The Gas Station
This is the actual, fully restored gas station and landmark featured in the 1974 horror classic 'The Texas Chain Saw Massacre'. Beyond its cinematic claim to fame, the site now functions as a horror-themed destination complete with a Texas-style BBQ restaurant, a memorabilia shop packed with cult classic merchandise, and cozy cabins where brave fans can spend the night. It is a must-visit pilgrimage site for horror buffs looking to step directly into cinematic history.
- Admission
- Free to visit; purchases required for food, merchandise, and lodging
- Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Closed Mondays
- Duration
- 30-60 minutes
- Parking
- Free on-site gravel parking lot
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible restaurant and shop area; gravel parking lot may be slightly uneven
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Located along a quiet stretch of State Highway 304 in Bastrop, Texas, this unassuming roadside stop looks like a relic from a bygone era of American travel. To casual passersby, it is a vintage filling station and barbecue joint, but to film enthusiasts, it is a holy grail of horror history. The site served as the primary filming location for the menacing "Last Chance Gas" station in the iconic 1974 horror classic, *The Texas Chain Saw Massacre*.
Originally known as Bilbo's Texas Landmark, the station functioned as a real-life grocery store and gas pump during the mid-20th century. After its brief brush with cinematic fame, the property changed hands and eventually fell into severe disrepair. It sat abandoned for years, slowly being reclaimed by the Texas brush and weathering under the hot sun, seemingly destined to be forgotten.
In 2014, Ohio businessman and dedicated horror buff Roy Rose purchased the dilapidated property with a vision to save it. Rose embarked on a meticulous restoration project to bring the station back to its 1974 glory. He cleared away decades of overgrowth, repaired the structural integrity of the main building, and sourced period-accurate details, including vintage gas pumps, a green Coca-Cola sign, and a rusty mid-century pickup truck to park out front.
Today, the resurrected property operates simply as "The Gas Station." It is a fully functioning business that serves up Texas-style barbecue, including brisket, ribs, and sausage, which visitors can eat at picnic tables. The interior has been transformed into a museum-like gift shop packed with horror memorabilia, autographed photos, and replica props, making it a bustling hub for travelers and genre fans alike.
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the eerie rural atmosphere, the owners constructed four rustic cabins behind the main building. Guests can book these cabins for overnight stays, complete with outdoor grills and a large screen for watching movies under the Texas stars, just yards away from where cinematic history was made.
Ratings
roadside attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Try the brisket or pulled pork, which are smoked on-site and served with traditional Texas sides.
- ◆ If you wish to stay overnight in one of the cozy cabins out back, be sure to reserve several months in advance.
- ◆ Take time to browse the extensive collection of memorabilia and merchandise inside the gift shop, which features rare collectibles.
- ◆ Keep an eye on their social media pages, as the venue regularly hosts cast reunions, autograph signings, and outdoor movie screenings.
Heads Up
- ◆ The site is located directly off a fast-moving state highway; use caution when turning into or exiting the gravel parking lot.
- ◆ The interior contains graphic horror memorabilia and merchandise that may be frightening or inappropriate for very young children.
Common questions
Can you actually stay overnight at the Texas Chainsaw Massacre gas station?
Yes, there are four rustic cabins located behind the main building that are available for overnight lodging rentals.
Does The Gas Station in Bastrop serve food?
Yes, the location operates as a functioning barbecue restaurant serving brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and classic sides.
Is the van from the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie still at the Gas Station?
A replica of the green 1972 Ford Club Wagon van used by the characters in the 1974 film is parked outside for photo opportunities.