Boondocking
Casino Camping: Be sure to observe a few rules
By Jane Kenny

Are you a casino camper? Do you occasionally stay overnight in a casino parking lot? Here are a few suggestions for courteous boondocking at casinos.

Always check in with security to alert them that you are parked in the lot and would like to stay overnight. Remember, a parking lot is not a campground. When your RV is in for a free overnight stay, you are there because the owners allow free parking. Don't take advantage of their hospitality. Seasoned RVers cringe when they go into a casino lot (or Wal-Mart or Flying J) and see people who've put out their awnings, chairs and barbeques. If you want to "camp" this way, check into a campground. But if you're boondocking, be considerate. Park on the perimeter of the lot; don't take up spaces designated for cars. If space permits, it's generally okay to put out the slide, but restrict your activity to the inside of your unit!

It is always a good idea to return your host's hospitality. After all, you're saving camping fees for the night. Treat yourself to a meal at the casino restaurant or buy something at the gift shop and (the obvious), participate in the gaming, if you're so inclined.

Jane Kenny is the author of Casino Camping: A comprehensive guide to RV-Friendly casinos in the U.S. The book includes information about hundreds of casinos in 25 states.

RV Boondocking Basics Learn how to live on a shoestring budget in your RV without hookups. Learn about solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, inverters and ways to get freshwater and get rid of waste water without moving .	"No Overnight" Wal-Marts Learn which Wal-Marts DO NOT ALLOW RVers to overnight for free. This concise directory lists more than 350 such stores. Plus, common sense rules about staying at Wal-Mart.	Guide to Free Campgrounds, West This Western volume lists virtually every campground where you can stay for free or under $12 west of the Mississippi River.
DON'T PAY TO STAY! FreeCampgrounds.com lists free or inexpensive places to camp in the USA.