Except for my local rural convience/gas stores, which I know VERY well and could spot something "off" in a heartbeat, I never stop for gas or "supplies" at any of them. I travel a LOT across the country, usually with at least 2 of my 4 kids with me. I ALWAYS choose to stop at the big truck stops for gas and I do not feel concerned about my safety or my kids at any time of day or night at these stations. There are always a lot of guys around and most of them are carrying, too. Truck stops, the anti gun free zone, LOL.
It helps that I have two uncles who are truck drivers and know how to talk to the guys and visit with them on my CB as I travel. They LOVE to be honorary "Uncles" as I travel with the kids. Some of them even know my family from the road. We live in the middle of the country and some of these guys that know my uncles live from Florida to New Mexico. It really is a small world, and a much safer/friendlier one when you can make friends where ever you are.