Online Sports Betting

Mobile sports betting has been legal since 2022. As of early 2026, Oaklawn has partnered with FanDuel and Southland with DraftKings; bringing the biggest names in sports betting to apps which are expected to be live by Oct. 2026. BetSaracen remains available through Saracen Casino.

Daily Fantasy Sports

DFS is fully legal in Arkansas, classified as a skill-based contest under state law rather than gambling. FanDuel and DraftKings let you compete in NFL, NBA, MLB, and more for daily or weekly cash prizes. No state restrictions; sign up and play immediately if you're 18+.

Prediction Markets

Platforms like Kalshi let you trade on real-world outcomes; sports results, elections, economic data, under federal CFTC oversight rather than state gambling law. A data-driven alternative for Arkansans who want event-based action without relying on a traditional sportsbook.

Sweepstakes Casinos

Sweepstakes platforms remain accessible in Arkansas under federal sweepstakes law, offering slots, table games, and live dealer titles with no purchase required. Note: A 2025 bill that would have legalized online casinos also included provisions to ban sweepstakes sites. That bill stalled, but the landscape could change.

Online Casinos

Online casino gaming is not yet legal in Arkansas. Bills HB 1861 and SB 524 were introduced in 2025 to authorize iGaming through the state's three licensed casinos but stalled without passing. The push is expected to continue in 2026, making Arkansas one to watch.

Land-Based Casinos

Three licensed casino resorts operate under Amendment 100: Saracen Casino Resort (Quapaw Nation) in Pine Bluff, Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis, and Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs. A fourth, Legends Casino, is expected to open in 2026.

Arkansas Lottery

The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery has operated since 2009, funding college scholarships through Powerball, Mega Millions, scratchers, and more. The minimum age is 18. Third-party courier apps like Jackpocket offer added convenience, though the state lottery does not offer direct online sales.

Poker

Live poker is available at all three casino resorts. Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff has a dedicated poker room. Private social games with no house rake operate informally across the state. Online real-money poker is not currently available in Arkansas but could expand if iGaming legislation advances.

Horse Racing

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs hosts one of the South's most prestigious thoroughbred circuits, including the Arkansas Derby. Live racing runs seasonally, with year-round simulcast wagering available at the track and online through authorized ADW platforms.

Arkansas's Unique 51% Rule

Unlike most states where national sportsbook brands operate independently, Arkansas law requires that at least 51% of mobile sports betting revenue flows back to the affiliated casino. This is why FanDuel operates through Oaklawn and DraftKings through Southland rather than independently — and why you won't see standalone national apps launching here without a casino partner. It keeps gambling dollars in-state but limits the number of apps available to Arkansas bettors.

Problem Gambling Help in Arkansas

If gambling stops being fun, Arkansas has dedicated support. The Arkansas Problem Gambling Council offers free, confidential resources for players and their families. You can also reach the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700, available 24/7 by call or text. All three licensed casinos are required to maintain self-exclusion programs — you can voluntarily ban yourself from casino floors and affiliated apps statewide through the ARC.

Combined annual revenue across Oaklawn, Southland & Saracen — up 5% year-over-year

Supporting education, scholarship funds, breeding programs & tribal infrastructure

Direct employees across the three properties — up dramatically since Amendment 100 in 2018