Billy Barker Casino Hotel Review

Nestled by the Fraser River, this casino is part of a storied gaming tradition. But does the Billy Barker Casino Hotel still deserve a spot on your must-visit list today?

Our expert team thoroughly examines this historic casino, providing gaming insights, player feedback, and a detailed competitor comparison.

Billy Barker Casino Hotel Ratings

Table of Contents

• How We Evaluate and Rate Billy Barker Casino Hotel
• Slot Machines – 5/5
• Casino Games – 0/5
• Staff & Service – 5/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
• Player Feedback – 4.3/5
• Operator – 4/5
• Exploring the Rivals of Billy Barker Casino Hotel
• Barker Casino Hotel Pros and Cons
• Why You Should Consider Visiting Billy Barker Casino Hotel

How We Evaluate and Rate Billy Barker Casino Hotel

We personally visit each casino to ensure our reviews are based on authentic, real-life experiences. This allows us to provide you with all the knowledge you need to choose the right casino for you.

Our Evaluation Process for Billy Barker Casino Hotel

• Date of visit: 08/17/2024
• Time of visit: 3 PM – 10 PM
• Initial bankroll: C$100
• What we played: Slots
• Final bankroll: C$136
• Next visit: 08/16/2025

What we looked at

Our in-depth casino reviews examine both the tangible and the experiential aspects of the venue.

Objectively, we look for features like progressive jackpots, while from a subjective standpoint, we evaluate the casino's ambiance and mood.

What we found

Slot Machines – 5/5

The slot machine selection at Billy Barker Casino Hotel might be smaller compared to other places, but the variety is impressive with numerous progressive jackpots and bets starting as low as C$0.01.

Slot Games We Explored at Billy Barker Casino Hotel

One of our go-to jackpot games was 88 Fortunes.

We also enjoyed some timeless options like TwinWin and Ancient Dragon, and couldn't resist a spin on Bally’s Black & White Double Jackpot because it still features a classic lever.

We wrapped up our evening trying to hit jackpots on Wheel of Fortune Cash Link and BC Gold.

How Many Slot Machines Can Be Found at Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

There are approximately 140 slot machines available at Billy Barker Casino Hotel.

Do the slot machines accept coins?

Unfortunately, slot machines accept only cash, paper vouchers, and Encore Rewards cards.

Slot machine providers

• Aristocrat
• IGT
• Bally
• Konami

Local progressive jackpots

Several of the slot games at Billy Barker Casino Hotel offer progressive jackpots.

Casino Games – 0/5

Previously, Billy Barker Casino Hotel had some gaming tables hidden in the back, but during our visit, only slots were present.

In its heyday, blackjack, roulette, and poker were on offer, and we hope to see a revival of these table games soon.

Staff & Service – 5/5

Food & Drinks

The hotel restaurant is open daily, serving both breakfast and a full menu. Breakfast is available between 8 AM and 11 AM.

Both menus are extensive, providing a wide array of choices. On Sundays, you can indulge in a breakfast buffet.

We found the prices reasonable, with most dishes under C$20, and the portions were very satisfying.

Additional dining venues, including bars, are also present within the hotel.

Opening times

• Sun – Mon: 8 AM – 2 PM
• Tues – Thurs: 8 AM – 8 PM
• Fri – Sat: 8 AM – 9 PM

Tips at Billy Barker Casino Hotel: What's Standard?

In British Columbia, a typical tip ranges from 15 to 20 percent.

Are Complimentary Drinks Available at Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

Guests playing casino games are offered complimentary coffee.

Is There a Buffet at Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

Yes, the casino offers a Sunday breakfast buffet from 8 AM to 1 PM.

The buffet features an assortment of choices like scrambled eggs, French toast, Blackstone benny, and various meats and pastries.

The cost of the buffet is C$24 for adults, C$19 for seniors, and C$17 for children.

Parking

Nearby, you can also find additional free public parking.

Accommodation

The hotel boasts a distinctive Gold Rush-era paddle-wheeler design. This 3-star establishment offers 40 rooms, including several suites, and has a round-the-clock front desk.

The hotel's historic vibe is genuinely enchanting – even featuring a fireplace in the cabin suite.

Rates for standard rooms begin at C$120 per night, while a luxury suite can cost as much as C$215 per night.

Do You Tip Room Service at Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

Room service is not available at the hotel.

Are there smoking areas?

In accordance with BC smoking regulations, both the casino and hotel are non-smoking. Smoking is permitted only outside the premises.

Security

The security personnel were courteous during our ID checks, and the casino is well-monitored with CCTV.

Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5

How Does the Billy Barker Casino Hotel Rewards Program Operate?

The Encore Rewards program is complimentary to join and offers a host of perks.

To accrue more free play, participants earn points through gameplay – each C$1 spent on slots equals one point.

What you get

• C$10 free play sign-up bonus
• Exclusive promotions
• Further free play

How to register in the program

1. Go to https://billybarkercasino.com/encoure-rewards-card/
2. Click 'Sign Up' and proceed with 'Join the club'.
3. Enter your personal information as prompted.
4. Upon completion, your Encore Rewards card will be issued.

Casino Atmosphere – 4/5

Inside Billy Barker Casino Hotel

We explored the casino's aesthetics and its general ambiance. Additionally, we ventured outside the venue to assess the local area and checked for other entertainment events.

Design experience

At Billy Barker Casino Hotel, uniqueness prevails. The design – both inside and out – resembles a 19th-century river paddle-wheeler, full of character.

You get an authentic feel of the Gold Rush era when playing slots along the Fraser River.

Are Photos Permitted in Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

Photography is allowed on the casino floor. Be considerate of others and avoid alarming security while taking photos of the slots.

Location and surroundings

Quesnel, a prominent area for lumber and industry, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are ample spots for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and, in the winter, cross-country skiing.

Beyond vistas of the Fraser River, attractions around the casino are limited.

Is a Passport Required to Enter Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

A passport is an acceptable form of identification at Billy Barker Casino Hotel. You may also use any other government-issued ID with a photo.

The casino retains the right to ask for a second form of ID in addition to your main ID. For instance, a driver's license along with a passport can be used.

Events

Billy Barker Casino Hotel is home to a 100-seat banquet area named the Showroom.

While public events are less frequent nowadays, the Showroom has previously hosted local musical acts.

Currently, it mostly accommodates conferences, seminars, and workshops.

House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5

What Are the Operating Hours of Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

The casino operates every day from 9 AM, closing at 10 PM from Sunday to Thursday, and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Is There an Entry Fee for Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

No, entry is completely free.

Is it absolutely necessary to book ahead to enjoy games at Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

You can simply walk in and find a game with an open seat without the need for a reservation.

Do I need to join a membership program at Billy Barker Casino Hotel to play?

There is no membership requirement, but joining the Encore Rewards program offers numerous benefits.

Dress code

Regarding attire, the player guidelines emphasize avoiding clothing or accessories linked to gang culture.

This means fancy attire isn't a must for a visit to Billy Barker Casino Hotel.

Key regulations to know when visiting Billy Barker Casino Hotel

• They might request an additional ID form besides your main one for verification.

Player Feedback – 4.3/5

There are over 800 reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Google about this casino.

Feedback from visitors of Billy Barker Casino Hotel

Google – 4.1/5

Guests appreciate the uniquely themed rooms, lively vibe, and excellent service.

Nonetheless, some avid gamers noted the limited selection of games.

Tripadvisor – 4.5/5

Many remarked positively on the great hospitality and fair pricing though some found the rooms a bit tight.

Most common issues

• Limited gaming options
• Small hotel rooms

Operator – 4/5

Who owns Billy Barker Casino Hotel?

The establishment is a local family enterprise owned by Brad Kotzer.

Not only owned by him, but Brad and his family are also actively managing operations here.

Contact info

Exploring the Rivals of Billy Barker Casino Hotel

With more than 36 other casinos in British Columbia, there's no shortage of competitors.

Comparing Billy Barker Casino Hotel and Treasure Cove Casino

Treasure Cove Casino, just an hour's drive north, provides a larger selection.

Treasure Cove With over 500 slot machines and a variety of table games, it dwarfs Billy Barker.

If bingo is your game, then Treasure Cove Casino & Bingo is top-notch.

Known for its expansive bingo space, hosting over 600 terminals for an exciting bingo night.

Billy Barker Casino Hotel versus Cascades Casino Kamloops

Located in Kamloops, south of Billy Barker, is the Cascades Casino.

Its offerings are close to Treasure Cove with 440 slots and a handful of table games.

For poker enthusiasts, Cascades Casino Kamloops stands out.

Offering the only no-limit poker matches in Kamloops, including Texas Hold’em.

They also have a significant Bad Beat Jackpot, potentially reaching C$500,000.

What makes Billy Barker Casino Hotel a standout among its peers?

It's a unique encounter in a sea of similar-looking venues across the province.

Sporting a distinct theme with historical depth, it stands visually apart from others.

Barker Casino Hotel Pros and Cons

Pros

• Offers a fantastic blend of both retro and modern slot machines.
• Regular promotions keep the excitement going, often including free plays.
• Slots linked to a massive progressive jackpot are part of the attraction.
• Offers dining that's both budget-friendly and served in generous portions.

Cons

• No table games

Why You Should Consider Visiting Billy Barker Casino Hotel

If table games are your focus, this might not be your ideal choice.

Yet, if you seek thrilling times, varied slots, and substantial jackpots, it's perfect for you.

Casual punters will feel right at home, but even seasoned gamers should experience its nostalgic allure.