Overview
Yaamava Resort Casino, formerly known as San Manuel Casino, is a gaming destination located in Highland, California, United States. It is owned by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, an indigenous tribe recognized for its rich cultural heritage. The resort has undergone significant expansions over the years to Yaamava Casino UK cater to growing demand and diversify entertainment offerings.
History
The casino first opened its doors in 1996 as a modest gaming venue with limited amenities. Following major renovations between 2003 and 2015, San Manuel Casino was transformed into a full-fledged resort featuring multiple dining options, upscale accommodations, and extensive recreational facilities. In April 2020, the casino rebranded itself as Yaamava Resort & Casino after an upgrade program aimed at revitalizing its appearance.
Resort Overview
Located near Interstate 215 in southern California, Yaamava is approximately two miles (3 kilometers) south of Highland’s central business district and about a 20-minute drive north from the city center of San Bernardino. The complex spans over 1,600 acres and comprises several structures:
- Casino building: hosts gaming floors, restaurants, bars, live entertainment areas, and service facilities
- Yaamava Center (formerly known as the Events Pavilion): dedicated to non-gaming activities such as concerts, festivals, banquets, and meeting spaces
- Grand Hotel at Yaamava: featuring over 300 hotel rooms with multiple amenities
Gaming Floors & Venues
Yaamava Resort Casino is renowned for its array of gaming options. The casino floor encompasses various areas offering different types of games:
Table Games
Yaamava offers an assortment of table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and pai gow poker
- Poker variants include Texas Hold’em No Limit, Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better
- Players may also enjoy three-card poker and Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em
Slot Machines
The resort boasts an impressive collection of over 6,500 slots with a wide variety ranging from classic reel machines to modern video poker and progressive jackpot games
Yaamava has introduced various themed slot areas within its premises:
- Marvel Avengers: The Next Level
- Top Gun Mission Improbable
- Wheel of Fortune On Tour
Electronic Table Games
The casino provides electronic variations of popular table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat and more
This technology enables players to participate in live-action gameplay without the need for a dealer presence.
Types & Variations
Over time, Yaamava Casino has incorporated various gaming formats:
- Traditional Table Games : Classic card game offerings (blackjack, poker) alongside popular wheel games like roulette.
- Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) : Combining slot machine features with interactive elements for added user engagement.
- Poker Rooms : Private areas dedicated to various formats of competitive card play.
Accessibility & Experience
Yaamava Resort Casino strives to accommodate diverse customer preferences:
- Multiple Access Points: Two main entries serve visitors from either direction on Highway I-215.
- Valet Service & Parking Facilities: Complimentary parking lots and valets are made available for enhanced convenience.
- Enhanced Seating Areas : Comfortable seating arrangements for smokers, non-smokers and gamers needing rest.
Responsible Gaming Initiatives
Yaamava Resort Casino promotes responsible gaming practices through various programs:
- Gaming Disposition Assistance Program (GDAP) : A service providing individuals support in addressing problem gambling behaviors.
- In-game messaging : Encourages players to control their bets and maintain a balanced play session.
Legal & Regional Context
Yaamava Resort Casino, located on San Manuel Indian Land, is owned by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians according to Federal law (25 U.S.C §270). This status allows it to operate under certain jurisdictional conditions.
Since its initial opening in 1996 and through significant upgrades since then, Yaamava has developed into an entertainment hub that caters to various needs: dining choices abound with several restaurants on site; hotel options accommodate diverse tastes & preferences.

