Located in Highland, California, Yaamava Resort & Casino is a popular entertainment destination offering various games, amenities, and services to its patrons. The casino’s name “Yaamava” translates to “Where the Sun Sets” in the Serrano language, reflecting its connection with Native American heritage.

History and Ownership

The current facility was opened in 2003 as San Manuel Casino under the ownership of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Over time, it has undergone significant expansions, including a major renovation completed in 2021 that added new amenities such as gaming areas, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.

Facilities and Services

Yaamava Yaamava Resort & Casino boasts an extensive range of facilities catering to diverse interests:

  • Gaming Floor : Spanning over 200,000 square feet, this is the primary attraction at Yaamava. Visitors can enjoy a variety of slot machines (both classic and high-tech games), table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and poker, as well as bingo sessions.

  • Hotels : On-site accommodations are provided through two hotel towers: The Summit Hotel, a luxurious tower with upscale amenities, and the lower-cost Yaamava Casino & Resorts’ second property under the name of San Manuel itself which provides budget-friendly options.

    Additionally, several dining options including restaurants like Five50 Steakhouse; Bistro 56 for gourmet meals; Kō’s Asian Fusion Cuisine offering international dishes; The Serrano Buffet for a mix of cuisines and more casual establishments such as food courts or grab-and-go services.

  • Entertainment Venues : Yaamava features various live performance venues like the Star Pavilion Amphitheater hosting concerts, comedy acts, theater productions, along with comedy clubs within its complex.

  • Other Amenities : A luxury spa called Zenya for relaxation; state-of-the-art fitness centers; meeting spaces for corporate events or conferences.

Types of Games

The casino offers a comprehensive gaming portfolio including:

  1. Slot Machines

    • Classic three-reel slots
    • Video slots with modern graphics and themes
    • Progressive jackpot games where players can win large sums by matching specific combinations on reels
  2. Table Games : Such as:

    • Blackjack (multiple variations)
    • Craps (American, European versions)
    • Roulette (American, European)
    • Baccarat
    • Poker tournaments and games

Legal and Regional Context

As a tribal casino, Yaamava operates under the sovereignty of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The tribe has jurisdiction over its land in accordance with federal Indian gaming laws.

  • Age Restriction : Visitors must be at least 18 years old to participate in any form of gambling.
  • Identification Requirements : Patrons are required to show valid government-issued identification upon entering the casino area.
  • Security and Surveillance : Yaamava has robust security measures including cameras, electronic monitoring systems, and law enforcement presence on site.

Free Play and Non-Monetary Options

While most games require real money for play, there is an opportunity to try some games free before wagering.

Free Play

Some slot machines are designated as “free play” machines allowing visitors to test the game with fictional chips that can’t be cashed out.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

  • Convenient Location : Yaamava is easily accessible for those in Southern California.
  • Variety of Games and Activities : From slot machines to live music, there’s something for everyone.
  • Accommodating Services : Wide range of amenities such as dining options, hotels and relaxation spots.

Limitations:

  1. Dependence on Personal Discretion : Since visitors can easily get drawn into playing games more frequently than desired due to their nature gambling facilities pose risks associated with potential for excessive consumption.

Yaamava Resort & Casino is an expansive gaming destination offering entertainment for various interests, backed by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ sovereignty.