Best Gambling Sites in Arkansas 2026

Arkansas legalized retail sports betting through Amendment 100 in 2018, and the Arkansas Racing Commission approved Rule 2.13 in February 2022 to allow mobile sportsbooks — but with a critical restriction. Mobile wagering is tied to the state's three commercial casinos (Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, and Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis), and operators must give those casinos at least 51% of revenue. That structure pushed major national books out of the market and left Arkansans with apps from Betly (Southland), Saracen Bet, and Betfred Sports (Oaklawn).

Beyond sports betting, the three commercial casinos offer full slots and table games, and electronic games of skill operate at a handful of racetracks. There is a state lottery (the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, launched 2009) with draw and instant games, plus DFS contests authorized under Act 1075 of 2017. Pope County's long-disputed fourth casino license remains tied up in litigation and the November 2024 ballot measure (Issue 2) that voters approved to require local approval. There is no legal online casino framework.

For 2026, expect continued legal wrangling over the Pope County license and possible legislative discussion of opening mobile sports betting to national operators, though casino opposition makes that a long shot. Problem gambling help is available at 1-800-522-4700.