Arkansas used to have a flourishing gambling market back in the 19th century, but the local real money gaming industry of today if but a mere shadow of its former self. Today, Arkansas-based gambling enthusiasts are pretty much forced to stick to playing at the racetracks, which allow for pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound races and which operate some electronic casino-style games. Arkansas has a state lotto, but online sales aren’t allowed. The state doesn’t have any iGaming regulations, which means that all legitimate Arkansas-friendly sites are based offshore.
Online Gambling in Arkansas
Arkansas gambling laws are somewhat outdated and conservative – the state criminalizes wagering on any land-based games of chance unless the operator is approved by the local authorities. Players who take part in such unlicensed games are punished with a small fine when caught. As you’ve probably already guessed, the regulations don’t mention online gambling, so the legal status of playing on offshore sites could be considered somewhat ambiguous.
On one hand, players simply can’t be prosecuted because placing a wager over the internet isn’t listed as a punishable offence. On the other hand, one could argue that it’d be possible to apply the general regulations to online play. However, the local law enforcement has never tried prosecuting an Arkansas resident for internet gambling, so most experts agree that playing online is perfectly safe.
Casinos & Sportsbooks Accepting Players From Arkansas
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Casino Games
The only Arkansas-based venues that offer casino-style games are Oaklawn Jockey Club in Hot Springs and Southland Greyhound Park in West Memphis. If you end up looking for more quality casino action, you should try our list of Arkansas-friendly casino sites.
Sports Betting
Oaklawn Park is where you’ll find Arkansas horse racing action, while Southland Park is where the greyhound races are held. Quite obviously pari-mutuel betting isn’t enough to satisfy a serious punter, so if you’re looking for a good place to wager on NBA, NFL, MLB or even UFC and NASCAR, you should visit one of the amazing sports betting sites that we’ve confirmed to be 100% Arkansas-friendly.
Poker
Arkansas gave the world Amarillo Slim, but unfortunately the local poker enthusiasts don’t really have a whole lot to do. If you’d like to stop idling and start engaging in some of the hottest cash games and tournaments in the entire web, you should definitely try some of the poker sites listed here.
Online Gambling FAQ
Where can I find regulations that pertain to gambling in Arkansas?
Everything is covered in Arkansas Code, Section 5.
What forms of gambling are legal and regulated within the borders of Arkansas?
Arkansas gambling options include Charitable gambling, pari-mutuel betting and state lotto.
What is the legal status of online gambling in Arkansas?
Gambling over the internet isn’t covered by the current regulations, so the legal status of online games is ambiguous. The state doesn’t prosecute individual players.
Do offshore gambling sites accept Arkansas residents?
Yes, offshore sites have no qualms about accepting Arkansas residents.
How can I deposit to an offshore gambling site from Arkansas?
You can use any credit card or debit card as long as it’s okay with handling international transfers.
How can I withdraw my money from an offshore iGaming site if I live in Arkansas?
You’re free to request a bank wire transfer or a check.
Is Arkansas planning to regulate online gambling in the future?
No, the local policymakers simply aren’t interested in iGaming legislation.
Gambling History – Interesting Facts
1. The Hot Springs area used to be an illegal gambling hotspot, but the local gaming industry died down following the second world war.
2. Amarillo Slim, the legendary poker player, was born in Arkansas in 1928 and not in Texas.
Arkansas Gambling Resources
Arkansas Code – Current, comprehensive list of Arkansas Code of Law, including information on entertainment, gambling, and more.
Mentioned in this Article
Oaklawn Casino and Racetrack, Hot Springs, AR – Official site of Oaklawn Racing and Gaming, located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas.
Southland Park Gaming and Racing, West Memphis, AR – Southland Park Gaming and Racing located in West Memphis, just across the Mississippi River from downtown Memphis.
Arkansas Razorbacks – Official website for the University of Arkansas Athletics.