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Is Sports Betting Legal in Arkansas?
Sports betting is fully legal in the state of Arkansas, with both retail and online sportsbooks available. Residents and visitors can place bets through licensed Arkansas betting apps or at one of the state’s three operational casinos — Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Saracen Casino Resort, and Southland Casino Racing.
A fourth casino, planned for Pope County, remains tied up in legal disputes over its license and is not yet under construction as of 2025.
Read on to learn how Arkansas got here, what developments are on the horizon, and where you can place bets legally in the state. You can also explore our legal sports betting guide for the entire US.
Top 5 Arkansas Online Betting Sites
Sports betting is legal in Arkansas, with state-licensed operators offering both retail and online wagering under the oversight of the Arkansas Racing Commission. However, many Arkansans have been placing bets online for years through offshore sportsbooks, which continue to operate and accept U.S. players.
These offshore platforms, while not regulated by the state, often attract bettors with broader market options, fewer restrictions, and the ability to avoid some of the regulations and taxes that apply to local operators.
Bovada
Bovada is one of the best sportsbooks around. They capture the lion’s share of sports bettors in the US, and it is easy to see why! Whatever sports event you want to be on, you are sure to find it here!
BetOnline
BetOnline has one of the best welcome bonuses around! It is great to get started off strong! Plus, we have good news for Bitcoin bettors: that big welcome bonus gets even bigger if you deposit using these cryptocurrencies.
BetUS
BetUS is a great option for anyone in Arkansas, but this is especially true for mobile bettors. Their website optimization works really well, no matter the device you use to sign in. If you are a bettor on the go, then check out BetUS.
MyBookie
MyBookie has a solid 50% sports betting welcome bonus, in addition to a wide range of ongoing promotions. Once you sign up, there will always be something new at this sportsbook.
XBet
Xbet provides incredibly fast deposit and withdrawal options. This is key when we really want to place a bet and need to get our funds deposited on time. Xbet also has extensive sports betting markets.
Legal Online Sportsbooks in Arkansas
Sports betting is legal in Arkansas, and the online scene is steadily growing. Since launching mobile wagering in March 2022, the state has made it easier than ever for residents to bet from the comfort of home.
Arkansans can place bets online through licensed platforms approved by the Arkansas Racing Commission. These sportsbooks operate under strict regulatory standards to ensure fair play, secure transactions, and responsible gambling practices.
| Sportsbook | Available in Arkansas |
| FanDuel | ❌ |
| DraftKings | ❌ |
| Caesars | ❌ |
| BetSaracen | ✅ |
| BetMGM | ❌ |
| Oaklawn Sports | ✅ |
| Betly | ✅ |
Arkansas Quick Facts
Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know about sports betting in Arkansas. From key dates and legal requirements to who can play and what’s allowed, this snapshot highlights the most important facts at a glance.
| State | Arkansas |
| Sports Betting Law Passed | Yes ✔️ |
| Launch Date | July 1st 2019 (retail) & March 5th 2022 (online) ✔️ |
| Minimum Gambling Age | 21 ✔️ |
| Online Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Mobile Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Retail Sportsbooks | Yes ✔️ |
| Tribal Casinos | No ❌ |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes ✔️ |
| Online Casinos | No ❌ |
| Horse Racing | Yes ✔️ |
| Dog Racing | No ❌ (live racing banned) |
| Esports Betting | No ❌ (not yet authorized) |
Why Some Arkansas Bettors Prefer Offshore Sportsbooks
While Arkansas offers legal sports betting both in-person and online, the system still has its limitations. Between limited operator options, market restrictions, and geolocation requirements, many bettors in the state are turning to offshore sportsbooks for more freedom and flexibility.
Offshore betting sites give players access to a broader range of bets, more competitive odds, and fewer hurdles—making them a popular alternative for those who want more than what the local market offers.
Top Reasons Offshore Betting Sites Are Gaining Popularity in Arkansas
Wider Betting Selection
Legal sportsbooks in Arkansas may not offer markets on political elections, entertainment awards, or some niche sports. Offshore sportsbooks do. You can bet on everything from Razorbacks football to the Oscars or presidential races.
Better Odds and Lower Juice
With lower overhead and no state tax burden, offshore sportsbooks often offer sharper lines and better payouts. That means more potential profit on every wager.
No Geolocation Roadblocks
Arkansas sportsbooks require geolocation verification to ensure you’re within state lines. Offshore platforms don’t. You can bet from anywhere—across the U.S. or while traveling abroad—with no location-based restrictions.
Faster & More Flexible Payments
Most offshore sportsbooks support cryptocurrency, bank wires, and e-wallets with faster processing and higher withdrawal limits than many legal operators.
Less Red Tape
Offshore sites don’t require complex ID verifications or extensive background checks. You can sign up quickly, deposit instantly, and start betting without delay.
What You Can’t Legally Bet On in Arkansas
Although online sports betting is legal in Arkansas, the state still prohibits certain types of wagers:
- Entertainment awards (Oscars, Emmys, etc.)
- Political elections (domestic or international)
- Some esports events
- High school sports
- Specific novelty props and non-sporting events
Offshore sportsbooks typically allow betting on all of the above, offering far more variety for creative or casual bettors.
Who’s Allowed to Bet in Arkansas?
To legally place a bet through a licensed Arkansas sportsbook, you must:
- Be 21 or older
- Be physically located in Arkansas at the time of the bet (verified through geolocation)
- Register with an approved sportsbook licensed by the Arkansas Racing Commission
Who’s Restricted from Betting Legally?
Even if you meet the standard requirements, you may still be barred from betting if you fall into one of the following categories:
- Athletes, coaches, referees, or officials involved in the events being wagered on
- Employees of sportsbooks, teams, or leagues with insider access
- Individuals who have voluntarily joined a self-exclusion program
- Anyone banned for gambling-related issues
Offshore Means Freedom for Arkansas Bettors
For Arkansas players seeking fewer restrictions, more betting options, and faster, crypto-friendly payouts, offshore sportsbooks continue to offer a compelling alternative. Whether you’re looking to wager on local college teams, political races, or just enjoy faster deposits and withdrawals, offshore platforms give you the power to bet on your terms—without the limitations of state-regulated sites.
Arkansas Sports Betting – Recent Updates
- July 2025 — Arkansas sports betting handle reaches $37.5 million for June, up 19.3% year-over-year, generating $4.89 million in gross revenue and $977,784 in tax revenue. Year-to-date handle hits $305.9 million, already outpacing the same period in 2024.
- February 8, 2024 — Arkansas sports betting handle experiences a slight decrease to $52.9 million in December, down 3.2% from November. However, December’s figure reflects a notable 71% year-over-year increase.
- January 16, 2024 — The state reveals that Arkansas sports betting handle reached $54.7 million in November, marking a 21% increase from October and setting a new record high. Despite this, revenue and taxes declined month over month.
- January 15, 2024 — The Arkansas Supreme Court denies a petition for rehearing a lawsuit concerning the fourth casino license in the state, as reported by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
- December 14, 2023 — The state announces that Arkansas sports betting handle achieved a new record high at $44.9 million in October, representing an 8.6% month-over-month increase.
- December 1, 2023 — The state discloses that Arkansas sports betting handle reached $41 million in September, showcasing an 82% increase from August and a 94% rise year over year.
Five Reasons to Bet on These Sports Betting Sites in Arkansas
Casinos in Arkansas
As of 2025, Arkansas has three operating casinos, with a potential fourth still tied up in legal disputes over licensing. Given the state’s size and geography, many residents may need to travel significant distances to visit these properties—or instead opt for licensed online sportsbooks and casino-style games where available.
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Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
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Saracen Casino Resort
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Southland Casino Racing
Arkansas Sports Betting Timeline
Arkansas was one of the first states to approve retail gambling, though they were a bit slower to open up the possibility for online wagering.
2025
Market remains steady with three licensed online sportsbooks (Betly, BetSaracen, Oaklawn Sports), while lawmakers consider amending the state constitution to adjust casino gambling rules.
2024
Arkansas sports betting market posts record handles throughout the year, surpassing $50M in March; regulators also issue cease-and-desist orders to unlicensed DFS operators like PrizePicks and Underdog.
2023
The Arkansas Supreme Court concurs with a lower court’s decision that authorities erred in awarding a casino license in Pope County in 2021.
2022
In 2022, sports betting in Arkansas witnessed notable activity and engagement, reflecting a growing interest in the state.
2021
Arkansas is officially geared up for online sports betting, thanks to new rules from the Arkansas Racing Commission. In December the Commission passed a tax and regulatory structure similar to that of New York. This would allow for up to 8 online sportsbooks in Arkansas.
2020
Southland Casino Racing begins accepting sports wagers in January. It was closed due to COVID-19 until its September reopening
2019
In July of this year, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort receives Arkansas’ first legal sports wager. The manager Wayne Smith, places this bet–$5 on the Dallas Cowboys. They are the only in-person betting operation in the state for six months.
In October, Arkansas sees its second sports betting location open up. The Saracen Casino Annex becomes the first phase of the Jefferson County Casino.
2018
Arkansas votes approve Arkansas Issue 4 in November. This amends the state’s constitution to permit sports betting. Initially, all wagers must be in person. The initiative also brings about two new casinos, bringing the total to four eventually.
Arkansas Sports Betting Resources
Here are key resources to better understand the current landscape of legal sports betting in Arkansas:
- Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC): The official body responsible for regulating and overseeing sports betting activities in Arkansas.
- Arkansas Problem Gambling Council: Provides advocacy and support for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues.
- Arkansas Online Sports Betting Bill (HB 1942): Details the legislation enabling online sports betting in the state.
Arkansas Sports Betting FAQ
Find answers to common questions bettors like you have when researching which sportsbook to join.
Yes. Retail sports betting is legal in Arkansas as of 2025, with wagers accepted at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Saracen Casino Resort, and Southland Casino Racing. All three venues offer on-site sportsbooks where visitors can bet in person on a wide range of sports events.
Yes — online sports betting is legal in Arkansas as of 2025. The state launched its first mobile betting apps in March–April 2022, allowing residents to place wagers via licensed platforms like Betly, BetSaracen, and Oaklawn Sports, provided they’re physically located within state boundaries.
Yes, you can! They have been available to Arkansas bettors for years.
This depends on your needs! We recommend top sportsbooks on this page.
As of 2025, Arkansas has three operational casinos, while a planned fourth in Pope County remains stalled due to ongoing legal disputes over its license.
Trent is a professional sports journalist specializing in UFC, MMA, and esports coverage. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as USA Today Sports, Vice, Bloody Elbow, Fight! Magazine, UFC 360, and Narratively. Trent's connection to MMA dates back to the early days when he and his friends pooled their resources to purchase the pay-per-...
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