- If you’re looking to find casinos in California that pay out, you might want to head towards the north.
- Graton Resort and Casino has over 3,0000 models and offers food from six different restaurants.
- Jamul Casino boasts fantastic views of San Diego and has over 2,000 machines to play on.
There are plenty of reasons to visit The Golden State – amazing beaches, picturesque mountains, theme parks, and a plethora of amazing casinos.
In fact, CA is home to more than , so if you feel lucky, there’s no shortage of places where you can test your luck.
Of course, not all California gambling clubs can make it to the list of best payout casinos in the state. Only those that have first-class facilities and games can do that.
If you are wondering which Cali casino you should go to, you’ve come to the right place. I prepared this guide with information about the top places to gamble in California as well as some tips and tricks for playing there.
Best California Casinos and Their Resorts – Updated List
California is a huge state, and there are 67 Indian gaming casinos (as well as several card rooms) that cover an area of approximately 45 miles east of Los Angeles.
This mega casino complex was set to open in 2008 but due to environmental studies and legal issues with local tribes, its opening date was postponed for over a decade.
The project is expected to cost $1bn and, once completed, it will feature 4,000 rooms, a variety of gambling options, restaurants, spa centers, golf courses, and other amenities.
However, San Manuel Stone Age Gaming Development, Jacobs Entertainment, Morongo Casino, and Sherwood Investments filed a lawsuit against the governor and the California Tribal Alliance to stop the construction of the casino resort, claiming that it gives an unfair advantage to commercial casinos.
So, will Las Vegas of the West ever see the light of day? Only time will tell.
For now, you can check out some of the best California brick-and-mortar casinos that pay out, such as those listed below.
The gallery above features only a handful of California Indian casinos that offer much more than just gambling. These resorts also boast hotels, world-class dining facilities, spas, theaters, nightlife, and other types of entertainment.
Most of these gaming facilities are located near national parks, making them perfect getaways for outdoor enthusiasts who love gambling.
Palomino Poker Club, for example, can get you to Palomino Festival & Event Grounds in minutes; Pechanga Resort & Casino is very close to Lake Elsinore, Temecula Wineries, Zelzah Off Road Park, and other attractions, etc.
If you don’t mind driving, you can combine your visit to these casinos and experience something new every day. But if you prefer staying at one place, check out some of the best California casinos and choose the one that suits you best.
Top California Casinos – North
Let’s start our journey through California gambling districts by presenting you with some of the top northern Californian casinos.
Plaza Casino
Plaza Casino is one of those California gambling places that never sleep. This 30,000 square feet venue features slot machines, video poker, live keno, and table games like blackjack, pai gow poker, roulette, craps, and more.
One of the biggest advantages of this casino is its location. It’s situated in the historic Freight House District, within walking distance to popular attractions such as Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Shasta Dam Caverns, Shasta State Historic Park, McArthur Burney Falls Memorial Park, etc.
If you decide to spend your vacation there, you can stay at one of many nearby hotels or motels, including Hampton Inn & Suites Redding, La Quinta by Wyndham Redding, Best Western Plus Hilltop Lodge, Super 8 by Wyndham Redding, and similar.
Humboldt Bay Casino
Humboldt Bay Casino may not be the largest CA casino, but it has everything gamblers need for having a great time. There are nearly 500 of the latest reel spinters, 20 multi-station gaming machines, 16 poker and pai gow tables, and a high-limit room.
free vegas games online slotsThis tribal casino pays out, or at least one lucky player who hit a $2.7 million jackpot on Christmas Day 2021. According to the witness, the person was playing a Spot Spinner game when the massive jackpot popped up.
Apart from having unbelievably friendly dealers, this casino is known for its incredible bay view and delicious food served at its Fish Dock Restaurant. Besides various seafood dishes, the restaurant also prepares tasty burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts.
Humboldt Bay Casino often hosts special events, parties, and live music performances, so make sure to check their website before going.
River Rock Casino Giving Money
Dancing Dragon Event Center is just one of many things that makes this casino one of the top ones in Northern California. This event center features a stage for live bands, weddings, quinceaneras, corporate gatherings, private parties, etc.
With nearly 900 slots and 40 table games, this casino boasts one of the most generous Ca gambling clubs. However, you have to be 21+ to enter. Those aged 18-20 can visit the Tiger Falls Sports Bar & Restauraunt, gift shop, and deli.
River Rock Casino is also known for its amazing restaurants. Some of the most popular ones include Dragons 7 Restaurant, Singing Cook Restaurant, Tiger Tracks Deli, and Yu Tat Kitchen. Depending on the location and ambiance, you can enjoy sushi, Asian cuisine, American grill, pizza, and similar.
Some of the most popular games at this casino include Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Three Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, and three varieties of Roulette. Of course, you can also try your luck on more than 800 all-denomination slot machines.
Graton Resort and Casino
Graton Resort and Casino is one of the newest additions to California’s gambling scene. Opened in August 2013, this gorgeous resort features more than 3,000 slot machines, 100 table games, 20 poker tables, a non-smoking section, High Limit Room, and Winner’s Club Rewards.
When you get hungry or thirsty, you can grab a bite at one of six different restaurants or visit the lounge bar.
free money casino bonusThere are also several shops where you can buy gifts, jewelry, perfume, clothes, and similar. If you want to take a break from all the action, go to the full-service spa, work out in the fitness centre, or relax in the indoor pool.
Northern Californians voted Graton Resort and Casino as “Best Overall Slot Machine Payback” in 2019 and 2020, while “Locals Favorite Casino” titles went to Graton in 2020 and to Cache Creek in 2019.
Jamul Casino
Jamul Casino is one of the few Cali casinos that offer fantastic views of San Diego. Located on a beautiful reservation, this casino covers 200,000 sq ft of gaming space filled with more than 1,800 of the latest slot machines, 40 poker tables, roulette, craps, and other exciting games.
This Indian casino in California also features four amazing dining venues where visitors can try all kinds of appetizers, entrees, desserts, cocktails, beer, and wine.
What’s so cool about Jamul Casino is that it has its own mobile app that allows users to receive exclusive offers, loyalty points, updates, newsletters, etc. You can download the app for both iOS and Android devices for free.
Jamul Casino is open 24/7, 365 days a year, so feel free to drop by anytime you like.
Thunder Valley Casino Resort
Thunder Valley Casino Resort is another award-winning establishment that attracts thousands of guests each year. With more than 2,000 slot machines, 80 poker tables, 80,000 square feet of conference space, seven dining locations, spa centre, fitness centre, indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, this casino resort really stands out from the crowd.
You can even bring your furry friend with you because Thunder Valley is one of pet-friendly casinos in California. Of course, there are certain restrictions, so make sure to check them beforehand.
According to TripAdvisor reviews, some must-try eateries inside the casino are Wagners Prime Steak & Seafood, Bistro 13, Whet Creek Grille, Ravens Way, and The Perch.
If you plan to spend your holiday here, book one of their beautifully decorated hotel rooms in advance and save money.
Thunder Valley Casino was named Best Casino, Best Hotel Staff, Best Place to Play Poker, Best Slots, Best Customers Earn & Redemption, and Similar titles multiple times, so you know it has to be good.
Great Casinos in California’s Central Region
If you find yourself in the middle of California, you shouldn’t hesitate but visit one of these Central region casinos.
Palomino Poker Club
Palomino Poker Club isn’t one of those enormous California card rooms that payout millions of dollars every week. Still, it has everything a casual poker player needs for a pleasant experience.
It’s important to mention palomino doesn’t serve alcoholic beverages or sell toys that can be used as gambling tools. Instead, this club focuses on providing a fun game and allowing players to show off their skills without any distractions.
palomino also claims that they don’t use automatic shufflers because cards are shuffled faster and more efficiently by their employees. Besides that, palomino believes that honest high-stakes poker cannot be based on machine cycles.
I don’t have an opinion on that matter, but what I can say based on my personal experience is that palomino is a nice club run by honest people who want to provide quality service.
Chevy’s Casino Pauma
Chevy’s Casino Pauma could easily be mistaken for a family burger spot, but don’t let its exterior fool you. This Indian casino in California is home to more than 800 of the latest slot machines, five table games that feature Funzee Progressive, delicious food stands, cozy lounges, gift shops, etc.
Although it’s one of smaller California casinos that give their players a chance to walk away with substantial amounts of cash, Chevy’s Casino Pauma knows how to party. They organize various entertaining events throughout the year, from karaoke nights and car shows to comedy acts, live music, and similar.
Casinos That Offer a PayPal Bonus in March 2023If you like fast food and slot machines, you’ll be happy to learn that Chevy’s Casino Pauma is set to expand its gaming area in the next few years. Of course, they’ll also build a couple of hundred new hotel rooms, so we’ll definitely hear a lot more about this charming casino in the future.
Vallejo’s Cash Casino
Most California gambling clubs offer various games, restaurants, lodging, and similar amenities; Vallejo’s Cash Casino is entirely focused on bringing the best selection of loose slots and video poker in the North Bay Area.
Vallejo’s Cash Casino does not have a restaurant nor a bar, so you aren’t allowed to bring outside beverages or food. There is a snack bar where you can purchase chips, candy bars, popcorn, and similar light bites.
Free Online Casino Games You Can Play At HomeVC Casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year, so you can drop by whenever you like.
Cache Creek Casino Resort
Cache Creek Casino Resort is one of California’s finest establishments of this type. In addition to offering a plethora of gambling options, this resort features a full-service spa, two restaurants, two bakeries, two lounges, a lush courtyard, outdoor swimming pool, and lush gardens.
Guests can choose between 178 luxurious rooms and 14 suites and indulge in an ultimate relaxing experience.
Unfortunately, Cache Creek Casino didn’t have the best of starts in 2021. Namely, someone stole almost $200k from the high-limit slot machine.
Surveillance cameras did record the theft, but the perpetrator covered their face with a shirt, mask, and hat, which made it impossible to determine their identity. Despite offering a reward of up to $20,000 for any information leading to an arrest, authorities failed to catch the bandit.
Stanford Ranch Casino
Even though it’s one of the smallest Cali casinos, Stanford Ranch Casino has much more to offer than your average gambling facility.
In addition to weekly promotions, Stanford Ranch Casino provides an opportunity to earn points while playing your favourite games. Once you collect enough points, you can redeem them for food comps at the Snack Shack or Café at the Rancho.
Stanford Ranch Casino is open 24/7, so feel free to visit this friendly neighbourhood casino at any time.
Best Southern California Casinos
If you find yourself in the South, you can visit one of these gorgeous southern California gambling places and possibly end your journey with a big smile on your face.
Kentucky Casino Sites That Are Worth a Spin in 2023Soboba Casino
Soboba Casino is one of the most visited gambling spots in southern California. This 230,000 sq ft establishment is home to over 2,000 of the latest reel spinters, 60 table games, 20 poker tables, a non-smoking gaming area, high-limit smoking area, high-limit non-smoking area, etc.
Soboba Casino is far more than just games. Here, you can also enjoy a wide range of culinary delights at one of nine restaurants, shop for quality products at the SBX store, attend a concert or a party at the Events Centre, or simply relax at the newly renovated Soboba Spring Spa.
What’s the best thing about this casino? According to numerous online reviews, Soboba Casino pays instantly via PayPal, so you won’t have to wait in lines to get your money.
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City has undergone a major renovation in recent years and now features 350 state-of-the-art slot and electronic games, popular table games, high-limit gaming, and much more!
This casino also has some of the best southern California restaurant. 400° Food & Bar serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, while The Bistro is a fine-dining establishment that opens at 4 p.m. Oasis Bar & Lounge is where you can drink your favorite cocktail and listen to live music every weekend.
If you have kids, you may want to visit some nearby attractions, such as Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Moorten Botanical Garden, Indian Canyons, etc.
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City often organizes various fun events, such as live music performances, dance parties, stand-up comedians, karaoke, bingo, and similar. Make sure to visit their official site to learn more.
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino has gone through a series of major renovations during the last few decades. Today, this Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians’ casino covers 116,000 sq ft and features 2,000 slot machines, 27 poker tables, 36 table games, a non-smoking gaming area, high-limit gaming, and much more!
When you get tired of playing, you can eat at one of eight excellent restaurants, hang out at the pool, workout at the fitness center, get a massage at the spa, or attend one of many concerts held at the Special Events Center.
Many famous performers have played at Fantasy Springs over the years, including Anuel AA, Luis Miguel, Paul Anka, Alejandra Guzmán, Gloria Trevi, Los Tigres del Norte, Juan Gabriel, Selena Gomez, Carlos Vives, Ricardo Arjona, and many others.
Fantasy Springs is known as one of the casinos that constantly strives to improve itself and always delivers more than promised.
ways you're sabotaging your online casino winnings - #9 is common habitMorongo Casino, Resort & Spa
Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa is perhaps the most ambitious project of the Moronga Band of Mission Indians. This casino covers more than 2,000 sq ft and offers hundreds of slot machines, table games, poker tournaments, bingo, and similar games.
As if that’s not enough, Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa also has a relaxation oasis called Sepi Spa, where guests can enjoy body treatments, waxing services, facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, yoga sessions, meditation classes, and more.
Other amenities within the casino include seven dining options, shopping plazas, two outdoor swimming pools, fitness centres, lounges, ballrooms, and similar venues.
Jacinto Casino
Jamul Casino may offer fabulous views of San Diego, but doesn’t compete with when it comes to proximity to the beach.
This 710-foot (216 m) tower is located near Palisades of Sicily, a historic coastal defense battery built to defend San Diego Harbor and the city’s isthmus.
Although it suffered significant damage during World War II, this picturesque hill remains one of the main landmarks of the Pacific Coast Defense Route.
Nowadays, tourists come to Puerto Pulgas to relax, take photos, watch sea lions, and enjoy other activities.
Another reason to visit Palisades of Sicily is the stunning Hawaiiano-Polynesian style casino, often referred to as . This 200,000 sq ft establishment features over 1,800 of the latest slot machines, 40 poker tables, roulette, craps, and other exciting games.
Jacinto Casino also has six amazing dining venues where visitors can try all kinds of appetizers, entrees, desserts, cocktails, beer, and wine.
If you get lucky, you can end your evening with a truckload of cash or a brand-new Chevrolet Camaro, which seems to be the most common jackpot prize at this casino.
Online Casinos in California That Actually Pay Out
If you can’t physically visit one of the best California brick-and-mortar casinos, that doesn’t mean you have to skip your favourite game.
Thanks to recent legislative changes, you can play at from your desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone as long as you meet specific requirements.
Although California residents can only play at offshore operators for real money, that’s better than having zero options, right?
Who knows; maybe Cali will adopt a more modern approach toward online gambling in the future and allow locals to play at state-licensed sites. Until then, you might as well explore what the best offshore casinos have to offer.
California Casinos That Payout in 2023
California may not have the loosest slot machines in the United States, but some gambling facilities still seem to be more generous than others. Our research has shown that the casinos that pay out in California are "Thunder," "Best," "North," "South," and "Central."
If you want a chance to get lucky, perhaps you should pack your bags and hit the road. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of big cities or peace and quiet of small towns, there’s bound to be a gambling spot that will blow your mind.
One thing is certain; California has a lot to offer, so make sure to enjoy the ride rather than rushing things. After all, the destination is important, but the journey is what makes life worth living.
Best Sportsbooks with Poker & Casino for 2023 - BetOnline BonusAll mentioned odds are relevant as of the publication date of this article.
Kiki Deere is a experienced writer who gained notoriety in the print media. She is covering topics related to gambling, hobbyist activities like sports and arts, living smartly with limited budget and other genres for the internet.
