Arkansas online sports betting has grown rapidly since voters approved Amendment 100 in November 2018, establishing the legal framework for casino gaming and sports wagering across The Natural State. Today, Arkansas residents and visitors aged 21 and older can legally place sports bets through licensed mobile sportsbook apps and at retail casino locations regulated by the Arkansas Racing Commission.
Whether you are a first-time bettor looking to place your initial wager on the Arkansas Razorbacks or a seasoned sports handicapper seeking the best odds and promotions, this guide covers everything you need to know about sports betting in Arkansas in 2026. We have tested and reviewed every licensed sportsbook operating in the state, compared their bonuses, evaluated their mobile apps, and compiled the most up-to-date information on Arkansas gambling laws, tax obligations, and responsible gaming resources.
The Arkansas sports betting market is unique in several ways. Unlike many states that opened their markets to unlimited operators, Arkansas limits mobile sports betting licenses to the four casino operators authorized under Amendment 100. These casinos -- Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, and Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis -- serve as the anchors for both retail and mobile wagering. Each casino can partner with multiple online sportsbook brands, which has allowed major national operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars to enter the Arkansas market through these partnerships.
Arkansas Sports Betting at a Glance
- Legal Status: Fully legal since 2018 (Amendment 100)
- Regulator: Arkansas Racing Commission
- Minimum Age: 21+
- Mobile Betting: Yes, statewide with geolocation
- Retail Locations: Oaklawn, Saracen, Southland
- Tax Rate (Operators): 13% of adjusted gross receipts in-person, 20% online
- College Betting: Yes (no individual player props)
Best Arkansas Online Sportsbooks for 2026
Choosing the right sportsbook is one of the most important decisions you will make as an Arkansas sports bettor. Each platform offers different strengths -- some excel in their mobile app experience, others stand out with generous promotions or competitive odds. Below is our expert-ranked comparison of every licensed sportsbook currently accepting wagers from Arkansas bettors, updated for April 2026.
Our team personally tested each app on both iOS and Android devices, evaluated the sign-up process, compared odds across major sporting events, assessed customer support responsiveness, and reviewed the breadth of betting markets available. The rankings below reflect our comprehensive analysis across all of these factors.
| # | Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus | Rating | Key Feature | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets | 4.9/5 | Best Overall App | Review |
| 2 | FanDuel | Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets | 4.8/5 | Best Same-Game Parlays | Review |
| 3 | Betly (BetSaracen) | 100% Deposit Match up to $500 | 4.5/5 | AR-Based Operator | Review |
| 4 | Caesars Sportsbook | First Bet on Caesars up to $1,000 | 4.6/5 | Best Rewards Program | Review |
| 5 | BetMGM | First Bet up to $1,500 | 4.6/5 | Best Live Betting | Review |
| 6 | Bet365 | Bet $1, Get $200 in Bonus Bets | 4.5/5 | Best International Brand | Review |
| 7 | ESPN BET | First Bet Reset up to $1,000 | 4.4/5 | Best ESPN Integration | Review |
| 8 | Fanatics Sportsbook | Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets | 4.3/5 | Best for Merchandise Fans | Review |
All eight sportsbooks listed above are licensed and regulated by the Arkansas Racing Commission, ensuring your funds are protected and that the operators adhere to strict standards for fairness, security, and responsible gaming. We strongly recommend only betting with licensed operators -- unlicensed offshore sportsbooks do not offer the same consumer protections and are illegal to use in Arkansas.
How Arkansas Online Sports Betting Works
Arkansas online sports betting operates through a partnership model mandated by Amendment 100 and regulated by the Arkansas Racing Commission. Understanding how this system works helps you make smarter betting decisions and ensures you are using legal, licensed platforms.
The Amendment 100 Framework
When Arkansas voters approved Amendment 100 on November 6, 2018, they authorized casino gaming at four specific locations in the state. The amendment allowed these casinos to offer "sports betting, including electronic and mobile wagering." This constitutional amendment passed with approximately 54% of the vote, making Arkansas one of the first Southern states to embrace legal sports betting.
The four authorized casino locations under Amendment 100 are: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs, Garland County), Saracen Casino Resort (Pine Bluff, Jefferson County), Southland Casino Racing (West Memphis, Crittenden County), and a fourth license for Pope County which has faced ongoing legal challenges. Each of these license holders may partner with mobile sportsbook operators to offer online wagering to customers anywhere within Arkansas state lines.
Getting Started: Registration and First Bet
Placing your first legal sports bet in Arkansas is straightforward. You must be at least 21 years old and physically present in Arkansas. Here is the step-by-step process:
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Select one or more of the licensed operators from our comparison table above. We recommend starting with DraftKings or FanDuel for the best new-user experience.
- Download the App: Get the sportsbook app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. You can also register through the operator's website on a desktop browser.
- Create Your Account: Provide your full legal name, date of birth, last four digits of your Social Security number, email address, and physical address in Arkansas. This information is required by state law for identity verification.
- Verify Your Identity: The sportsbook will verify your identity electronically. In some cases, you may be asked to upload a photo ID. This process typically takes just a few minutes.
- Make a Deposit: Fund your account using one of the accepted payment methods -- credit/debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, bank transfer (ACH), or Play+ prepaid card.
- Claim Your Bonus: Most sportsbooks offer a welcome bonus for new users. Enter any required promo code and make a qualifying bet to activate the offer.
- Place Your First Bet: Browse the available sports and markets, select your picks, set your stake amount, and submit your bet slip.
Pro Tip: Sign Up for Multiple Sportsbooks
Experienced Arkansas bettors sign up for three or more sportsbooks to take advantage of multiple welcome bonuses and to compare odds before placing each bet. Shopping for the best line can increase your long-term winnings by 2-3%. Since registration is free, there is no downside to having accounts at several operators.
Types of Bets Available in Arkansas
Arkansas sportsbooks offer a full range of bet types across dozens of sports. Here are the most popular wagering options available to AR bettors:
| Bet Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Pick the straight-up winner of a game | Razorbacks -150 vs. LSU +130 |
| Point Spread | Bet on the margin of victory | Cowboys -3.5 (-110) |
| Over/Under (Totals) | Bet on the combined score going over or under a set number | Over 45.5 points (-110) |
| Parlays | Combine multiple bets for higher payouts; all legs must win | 3-team parlay at +600 |
| Same-Game Parlay | Combine multiple bets from the same game | Razorbacks ML + Over 48.5 |
| Prop Bets | Bet on specific player or game events | Player to score 25+ points |
| Futures | Bet on season-long outcomes | Razorbacks to win SEC +2500 |
| Live/In-Game | Place bets while a game is in progress | Live moneyline at halftime |
Note that while Arkansas allows betting on college sports, including University of Arkansas Razorbacks games, individual player prop bets on college athletes are prohibited under state regulations. Team-level props and other college bet types are permitted. This restriction is consistent with the approach taken by many other states to protect amateur athletes.
Arkansas Sports Betting Laws & Regulations
Understanding the legal landscape of sports betting in Arkansas is essential for any bettor. The regulatory framework, built on Amendment 100 and administered by the Arkansas Racing Commission, provides strong consumer protections while allowing a competitive marketplace of licensed sportsbook operators.
Amendment 100: The Foundation of Legal Betting
Amendment 100, formally titled "An Amendment to Authorize, Regulate, and Tax the Operation of Casinos at Certain Locations in Arkansas," was placed on the November 2018 ballot through a citizen-initiated petition. The amendment received 54.02% of the vote, surpassing the simple majority needed for passage. It became effective immediately upon certification of the election results.
The amendment specifically authorizes "casino gaming" at four designated locations, and the definition of casino gaming explicitly includes "sports betting, including electronic and mobile sports betting." This constitutional foundation makes Arkansas sports betting particularly durable -- unlike statutory laws that can be easily repealed by the legislature, a constitutional amendment requires another public vote to overturn.
The Role of the Arkansas Racing Commission
The Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC) serves as the primary regulatory body for sports betting in the state. Originally established to oversee horse racing, the ARC's authority was expanded under Amendment 100 to include all forms of casino gaming. Key responsibilities of the ARC include licensing and monitoring casino operators and their mobile sportsbook partners, setting and enforcing rules for sports wagering operations, ensuring the integrity of all bets placed in the state, investigating complaints from bettors, collecting tax revenue from sports betting operations, and overseeing responsible gambling programs.
The ARC has established detailed rules governing everything from the types of bets that can be offered to the technical standards that mobile apps must meet. Operators must maintain a physical presence in Arkansas through their casino partner and must use geolocation technology to verify that all mobile bettors are physically within state lines when placing wagers.
Key Legal Requirements for Bettors
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years old (both online and retail) |
| Location | Must be physically in Arkansas (verified by geolocation) |
| Identity | Must provide valid SSN and government-issued ID |
| Restricted Participants | Athletes, coaches, referees, and anyone with inside information cannot bet on their sport |
| Prohibited Bets | Individual college player props; games involving Arkansas high school teams |
| Self-Exclusion | Voluntary program available at all three casino locations |
Arkansas Casino Sportsbooks: Retail Betting Options
While mobile betting offers unmatched convenience, many Arkansas sports fans prefer the experience of placing bets at a physical sportsbook. The three operational casino locations each offer full-service retail sportsbooks with large screens, comfortable seating, and professional staff to assist with your wagers.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort - Hot Springs
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, located in the heart of Hot Springs, has been an Arkansas institution since 1904 when it first opened as a horse racing track. Today, Oaklawn offers a state-of-the-art sportsbook with dozens of large-screen TVs, self-service betting kiosks, and a full-service counter staffed by experienced ticket writers. Oaklawn's sportsbook partners with major national brands to offer mobile betting across the state. The venue also features over 1,500 slot machines, table games, a hotel, spa, and multiple restaurants, making it a complete entertainment destination for visitors from Little Rock (just 55 miles away) and across the region.
Saracen Casino Resort - Pine Bluff
Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff is the newest of Arkansas's three casinos, having opened its full resort in 2020. The Saracen sportsbook is home to the Betly brand, Arkansas's only home-grown sportsbook operator. Betly offers competitive odds with a local focus, including extensive coverage of Razorbacks games and other Arkansas sporting events. Saracen's retail sportsbook features a modern sports lounge with a large video wall, individual betting stations, and a full bar. The casino is located approximately 45 miles south of Little Rock along the Arkansas River corridor.
Southland Casino Racing - West Memphis
Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis sits just across the Mississippi River from Memphis, Tennessee, giving it a unique cross-border appeal. The facility has a long history in greyhound racing and has evolved into a full-service casino with a dedicated sportsbook area. Southland's convenient location near Interstate 40 makes it accessible from both Little Rock and Memphis. The retail sportsbook offers a wide range of betting options with a comfortable viewing environment for watching multiple games simultaneously.
Retail vs. Mobile: Which Is Better?
Both options are fully legal in Arkansas. Mobile betting is more convenient -- you can bet from anywhere in the state 24/7. Retail sportsbooks offer a social atmosphere and cash wagering. Many Arkansas bettors use both: mobile for convenience and retail for big-event viewing parties. The tax rate for operators differs (13% retail vs. 20% mobile), but this does not affect the bettor's experience or odds.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Arkansas
Arkansas bettors have access to an enormous range of sports and betting markets. However, certain sports consistently attract the most wagering action in The Natural State. Understanding what sports are popular can help you identify where the sharpest lines and most competitive odds tend to be.
Arkansas Razorbacks - SEC Action
There is no question that the University of Arkansas Razorbacks dominate the sports landscape in The Natural State. As a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), the Razorbacks compete against top-tier programs in football, basketball, baseball, and other sports. Razorbacks football games regularly generate the highest single-event betting volume at Arkansas sportsbooks, with the annual rivalry games against LSU, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss attracting particularly heavy action.
Arkansas Razorbacks basketball also draws significant betting interest, especially during the SEC tournament and March Madness. Baseball is another strength for the program, with Baum-Walker Stadium in Fayetteville consistently ranking among the nation's best college baseball atmospheres. Futures markets for Razorbacks seasons, SEC Championship odds, and College Football Playoff odds are available year-round at most Arkansas sportsbooks.
NFL and Professional Football
While Arkansas has no NFL franchise, professional football is the most wagered-upon sport nationally, and Arkansas is no exception. Most AR bettors follow the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, or Tennessee Titans as their adopted NFL team. The NFL season from September through the Super Bowl in February represents the peak betting period for most Arkansas sportsbooks. Player prop markets, game spreads, and parlays for NFL Sunday action drive significant volume every week of the season.
Other Popular Betting Sports in Arkansas
- NBA Basketball: Daily action throughout the season with extensive prop and parlay markets
- MLB Baseball: Long season provides daily betting opportunities from April through October
- Horse Racing: Natural fit given Oaklawn's heritage; Oaklawn's own racing season is a highlight
- Golf: Major tournaments like the Masters, PGA Championship, and US Open attract heavy betting
- UFC/MMA: Growing rapidly among younger Arkansas bettors, especially for numbered UFC events
- Soccer: MLS, Premier League, and international tournaments gaining betting traction
- Tennis: Grand Slam events and ATP/WTA tour matches available at most sportsbooks
For a detailed breakdown of the best sports to bet on in Arkansas, including strategies and seasonal tips, read our Best Sports to Bet in Arkansas guide.
Arkansas Sports Betting Bonuses & Promotions
One of the biggest advantages of signing up for multiple Arkansas sportsbooks is the ability to take advantage of various welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions. These offers provide extra value and can significantly boost your starting bankroll when used wisely.
| Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus | Wagering Req. | Min. Deposit | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets | 1x on bonus bets | $5 | View Details |
| FanDuel | Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets | 1x on bonus bets | $10 | View Details |
| Caesars | First Bet on Caesars up to $1,000 | 1x playthrough | $10 | View Details |
| BetMGM | First Bet up to $1,500 | 1x on bonus bets | $10 | View Details |
| Betly | 100% Match up to $500 | 5x rollover | $10 | View Details |
| Bet365 | Bet $1, Get $200 in Bonus Bets | 1x on bonus bets | $10 | View Details |
| ESPN BET | First Bet Reset up to $1,000 | 1x on bonus bets | $10 | View Details |
| Fanatics | Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets | 1x on bonus bets | $5 | View Details |
Beyond welcome bonuses, Arkansas sportsbooks offer a variety of ongoing promotions including profit boosts on specific games, parlay insurance, referral bonuses for inviting friends, and special event promotions tied to major sporting events like the Super Bowl, March Madness, and the Kentucky Derby at nearby Oaklawn. For the latest promo codes and offers, visit our Arkansas Betting Promo Codes page.
Bonus Terms to Watch
Always read the full terms and conditions of any bonus offer. Key things to check: minimum odds requirements (many bonus bets require -300 or longer), expiration periods (most bonus bets expire in 7-14 days), and whether bonus bets are returned with winnings (stake-back vs. non-stake-back). Understanding these details helps you maximize the value of every promotion.
Payment Methods at Arkansas Sportsbooks
Funding your Arkansas sportsbook account and withdrawing winnings should be quick and hassle-free. Licensed operators in the state offer a variety of secure payment methods to accommodate different preferences. Here is a breakdown of the most common deposit and withdrawal options available to Arkansas bettors.
| Payment Method | Deposit | Withdrawal | Speed (Withdrawal) | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit/Debit Card | Yes | Limited | 3-5 business days | $10 - $10,000 |
| PayPal | Yes | Yes | 24-48 hours | $10 - $25,000 |
| Venmo | Yes | Yes | 24-48 hours | $10 - $10,000 |
| Bank Transfer (ACH) | Yes | Yes | 3-5 business days | $10 - $100,000 |
| Play+ Prepaid | Yes | Yes | 24 hours | $10 - $25,000 |
| Cash at Casino | Yes | Yes | Instant | Varies |
Arkansas Sports Betting Taxes
Sports betting winnings in Arkansas are subject to both federal and state income taxes. Understanding your tax obligations helps you plan accordingly and avoid surprises at tax time. The federal tax rate on gambling winnings is your normal income tax rate, while Arkansas applies its state income tax to all gambling winnings. As of 2026, the top Arkansas individual income tax rate is 4.4%, following recent reductions signed into law.
Sportsbooks are required to report winnings above certain thresholds to the IRS on Form W-2G. Even for smaller amounts, you are legally obligated to report all gambling winnings on your tax return. You may deduct gambling losses up to the amount of your winnings if you itemize deductions, so keeping detailed records of all your bets is strongly recommended. For complete details on tax obligations, see our Arkansas Sports Betting Tax Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Sports Betting
Yes. Amendment 100, passed by Arkansas voters in November 2018, legalized casino gaming including sports betting across the state. The Arkansas Racing Commission oversees and regulates all mobile and retail sportsbook operations. You can legally place sports bets through licensed apps like DraftKings, FanDuel, Betly, Caesars, BetMGM, Bet365, ESPN BET, and Fanatics Sportsbook as long as you are 21 or older and physically within Arkansas.
You must be at least 21 years old to place sports bets in Arkansas. This age requirement applies to both online mobile betting and retail sportsbook wagering at Oaklawn, Saracen, and Southland casinos. Your age is verified during the account registration process through identity verification checks.
Arkansas currently has eight licensed sportsbook apps: DraftKings, FanDuel, Betly (BetSaracen), Caesars Sportsbook, BetMGM, Bet365, ESPN BET, and Fanatics Sportsbook. Each operates through a partnership with one of the three licensed casino properties as required by Amendment 100 and Arkansas Racing Commission regulations.
Yes, you must be physically located within Arkansas state borders when placing a mobile sports bet. All licensed sportsbook apps use geolocation technology to verify your location in real time. You can create an account from anywhere, but you can only deposit and wager while in Arkansas. If you travel to another state that has legal sports betting, you may be able to use that state's version of the same app.
Three casinos currently offer retail sports betting in Arkansas: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, and Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis. A fourth casino license for Pope County was authorized under Amendment 100 but has faced legal challenges that have delayed its development. Each operating casino offers both in-person betting windows and self-service kiosks.
Yes, sports betting winnings are subject to both federal income tax and Arkansas state income tax. The top Arkansas state income tax rate is 4.4% as of 2026. You should report all gambling winnings on your tax return. Losses can be deducted up to the amount of winnings if you itemize. Sportsbooks issue W-2G forms for large payouts.
Yes, you can bet on college sports in Arkansas, including Razorbacks football, basketball, and baseball games. The state does allow moneyline, spread, totals, and team props for college sports. However, individual player prop bets on college athletes are not permitted under Arkansas regulations. This restriction protects amateur student-athletes from potential exploitation or influence.
Based on our comprehensive testing and analysis, DraftKings and FanDuel are the top-rated sportsbooks in Arkansas for 2026. DraftKings earns our top spot for its outstanding mobile app, competitive odds, and excellent promotions. FanDuel is a close second with industry-leading same-game parlays and a clean interface. Betly is the best choice for bettors who want to support an Arkansas-based operator. The best sportsbook for you depends on your priorities -- read our individual reviews for detailed comparisons.
Most Arkansas sportsbooks accept deposits through several methods: credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), PayPal, Venmo, bank transfers (ACH/eCheck), and Play+ prepaid cards. Some operators also accept Apple Pay and Google Pay. Minimum deposits typically start at $5-$10. You can also make cash deposits at the retail casino locations. All transactions are secured with bank-level encryption.
Amendment 100 is a constitutional amendment approved by Arkansas voters in November 2018 that authorized casino gaming, including sports betting, at four designated locations in the state. The amendment created the legal foundation for both retail and mobile sports betting in Arkansas, regulated by the Arkansas Racing Commission. Because it is a constitutional amendment rather than a statute, it provides a particularly stable legal framework for sports betting in the state.
Responsible Gambling in Arkansas
At Fresh Ink Creative, we believe that responsible gambling is essential to enjoying sports betting as a form of entertainment. Arkansas has implemented several important safeguards to protect bettors, and every licensed sportsbook operating in the state is required to provide responsible gaming tools and resources.
Need Help? Contact These Resources
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7, confidential)
- National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): ncpgambling.org
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Self-Exclusion: Available at Oaklawn, Saracen, and Southland casinos
Every Arkansas sportsbook is required to offer the following responsible gaming tools: deposit limits (daily, weekly, monthly), wager limits to control how much you bet, loss limits to cap your net losses over a period, session time limits and reality check reminders, cool-off periods and temporary account suspensions, and voluntary self-exclusion from all betting activities. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to the resources listed above. The helpline at 1-800-522-4700 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and all calls are confidential.
For more information about responsible gambling resources specific to Arkansas, including the self-exclusion programs offered at each casino, visit our dedicated Responsible Gambling page.
Explore Arkansas Sports Betting by City
Sports betting availability is statewide in Arkansas thanks to mobile apps, but each city has its own unique sports culture and nearby casino access. Explore sports betting in your area:
Little Rock
The state capital and largest city, with easy access to Oaklawn in Hot Springs and Saracen in Pine Bluff.
Fayetteville
Home of the Arkansas Razorbacks and a hotbed for college sports betting in Northwest Arkansas.
Fort Smith
The second-largest city in AR, located on the Oklahoma border with a passionate sports fanbase.
Pine Bluff
Home of Saracen Casino Resort and the Betly sportsbook brand, offering both retail and mobile betting.
View all 10 city guides on our sitemap page, including Springdale, Jonesboro, Rogers, Conway, North Little Rock, and Bentonville.