiet.
Just wanted to counter your little generalization of Texas' roadside attributes.
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Thanks for posting your WONDERFUL trip report
Glad you consider it a SUCCESS