Tucked away in the rolling foothills of Tulare County, California, Eagle Mountain Casino has become a beacon of entertainment, gaming, and culture in Central California. For more than two decades, it has served not only as a place of excitement and fortune but also as a symbol of community pride and tribal heritage. In 2023, the casino took a bold leap forward by opening a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, cementing its place as a premier gaming destination in the Golden State.
A Story Rooted in Culture and Progress
Owned and operated by the Tule River Tribe, Eagle Mountain Casino first opened its doors in 1996 on the Tule River Indian Reservation. From the start, it was more than just a gaming venue — it was a vital economic lifeline for the tribe, providing jobs, funding essential services, and building cultural preservation initiatives.
But the remote mountain location posed limitations. After years of planning and negotiation, a relocation was approved, and in May 2023, the casino opened its brand-new location near the Porterville Airport, offering easier access and greater amenities to locals and travelers alike.
The New Facility: Bigger, Bolder, Better
The new Eagle Mountain Casino spans over 100,000 square feet and features:
- 1,750+ slot machines
- 20+ table games
- A high-limit room
- A modern event center with seating for over 2,000
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- A hotel coming soon (under development)
This upgrade not only expanded the casino’s physical footprint but also transformed it into a multi-purpose entertainment hub, attracting guests from across the Central Valley and beyond.
According to reports from the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), tribal gaming in California generated $9.5 billion in revenue in 2023, with Eagle Mountain contributing significantly to the Southern California market.
A Gaming Paradise for All Players
Whether you’re a seasoned high-roller or a casual gamer looking for fun, Eagle Mountain Casino has something to offer. Their expansive gaming floor includes a wide range of slots from classic favorites to new, themed games with progressive jackpots.
The table game selection includes blackjack, three-card poker, Pai Gow, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and more — all operated by friendly, professional dealers. The casino also regularly runs slot tournaments and table game promotions, making every visit feel fresh and full of opportunity.
In 2024, the casino introduced a new loyalty rewards program called Eagle Rewards, offering guests free play, dining discounts, VIP event access, and tier-based perks.
Dining That Elevates the Experience
Beyond the gaming floor, Eagle Mountain Casino has gained praise for its culinary offerings. The flagship restaurant, River Steakhouse, serves high-end American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the prime rib, seared salmon, and handcrafted cocktails.
For more casual fare, The Acorn Deli and The Redwood Taphouse provide fast and flavorful options. From burgers and sandwiches to craft beers and signature drinks, there’s something for every palate.
Additionally, food and beverage events such as wine tastings, theme nights, and celebrity chef appearances are planned throughout the year to give guests an elevated dining experience.
Live Entertainment & Events
One of the standout features of the new facility is the Yokuts Event Center, a modern entertainment venue that hosts concerts, comedy acts, boxing events, and cultural showcases. Since its opening, the center has welcomed big-name performers including:
- Gabriel Iglesias
- Trace Adkins
- WAR
- Los Tigres del Norte
The space also hosts community events, including charity drives, holiday festivals, and cultural celebrations that honor Tule River heritage and foster stronger ties with the local population.
A Boost to the Local Economy
The relocation of Eagle Mountain Casino has had a significant economic impact on Porterville and surrounding communities. With over 400 new jobs created, the casino has become one of the largest employers in the area. Local vendors, construction firms, and hospitality providers have all benefited from the increased traffic and tourism.
City officials have praised the move, noting that Porterville’s tourism revenue increased by 18% in 2023, largely due to the casino’s relaunch and marketing efforts. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are seeing a surge in visitors, especially during weekends and event nights.
Commitment to Community and Sustainability
True to its tribal roots, Eagle Mountain Casino remains deeply committed to giving back. The Tule River Tribe uses a portion of casino revenues to fund education, healthcare, infrastructure, and cultural initiatives for tribal members.
The new casino facility was designed with eco-conscious practices in mind, including:
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Recycling programs
- Water-saving fixtures
- Sustainable landscaping with native plants
In addition, the casino regularly sponsors local schools, youth sports programs, and non-profit organizations — reinforcing its reputation as a responsible community partner.
Safety and Guest Experience
Post-pandemic, the casino has prioritized guest safety and comfort. Enhanced air filtration, regular sanitation of gaming equipment, and a smoke-free gaming area have all contributed to overwhelmingly positive guest reviews.
Online platforms such as Yelp and Google Reviews show an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, with users praising the cleanliness, courteous staff, and modern design of the new location.
One guest wrote, “I’ve been coming here for years, and the new building blew me away. It’s like Vegas came to the Valley — only with better service and less traffic.”
Looking Ahead
With plans underway to build a connected hotel and resort, Eagle Mountain Casino is poised to become a full-service destination. This expansion will likely include a spa, pool, meeting rooms, and packages for weddings, conferences, and group retreats.
Analysts expect the casino’s traffic to grow by 25% in 2025, especially with the planned launch of digital promotions, a mobile app, and new gaming tech features.
Conclusion
Eagle Mountain Casino has come a long way from its origins in the mountains. Today, it stands as a shining example of tribal entrepreneurship, cultural pride, and entertainment excellence. Whether you come to spin the reels, enjoy a steak, or catch a live concert, you’ll find more than just luck waiting for you in Porterville — you’ll find an unforgettable experience.
