Welcome to your ultimate guide for West Virginia sports betting! Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or brand new to the world of sports wagering, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and information you need to take your sports betting experience to the next level.
We’ll explore the legal landscape of West Virginia betting, take a closer look at the best sportsbooks available in the state, and offer some tips to help increase your chances of success. By the time we’re done, this guide will be your go-to resource for sports betting in the Mountain State. Now, let’s get started!
Is Sports Betting Legal in West Virginia?
Interestingly enough, West Virginia gave the green light to sports betting and online casino gambling before the landmark Supreme Court decision in Murphy v. NCAA. The Mountain State legalized sports betting in March 2018 but could not act until the Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned by a 7-2 vote on May 14, 2018. After that, West Virginia was up and running before the end of the year.
Today, both online and retail sports betting options are available in the state of West Virginia. Existing casino and racetrack licensees in West Virginia are allowed to apply for licenses to operate sports betting, and each licensee can offer up to three different mobile platforms.
There are ten online sportsbooks licensed by the West Virginia Lottery and currently operating in West Virginia.
Online Sportsbook | Launch Date | Mobile App | Retail Partner |
Barstool | November 2021 | ✅ | Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races |
Betly | September 2020 | ✅ | Mardi Gras Casino |
BetMGM | January 2020 | ✅ | The Greenbrier Casino Club |
BetRivers | June 2022 | ✅ | Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort |
Caesars | August 2021 | ✅ | Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort |
DraftKings | August 2019 | ✅ | Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races |
FanDuel | August 2019 | ✅ | The Greenbrier Casino Club |
Golden Nugget | October 2021 | ✅ | The Greenbrier Casino Club |
PointsBet | August 2021 | ✅ | Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races |
WynnBET | June 2023 | ✅ | Mardi Gras Casino |
In addition, there are five retail sportsbooks across the state that are currently accepting in-person wagers.
Retail Sportsbook | Venue | Location |
Barstool Sportsbook | Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races | Charles Town, WV |
Betly Sportsbook | Mardi Gras Casino & Resort | Cross Lanes, WV |
Betly Sportsbook | Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack | Wheeling, WV |
Caesars Sportsbook | Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort | New Cumberland, WV |
FanDuel Sportsbook | The Greenbrier Casino Club | White Sulphur Springs, WV |
West Virginia Sports Betting Rules & Regulations
The West Virginia sports betting rules are very permissive and nonrestricted, as bettors who are 21 years or older can place bets on nearly any sporting event that takes place. This includes both college and professional sports in the United States as well as international leagues and Olympic events.
West Virginia bettors can place wagers on NCAA matchups involving both in-state schools, such as the University of West Virginia or Marshall University, and out-of-state schools. There are also no restrictions on individual player prop bets or in-game wagering options at the collegiate level.
The Mountain State began allowing bets on esports as well after House Bill 4826 was signed into law in March 2022. As a result, online and retail wagers are offered on League of Legends (LoL), Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and much more.
The only restrictions in the state of Washington are on non-college amateur sports, meaning you cannot bet on any high school athletes or sporting events. Non-sports-related wagers on political events or awards ceremonies (e.g., the Oscars or the Grammys) are also prohibited.
What Are the Best West Virginia Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?
All of West Virginia’s licensed digital sportsbooks and betting sites are completely reliable, and they each have special features and benefits to offer customers across the state. However, four sports betting platforms stand out as your best options today: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and BetRivers.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings launched in the Mountain State in August 2019 through a partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. One of the biggest names in the American sports betting industry, DraftKings Sportsbook provides a user-friendly website and mobile app as well as extensive betting options on sports and leagues all over the world. Its speedy payout process and frequent promotional offers also help make DraftKings one of the best options for West Virginia mobile bettors.
FanDuel Sportsbook
Another fantastic option is FanDuel Sportsbook, which also went live in August 2019 but through a licensing agreement with The Greenbrier Casino Club. FanDuel offers arguably the best mobile experience among U.S. sportsbooks, as its app is very well designed, easy to navigate, and unlikely to crash or buffer while placing bets. The great selection of alternative lines and prop bets offered on the platform is also very appealing.
BetMGM Sportsbook
One of the most reliable and well-established names in the industry, BetMGM entered the West Virginia sports betting market in January 2020 after partnering with The Greenbrier Casino. BetMGM Sportsbook provides an amazing in-game betting experience to all users by offering a wide range of betting options as well as live streaming of games, and the platform offers an incredible customer loyalty program to reward customers for their dedication and continued business.
BetRivers Sportsbook
Last but not least, BetRivers Sportsbook is another top option for West Virginia bettors. BetRivers went live in June 2022 through a licensing agreement with Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort, and its fantastic offering of daily odds boosts and incredible market depth have helped the platform quickly grow in popularity across the Mountain State.
How Can I Bet on Sports in West Virginia?
West Virginia residents have no shortage of options when it comes to sports betting. Listed and explained below are a few of the best ways to join in on all the excitement.
Mobile Sportsbooks
As previously mentioned, there are currently ten mobile sportsbooks licensed and operating in the Mountain State. Each sports betting platform is unique and has special features and promotions to offer both new and existing customers. You can’t go wrong with any of the options, but we highly recommend DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and BetRivers.
Furthermore, West Virginia is a remote registration state. As a result, bettors can sign up, make their first deposit, and start placing bets all from the comfort of their own homes. It is also worth mentioning that new sportsbooks are likely to launch in the state in the upcoming years, as three of the five licensed West Virginia casinos and racetracks currently have mobile skins available.
Retail Sportsbooks
If you’re looking for an authentic, Vegas-style in-person wagering experience, West Virginia has five licensed retail sportsbooks currently available, and they are located all across the state. Sports bettors in Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and many other cities are all just a reasonably short drive away from one of the state’s retail sports betting locations, where they can watch sporting events on multi-screen video walls in comfortable lounge chairs while being served food and drinks.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Although there is no formal legislation on daily fantasy sports (DFS) in West Virginia, DFS is considered a game of skill (not chance) in the state. As a result, paid daily fantasy sports contests are legal and available to fantasy players across the Mountain State. If you’re looking for an exciting alternative to traditional sports betting, you can sign up for an account with DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and several other DFS platforms to draft teams and compete for your share of huge prize pools.
Horse Racing
In addition, betting on horse and greyhound racing is legal in the state and regulated by the West Virginia Racing Commission. Both on-track and off-track betting opportunities are offered. You can place your bets in person at Mountaineer Racetrack & Resort, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, or several other racetracks across the state. You’ll also be able to use popular racebooks and horse betting apps (TwinSpires, FanDuel Racing, etc.) to place wagers online.
Where Can I Bet on Sports in West Virginia?
Each of West Virginia’s five licensed casino and racetrack properties currently offering in-person wagering to all visitors who are at least 21 years of age. The retail sports betting locations are spread out across the state, ensuring all West Virginia bettors are just a quick trip away from being able to get in on the action. You can learn more about each of West Virginia’s five retail sportsbooks below.
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
- Location: 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, WV 25414
- Sportsbook Operator: Barstool
- Odds Provider: Kambi
- Launch Date: September 2018
The Barstool Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Charles Town is a Penn National Gaming property, located in northeast West Virginia. With 30 TVs, a three-sided jumbotron with a 250″ LED screen on each side, and a Watch Zone spanning nearly 50 feet, Barstool Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino offers a fantastic viewing experience to sports fans and bettors alike.
Straight bets, parlays, match-ups, futures, props, and in-play betting on a wide range of sports are all offered to customers. In addition, the Sportsbook also features the Barstool Sportsbook Restaurant, where sports bettors can grab drinks or a bite to eat while watching their wagers play out.
Mardi Gras Casino & Resort
- Location: 1 Greyhound Drive, Cross Lanes, WV 25313
- Sportsbook Operator: Betly
- Odds Provider: IGT
- Launch Date: December 2018
Betly Sportsbook at Mardi Gras Casino & Resort operates in Cross Lanes, located just six miles northwest of Charleston, West Virginia. Wagers are offered on basketball, football, baseball, soccer, boxing, MMA, hockey, golf, auto racing, Aussie Rules, and many other sports.
You can place bets by visiting with their friendly staff at the Cage or heading over to any of their seven conveniently located kiosks throughout the Sportsbook. On-property teller windows and kiosks are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.
Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort
- Location: 1420 Mountaineer Circle, New Cumberland, WV 26047
- Sportsbook Operator: Caesars
- Odds Provider: Caesars
- Launch Date: November 2018
Caesars Sportsbook at Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort is located in northern West Virginia, along the Ohio River, and offers the perfect place to place your bets and catch all the action in sports. Straight bets, parlays, futures, propositions, teasers, and round robins are all offered on both college and professional sporting events, and comfortable seats as well as a full wall of TVs are provided to offer the ultimate experience for fans.
The Casino Club at The Greenbrier
- Location: 101 Main Street West, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
- Sportsbook Operator: FanDuel
- Odds Provider: Kambi
- Launch Date: September 2018
Found in the southeastern part of the state, FanDuel Sportsbook at The Greenbrier Casino Club is America’s only private casino and sportsbook, as it is only available to overnight guests at the resort or members of the Casino Club. Betting options are offered on sports and leagues from all over the world, and customers will also get to enjoy fine dining, live entertainment, and world-class gaming while at The Greenbrier.
Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack
- Location: 1 South Stone Street, Wheeling, WV 26003
- Sportsbook Operator: Betly
- Odds Provider: IGT
- Launch Date: December 2018
The Betly Sportsbook at Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack is located in northern West Virginia, roughly 60 miles west of Pittsburgh, and provides an amazing in-person wagering experience. A variety of betting markets and wager types are offered, and you’ll have access to comfortable lounge chairs, a multi-screen video wall, and a fully-stocked bar.
Wheeling Island and Mardi Gras are owned by Delaware North and experienced temporary shutdowns in March 2019 after a contract dispute with former partner Miomni. However, both West Virginia casinos resumed sports betting operations in January 2020 after reaching an agreement with IGT and Betly Sportsbook.
How To Sign Up & Start Betting in West Virginia
Are you ready to get started? Just follow these six simple steps to sign up and start betting on all your favorite teams and leagues!
- Choose Your WV Sportsbook: Pick a licensed West Virginia sportsbook that aligns with your personal preferences and unique betting needs. Visit its website or mobile app to get started.
- Create an Account: Begin to register for an account. Enter all required personal information, choose a username and password, and agree to the site’s Terms & Conditions to finish the sign-up process.
- Verify Your Information: Complete the account verification process by following the on-screen instructions provided by your sportsbook. You will likely need to confirm your identity by providing your social security number or a picture of your driver’s license.
- Make a Deposit: Add funds to your online betting account using any of the sportsbook’s accepted payment methods (e.g., debit/credit card, online banking, or digital wallet).
- Claim Your Welcome Offer: Collect your new player bonus, which will typically come in the form of first-bet insurance, a deposit match bonus, or guaranteed bonus bets.
- Start Betting: Begin betting on all your favorite players, teams, and leagues. Good luck!
What Teams Can I Bet on in West Virginia?
West Virginia bettors can place wagers on a wide range of sports and leagues across the world. A few of the most popular West Virginia sports teams are discussed below along with their availability for online and in-person betting today!
West Virginia Mountaineers
The West Virginia Mountaineers are the athletic teams representing West Virginia University (WVU). They compete in the NCAA Division I as part of the Big 12 Conference. The Mountaineers have a rich history in football, basketball, baseball, and several other sports. As one of the most popular teams in the state, you can find a wide range of betting options available for Mountaineers’ games, including moneyline bets, point spreads, and over/under totals.
Marshall Thundering Herd
The Marshall Thundering Herd represent Marshall University, which is located in Huntington, West Virginia. They compete at the Division I level and are members of Conference USA. Marshall’s football program, in particular, has gained significant recognition over the years and has a passionate fan base across the state. You can currently bet on all of Marshall’s games either online or at the retail sportsbooks located in Charles Town, New Cumberland, and several other West Virginia cities.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Although not based in West Virginia, the Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which is relatively close to the state. The Steelers are a well-established franchise in the National Football League (NFL) and have a passionate fan base in West Virginia. As one of the most popular teams in the NFL, you’ll find extensive betting options for Pittsburgh Steelers games, including point spreads, moneylines, totals, various prop bets, and much more.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are a professional basketball team based in Cleveland, Ohio, near the northern borders of West Virginia. The Cavaliers compete in the NBA and have had great success over the years, including winning the NBA Finals in 2016. Given their geographical proximity, the Cavaliers also have a significant following in West Virginia. You’ll have no problem finding ways to bet on the Cavs in West Virginia throughout the regular season and postseason.
Strategies & Tips for West Virginia Sports Bettors
While there is no foolproof method to guarantee success in the world of sports betting, there are a few general guidelines to follow and useful strategies to implement to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips and tricks for West Virginia sports bettors:
- Do Thorough Research & Analysis: Before placing any bets, invest time in researching teams, players, and recent performance. Stay updated on injuries, weather conditions, and other factors that could impact the outcome of a game. Analyze statistics, trends, and head-to-head matchups to make informed decisions.
- Keep Your Emotions in Check: Emotions can cloud judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. Avoid placing bets based solely on personal biases or rooting for your favorite team. Maintain a rational mindset and stick to your pre-determined strategies and analysis.
- Track Your Bets: Keep a record of your bets, including the type of bet, stake, odds, and outcomes. This tracking helps you analyze your performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your strategies accordingly.
- Take Advantage of Bonuses & Promotions: Many sportsbooks offer bonuses and promotions to attract new customers or reward loyal ones. Take advantage of these offers but be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. Utilizing bonuses can provide extra value and increase your potential profits.
- Shop for the Best Odds: Take advantage of multiple sportsbooks and online platforms available in West Virginia to compare odds. Even a slight difference in odds can significantly impact your potential returns. Consider signing up with multiple reputable sportsbooks to maximize your options.
West Virginia Sports Betting FAQ
Yes! Sports betting has been legal in West Virginia since March 2018, and both in-person and online wagering options are currently available in the state.
The legal betting age in West Virginia is 21 years old.
Yes, there are no restrictions on college sports betting in West Virginia. You will be able to place wagers on both in-state and out-of-state schools at any of the licensed online or retail sportsbooks.
There are currently ten mobile sportsbooks operating in West Virginia. All are reliable and trustworthy options, but we highly recommend you consider DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and BetRivers Sportsbook.
Yes, each of West Virginia’s five licensed casino and racetrack properties offers retail sports betting. You can visit Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, Mardi Gras Casino & Resort, Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack, Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort, or The Greenbrier Casino Club to place wagers in person.