Arkansas Sports Betting: AR Sportsbooks & Legal Updates
Arkansas sports betting is legal and live. Three online sports betting sites are available in the state.
Until March 5, 2022, legal sports bets in Arkansas required a trip to one of three casino locations. However, a rule change in late 2021 cleared the way for online betting, which received approval in February 2022.
Read on for more information on Arkansas sports betting, including the details about the law.
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Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?
Yes. Sports betting has been legal in Arkansas since November 2018 and is available at the state’s three casinos and three online sportsbooks, highlighted by BetSaracen Sportsbook.
BetSaracen Sportsbook Arkansas
BetSaracen is Arkansas’ premier homegrown online sportsbook, launched in May 2022 by Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. Available via iOS, Android, and desktop, it caters exclusively to bettors physically located within Arkansas.
The platform offers a comprehensive betting menu, including moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, same-game parlays, props, futures, and live in-game wagering across major U.S. and international sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, college athletics, MMA, and soccer. New users can Bet $25, and Get in Bonus Bets bonus with promo code LSR250.
BetSaracen frequently features promotions tied to local teams and major events, and the site has ongoing promotions like parlay boosts and event-specific bonus bets. Arkansas Razorbacks fans will find tailored betting options and odds boosts for their favorite teams, and the same goes for fans of professional sports including the NFL, NBA, MLB, and more.
With its Arkansas-first approach, BetSaracen delivers a localized, secure, and user-friendly betting experience for residents seeking a trusted sportsbook.
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Users can fund their accounts through various methods, including Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Skrill, VIP Preferred (ACH), and cash deposits at the Saracen Casino cage. Withdrawals are processed via the same channels.
DraftKings Sportsbook Arkansas
DraftKings officially launched in Arkansas in March 2026 through a partnership with Southland Casino, marking the entry of a major national operator into the state’s online betting market. Available via iOS, Android, and desktop, the sportsbook is accessible to users physically located within Arkansas.
The platform offers a full betting menu, including moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, same-game parlays, props, futures, and live in-game wagering across major U.S. and international sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, college athletics, MMA, and soccer. Currently, DraftKings is offering new Arkansas users: Bet $5 and Get Instantly in Bonus Bets, available immediately upon registering and placing the first real-money wager.
DraftKings regularly features additional promotions and odds boosts tied to major events and local teams. Arkansas Razorbacks fans and followers of professional sports will find tailored betting options and special boosts, making the platform highly competitive in the state’s growing market.
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Users can fund accounts using common methods, including Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, online banking (ACH), and other standard channels. Withdrawals are processed through the same options, providing a secure and user-friendly experience for Arkansas bettors.
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FanDuel Sportsbook Arkansas
FanDuel Sportsbook launched in Arkansas in March 2026 through a partnership with Oaklawn Casino, marking a major upgrade to the state’s online betting market. Available on iOS, Android, and desktop, the platform is accessible to users in Arkansas and brings one of the most established sportsbook experiences in the U.S. to local bettors.
FanDuel offers a deep betting menu, including moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, same-game parlays, player props, futures, and live in-game wagering across major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, college sports, MMA, and international soccer. New users can take advantage of a new welcome offer: Bet $5 and Get $350 If Your Bet Wins!
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The platform is known for its polished interface, competitive odds, and frequent promotions such as odds boosts, parlay insurance, and event-based bonuses tied to major sporting events. Arkansas Razorbacks fans and followers of major pro leagues will find a wide range of betting options, including boosted odds and special markets tailored to popular teams.
With its national reputation and advanced features, FanDuel delivers a modern, reliable, and user-friendly sportsbook experience for Arkansas bettors.
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Users can fund their accounts using common payment methods such as Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, online banking (ACH), and other standard options, with withdrawals typically processed through the same channels depending on user preference.
What’s happening in Arkansas sports betting right now
- March 11, 2026 – FanDuel and DraftKings officially launched in Arkansas, significantly expanding the state’s online sportsbook market and increasing competition. FanDuel replaced the Oaklawn Sports app, introducing a new platform and a major go-live promotion for Arkansas bettors.
- Aug. 15, 2025 – Sports betting handle hit $29.4 million in July, which is up 15.6% from the prior year.
- July 24, 2025 – June betting handle jumped 19.3% over last year, hitting nearly $37.5 million for the month.
- June 17, 2025 – Sports betting handle was $47.3 million, an 18.8% increase over the prior year.
Sportsbook apps that could debut in Arkansas
The online sports betting rules in Arkansas allow for as many as six online sportsbooks in the state. Oaklawn, Saracen and Southland each hold two licenses, though not all available skins are currently in use.
FanDuel and DraftKings officially launched in March 2026, joining existing operators and significantly expanding the state’s online betting market. Their arrival marks a major shift, bringing nationally recognized platforms, stronger competition, and more robust promotions to Arkansas bettors.
In addition to those already operational, several candidates could begin offering online sportsbook promotions and bonuses if they were to launch in Arkansas.
Currently live sportsbooks in Arkansas include:
BetSaracen Sportsbook
Operated by Saracen Casino Resort, BetSaracen remains a key local operator with a strong Arkansas focus and a full suite of betting options.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings launched in Arkansas following approval by the Arkansas Racing Commission in late February 2026, building on its existing presence in the state through daily fantasy sports. Its sportsbook offers a comprehensive betting experience with competitive odds, same-game parlays, and frequent promotions.
DraftKings is already a familiar commodity in Arkansas due to its daily fantasy sports operation, which has been legal in the state since 2017.
Southland Casino (in West Memphis) previously partnered with Betly for its online sportsbook. On March 20, 2026, Betly Arkansas shut down, and DraftKings launched the same day through the same Southland Casino license.
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel entered the Arkansas market through its partnership with Oaklawn Casino, replacing the previous Oaklawn Sports app. Known for its polished interface, wide betting menu, and strong promotional offerings, FanDuel is one of the leading operators in the U.S.
FanDuel is a major DFS provider that has blossomed into a full-service gambling company in the past few years. Its easy-to-navigate app and various promotions have propelled it to the top of the market in multiple areas of the country.
Sportsbooks that could still launch in Arkansas
With additional licenses still available, several major operators could enter the market in the future:
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook is the sports betting wing of one of the world’s largest gambling companies. In Arkansas, Caesars is already tied to the planned River Valley Casino in Russellville through its partnership with Gulfside Casino Partnership, positioning it as a strong candidate if that project moves forward.
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM Sportsbook has been at the forefront of online sports betting launches in multiple states in the past few years. MGM is active in the region and maintains two casino properties in neighboring Mississippi. BetMGM also had a presence at the December 2021 meeting of the Arkansas Racing Commission.
With as many as six online sportsbooks possible in Arkansas, other companies may also put their names forward. The following sportsbooks haven’t made many moves in the state so far, but they could show up as part of the market nonetheless:
Certain rules for Arkansas casinos will likely keep national brands out of the state. The casinos must maintain control of everything within the casino, meaning a sports betting partner could not hold a majority position.
BetRivers
While quieter in Arkansas so far, BetRivers has entered multiple regulated markets and could pursue one of the remaining licenses.
Retail Sportsbooks in Arkansas
Other than three mobile sportsbooks in Arkansas, bettors can place bets in person at any of three retail sportsbooks in the state. Each book is located at one of Arkansas’ three casinos.
Saracen Casino Resort (BetSaracen Sportsbook)
Saracen is one of the few commercial casinos in the country under tribal ownership. The Quapaw Nation, a federally recognized tribe in Oklahoma, owns the casino and its associated annex as a business venture. The Saracen sportsbook opened in 2022.
Southland Casino Racing (DraftKing Sportsbook)
Southland Casino Racing operates a retail sportsbook in partnership with DraftKings, bringing a nationally recognized platform to the state’s horse racing and gaming venue. The sportsbook is integrated into the property’s sports bar, with kiosks throughout for quick wagers, alongside full-service teller windows.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (FanDuel Sportsbook)
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, one of Arkansas’ most historic gaming venues and home of the Arkansas Derby, was the first to launch sports betting in the state in July 2019. Its retail sportsbook remains a full-service operation with teller windows, kiosks, and large-screen viewing areas, and now operates in partnership with FanDuel following the brand’s 2026 launch in Arkansas.
Arkansas sports betting basics
Arkansas voters approved sports betting in November 2018 through a constitutional amendment allowing wagering at up to four casinos, with oversight from the Arkansas Racing Commission. Currently, three casinos are operational and offer both retail and online sports betting.
Mobile sports betting officially launched in March 2022 after the Arkansas Racing Commission approved new rules permitting each casino to operate up to two online sportsbook “skins.” This structure allows for a maximum of six online sportsbooks statewide, though not all licenses are currently in use.
The market expanded significantly in March 2026 with the launches of FanDuel and DraftKings, introducing major national operators into what had previously been a limited, casino-run ecosystem. While Arkansas maintains a relatively controlled framework requiring casinos to retain primary control, the addition of these brands signals gradual growth and increased competition in the state.
When the Arkansas Racing Commission wrote the online sports betting rules (approved in late 2021), there was significant debate between national sportsbook lobbyists and local casino interests over how the revenue should be shared. National operators pushed back against a provision that a majority share of net sports betting revenue would go to the partnering Arkansas casino — a requirement unique to the state that differs from traditional flat‑fee or smaller revenue shares in other markets.
In addition to the profit‑sharing rule, Arkansas also adopted a tiered tax structure similar to other states, where sports betting revenue is taxed at 13% up to $150 million and 20% above that threshold, with proceeds distributed to the state general fund, local host cities/counties, and the Racing Commission’s purse fund.
Popular sports in Arkansas
Arkansas’ sports betting law does not contain many restrictions. The only things the law explicitly prohibits betting on are political elections and virtual sports. Football is the most popular sport for betting in every state in the US, including Arkansas. Other sports that people in the state can bet on include the following:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Bare-knuckle fighting
- Bowling
- Boxing
- Cornhole
- Floorball
- Futsal
- Golf
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Mixed martial arts
- Motorsports
- Rodeo
- Rugby
- Sailing
- Soccer
- Snooker
- Tennis
- Volleyball
Some of these sports offer different levels for wagering— college and professional games are on the table. Here are some of the most popular teams for betting in Arkansas:
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Arkansas at Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
- Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
- Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
- Dallas Stars (NHL)
- Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- Kansas City Royals (MLB)
- Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)
- St. Louis Blues (NHL)
- St. Louis Cardinals (MLB)
- Texas Rangers (MLB)
This list is not exhaustive by any means. The NCAA teams offer football and basketball, of course, and each of Arkansas’ sportsbooks will have options for any major professional sports event or team.
DFS in Arkansas
Arkansans have been able to play daily fantasy sports contests legally for several years. Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed off on HB 2250 in April 2017 to allow DFS sites to operate legally in the state. Top DFS providers like DraftKings and FanDuel have been part of the landscape ever since.
The legalization was the first in 2017 and the ninth overall. For the most part, the law does not include many restrictions or consumer protections for participating in the contests. DFS sites must pay a flat 8% tax to the state, and that’s the primary mission of the four-page act. DFS providers that have been deemed to be offering sprots betting have been sanctioned by the state.
Is horse betting legal in Arkansas?
Yes. Betting on horse races in Arkansas in both live and online formats is legal. Arkansas is home to one of the more prestigious races in the country — the Arkansas Derby. It runs every April at Oaklawn Park and features 3-year-old thoroughbreds running 1⅛ miles on dirt for a $1.25 million purse. Notable winners of the Arkansas Derby include Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Smarty Jones, and Preakness and Belmont winner Afleet Alex.
Arkansans need not go to Oaklawn Park if they want to wager on races there or anywhere else in the country. Arkansas permits its residents to wager through online horse betting sites. Of those, one of the best options is FanDuel Racing. The racebook arm of the sports betting and DFS giant is also linked with FanDuel TV, which provides coverage of US and international horse races.
Arkansas sports betting timeline
Arkansas’ experience with sports betting has been a slow burn. Voters approved the activity in November 2018 as a constitutional amendment. Oaklawn accepted the first wager in July 2019. Here’s a rundown of all the relevant moves that have led to this point:
2026
March 2026 – DraftKings and FanDuel approved for the Arkansas sports betting market, marking the first entry of national online sportsbooks. Both will partner with existing casino licensees (FanDuel with Oaklawn and DraftKings with Southland), with launches targeted around March Madness.
2025
Throughout 2025, Arkansas’s sports betting market continued to grow, with the annual combined handle reaching approximately $639.5 million for the year, up from 2024 totals. Oct. 2025 – The state reported stronger tax collections from online sports wagering, with more than $7 million in tax revenue through October, an increase of over 28% compared with 2024.
2024
Arkansas regulators send cease-and-desist letters to DFS operators PrizePicks and Underdog amid a crackdown on some DFS products in many states.
2023
In June, Arkansas regulators more than double the number of sports available to bettors, adding options such as lacrosse, sailing, bowling, cornhole, and snooker to the list that books can offer.
By the end of July, Arkansas sports betting handle had already surpassed 2022’s total for the year.
2022
The Arkansas Racing Commission’s new rules for online sports betting received legislative approval in late February. That means mobile sports betting can launch in early March 2022.
Online sports betting launches in April 2022 with Southland’s Betly brand.
Bet Saracen launches in May and is the only other online sportsbook live in the state.
Oaklawn announced in August that it will launch online sports betting in Arkansas with Kambi.
2021
In-person sports betting continues to trudge forward in Arkansas at the three casino locations in the state.
The biggest news about sports betting in Arkansas in 2021 does not come until the waning days of the year in December. The Arkansas Racing Commission passes a set of rules to regulate and manage online sports betting.
2020
Another sportsbook opens its doors for business in 2020. Southland Casino Racing accepts its first sports wager in January. It then endures a closure due to pandemic concerns before reopening in September.
No bills or legislative motions occur due to the Arkansas legislative schedule. Lawmakers meet only in odd-numbered years in the Natural State.
2019
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort hosts the first legal sports bet in Arkansas history in July. Wayne Smith, Oaklawn’s general manager, kicks things off with a $5 wager on the Dallas Cowboys. Oaklawn ultimately enjoys a six-month de facto monopoly on sports betting in Arkansas. However, due to state law, people must place their bets in person at the facility in Hot Springs.
A second sports betting location goes live in Arkansas in October, in a muted context. The Saracen Casino Annex, the first phase of the new Jefferson County casino, offers a sports betting kiosk for players to make their wagers. To this day, service at Saracen continues in this fashion.
Some Arkansas lawmakers are rumbling about revising the law to include online sports betting. State Sen. Will Bond introduces SB 669 as a law to permit “licensed on-site and electronic wagering on athletic events by certain entities.” The bill does not go far and dies within a month of its introduction in April.
2018
Voters approve Arkansas Issue 4 on the November ballot. The measure, an initiated constitutional amendment, permits the introduction of sports betting to the state’s two casino locations as part of a broader gambling expansion. There is no provision for online sports betting in the measure, however. All wagers must be in-person. The initiative also calls for the creation of two new casinos in Jefferson and Pope counties, each with its own sportsbook. The Jefferson location has since opened as the Saracen Casino Resort, and the Pope County property is still under construction as the River Valley Casino.
Arkansas sports betting FAQ
The Arkansas Racing Commission. As is the case in many states without a dedicated gambling commission, the ARC acts as the oversight agency for all gambling in the state despite its nominal restriction to racing-based gambling.
You must be 21 or older to participate in sports betting in Arkansas.
The only legal online betting sites in Arkansas are the ones mentioned above. Other sites are based outside the United States and are not subject to Arkansas or US law, nor are they authorized. As such, using one of them would expose you to a host of risks that go beyond the vig you’ll have to pay. Playing on any site with its headquarters and/or servers located in a foreign country puts your money at risk.