Isleta Casino

We had planned to stop here for a day or two. When we arrived, bone tired and ready to get off the road for the night, we were shocked to learn the RV park was closed and the casino was closed. Some tribal affair. this was on 2/11/13. No interest in allowing us to hook up and spend the night.. Won't be back, too many other choices.

[Admin: This is a good reason to call ahead and check on availability for overnight stops whether it's a casino or an RV park. Avoid disappointment]

- report from Karen B., May, 2008

We didn't see the electric outlets reported by Tony K. They may still be there but there has been a lot of construction because the casino is adding a hotel. There is a huge new paved parking lot which was where we stayed. It's a bit of a walk to the casino. There are shuttle stops but no shuttle buses yet. The construction appears to be almost finished. The parking lot has a moderate slope so some type of leveling is required.

The casino has the usual variety of slot machines but I didn't find any good VP machines. We ate lunch at the buffet. There were a few Chinese and Mexican dishes but it was mostly home style southern cooking. Okay but not great. This is a good place to stay if you want to see Old Town and the museum district.

- report from reader Tony K, May 2006

Overnight: Approx 5 miles south of interchange I-40 and I-25. Heard there are some elect. hookups but can't confirm. Free



Casino Camper Research: Thanks to the tip from Tony K. above I did some research on this one. Sounded like a good deal. And it seems to be. There's a lot next to the casino where you can park for free, and there are even a few electric outlets on a first-come basis. Reports vary from 4 to 6.



The Islata Pueblo area is quite large and includes the Islata Pueblo Recreation Area a fishing lake and RV park at the lake. Not sure how far this is from the casino

- report from reader Judith W, July 2006

RV Park: I’ve stayed at Isletta many times. You only have water and electric hookups. Their “dump station” is in constant need of a boatload of Draino! They close the gates at 6 PM which is challenging if you’re visiting friends in the area or the Balloon Fiesta. Their rates are cheap ($17 or $18) but the camping area is not lit. The roads are not well maintained and go every which way as do the campsites, so it’s hard to determine where you can/can’t go after dark. The night watchman is very nice and will come to let you through the gates. BUT if the gal in charge finds out and takes a disliking to you, you will find yourself on the “Do not camp here any more list”!

This casino is now being managed by the Isleta pueblo themselves and they have ditched the Hard Rock name. 48hour free camping in the paved truck lot. The whole lot is built on a slant, though we managed to level our trailer just fine. Beautiful casino inside.