Arkansas Sports Betting & Sportsbook Guide – How To Bet In Arkansas

Welcome to your ultimate guide for Arkansas Sports betting! If you’re eager to get in on the action but not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sports betting in The Natural State, including the legal landscape, best sportsbooks, latest developments, and much more!

Is Sports Betting Legal in Arkansas?

In May 2018, the federal ban on sports betting (PASPA) was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. Just six months later, sports betting became legal in Arkansas after voters approved an amendment to the state’s constitution in the November general election. The measure, known as the Arkansas Casino Gaming Amendment of 2018, authorized in-person wagering on sporting events at licensed casinos across the state.

Arkansas retail sports betting officially launched in July 2019, with Oakland Racing Casino Resort accepting the state’s first legal wager. The state’s second retail sportsbook (Saracen Sportsbook at Saracen Casino Resort) opened in October 2019, and a third option (Betly Sportsbook at Southland Casino Hotel) became available in January 2020.

In February 2022, the dream of mobile sports betting in Arkansas became a reality. The Arkansas Racing Commission’s changes to the state’s casino gaming rules were approved by Arkansas legislators, permitting third-party operators to launch online sportsbooks through partnerships with licensed casinos.

Less than one month later, online sports betting launched in The Natural State, allowing wagers to be placed from anywhere within state lines. Today, there are three mobile sportsbooks available to Arkansas bettors: Betly, BetSaracen, and Oaklawn Sports.

Arkansas Sports Betting Rules & Regulations

Arkansas sports betting rules are fairly straightforward and easy to understand. We have provided a general summary of the state’s requirements below.

• Sports betting is only available to adults in the state of Arkansas who are 21 years or older.
• Arkansas is a remote registration state, meaning sports bettors will be able to sign up, make their first deposit, and start placing bets from the comfort of their homes.
• In-person wagering on sporting events may only take place at casinos that have secured a license from the Arkansas Racing Commission: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Saracen Casino Resort, and Southland Casino Hotel.
• All licensed Arkansas casinos are permitted to offer two mobile skins (i.e., betting apps or sites), meaning they can offer their own online sportsbook or partner with up to two third-party operators. However, state law requires that casinos receive at least 51% of the revenue from online sports betting.
• Wagers can be placed on both professional and college sporting events, with no restrictions on in-state college teams (e.g., the University of Arkansas). Prop bets on individual college athletes are also allowed.
• Arkansas bettors cannot place wagers on amateur sporting events (e.g., high school sports), esports, or political elections.

What Are the Best Arkansas Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?

There are currently three online sportsbooks available in the state of Arkansas: Betly, BetSaracen, and Oaklawn Sports. Each of these mobile sports betting platforms is described in further detail below.

Betly

Betly Sportsbook launched in March 2022 through a partnership with Southland Casino Hotel, becoming the state’s first digital sports betting platform. The Betly Sportsbook Arkansas app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and it is very well-designed, user-friendly, and easy to navigate. Competitive odds, a wide range of betting markets, and a fantastic live betting experience are just a taste of what Betly Sportsbook has to offer its users.

BetSaracen

BetSaracen is the mobile wagering platform of Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. The BetSaracen website and mobile app went live in May 2022, and the platform can be accessed on mobile devices, laptops, and desktop computers. Betting options are offered on all of the top U.S. leagues (e.g., NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL) as well as plenty of niche sports (cycling, darts, table tennis, etc.).

Customers will get to take advantage of BetSaracen’s Daily Specials, which offer odds boosts on parlays, futures, prop bets, and more. The site also offers excellent customer service, and you are guaranteed to always get your questions answered and problems resolved in a timely manner. The only downside is the limited number of payment options.

Oaklawn Sports

Oaklawn Sports, a product of Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, became the state’s third mobile sportsbook when it launched in September 2022. The platform is powered by Kambi, one of the world’s leading providers of premium sports betting services. Customers will enjoy the sleek and modern design of the Oaklawn Sports app as well as its wide range of bet types offered.

Other Mobile Sportsbooks

Although there are currently only a few online sportsbooks available in the state, it is expected that the online sports betting market in Arkansas will expand in the upcoming years. Several of the top U.S. sportsbooks may look to secure partnerships with the state’s licensed casinos and make their platform available to bettors all over The Natural State.

For example, Caesars Sportsbook is available in two of Arkansas’ neighboring states (Louisiana and Tennessee) and is a likely candidate to launch its platform in the state should an opportunity ever arise. FanDuel Sportsbook is another potential contender and would be a very appealing option for Arkansas bettors, as they would gain access to one of the industry’s top mobile apps and best new player bonus offers.

How Can I Bet on Sports in Arkansas?

Arkansas residents have no shortage of options when it comes to betting on sports in their home state. A few of the different ways to get in on the action and excitement are discussed below.

Online Sportsbooks

As previously mentioned, there are currently three online sportsbooks licensed and operating in the state of Arkansas: Betly, BetSaracen, and Oaklawn Sports. Each option is reliable and has something unique to offer its customers. Since Arkansas is a remote registration state, you’ll be able to register for an account, make your first deposit, and start placing bets all from the comfort of your home.

Retail Sportsbooks

All three of Arkansas’ licensed casinos offer in-person wagering on a wide range of college and professional sporting events. You can visit Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, or Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis to place your bets today.

Visit Neighboring States

If you’re interested in exploring other online sportsbooks or don’t happen to live near any of the state’s retail sports betting locations, you may choose to visit neighboring states to place bets on all your favorite players and teams.

Bettors in the southern part of Arkansas may choose to visit Louisiana, which provides both online and retail sports betting options. Tennessee is also a viable option and currently offers over a dozen different mobile sportsbooks to anyone located within state lines.

Daily Fantasy Sports

Arkansas also offers the opportunity to engage in daily fantasy sports (DFS). Platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Underdog Fantasy are accessible in the state, allowing users to draft virtual teams and compete for real cash prizes. DFS provides an interactive and skill-based form of sports betting, enabling Arkansas sports enthusiasts to showcase their knowledge and strategy while enjoying the thrill of competition.

Offshore Sportsbooks

While Arkansas has legalized sports betting within the state, some bettors may consider offshore sportsbooks as an alternative option. Offshore sportsbooks provide a wider range of betting markets, competitive odds, and potentially more generous bonuses. However, it’s important for Arkansas sports bettors to do thorough research and only choose reputable offshore sportsbooks that prioritize security and have good feedback from existing customers.

Where Can I Bet on Sports in Arkansas?

In-person wagering on sporting events is offered by each of Arkansas’ three licensed casinos: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Saracen Casino Resort, and Southland Casino Hotel. Legends Resort & Casino also planned to offer retail sports betting in The Natural State but was stripped of its casino license in January 2023.

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort

• Address: 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
• Phone Number: (501)-623-4411
• Odds Provider: Kambi

Oaklawn, a historic racetrack and home of the Arkansas Derby, launched its retail sportsbook in July 2019 and accepted the state’s first legal wager on sports. Customers can place wagers on all their favorite sports and leagues by visiting Oaklawn’s Sportsbook in the Casino or the newly added Oaklawn Sportsbook at the Sports Tavern in the racing grandstand.

Wagers are offered on all major worldwide sports, and you can expect to find as many as 300 different wagering options for any given game. In addition, in-game betting is available for NFL, NBA, MLB, college football, and college basketball games.

Saracen Casino Resort

• Address: 1 Saracen Resort Dr, Pine Bluff, AR 71601
• Phone Number: (870)-686-9001
• Odds Provider: IGT

Saracen Casino Resort began accepting in-person wagers in October 2019 and is conveniently located in Pine Bluff, just 45 minutes from Little Rock, 45 minutes from Monticello, and one hour from Benton. The sportsbook is owned and operated by the Quapaw Nation, a federally-recognized Native American tribe in the state of Oklahoma.

Customers can use the sports betting kiosk at the Saracen Casino Annex to place straight bets, parlays, teasers, futures, and many other types of wagers. The kiosk is open 24/7 and located adjacent to a sports bar, where you can food and drinks while watching your bets play out.

Southland Casino Hotel

• Address: 1550 N. Ingram Blvd. West Memphis, AR 72301
• Phone Number: (800) 467-6182
• Odds Provider: IGT

The Betly Sportsbook at Southland Casino Hotel launched in January 2020 and provides the ultimate fan experience on game day. The full-service sportsbook is located in Sports Bar & Grill, which offers plenty of wide-screen TVs, comfortable seating, an extensive dining menu, and a fully-stocked bar.

Visitors can place bets with the help of the site’s friendly staff or use any of the conveniently located Betly kiosks. Wagers are offered on football, basketball, baseball, golf, hockey, auto racing, mixed martial arts, soccer, and several other sports.

How To Sign Up & Start Betting in Arkansas

What Teams Can I Bet on in Arkansas?

Arkansas boasts a lively sports culture deeply rooted in the enthusiasm for college athletics as well as nearby professional sports teams. A few of the most popular teams among Arkansas sports fans are discussed below.

Arkansas Razorbacks

Arkansas sports fans have an unwavering passion for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, supporting their teams with immense pride. The Razorbacks’ rich history, intense rivalries, and dedicated fan base create a strong sense of community and camaraderie among Arkansas residents. Since there are no restrictions when it comes to betting on in-state schools, you can bet on the Razorbacks in a handful of different sports, including basketball, football, and several others.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have a massive following in Arkansas. As one of the most iconic franchises in American football, the Cowboys’ success and star-studded roster have attracted fans from all over the Natural State. Sharing a close geographical proximity, Arkansas fans have embraced the team as their own, cheering on the Cowboys every season. Arkansas bettors can bet on the Cowboys all season long by using any of the state’s licensed sportsbooks.

Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies of the NBA have captured the attention and support of basketball enthusiasts in Arkansas. Being the nearest NBA team to the state, many fans have adopted the Grizzlies as their preferred professional basketball team. Moneylines, point spreads, same-game parlays, futures, player props, and team props are just a few of the ways you can bet on the Grizzlies in Arkansas.

St. Louis Cardinals

Despite the distance, the St. Louis Cardinals have garnered a dedicated fanbase in Arkansas. Known for their storied history, winning traditions, and passionate supporters, the Cardinals have become a beloved baseball team among Arkansas sports fans. You’ll have no problem betting on the St. Louis Cardinals in the state of Arkansas, as wagers can be placed online from anywhere in the state using Betly, BetSaracen, or Oaklawn Sports.

Strategies & Tips for Arkansas Sports Bettors

While there is no way to guarantee success in the world of sports betting, there are plenty of guidelines to follow and strategies to implement to increase your chances of finishing on top. Here are some tips and tricks for Arkansas sports bettors:

• Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the basic concepts of sports betting, including odds, point spreads, and different types of bets (moneyline, spread, totals, parlays, etc.). This foundational knowledge will help you make informed decisions.
• Use Betting Tools & Resources: Utilize betting tools and resources available online, such as statistical databases, betting calculators, and expert analysis. These tools can provide valuable insights and help you make more informed decisions.
• Control Betting Volume: void placing too many bets simultaneously, as it can be challenging to maintain a disciplined approach and thoroughly research each wager. Focus on quality over quantity and select your bets wisely based on thorough analysis.
• Look for Value Bets: Look for opportunities where the odds offered by the sportsbook seem to underestimate the true probability of an outcome. Finding value bets requires research, analysis, and understanding of the sports betting market. Value betting can be a profitable long-term strategy.
• Shop for the Best Odds: Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds for the same event. Take the time to compare odds across multiple sportsbooks and choose the one that provides the best value for your bets. Even small differences in odds can have a significant impact on your long-term profitability.

Arkansas Sports Betting FAQ