San Manuel Casino is a tribal casino in Highland, California, run by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
San Manuel Casino sits in Highland, California, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles in San Bernardino County. The casino is owned and operated by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, a federally recognized tribe. Unlike commercial casinos in Nevada or other states, San Manuel operates under tribal sovereignty — meaning it follows tribal gaming law rather than state gaming law, though it does comply with federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) rules.
The casino opened in 1986 and has expanded multiple times. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The facility includes slot machines, table games, a poker room, restaurants, and a hotel. Because it is a tribal casino, the revenue goes to the tribe rather than to a state gaming commission, and the tribe uses that revenue for tribal government operations, healthcare, education, and other community services.
Key Takeaways
- San Manuel Casino is located in Highland, California, and is owned by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, a federally recognized tribe.
- The casino operates under tribal gaming law and federal IGRA rules, not California state gaming law.
- San Manuel offers slot machines, table games, a poker room, restaurants, and hotel rooms on a 24-hour basis.
- Revenue from the casino funds tribal government, healthcare, education, and community programs for the San Manuel Band.
Games and Gaming Options at San Manuel
San Manuel offers slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The slot machine floor includes hundreds of machines with different denominations and themes. Table games include blackjack, baccarat, three-card poker, and pai gow poker. The poker room runs cash games and tournaments throughout the week.
The casino does not publish exact machine counts or game lists on a public schedule, so the specific games available can change. You can call the casino directly at (909) 864-5050 to ask about current game availability or visit in person to see what is running on the day you plan to go.
Hotel, Restaurants, and Other Amenities
San Manuel has a hotel with rooms available for overnight stays. The casino also operates multiple restaurants and bars on the property, ranging from casual dining to sit-down service. There is a gift shop and other retail space within the casino building.
The casino hosts entertainment events and promotions throughout the year. These change seasonally, so checking the casino's website or calling ahead will tell you what events are scheduled during your visit. Parking is available on-site.
How Tribal Casinos Differ from State-Licensed Casinos
San Manuel operates under tribal gaming law because it is located on tribal land and run by a federally recognized tribe. This means the casino is not regulated by the California Department of Justice or the California Gambling Control Commission. Instead, it follows the tribal gaming ordinance of the San Manuel Band and complies with the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
In practical terms, this affects which games can be offered, how the casino is audited, and where revenue goes. Tribal casinos can offer games that state law might restrict, and they are not required to pay state gaming taxes. The revenue stays within the tribe's control rather than flowing to a state fund. However, tribal casinos must still meet federal standards for fairness, security, and financial reporting under IGRA.
Age Requirements and House Rules
You must be at least 21 years old to enter the gaming floor at San Manuel Casino. This is a federal requirement under IGRA and applies to all tribal casinos. You will need a valid photo ID to enter. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, or tribal ID.
The casino enforces its own house rules for conduct on the gaming floor and in other areas. These rules cover behavior at tables and machines, dress code, and use of the casino's facilities. If you are unsure about a specific rule, ask a casino employee or check the casino's website before your visit.
Responsible Gaming Resources
San Manuel Casino offers information about responsible gaming and problem gambling resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, the National Council on Problem Gambling runs a helpline at 1-800-522-4700 that is free and confidential. Many tribal casinos, including San Manuel, also display information about local and national gambling support services on their property.
The casino may offer self-exclusion programs that allow you to voluntarily ban yourself from the property for a set period. Contact the casino directly to ask about these options.
Getting to San Manuel Casino
San Manuel Casino is located at 5797 North Victoria Avenue in Highland, California. If you are driving from Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east toward San Bernardino, then follow local roads north to Highland. The drive takes about 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point.
The casino is not served by public transit, so you will need a car or ride service to reach it. Parking is free on-site. If you are traveling from out of state or staying overnight, the on-site hotel offers rooms, and the casino can provide directions from nearby airports or highways.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum bet at San Manuel Casino?
Minimum bets vary by game and table. Slot machines have different denominations starting as low as one cent on some machines. Table game minimums depend on the specific game and the table — blackjack tables may have different minimums than baccarat tables. Call the casino or ask a floor employee when you arrive to find tables or machines that match your budget.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the casino?
Outside food and drinks are typically not permitted on the gaming floor, though policies can vary by area of the casino. The casino operates restaurants and bars on-site. Ask a casino employee about the specific rules for the area you plan to visit.
Does San Manuel offer player rewards or loyalty programs?
Many tribal casinos run rewards programs that give points for gaming activity. San Manuel may offer such a program, but details change over time. Call the casino or visit in person to ask about current rewards programs and how to join.
What happens if I win a large jackpot at San Manuel?
Winnings are subject to federal tax reporting requirements. Jackpots above certain thresholds trigger IRS reporting, and the casino will provide you with tax documentation. You are responsible for reporting all gambling winnings on your federal tax return, regardless of the amount.
Is San Manuel Casino open on holidays?
San Manuel operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. However, specific events or promotions may be scheduled around holidays. Call ahead if you are planning a holiday visit to confirm hours or ask about special events.