Best California Online Casinos 2023: CA Gambling Sites

California is the most populated state in the USA. It is home to over 39 million people and has a GDP that could rival most major countries. It is astonishing, then, that California is one of the strictest states regarding online gambling laws, with no real-money betting options online for residents. However, there is still a huge range of sweepstakes casinos that Californians can enjoy and some fabulous brick-and-mortar casinos. In this California sweepstakes casino guide, we will look at all of these and see whether or not the state is likely to change its laws anytime soon. 

Our Top Recommended Online Casinos in California

California Gambling Quick Facts

A Closer Look at the Best Online Casino Sites in California

• Stake.us
• Fortune Coins
• High 5 Casino
• WOW Vegas
• Pulsz Casino
• Funrize Casino
• Betrivers.net
• TaoFortune
• NoLimitCoins Casino
• Sweeptastic

Stake.us

WSN Review Rating: 10/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 25 Stake Cash + 250,000 Gold Coins

Best for: Selection of casino games 

Stake is one of the biggest and best-known casino and sports-betting brands in the world, and Stake.us is the company’s social casino platform. Stake.us is one of the biggest and best social casinos in the states, boasting an impressive slot selection of 400 titles. 

Players will be able to take games for a sound from the likes of Hacksaw Gaming and Pragmatic Play, and they will also be able to enjoy exclusive Stake Originals slots. 

Like their main platform, Stake.us also puts a focus on crypto-payments, allowing players to buy coins using a range of cryptos. It also helps new customers get their feet under the table by offering a welcome bonus worth 25 Stake Cash and 250,000 Gold Coins. 

Pros 

• Crypto payment methods available. 
• Over 400 slots to enjoy. 
• Stylish interface that is easy to use on both mobile and desktop devices.  

Cons

• Limited live casino options. 

Fortune Coins

WSN Review Rating: 9/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 120,000 Cold Coins + 600 Fortune Coins

Best for: Welcome Bonus

Fortune Coins is a favorite of ours here at WSN. From the moment you sign up, Fortune Coins wants to make your experience as smooth as possible. It has one of the easiest sign-up processes around, and it is complemented perfectly by a welcome bonus that provides 120,000 Gold Coins and 600 Fortune Coins. 

This experience continues, with the site offering some excellent customer service options and a strong selection of online slots. It works with top developers including Relax Gaming and offers a big choice of progressive jackpots for players to enjoy. One area where the site does fall short, though, is the lack of table games. 

Unfortunately, Fortune Coins does not yet have a mobile app for Android or iOS. It does have an easy-to-use mobile site though, and the website does provide users with a helpful guide on how to create a shortcut to the site on your homepage. 

Pros 

• Excellent sign-up process and user experience. 
• Good customer support options. 
• Generous welcome bonus. 

Cons

• No mobile app.

High 5 Casino

WSN Review Rating: 9/10  ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 5 Sweep Coins, 250 Gold Coins, and 600 Diamonds

Best for: Variety of games

High 5 Casino is another big hitter in the sweepstake casino scene. The operator stands out for its excellent, easy-to-use website and its strong game collection. There are over 700 games available here, a number that dwarfs a slot of the other social casinos on this list. 

Of these 700, 500 games are slots, and 300 are developed by Pragmatic Play, a developer widely considered one of the industry’s best. 

It’s not just slots that the casino delivers. It has an excellent mobile app, ensuring players can take the games for a spin wherever they are, and it also boasts a big selection of live casino games. 

New players at High 5 Games can get their hands on 5 sweep coins, 250 gold coins, and 600 diamonds as a welcome bonus. The site also runs regular bonuses and promotions for its existing customers. 

Pros 

• Over 500 slots to enjoy. 
• A big selection of live casino games. 
• Excellent mobile app.

Cons

• Some customer support issues. 

WOW Vegas

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 30 SC on First Purchase + 4.5 SC FREE

Best for: Bonuses and Promotions

WOW Vegas is one of the newer social casinos in California, and this is made clear through its stylish website design and slick user interface. The website is a joy to use; everything is conveniently located and easy to find. The same can be said about the casino’s mobile site. Unfortunately, no mobile casino app is available at the time of writing. 

New players at WOW Vegas can get their hands on 30 Social Coins with their first purchase and five additional coins at no extra cost. 

The website is populated with over 400 games developed by the likes of Betsoft and Pragmatic Play, ensuring players have plenty of top-quality titles to enjoy. 

Pros 

• User-friendly website design and interface. 

• Over 400 slots to enjoy. 

• Regular bonuses available. 

Cons

• No live dealer options.

Pulsz Casino

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 32.3 Sweepstake Coins + 367,000 Gold Coins

Best for: Customer Support

Pulsz Casino is a major player when it comes to California social casinos. The operator is firmly established as one of the best sweepstake offerings in the country, offering a massive selection of slot games, and a good range of bonuses and promotions. 

New players at Pulsz can claim 32.3 Free Sweepstake Coins and 367,000 Gold Coins. Once you are signed up, you will also be able to claim daily log-in bonuses, ensuring that your account is topped up. 

There are also excellent customer service options, with players able to reach out to the team 24/7  with any queries. There is also a really detailed help section that can be used if you don’t want to reach out to the team. 

As for gaming, the lack of table and live casino options is disappointing, but the slot selection more than makes up for it. The catalog is nicely organised, with players able to switch between jackpot slots, Megaways slots, and several other features. You will find titles from some of the industry’s biggest names including NetEnt and Relax Gaming among others. 

Pros 

• Generous welcome bonus and daily bonuses. 
• Brilliant slot collection. 
• 24/7 Customer support.

Cons: 

• Limited live casino options. 

Funrize Casino

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 125,000 Free Coins

Best for: Mobile app

Funrize burst onto the California social casino scene in 2022 and instantly became a popular destination for residents. 

Its novel premise allows customers to access the site in two modes - Tournament Mode and Promotional Mode. 

Each mode has its own coins, with Tournament Coins being able to be purchased. The games remain the same in both modes, though there is the chance to trade Promotional Coins for prizes in Promotional Mode. 

If you’re going to use the word promotional in one of your mode names, then you need a good range of promotions to back it up. Thankfully, Funrize delivers in this department.  The Funrize Bonus Wheel and Jackpot are excellent ways to boost your account, and there are also regular tournaments to win prizes. 

Unfortunately, the selection of slots is limited compared to other casinos but, hopefully, this is something that will change in the future. 

The casino also helps new players settle in with a bonus of up to 125,000 coins. 

Pros 

• Generous welcome bonus. 
• Two modes available for play, with plenty of prizes to be won. 
• Brilliant mobile app.

Cons 

• Limited slot selection. 
• No e-wallet options.

BetRivers.Net

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: $20 Daily Virtual Credits

Best for: Live casino

BetRivers is a major name in the US betting market, with the operator running popular casino and sports betting sites throughout the states. 

BetRivers.net is the operator’s social casino offering. Given the popularity of the company behind it, it should be no surprise this is one of the best free-to-play casinos in the Golden State. 

It works with some of the best names in the industry, including the likes of NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and Red Tiger Gaming, among others. 

It is also home to one of the best live casino offerings in the social casino space, with the operator offering live games from Evolution, including Crazy Time, Dream Catcher, and more. 

Players can claim $20 in virtual credits to help them settle into the casino, while daily log-in bonuses help to keep the account topped up. 

Pros 

• Slots from some of the best developers in the industry. 
• Fantastic live-casino section. 
• Lots of banking options.

Cons: 

• Limited customer support options. 
• No mobile app.

TaoFortune

WSN Review Rating: 9/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 88,800 Tao Coins

Best for: Website Design

TaoFortune is a modern, stylish online social casino becoming increasingly popular with Californians. 

If you want a website that offers different titles from all the big developers, then it is an excellent choice. There are 400 titles here, most of which are developed in-house and feature new riffs on popular real-money slot themes. 

New players can get their hands on 88,000 Tao Coins as part of a welcome package. There is also a daily Magic Box bonus, which reveals a different prize daily to customers. The site also keeps things interesting with a quest-inspired bonus. 

The site scored highly with us for its intuitive interface and mobile-friendly design, which we would like to see used for a mobile app in the future. 

Pros 

• Excellent website design. 

• Unique slot selection. 

• Good customer support options. 

Cons: 

• No mobile app. 

• No live casino games. 

NoLimitCoins Casino

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 100,000 Gold Coins

Best for: Daily Features and Bonuses

NoLimitCoins is one of the younger social casinos in California, but it has managed to stand out for a number of reasons. Firstly, it runs on the same platform as Tao Casino, ensuring a modern and user-friendly experience. 

You will find a selection of lesser-known slots in its catalog, including the likes of Big Catch Bonanza and Book of Nile, many of which have taken inspiration from real-money slots. 

The site really excels with its daily promotions and bonuses. Instead of a daily log-in bonus, there is the Lucky Wheel, which provides players with the chance to win big bonuses each day. There are also regular tournaments to enjoy. 

The customer support on the site is excellent, with 24/7 live chat on hand to help with issues. However, we would like to see a real FAQ section on the site to save some time. 

Pros 

• Well-designed website and platform. 
• Unique daily bonuses. 
• Excellent live-chat options.

Cons: 

• Limited games in comparison to some competitors. 

• Poor FAQ section. 

Sweeptastic

WSN Review Rating: 8/10 ⭐

Welcome Bonus: 27,777 Lucky Coins and 2 Sweeps Coins

Best for: Crypto payments

Sweeptastic is a new player in the social casino market in California. Don’t let its youth fool you, though, because the site has a strong selection of around 400 slots and games. It works with well-known developers like Belatra, Booming Games, and BGaming to provide players with plenty of options. You can also enjoy classic table games despite no available live casino options. 

The site is a popular choice among crypto-enthusiasts, with the operator allowing users to buy Lucky Coins and Sweep Coins using a plethora of popular cryptocurrencies. Before you purchase any coins, though, you can get your hands on a welcome bonus worth 27,777 Lucky Coins and 2 Sweeps Coins.

The lack of a mobile app is disappointing, but the mobile site is easy to use and does make up for this. 

Pros 

• Good choice of crypto options. 
• Strong selection of table games. 
• Big welcome offer. 

Cons

• Daily log-in bonus does not feature Sweeps Coins. 
• No mobile app available. 

How We Rated the Top California Online Casino Sites

At WSN, we pride ourselves on the quality of our research and expertise. Our dedicated team of casino writers has years of experience in the gambling industry, and we spend hours researching all of the casinos we review. We follow strict guidelines when it comes to reviews, and we are always honest about our opinions. We would never recommend a casino we wouldn’t use ourselves. We review each casino based on the following criteria: 

Bonuses & Promotions: Bonuses and promotions are a major part of the online casino experience. While social casinos may not allow you to play with real money, there are still plenty of bonuses and promotions for customers to take advantage of, and these are always taken into account and evaluated when we review any sweepstake casino. 

Games catalog: One of the most important aspects of an online casino experience is the selection of games. While sweepstake casinos do not always have the same number of games as their real-money counterparts, there is still plenty of quality on offer, with many of the industry’s top developers now working with sweepstakes and social casino brands. 

Banking: A casino can offer as many games as it wants, but if you can not purchase coins easily, then you are probably not going to use the site. We test out the banking methods of all of the casinos we review to ensure that players have a smooth experience when attempting to purchase coins and cash in prizes. 

Safety and security: There is nothing more important when gambling online than safety and security. We have checked that all of the operators we review have the appropriate licensing and are up to speed with all of the latest industry standards. We also regularly blacklist casinos that do not meet our standards. 

Customer support: We will always contact the customer support team of every casino we review to make sure that they are responsive and knowledgeable. The availability of these teams is also important, and we always let our readers know if there are any customer support issues. 

Why You Should Trust Us

WSN prides itself on providing in-depth, well-researched casino reviews. Our team of writers consists of some of the internet’s leading casino and iGaming experts, and each and every one of us values our place within the industry. 

Our reviews are based on our personal experiences, and we always provide our readers with an honest assessment of the casinos we use. If we do not like what an operator has to offer, we will let you know exactly why that is.

Is Online Gambling Legal in California?

No. At the time of writing, online gambling is still illegal in California. California is America’s most populated state, and the potential for online gambling there is huge. Unfortunately, the state is home to some of the most restrictive online gambling laws, and despite some pro-industry-lobbyists attempting to change this, it feels as though change is still a long way off. Until there are any changes, residents will have to stick with sweepstakes and social casinos.

How Do Sweepstake Casinos Work?

Sweepstakes and social casinos allow players to enjoy online casino games without using any real money. Instead, the casinos use different virtual currencies, coins, and tokens. In most cases, these currencies are split into two types, Sweepstake Coins (SC) and Gold Coins (GC), though the names may be occasionally altered. 

Your account will be topped up for free by the casino, but Sweepstake Coins are typically more premium, and you will be given a smaller amount. Sweepstake Coins can be traded for prizes or cash, while Gold Coins are purely for fun. Most social casinos will also allow you to purchase packets of Gold Coins, while Sweepstake Coins are typically won through play or bonuses. 

These casinos are legal in almost every state in America, though, there may be some that do not allow sweepstake coin usage for prizes. The good news is that these casinos all offer the same games as standard real-money casinos, including slots, live casino, table games, and more. 

How to Get Started Playing Sweepstakes Casinos in California

Getting started at a sweepstakes casino is a very simple process. It is largely similar to registering with a real-money casino and can be completed by following these steps: 

Registration: The first thing you will need to do is register. You will usually find the register/join option located somewhere on the top or side-menus. Registration is quick and easy. All you need to do is enter your name, date of birth, address, and some other personal information. Some sweepstakes casinos will now allow you to sign-up using your Facebook or Google accounts, which makes the process even easier. 

Verification: Casinos will have some sort of verification process to confirm your identity and your residence. To complete this check, you will need to submit a form of government or state-approved ID and proof of address. A recent utility statement or bank letter will usually suffice. 

Claim your welcome bonus: Of course, when you sign up, be sure to claim your welcome bonus. All of the casinos we have mentioned in this California sweepstake casino guide offer generous welcome bonuses for new customers. In most cases, the bonus is claimed during the sign-up process. Make sure you double-check for any bonus codes before you sign up. 

Getting your coins: When you have finished the sign-up process, your account will be open and topped up with Gold Coins. You may also be given a number of Sweepstake Coins, depending on which casino you have signed up with. This is also the best time to purchase any additional coins, with most operators having offers in place for new customers. 

You’re ready to play: Your account is verified and you have coins to play with, so now it’s time to find your favorite slot game, load them up, and hit the spin button. 

When Will California Legalize Real Money Online Casinos? 

It doesn’t seem likely that California is going to legalize real money online casinos anytime soon. The state is one of the strictest regarding online gambling, and any talk of legalizing it is often shut down quickly. 

In August 2023, no submissions were made to the California Attorney General’s Office (COAG) regarding sports betting or online gambling, and it seems unlikely that there will be any major changes on this front until the next election. 

The state’s stance on online gambling is unlikely to change in that time, and online betting and casinos are not likely to feature heavily as part of any electoral campaign. 

What Online Casinos to Expect in California?

California is the most populated state in America, and it is also the most wealthy. As such, the potential for online casinos in the state is endless, and if the market were ever to be legalized, you could be sure that all big-name players would want a slice of that pie. 

Major names like Stake and BetRivers already have a presence there through their sweepstake casinos, and the likes of BetMGM and ESPN would also want to have their presence felt in the state. 

Several big names, including FanDuel and DraftKings have put money into campaigns to attempt to get online sports betting legalized in California, so you could be sure that they would want to get involved if online casinos were ever legalized. 

Land-Based Casinos in California

Jackson Rancheria - Jackson 

Jackson Rancheria is one of the largest casinos in California. It is a family-owned tribal casino that is home to over 1,700 slot machines and 36 table games. It also boasts a luxury onsite hotel and a selection of dining options and live entertainment. 

Pechanga Resort Casino - Temecula

Pechanga Resort Casino is one of the biggest casinos in all of California. Another tribal casino, Pechango Resort offers over 4,000 slot machines, 154 table games, and 54 active poker tables, one of the state’s biggest offerings. It also has an onsite hotel and a range of dining options.  

San Manuel Casino - Highland

This 300,000 sq/ft is one of the biggest in Southern California. It is home to 4,800 slot machines and 130 table games. It is open 24/7 and provides guests with a selection of bars, restaurants, and live entertainment. 

Sycuan Casino Resort - San Diego

Sycuan Casino Resort holds the title of being the oldest casino in San Diego. The casino opened its doors in 1983 and has been a staple of the city’s nightlife ever since. The casino is home to over 2,800 slot machines, 50 table games, 17 poker tables, and an array of entertainment options. 

Table Mountain - Friant

Nestled away in Friant, Fresno County, is Table Mountain Casino. This smaller venue is home to over 2,000 slot machines and a small selection of 10 table games. It is also home to several entertainment options and a golf course. 

Mono Wind Casino - Auberry 

Mono Wind Casino is a rather unique casino in that it is located inside a gas station. Don’t let this fool you, though, the venue is still home to 349 class II slot games and is open 24/7, providing a convenient gambling option, and a chance to spin some reels while you fill your tank. 

Tachi Palace - Leemore 

Tachi Palace is a smaller, more remote casino venue that provides a nice chance for a quiet getaway. The venue is home to over 2,000 slots and has 24 table games available. 

Eagle Mountain Casino - Porterville

Eagle Mountain Casino is operated by the Tule River Indian Tribe and it prides itself on putting a focus on the people of Porterville. It is a local casino with 1,200 slots, 10 table games, and three poker tables. There is also a selection of four restaurants and bars to enjoy. 

Agua Caliente - Rancho Mirage

The Agua Caliente in Rancho Mirage is located in the Palm Springs area. Surrounded by desert and exotic scenery, it is the perfect escape for those looking for a slice of gambling action. The casino is home to 1,400 slot machines and has an impressive collection of 39 table games and 20 active poker tables. 

Agua Caliente - Palm Srpings

Another Agua Caliente site in Palm Springs. This one is slightly smaller than the one in Rancho Mirage, offering 1,000 slot machines and 29 table games. It is host to a selection of brilliant dining options and the Cascade Lounge is an excellent place to spend an evening. 

Augustine Casino - Coachella 

Coachella may be known for its iconic festival, but it is also an excellent area for gambling. The Augustine Casino in Coachella is a local attraction offering 800 slot machines and 10 table games. It is open 24/7 and offers a small selection of restaurants and bars. 

Soboba Casino - Los Angeles

Located in San Jacinto, just outside Los Angeles, Soboba Casino is a popular attraction in the area. It is home to 2,000 slot machines and a good selection of table games. It also has an excellent selection of bars and restaurants and hosts regular live entertainment shows. 

Chumash Casino Resort - Santa Ynez 

Chumash Casino is found in Santa Ynez and is a popular destination for residents of LA and Southern California. You will find over 2,300 slot machines to enjoy, as well as a strong collection of 60 table games, including roulette, blackjack, and other old favorites. 

Fantasy Springs - Indio 

Fantasy Springs describes itself as ‘a world of elegance, exciting ambience and good luck’, and it lives up to that billing. The popular destination boasts a slot selection of over 2,000 games strong, while also offering 40 table games for visitors to enjoy. 

Havasu Landing - Havasu Lake 

Havasu Landing is one of the most picturesque venues in the state. It is found down on the Colorado River and offers a unique gambling experience. It only has a small selection, with 248 slot machines and 4 table games, but it is a casino that is just as much about the experience as it is about the gambling. 

Tortoise Rock - Twentynine Palms 

Another casino in a stunning California location is Tortoise Rock. This is located in the Joshua Tree National Park and is home to a small selection of 490 slot machines and five table games. It also has two active poker tables if you want to put your poker skills to the test. 

Winnedumah Winns - Redding

Winnedumah Winns is one of the smallest offerings in the state. It is another gas-station venue with a limited selection of just 94 games and no tables. While it is not the most memorable, it can still provide an option if you want to take a gas break. 

Lucky Bear - Hoopa

The Lucky Bear Casino is operated by the Hoopa Valley Tribe and is one of the smaller venues in the state. It is 5,000 sq/ft and offers 90 slot machines. 

Desert Rose - Alturas

Another small venue is the Desert Rose Casino in Alturas. It is just 6,100 sq/ft and offers 150 table games. It also has more limited hours than a lot of casinos in the area. 

Diamond Mountain Casino & Brewey - Susanville

The Diamond Mountain Casino & Brewery is one of the state’s lesser known venues. Nestled away in the mountain town of Susanville, it has actually been in operation since 1996, making it one of the oldest in the state. It is a small venue with 200 slot machines, four tables games, and two poker tables. There is a brewery attached, which has become an attraction itself. 

Elk Valley Casino - Crescent City 

Elk Valley Casino is a  32,000 sq/ft venue that is home to just 320 slot machines and 10 table games. It is a smaller venue, but it is one of the most beautiful locations in the state and is worth a visit if you are exploring the area. 

Lucky 7 Casino - Smith River 

Lucky 7 Casino is another venue located on the state’s picturesque coast. It is home to a modest collection of 330 slot machines and has an 87-room hotel for guests who plan on spending some time in the area. 

Pit River - Burney

Pit River is a small rural casino that is found hidden away in the national forest of Burney. It is home to just 150 slot games and no table games but is in one of the most stunning locations in the state. 

Rain Rock Casino - Yreka

Rain Rock is controlled by the Karuk Tribe and offers a solid selection of games for residents in Yreka. It is 36,000 sq/ft, making it a fairly small venue, and is home to 349 slot games. The Rain Rock Restaurant and Express offer dining options for guests. 

Redwood Casino - Klamath 

The Redwood Casino is controlled by the Yurok Tribe. It has a limited casino offering, with just 99 slot machines to choose from. However, it makes up for this with a big selection of restaurants, an on-site pool, and a fitness center. 

Rolling Hills Casino - Corning

Rolling Hills Casino is a mid-sized casino with a good selection of options for guests. There are 800 slot machines to enjoy, as well as 12 table games. Patrons can also enjoy regular live entertainment and visit the Carlions Event Center. 

Bear River Casino - Loleta

Bear River is one of several casinos operating in the North West of the state. It is a small venue at 13,060 sq/ft, and it offers just 331 slot machines and 16 table games. It does make up for this with its excellent hotel and spa service, with 104 luxury rooms available. 

The Heights Casino - Trinidad 

Another tribal casino in the North of the state is The Heights, also known as Cher-Ae Heights. It is 50,000 sq/ft and has 300 slot machines to choose from. It provides plenty of entertainment options, including a bingo hall with daily games. 

Blue Lake Casino - Sacramento 

Blue Lake Casino is a popular venue in Sacramento. It has 800 slot machines, 15 table games, and five poker tables on its casino floor and has a 102 luxury hotel for guests. 

Colusa Casino - Sacramento 

Colusa Casino is a popular venue for players in the Sacramento and Bay Area, and it offers a big selection of games and entertainment options. There are over 1,200 slot machines on site, as well as 10 table games and three poker tables. The venue is also home to a luxury hotel and regular entertainment. 

Thunder Valley - Lincoln 

When it comes to luxurious casino venues, the Thunder Valley in Lincoln is one of the best in the state. The venue is 144,500 sq/ft and hosts a massive collection of 3,000 slot machines, 114 table games, and 27 poker tables. It is also home to one of the most luxurious hotels you will find at any California casino. 

Chicken Ranch Casino - Jamestown

Chicken Ranch Casino is a small venue at just 30,000 sq/ft. It has a limited number of slots, with just 300 available, and a small number of restaurants and bars on site. 

Cache Creek - Brooks

Cache Creek is one of the biggest casinos in Northern California. Gamblers can enjoy 2,360 slot machines and have their pick of 108 table games. It also has a fine selection of food and drinking options, with regular entertainment shows to keep guests busy. 

Harrah’s Northern California Casino - Ione

Harrah’s is one of the most popular casino chains in America, with venues in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and, of course, Ione, California. The casino is 71,000 sq/ft of gambling fun, with 950 slots for visitors to spin and 20 table games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, to enjoy. 

Konocti Vista - Lakeport

If you’re looking to get down by the lakes and take a spin, then Konocti Vista is the ideal destination. The casino can be found on the shores of Clear Lake. It has 325 slot machines to entertain guests for the day. It also offers overnight options as well as entertainment and on-site restaurants. 

Sherwood Valley Casino - Willits

Sherwood Valley is one of the smallest venues in California. The casino is just 5,000 sq/ft and has 222 slot machines. It provides a nice roadside break for players but offers very little else. 

Twin Pine Casino - Middletown

Twin Pine is a medium-sized casino found in Middletown. It’s a 25,000 sq/ft venue with 500 slot machines and eight table games. There is also one poker table that is regularly in use. 

Black Oak Casino - Tuolumne

The Black Oak Casino in Tuolumne is one of the most respected and popular casinos in California. The venue covers an impressive 50,000 sq/ft and has 1,300 slots and 24 tables to choose from. It has a 132 hotel, with golf options, a selection of restaurants, and regular entertainment. 

Red Hawk - Placerville 

Red Hawk Casino is controlled by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. The casino is very much rooted in the traditions of the tribe, with a unique design and plenty of individual touches. It has 2,190 games to choose from and 75 table games. 

Coyote Valley Casino - Redwood Valley 

Coyote Valley Casino in Redwood Valley is a modestly sized casino that has been on the map since 1994. It is 10,000 sq/ft and it offers a selection of around 250 slot machines. There is also a range of 10 table games for those who want a break from spinning the reels. 

Feather Falls Casino - Oroville 

Feather Falls is a fun venue that you will find in Oroville, North California. The site is modestly sized at 11,000 sq/ft, but it boasts an impressive menu of 1,000 slot machines, a small selection of restaurants, and regular live entertainment and shows. 

Gold Country Casino - Oroville 

Another popular destination in Oroville is the Gold Country Casino. This is the biggest venue in the area, measuring at an impressive 60,000 sq/ft. There are 950 slots to keep players entertained and on-site hotel and other luxury services. 

Garcia River Casino - Point Arena 

Garcia River is a small venue found in Point Arena. It is just 4,800 sq/ft. It is definitely a day venue, with 200 slot machines and just two bars and restaurants to enjoy, both of which are owned by the casino itself. 

Hidden Oaks Casino - Covelo 

Hidden Oaks is one of the smallest venues in the state. Hidden away in Covelo, it has just 104 slot machines to enjoy and has a solitary cafe to provide food and drink. 

Red Fox Casino - Laytonville

The Red Fox Casino in Laytonville has very little to offer outside of a quick slot machine break. It is a tiny venue of just 3,600 sq/ft, with 75 slot machines and nothing else on offer. 

River Rock Casino -  Geyersville 

River Rock Casino in Geyersville is a brilliant venue that gives players over 1,100 slot machines to play. The venue holds regular live concerts and is one of the most modern casinos in the area. 

Robinson Rancheria Casino - Nice 

Don’t let the location of this casino deceive you, this is not located in the South of France. This small area in Lake County is just as stunning, though, and the casino makes a great day activity for those exploring. A hotel with 48 rooms is also available once you have explored the small selection of around 300 slot machines. 

Barona Casino - San Diego

The Barona Casino is one of the hottest casino venues in California. The site is 300,000 sq/ft and has over 2,250 slot machines for players to spin. There is also a strong selection of 75 table games including roulette and blackjack, and 15 active poker tables. There is also a big choice of restaurants, and an 18-hole golf course on site. 

Casino Pauma - San Diego 

Casino Pauma is a small venue that manages to pack in a big choice of slot machines. The site is 35,000sq/ft and players have 1,000 slot machines to enjoy. There are no poker tables here but there is a small number of table games. 

Golden Acorn Casino - San Diego

Golden Acorn Casino in San Diego measures at 40,000 sq/ft, and that area is largely dedicated to gambling. You will find a very small selection of restaurants here, but the focus is mostly on gambling. There are 750 slots to play and 20 table games for you to try your luck. 

Harrah’s Casino Southern California - San Diego 

Harrah’s second venue in the state is located in San Diego and is one of California’s most popular destinations. Harrah’s knows what gamblers are looking for - providing over 1,750 slots, 59 table games, and 12 poker tables. It also brings some of the glitz of Vegas to Southern California with a selection of live entertainment and shows. 

Jamul Casino - San Diego 

Jamul Casino is located just outside of San Diego and it can make a great break for the bright lights of the city. It measures 200,000 sq/ft and is packed with 1,600 slots and 43 tables. There is plenty to do other than gambling, with an array of restaurants, bars, and live entertainment. 

Morogno Casino & Hotel - Cabazon

If you find yourself in Cabazon, then the Morogno Casino & Hotel should be a priority visit. The 148,000 sq/foot venue has a little bit of something for everyone, with 2,700 slot machines, 60 table games, and 13 poker tables. There is also a plethora of food, drink, and entertainment options, including the casino’s nightclub. 

Pala Casino - Pala 

The Pala Casino is found in the Pala Reservation in San Diego County, and it is one of the biggest casinos in the area. It is a 90,000 sq/ft property, with 2,250 slot machines for visitors to try their chances on. There are also an impressive 84 tables hosting games, and plenty of entertainment options. 

Quechan Casino - Winterhaven

When it comes to big casinos in California, Quechan in Waterhaven is right up there. The 297,00 sq/ft venue offers one of the best all-around gambling experiences in the Golden State. There are 935 slot machines to enjoy in a location that is packed with restaurants, bars, and other amenities. 

Red Earth Casino - Thermal 

Red Earth is a smaller venue that is owned by the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. You will only find class II slot machines at the venue, with just 399 available. There is also a small bar and grill on site. 

Valley View Casino - San Diego 

Valley View is a popular casino in San Diego County. The 90,000 sq/ft tribal venue has 2,000 slot machines, as well as a range of food and drink options and regular entertainment shows. There is also a 108-room hotel on-site with a swimming pool and other amenities. 

Viejas Casino - Alpine 

If you find yourself on a break in Alpine, then Viejas Casino is an excellent choice of accommodation. The 133,000 sq/ft venue is home to a spectacular hotel, and a casino floor full of 2,000 slot machines and 35 table games. This is also a popular destination for bingo players in the state. 

San Pablo Lytton Casino - San Pablo 

The San Pablo Lytton Casino is an excellent choice of venue if you are in the San Pablo area. The casino is home to over 1,000 slots, and there are also table and poker options on-site. Bingo is also popular with visitors to the venue. 

Graton Casino - Rohnert Park

Graton Casino is one of the biggest venues in all of California. It measures in at a whopping 317,750 sq/ft and offers a modern casino experience to everyone who steps foot through its doors. With over 3,000 slot machines, 14 table games, and 18 poker tables, there are more than enough gambling options to keep guests busy. 

California Online Casino Bonus Codes

Residents of California can get their hands on a big selection of sweepstakes casino bonuses and promotions. All the casinos we have explored offer players welcome bonuses, and most of them will also run regular bonuses for existing customers. In many cases you will need to use a bonus code to get these bonuses. 

The most common type of bonus at a social casino is a daily log-in bonus. These give accounts a boost when they log-in to play each day. These do not tend to require bonus codes. However, more limited promotions or discounts on coin purchases may require a code. 

At WSN, we endeavor to find the best bonus codes for all of our customers. As such, you should be sure to check in with us regularly to see if there are any new codes that can be used at sweepstake casinos in California. 

What Casino Apps Are Available in California?

Players can also access sweepstakes and social casinos on the move. All of the social casinos we have explored in this California casinos guide offer mobile versions that can be accessed using mobile browsers and are supported on Android and iOS. 

Several of the casinos also offer mobile casino apps. Stake.us, Pulse Casino, High 5 Casino, and more offer mobile apps that are convenient to use and can be downloaded for free from the App Store and Google Play Store. 

With sweepstake casinos becoming more popular in California, you can expect more of these to enter the market over the next few years. 

Popular Casino Games to Expect in California

Players at online sweepstake casinos in California will have a big selection of online casino games to choose from. Let’s take a look at the most common types of games you will find at social casinos in California. 

Slots 

Slots are by far the most popular type of games you will find at California online casinos. Whether it’s standard video slots, progressive jackpots, Megaways slots, or mobile slots, you will find a little bit of something for everyone. 

Online casinos in California tend to attract the biggest names in the iGaming industry so you will find titles from all of the industry giants, including the likes of NetEnt, Relax Gaming, Nolimit City, Pragmatic Play, and more. 

Blackjack

No online casino would be complete without some blackjack games. Blackjack is one of the most common game types you will find at sweepstakes casinos in California. It is not just standard blackjack you will find either, with different versions of the game being available at casinos throughout the state. 

Roulette

Roulette is also one of the most popular games you will find at top social casinos in California. Like blackjack, you will find different game variations, including European Roulette, American Roulette, French Roulette, and more. 

Poker

If you want to test your poker skills, then online casinos in California are the place to do it. You will find popular variations of the classic game including Texas Hold’Em, Pai Gow, Seven Card, Stud, and more. The majority of these games will be video poker but some may provide you with the chance to test your skills against other poker players. 

Live Casino 

Live casino gives players the chance to enjoy the thrills and spills of real casinos from the comfort of their desktop or mobile device. You will find live casino content from the likes of Evolution, Pragmatic Play, and more at casinos in California. Enjoy live versions of popular games like roulette and blackjack, as well as live game-shows and money-wheel games like Crazy Time and Monopoly Live. 

Instant-Win

Instant-win games are also extremely popular with Californians. The most popular types of instant-win games are bingo and scratch cards. 

History of Online Gambling in California

The history of online gambling in California is one rife with conflict and gridlock. The idea of legalizing online gambling in the state has been around for some time, with some of the earliest attempts coming in the early 2000s. 

One of the biggest roadblocks has been the presence of tribal casinos in the state. These hold considerable political sway, and they believe that the presence of online casinos would damage their profit margins. 

This argument has gone back and forth, with other parties also having their say on the presence of online gambling in the state. As of 2023, it does not look as though any sort of conclusion is going to be met, with online gambling for real money in California still feeling like it is not happening any time soon. 

Casinos to Avoid in California

As such a big state, it is no surprise that California attracts a lot of unlicensed and questionable operators. Casinos like Indio Casino, Casino-X, Cats Eye Casino, Club Dice, and more have all had issues reported by players in the state. We would recommend checking our detailed casino reviews here at WSN before you commit to using any casinos in California. 

Responsible Gambling in California

California provides plenty of support for anyone who feels as though their gambling habits are becoming a problem. The California Department of Public Health has a dedicated office for problem gambling where you can reach out for support 24/7. The service provides talk, text, and online chat options. 

You can talk with a counselor by calling 1-800-Gambler, text a counselor by messaging the word SUPPORT to 53342, or chat with one online at 800GAMBLER.chat. 

The California Council on Problem Gambling also provides similar, around-the-clock services to help problem gamblers. You can also find information by visiting the CA Lottery Website. 

The state also runs several self-exclusion schemes in conjunction with tribal casinos. 

Final Verdict

California is the most populous state in the US, and the calls for looser online gambling regulations will continue to cry out. Until any changes are made though, residents still have access to an excellent selection of sweepstakes and social casinos. It is also home to some of the most extravagant casinos in the country outside of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. The casinos we have explored in this guide all provide an excellent free-to-play experience, and we are more than happy to recommend them to our readers.