Arkansas officially launched legal sports betting in July 2022, but the landscape is unique. Currently, online sports betting is limited. This guide details the current state of affairs, available options, and what the future might hold for Arkansas sports bettors.
Current Legal Status
Arkansas law permits sports betting at the state’s casinos. However, the initial legislation specifically restricts online wagering to be conducted on-site at those casinos. This means you can’t place bets from anywhere in the state using a dedicated sportsbook app like DraftKings or FanDuel. You must be physically present at a casino to utilize their online platform.
Approved Casinos & Sportsbooks
Currently, these casinos offer sports betting:
- Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs): Offers both a retail sportsbook and on-site mobile betting.
- Saracen Casino Resort (Pine Bluff): Provides a retail sportsbook and on-site mobile wagering.
- Legends Resort & Casino (West Memphis): Features a retail sportsbook and on-site mobile betting.
Each casino partners with a sportsbook technology provider (like Betly) to power their offerings. The experience varies slightly between casinos.
How On-Site Online Betting Works
To participate in online sports betting in Arkansas, you must:
- Visit one of the approved casinos.
- Create an account with the casino’s sportsbook. This requires providing identification and verifying your age (21+).
- Fund your account using accepted methods (credit/debit card, cash, etc.).
- Connect to the casino’s Wi-Fi network. This is crucial; the geolocation technology verifies you are physically within the casino.
- Place your bets through the casino’s sportsbook app or website.
Important Note: Leaving the casino’s Wi-Fi network will likely terminate your betting session.
What Sports Can You Bet On?
The range of sports available for betting is generally comprehensive, including:
- Professional Football (NFL)
- College Football (NCAA)
- Professional Basketball (NBA)
- College Basketball (NCAA)
- Baseball (MLB)
- Hockey (NHL)
- Soccer (various leagues)
- Boxing/MMA
- Golf
- Tennis
- And more…
Betting options include moneyline, point spread, over/under totals, parlays, futures, and prop bets.
The Future of Arkansas Sports Betting
There’s ongoing discussion about expanding online sports betting to a statewide, mobile-anywhere model. Legislative efforts to allow full mobile wagering have been proposed but haven’t yet succeeded. The primary concerns revolve around revenue sharing and potential impacts on the casinos.
Potential Changes:
- Statewide Mobile Betting: The most significant change would be allowing bets from anywhere within Arkansas state lines.
- More Sportsbook Operators: Expansion could attract major players like DraftKings and FanDuel.
- Increased Tax Revenue: A broader market would likely generate more tax revenue for the state.
Responsible Gambling
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please seek help. Resources include:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Arkansas Problem Gambling Resource Center: https://www.gamblinghelparkansas.org/
Remember to gamble responsibly and within your means.
