Real-money online casinos are not legal in Louisiana, and no operators are licensed to offer online slots or table games within the state. While residents can visit land-based and riverboat casinos in person, state law has not authorized regulated iGaming platforms.
Some players have turned to social or sweepstakes-style casino sites as alternatives, though these models have faced increased regulatory scrutiny. This guide explains Louisiana’s current online casino laws and outlines what options, if any, are available in 2026.
Louisiana Online Gambling: A Quick Overview
Louisiana’s gambling laws allow several forms of betting, but they’re structured carefully. Retail casinos operate across the state, and voters approved online sports betting in most parishes. Daily fantasy contests and horse race wagering are also permitted under separate regulations.
Online casino gaming, however, hasn’t been added to that list. Lawmakers have expanded gambling in recent years, but internet-based slot and table games remain outside the current framework. The table below breaks down what is and isn’t allowed.
| Type of Gambling | Is It Legal? | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Online Casinos | ❌ No | N/A |
| Online Poker | ❌ No | N/A |
| Retail Casinos | ✅ Yes. Land-based casinos, riverboat casinos, tribal casinos, and racinos. | 21+ |
| Sports Betting | ✅ Yes (55 of 64 parishes). Both online and in-person. | 21+ |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | ✅ Yes (47 of 64 parishes). | 21+ |
| Horse Race Betting | ✅ Yes. Allowed at racetracks, OTBs, and online. | 18+ |
| State Lottery | ✅ Yes. Tickets must be purchased in person at authorized retailers. | 21+ |
Are Online Casinos Legal in Louisiana?
Real-money online casinos are not legal in Louisiana. The state has not enacted legislation authorizing internet-based casino gaming, and no operators are licensed to offer online slots or table games within state lines.
Louisiana Revised Statute §14:90.3 (“Gambling by Computer”) generally prohibits online gambling unless expressly authorized by law.
While the statute provides exceptions for activities such as online sports betting, daily fantasy contests, and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing, it does not include online casino gaming.
Under the statute, unauthorized gambling activity may carry criminal penalties. Operators face more significant fines and potential imprisonment, reflecting the state’s focus on unlicensed providers.
As of 2026, there is no regulated pathway for real-money online casinos in Louisiana. Any change would require legislative approval and a state licensing framework.
Who Regulates Gambling in Louisiana?
Most regulated gambling activity in Louisiana falls under the authority of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB).
The LGCB oversees land-based and riverboat casinos, sports betting operators, daily fantasy contests, and gaming machines at racetracks and approved establishments. Its responsibilities include:
- Issuing and renewing operator licenses
- Monitoring compliance with state gambling laws
- Investigating violations and enforcing penalties
- Implementing responsible gambling standards
Other forms of gambling are regulated separately. The Louisiana Lottery Corporation administers the state lottery, while charitable gaming is supervised by the Office of Charitable Gaming within the Department of Revenue. Horse racing and related wagering fall under the Louisiana Racing Commission.
Louisiana Gambling Laws Compared to Nearby States
Wondering how Louisiana’s gambling laws stack up against some of its neighboring states? Check out the table below to find out.
| State | Retail Casinos | Online Casinos | Sports Betting | State Lottery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | ✅ Yes – riverboat, land-based, tribal, racinos | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Retail & mobile (55 of 64 parishes) | ✅ Yes |
| Texas | ✅ Yes but limited (Class II gaming only) | ❌ Not legal | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Yes |
| Mississippi | ✅ Yes – many commercial casinos (Biloxi, Tunica, etc.) | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Retail only | ✅ Yes |
| Arkansas | ✅ Yes – 3 land-based casinos | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Retail & mobile | ✅ Yes |
| Alabama | ✅ Yes but limited (Class II gaming only) | ❌ Not legal | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Yes |
| Oklahoma | ✅ Yes – tribal casinos | ❌ Not legal | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Yes |
| Florida | ✅ Yes – tribal casinos (Seminole) | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Retail & mobile | ✅ Yes |
| Missouri | ✅ Yes – riverboat, land-based | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Retail & mobile | ✅ Yes |
| Tennessee | ❌ No casinos | ❌ Not legal | ✅ Mobile only (no retail sportsbooks) | ✅ Yes |
Social Casinos & Sweepstakes Casinos in Louisiana
Because real-money online casinos aren’t authorized in Louisiana, some players have turned to social or sweepstakes-style casino platforms instead. These sites don’t operate under a Louisiana gaming license and use a different model than regulated casino apps.
Rather than wagering cash directly, players use virtual currencies. Gold Coins (GC) are typically used for standard gameplay, while Sweeps Coins (SC) function as promotional entries that can sometimes be redeemed for prizes, often at a rate of 1 SC = $1.
In 2025, Louisiana officials began taking a closer look at these platforms.
A bill that would have banned sweepstakes casinos passed the legislature but was vetoed by Governor Jeff Landry. Soon after, Attorney General Liz Murrill issued an opinion stating that certain dual-currency casino models violate existing state gambling laws.
Following those actions, many major sweepstakes operators withdrew from Louisiana. Some platforms continue to accept residents, but availability has shifted and may continue to change as enforcement develops.
Top 3 Sweepstakes Casinos That Accept Louisiana Players
The platforms below currently accept players from Louisiana. While they are not licensed as regulated online casinos in the state, some residents use them as alternatives to in-person gaming.
The ATS.io team has reviewed each site based on game variety, bonus terms, redemption policies, and overall user experience to help you compare available options.
Chumba Casino
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: 2,000,000 Gold Coins and 2 Sweeps Coins
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: Click To Claim
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.2/5.0
Chumba is one of the better-known sweepstakes platforms available to U.S. players. The site features more than 200 games, including slots, video poker, bingo, and scratch-style titles, and it runs smoothly on both desktop and mobile devices.
In Louisiana, though, things work a bit differently. After increased regulatory scrutiny in recent years, Chumba shifted to a Gold Coins-only model for residents in the state. That means you can play for free, but Sweeps Coins aren’t available for prize redemptions.
If you’re simply looking for free-to-play casino-style games online, Chumba remains one of the more established platforms still accessible to Louisiana players. You can find a full breakdown in our detailed Chumba review.
Golden Hearts Games
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: 250K Gold Coins & 2.50 Free Sweeps Coins
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: ATSBONUS
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.3/5.0
Golden Hearts is another sweepstakes-style platform that currently accepts Louisiana players. The site offers a broad mix of games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, video poker, and 24/7 bingo rooms, along with ongoing promotional bonuses.
Unlike some platforms that adjusted their model in Louisiana, Golden Hearts continues to offer Sweeps Coin play with prize redemption options for eligible users. Redemption times can vary, though the site advertises relatively quick processing once account verification is complete.
For a closer look at game selection, bonus structure, and redemption policies, see our full Golden Hearts review.
Vegas Gems Casino
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Up to 1,000 FREE Gems & 50% First Purchase Bonus
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: ATSBONUS
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 3.8/5.0
Vegas Gems is another sweepstakes casino that currently accepts Louisiana players. The site advertises a sign-up offer of up to 1,000 Free Gems, with Gems used within its promotional system and typically redeemable for prizes under the platform’s terms.
The game library includes more than 1,000 slot titles, along with a live dealer section featuring games such as Lightning Blackjack, Speed Roulette, and Dream Catcher. New titles are added regularly.
For more details on bonus terms, game selection, and redemption policies, see our full Vegas Gems review.
Comparing the Best Online Casinos in Louisiana
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of online sweepstakes casinos that currently accept Louisiana players.
| 🎰 LA Online Casino | 🎁 Sign Up Bonus | 💵 First Bonus | 🎮 Number of Games | 💳 Min. Redemption | 📱 Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chumba Casino | 2,000,000 GC + 2 SC | 10M GC for $9.99 + 30 FREE SC | 200+ | $10 | Yes ✅ |
| LuckyLand Slots | 7,777 GC + 10 SC | 50K for $4.99 + 10 FREE SC | 100+ | $50 | Yes ✅ |
| Global Poker | 100,000 GC + 5 SC | 150K GC for $9.99 + 30 FREE SC | 200+ | $10 | No ❌ |
| Scrooge Casino | 2,000,000 GC + 250 ST | 1.5M GC for $9.99 + 2.5K FREE ST | 200+ | $100 | No ❌ |
| Vegas Gems | Up to 1,000 FREE Gems | 50% Gem Boost up to $20 | 1,300+ | $100 | No ❌ |
| LuckyBird Casino | 5,000 GC, 0.98 SC, and 3 Treasure Chests | 5 FREE SC on 1st $10+ Purchase | 700+ | $30 | No ❌ |
| Golden Hearts | 250,000 GC + 2.50 SC | 1.75M GC for $9.99 + 25 FREE SC | 200+ | $50 | No ❌ |
What Online Casino Games Can You Play in Louisiana?
When it comes to games, social and sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana (at least the ones still operating here) offer plenty of options. You’ll find all the same game types you’d expect at a real-money online gambling site, and in some cases, even more. Here’s what you can expect:
Slots
Slot games always make up the bulk of the libraries at Louisiana online casino sites. You’ll see hundreds of titles ranging from classic three-reel games to modern video slots with bonus rounds and jackpots.
Table Games
Blackjack, roulette, and baccarat are always on the menu. Some Louisiana casino sites also include table games like Three Card Poker or Casino Hold’em. And a few even offer live dealer games for a more real-casino feel.
Video Poker
Jacks or Better is almost always included, but most online casinos in Louisiana go beyond that. Deuces Wild, Double Bonus, and other variants are common too.
Specialty Games
Specialty casino games are where things get a little different. You’ll find keno, bingo, and scratch cards, along with trendy options like crash games, fishing table games, and even Plinko.
Louisiana Online Casino No Deposit Bonuses
Many social casinos and sweepstakes casinos that accept Louisiana players offer no-deposit bonuses. In most cases, new users receive free virtual currency upon registration, with no purchase required.
This structure is tied to how the sweepstakes model operates. To comply with promotional sweepstakes rules, platforms must provide a free method of entry. Offering complimentary Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins at sign-up is one way they meet that requirement.
The table below highlights sweepstakes casino platforms that currently advertise no-deposit bonuses for Louisiana players.
| LA Online Casino | No Purchase Bonus | Promo Code |
|---|---|---|
| Chumba Casino | 2,000,000 Gold Coins and 2 Sweeps Coins | Click To Claim |
| Global Poker | 100K Gold Coins + 5 FREE Sweeps Coins | FLUSH |
| Golden Hearts | 250K Gold Coins & 2.50 Free Sweeps Coins | ATSBONUS |
| LuckyBird | 45 SC FREE, 451K Gold Coins + 10 Treasure Chests | Click To Claim |
| LuckyLand Slots | FREE 7,777 Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins | Click To Claim |
| Scrooge Casino | 250 Sweeps Tokens & 2M Gold Coins | None Needed – Click to Claim |
| Vegas Gems | Up to 1,000 FREE Gems Instantly | ATSBONUS |
For more information, you can check out our full guide to Louisiana online casino no-deposit bonuses.
How to Get Started at LA Online Casinos
Well, your options for Louisiana online casinos are a bit limited right now. But there are still ways to play. If you want to play casino games online for a chance to win real money prizes, here’s how to get started today:
1. Choose a Legal Casino Site
Online gambling sites don’t accept Louisiana players. But social and sweepstakes casino sites? Some of them do. Chumba, Golden Hearts, and Vegas Gems are three of the options still available.
2. Sign Up for an Account
Once you’ve picked a casino, head to their website or download the app. Fill out the registration form and verify your identity if needed.
3. Claim a Free Welcome Bonus
Most Louisiana online casinos give you free Gold Coins (for fun play) and Sweeps Coins (redeemable for cash prizes) as soon as you join. Some even add a 100% match on your initial deposit.
4. Begin Your Online Gaming Experience
Now comes the fun part. Play slots, play table games, play all your other favorite games, too. Then, once you’ve won enough, redeem your winnings for cash prizes and gift cards.
Other Legal Forms of Louisiana Online Gambling
We’ve already touched on this earlier in the guide, but it’s worth repeating: even though online casinos aren’t allowed, there are still a few legal ways to gamble online in Louisiana. The options include:
Sports Betting
Sports betting went live in Louisiana in January 2022. It’s only legal in 55 of the state’s 64 parishes (the ones where voters approved it).
Since launch, nearly a dozen Louisiana online sportsbooks have opened shop, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and ESPN BET. You just need to be 21 or older to place real-money bets.
Horse Racing
Horse racing has been around forever in Louisiana, and online betting is part of that.
You can wager through TwinSpires, AmWager, DK Horse, FanDuel Racing, and a handful of other advance-deposit wagering (ADW) sites. The minimum age is 18, a little lower than for sports gambling.
Daily Fantasy Sports
In 2018, voters in 47 parishes approved a ballot measure to legalize paid-entry fantasy contests.
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board later issued licenses, so popular DFS sites like DraftKings and FanDuel are fully available now. Players must be 21+ to enter real-money contests.
Lottery Games
The lottery works a little bit differently. You can play Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto, Pick 3, and other draw games… but not online. You have to buy a ticket at a licensed retailer.
The Louisiana Lottery does have a mobile app, but it’s just for checking results or scanning a ticket to see if you won. You must be 21 or older to play.
Louisiana Casinos: Where to Gamble In-Person
If you want to gamble in person, Louisiana makes it pretty easy.
There are casinos scattered across the state, and not just a few… I’m talking dozens of them. On top of that, nearly 1,400 other places are cleared to run video poker machines. You’ll see them in bars, restaurants, hotels, truck stops, and even at off-track betting parlors.
Casinos themselves generally fall into four groups: land-based, riverboats, tribal casinos, and racinos.
Land-Based Casinos
Caesars New Orleans Hotel & Casino is the only casino in Louisiana with an official “land-based” designation.
It opened all the way back in 1999 under the name “Harrah’s New Orleans.” The casino floor is huge, about 115,000 square feet. Inside are more than 1,300 slot machines and just over 120 table games. Today, it’s still one of the busiest casinos in the state.
Riverboat Casinos
Louisiana first allowed riverboat casinos in 1991. State law said they had to cruise on set schedules. But in practice? Most rarely left the dock. By 2001, the state dropped the cruising rule, though the casinos still had to stay on the water.
There are fifteen licensed riverboats today. Six operate in Shreveport/Bossier City. Lake Charles has three, Baton Rouge has three, and there’s one each in Kenner, Harvey, and Amelia.
A 2018 law loosened the restrictions a bit, letting casinos move inland (but only within 1,200 feet of their original location). Several have now made that move, including Treasure Chest in Kenner, the Belle of Baton Rouge, and Horseshoe Lake Charles.
Tribal Casinos
Louisiana also has four tribal casinos. Each is owned and operated by a federally recognized Native American tribe.
- Coushatta Casino Resort (Kinder) – Run by the Coushatta Tribe. It’s the largest casino resort in the state.
- Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel (Charenton) – Run by the Chitimacha Tribe.
- Jena Choctaw Pines Casino (Dry Prong) – Run by the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians.
- Paragon Casino Resort (Marksville) – Run by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe.
Racinos
Louisiana also has racinos, which are horse racetracks that offer slot machines too. There are four of these in total:
- Delta Downs Racetrack, Casino and Hotel (Vinton)
- Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino (Opelousas)
- Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots (New Orleans)
- Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack (Bossier City)
Responsible Gambling in Louisiana
Gambling is supposed to be fun. A few bets on sporting events, some time at the tables, or a couple of spins on video slots… that’s the idea.
The problem is, it doesn’t take all that much for things to get out of hand. That’s why we like to talk about responsible gambling here at ATS.io. It matters. And in Louisiana, there are plenty of places you can turn if you ever need some help:
- Louisiana has a free, 24/7 helpline at 877-770-7867, funded through the Department of Health.
- There are also no-cost treatment options and statewide support through Problem Gambling Resource Services.
- Groups like the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling and Gamblers Anonymous are available as well.
The Future of Online Casino Gambling in Louisiana
Online casinos aren’t legal in Louisiana right now. That much is clear. The question is whether they ever will be. And the answer? Probably. There are a lot of reasons to be optimistic about that:
Reasons Louisiana Could Be the Next to Legalize iGaming
- Sports betting success. Louisiana already launched online sports betting back in January 2022. And everything has gone well so far. The state has pulled in new tax revenue, and regulators proved they can handle licensing, geolocation, and compliance.
- Lawmakers are studying the issue. In 2024, lawmakers passed Senate Resolution 149. It didn’t legalize anything, but it asked committees to study the online casino industry. That may sound insignificant, but just exploring the issue means momentum is building toward legal iGaming.
- Industry push. Caesars, DraftKings, BetMGM, and other iGaming brands already run sportsbooks here. And they already offer online casino games in U.S. states where it’s legal. That means they’ve already got the technology and the customers. Expanding into online casinos would be in their best interest, and you can bet they’ll lobby for it when the time is right.
- Sweepstakes crackdown. In 2025, Louisiana moved against sweepstakes casinos and other unregulated gambling sites. Billions of dollars flow through these “legally gray” markets every year. Lawmakers clearly want that money taxed and controlled, which could set the stage for legal online casino sites down the road.
When Could It Actually Happen?
So, when can we expect a change to be made? And for online casino sites to become legal here? Nobody knows for sure.
There are still plenty of roadblocks: problem gambling concerns, moral opposition in some parts of the state, and resistance from casino operators who don’t want to lose revenue to online play.
Even so, Louisiana has already expanded gambling once with sports betting, and the push to do more hasn’t gone away. Online casinos aren’t here yet, but it wouldn’t be surprising if that changes before the decade is over.
We’ll update this section as soon as there’s more news to share.
Louisiana Online Casino FAQs
No. Offshore casino sites aren’t legal in Louisiana. Sites like Bovada, MyBookie, BetUS, and Wild Casino do take players from the state, but they aren’t licensed or regulated in the U.S. And with no state or federal oversight, players take on a lot of risks at offshore casinos: payouts can be unreliable, the games may not be fair, and there’s nowhere to turn if something goes wrong.
No, you can’t. Online poker isn’t legal here, same as online casinos. So you won’t find any licensed online poker rooms or real-money poker sites that accept Louisiana players. Your only options are video poker outlets (those machines in bars, restaurants, and truck stops). Or if you want to play real poker for cash, you’ll need to sit down in person at a poker room in a land-based casino like Caesars New Orleans, Coushatta in Kinder, or Golden Nugget Lake Charles.
No, it’s not. The DraftKings Sportsbook app is legal here, but the DraftKings casino app isn’t. Louisiana law doesn’t allow online casino gambling, so you won’t find slots, roulette, or blackjack games on the DraftKings app in this state.
