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Tips for Casino RVers to Stay on Budget

The open road and a casino stop—there’s nothing better. Casinos offer free or discounted RV parking, making it hard to resist the temptation to stay and play. But keeping your budget in check when you’re right next to a 24/7 gaming venue can be tough.

Planning ahead is the key to a great trip without overspending. One way to keep your entertainment budget intact is to play online games while parked in your RV, like playing mines or other casino staples. This simple and fun game is a quick low-stakes diversion that will scratch that gambling itch without getting you into big trouble. It’s a great way to unwind in the evenings or during travel breaks and get a taste of excitement without dipping into your casino fund.

Set Limits

Before you even pull into the casino parking lot there’s one major rule: separate your travel budget from your gambling budget. Casinos are fun but can suck up more than you think. A budget ensures your trip—fuel, food, RV maintenance and all—stays on track.

Set a daily or weekly gambling limit and stick to it no matter what happens on the casino floor. Treat this money as your “fun fund” and once it’s gone you can switch to lower stakes games or explore other parts of the casino experience beyond the slots and tables.

Casino Perks Beyond Gaming

One of the best things about casino stops for RVers is the many perks that come with them. Casinos aren’t just about gaming—they offer plenty of other entertainment options, many of which are free or discounted. From live shows and buffet dinners to spa treatments, you can have a full night of entertainment without spending a dime on gaming.

Most casinos offer membership cards through their loyalty programs which reward you for time spent in the casino—even if you’re not betting big. Signing up for these programs can get you everything from free meals and discounted hotel rooms to cash back and gift shop credits. Some loyalty programs even offer special perks for RVers, like free parking, priority access to RV sites or even complimentary services.

Timing is Everything

Another budgeting tip for RVers is to time your stays and play. Many casinos offer special deals or promotions on certain days of the week or off-peak hours. Plan your route and schedule your casino stops for those times and you can get lower parking fees or extended gaming benefits without breaking the bank.

And don’t forget: casinos aren’t just about gambling. Check the events calendar for live entertainment, festivals, and special dining events that you can enjoy without placing a single bet. These offerings are often included for loyalty members, and even if you’re not a gambler, you can still enjoy the entertainment and amenities casinos are known for.

Maximize Your Stay While Minimizing Expenses

One of the best strategies for keeping your budget on track while casino hopping is to take advantage of casino RV parking perks. Many casinos offer free or discounted parking for RVers, especially those who spend time on the gaming floor. Even if you only play for a short time, you can often park your RV for free overnight, saving money compared to a traditional campground or RV park.

It’s also worth considering multi-day stays at casinos that offer extensive amenities for RV travelers. Staying longer at each stop reduces the number of miles you’re driving (and the gas you’re burning), and gives you time to fully explore what each casino has to offer, from restaurants to spas to shopping and entertainment.

Stay Disciplined and Take Breaks

It’s easy to get caught up in the action on the casino floor, but staying within your budget means knowing when to walk away. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to take breaks, and give yourself time to step away from the noise and flashing lights. Take a walk around the property, grab a snack from your RV, or check out one of the casino’s other entertainment options.

By taking breaks, you’ll not only stretch your gaming budget but also avoid the emotional rollercoaster that comes with extended gambling sessions. This strategy helps you keep a clear head, ensuring that you stick to your budget and enjoy the experience without regrets.

Wrapping it All Up

Casino RVing is about striking a balance between adventure and entertainment. By setting clear limits on your spending and taking advantage of casino perks, you can enjoy all the thrills of the casino world without blowing your budget. Keep your gambling funds separate from your travel expenses, explore the wide range of non-gambling activities casinos offer, and don’t be afraid to unwind with a game of “mines” or any other casual, low-cost entertainment from the comfort of your RV.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy the journey, not to chase every jackpot. Staying disciplined and making smart choices will ensure you have plenty of stories to share from the road—without the financial hangover. Safe travels, and happy gaming.

Tips for RV Camping at Canadian Casino Resorts

Alt text: An RV camper parked in a parking lot. 

Camping in an RV is one of the best experiences you can have. If you are on a budget, parking your RV at casino resorts is a good way to save some money while having fun. As a Canadian player, there are many things you should know to take advantage of this opportunity. RVs take away the burden of going back home after a long day at the tables by offering you a home away from home. Here are some tips that will help you get the most from camping your RV at a Canadian casino resort.

Enjoying Free Amenities While RV Camping at Canadian Casino Resorts

Canadian casino resorts provide an array of alluring possibilities suited for RV campers. There are a range of amenities that go beyond gaming which include, warm spaces, showers, and clean restrooms. These resorts provide the perfect place to rest, recharge, and relax during your travels. They also provide modern RV campers with comfort and convenience. While traditional casino gambling may not be the primary focus, it’s worth noting how digital options have evolved. As online gaming continues to expand, especially with the rise of crypto gambling in Canada, those who prefer to stay connected can easily try their luck without leaving the cozy comfort of their RV.

Book a Reservation 

Most casinos allow RV owners to camp in their vicinity but it is important that you make a reservation beforehand. Reservations are mandatory as you cannot show up and park your RV without prior authorization from the resort. Ironing out all the details is important to a pleasant stay. There are also apps that allow you to monitor the casino resorts with parking space available. Using these apps will help you to plan your RV stay successfully. 

Learn the Terms of RV Camping

The terms and conditions offered by casino resorts to RV campers vary. These govern how campers behave and what is allowed within the premises of the resort. When you call to make enquiries, you should ask what terms and conditions apply and avoid assumptions. Here are some of the common terms and conditions you will encounter:

  • Campers are not allowed to stay more than 3 days in the lot (this duration varies between casino resorts).
  • A flat fee may be charged for the duration of your stay. 
  • All campers are required to hang their registration tags on their RVs at all times to verify their status.
  • Quiet hours must be religiously observed as campers must avoid causing unnecessary disturbances during these periods. 
  • Camp fires are prohibited. Campers must use alternative sources that are safer. 

Have Your Amenities Secured

Resorts want campers to have their basic amenities secured. While it is okay to use the casino convenience while you are active on the gambling floor, you may receive side eyes for dashing in straight from your camper. You should also have water tanks, empty tanks, and a power source for your RV. These amenities ensure that you are self-sufficient. Casinos may restrict your use of on-site amenities using rules and regulations. They may also accept or reject RVs based on the available amenities. Ensure your RV has what you need to survive. 

Avoid Extracurricular Gambling

Yes, you are at a gambling resort but that does not give you the right to hold unlicensed gambling activities. Casinos frown at games held by campers and have strict rules against these. The punishment for gambling varies but campers can be permanently banned from the premises if they are caught. Getting a permanent ban could get you blacklisted which affects your standing at other casino resorts. Casinos want to keep all gambling activity on their casino floors. Therefore, they keep a keen eye out for campers who may want to break the gambling rule. They are known for coming down hard on dissenters because it eats into their core business. 

Privacy and security 

Privacy in the RV lot is not guaranteed because of the security policy. Casino security have to monitor the activities of their guests. These include campers with their RVs in the lots. Campers will also be side by side with other visitors who own RVs. There is hardly any extra space for you to have privacy so you have to take personal measures. Ensure you have curtains or blinds that protect your RV from peering eyes. 

The presence of streetlights is also a common occurrence in RV lots. Blackout curtains are best used to keep out the blinding lights and protect your eyes (plus your privacy too!). Calling ahead to learn the situation of the RV lots will help you to plan better. Campers should also remember that they are personally responsible for their belongings and should take steps to secure them. 

Dry Camping Tips

Most RV parking at casinos (other than casino RV parks) is “dry camping” sometimes called “blacktop boondocking”. To really enjoy doing this you’ll need be able to camp without hookups for water, electric, and sewer.

Dry camping opens up a whole new world of opportunities for you to enjoy your RV — not only at casinos, but also in beautiful, wild, remote areas of the country as well.

If you have a fully self-contained RV then you can probably dry camp for 2 – 3 days with no changes at all. But if you want to enjoy this for extended periods you’ll need to prepare. We dry camp a lot (over 50% of the time) and we can help you learn how.

Fresh water, black and grey water, and electricity all become crucial if dry-camping for any length of time.

  • Fresh water – use what water you have sparingly.
    • To help save water, use paper plates.
    • Catch the water in your shower in a small wash bucket while waiting for it to get hot. Then use this water in the bucket to do dishes.
    • Only take quick showers every few days.
  • Waste water
    • Do dishes in a small wash bucket, then toss this gray water on some nearby trees or bushes.
  • Electricity
    • Only use one a two small lights at night. Preferably LED lights.
    • Change your most-used lighting to LED lights.
    • Turn your inverter off when not in use. This includes turning it off overnight.

You can learn much more about dry camping and modifications we’ve made to our motor home. Visit our personal website here.

Casino RV Parking Etiquette

Have you ever changed jobs, joined a new club, visited another country?  If so, you realize there are different norms for behavior in different places.  Casino parking is the same way — each casino is different.  So be a good guest, understand what’s expected and allowed, and “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”.

Some casinos have an RV park or resort with full hookups. Many others allow free overnight parking, and quite a few even welcome you to dry-camp for several days or even weeks.

Facilities vary, but generally you’ll be “blacktop boondocking” in a parking lot. Here are some guidelines to help you enjoy this free dry parking and to be a good guest of the casino:

  • Call Ahead  If you’re concerned about whether or not overnight RV parking is allowed call the casino and ask to talk with Security.  Our website is a good starting point; however, don’t be upset with a casino if our information is incorrect, it’s not their fault.  Please send send a report and we’ll update our listing.
  • Don’t Leak in the Parking Lot!  If your RV is leaking anything take care of it first or stay away from the casinos please. Leaking oil, transmission fluid, waste water, etc. is a sure way to get kicked out – and rightfully so.
  • Find a good parking spot  It will often be obvious, either they’ll have signs pointing the way or you’ll see other RV’s already there. Otherwise drive to a distant area of the parking lot, and please only take as many spaces as you need. If the area isn’t full, I recommend leaving at some space between you and any neighboring RV.
  • Be sure you feel safe  When you arrive check things out. Look around and make sure you feel comfortable.
  • Check with casino security  Sometimes security will see you drive in and meet you to ensure you know their parking rules. If they don’t, it’s a good idea to check in with them. Some casinos require you to fill out a form, or to join their players club. Sometimes they’ll give you a list of rules. In other locations there’s no formal process.
  • Can you use jacks to get level?  This is sometimes OK, ask Security. If you must use jacks, be sure to put boards down so you won’t leave marks on the asphalt. Trailer and 5th wheel owners, be aware that some places have rules against dropping the rig and driving off.
  • Length of stay? If you plan to stay more than one night make sure this is allowed. Some casinos have no set policy, others say 1 night, 3 days, etc. so be sure you know.
  • Setting up camp?  Using your big awning, table, chairs, BBQ grill, etc. Some casinos have an actual dry camping field or lot, and everyone “makes camp”. However, in most cases you’re staying in a regular parking lot so you don’t want to look like you’re establishing residence!
  • Keep your area clean  Every time we go outside our RV we pick up any trash, cigarette butts, etc. that we see — it doesn’t matter if it’s “our” trash.
  • Be a good neighbor  Be considerate with your generator, TV, stereo, etc.
  • Use common sense and common courtesy with your pets — I don’t have to go into detail here do I?
  • Give the casino your business  We gamble a lot, maybe you don’t gamble that’s fine. Casinos often have very good restaurants and buffets. Some will have arcades, bowling, movie theatres, etc. Higher end places will have a spa, hair salon, retail shops, and so on.
  • Enjoy yourself!  And send us a review to tell others about your experience!
Casino RV Parking
Casino RV Parking

Staying Overnight in a RV at a Casino

If you’re a fan of RV travel and also enjoy playing casino games, why not combine the two and stay overnight at a casino in your RV? It’s a fun and unique experience that can make for a great weekend getaway or even a longer vacation. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for staying overnight at a casino in an RV.

First and foremost, it’s important to do some research before heading out. Not all casinos allow overnight parking for RVs, and those that do may have specific rules and regulations that you need to follow. Some casinos offer designated RV parking areas with hookups and amenities like showers and laundry facilities, while others may simply allow you to park in their general parking lot overnight.

Once you’ve found a casino that allows overnight parking, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm their policies. You’ll want to know if there are any fees or restrictions, and also ask about any amenities that may be available to RV guests. Some casinos may offer special perks like free meals or gaming credits for RVers who stay overnight.

When you arrive at the casino, be sure to follow any instructions given by the staff. They may direct you to a specific area for RV parking, or provide you with a parking pass to display on your dashboard. It’s important to follow these instructions to avoid any confusion or issues during your stay.

Once you’ve parked your RV and settled in, it’s time to explore the casino and all it has to offer. Most casinos offer a wide variety of gaming options, from slot machines and table games to poker rooms and sports betting. Take some time to try out a few different games and see what you enjoy the most.

Of course, it’s also important to be responsible when gambling. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose. It’s also a good idea to take breaks and step away from the gaming floor from time to time, whether that means going for a walk around the casino or relaxing in your RV.

When it’s time to retire for the night, make sure your RV is secure and locked up before heading to bed. Some casinos may have security patrols or cameras to monitor the parking lot, but it’s still a good idea to take precautions and keep your valuables safe.

Overall, staying overnight at a casino in an RV can be a fun and exciting experience. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time, follow any instructions from the casino staff, and gamble responsibly. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a great time exploring the casino and all it has to offer while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your RV.

How to Plan the Best Cross-Country Casino Camping Road Trip

We’ve been traveling the country in an RV full-time since the early 2000s, so we know a thing or two about the best casinos to stop at — and how to save some extra cash while on the road. Many casinos offer free or inexpensive temporary or overnight parking for RVers. But there are a lot of casinos to check out in the U.S. and Canada, so if you’re new to the lifestyle, or if you’re simply planning your first casino camping road trip, the number of casinos that are RV-friendly can seem overwhelming. So, we’re here to help. Although RVers will be setting off at different points, there are a few places and RV parks to check out when planning your cross-country road trip.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Photo by James Walsh / The Unsplash LicenseA cross-country, casino-hopping road trip would not be complete without a stop in Las Vegas. While Nevada generally is a RV-friendly state, it’s a lot harder to find overnight RV parking in Las Vegas. Many casinos have a RV park but do not offer overnight camping, while some casinos offer overnight camping unofficially. Circus Circus RV Park is the best option for RVers looking to to stay overnight. It is close to The Strip and has hook-up access, a pool, hot tub, a dog park, and TV room, among other amenities.

Although Vegas can be on the more expensive side, there are ways to save money in Vegas. If you eat your meals at non-peak hours, you’ll typically receive special offers or discounts on meals without sacrificing the quality. You can also save money on beverages while gaming, show tickets at Tix4Tonight, and by stocking up on snacks and necessities at gas stations instead of at the hotels or casinos.

Pauma Valley, California

There are a number of RV-friendly casinos in California that offer overnight parking. But the one that we’re going to recommend is Casino Pauma in Pauma Valley, California. Pauma Valley is a great place to stop, not only for its beautiful scenery, but also for its location: It’s not far from San Diego, Los Angeles, and Tijuana. Although this location is not an RV park — there are no hook-ups available — it’s a highly-recommended location by nearly all who stay there. There’s also plenty of cheap food and drinks nearby. If you choose this location, just be sure to follow the rules for camping.

Tucson, Arizona

Like California, there are many casinos in Arizona that offer overnight camping. Tucson, Arizona is not only a great place for travelers who want to check out the sites, but it’s also a great location for RVers traveling cross-country. As far as places to stay go, two of the best options in Tucson are the Desert Diamond Casino and Casino Del Sol. Both offer overnight RV parking but do not have an RV park. They are both highly-rated on all accounts, including the parking area, casino, food, and overall experience. And if you’re worried about cheap eats, many reviewers have commented that both casinos feature a number of affordable meals and buffets.

Charles Town, West Virginia

West VirginiaWest Virginia is a very beautiful part of the country, especially in the fall. If you time it right, you’ll have an incredibly scenic journey to the next casino on our list: Hollywood Casino at Charlestown Races. At this casino, overnight parking is allowed for free, but no RV park is available. This location is an attractive option due to its wide gaming variety and affordable meal options. Like the other locations on this list, this casino and park were rated highly on all accounts, with reviewers stating that they enjoyed their overall experience.

As mentioned, there are many more RV-friendly casinos in North America than what’s included on this list. So don’t hesitate to expand your list of stops! Take a look at our list of RV-friendly casinos in the U.S. and Canada to see which casinos offer overnight or temporary parking.