Arkansas sports betting has become more accessible than ever with the legalization of online and retail sportsbooks. Whether you prefer to bet on your favorite teams or players from the comfort of your own home or take a trip to one of the state's many popular retail sports betting locations, Arkansans now have access to all their favorite games.
With various bonuses and promotions available from top operators, there are plenty of opportunities for bettors across the state to make some money while having fun.
A Look at Arkansas Sportsbooks
Arkansas legalized in-person sports betting over 3 years ago, allowing residents of the Natural State to legally bet at any of the state's three casinos. On February 22, 2022, the state Joint Budget Committee announced that they had approved a rule change that allows each of the three AR casinos two mobile sportsbook skins.
In total, there is only one online sportsbook that is currently authorized in Arkansas as it is owned and operated by the tribal casinos. However, we've heard rumors that as many as six other Arkansas online sportsbooks may open in the near future. However as the industry grows, we expect more online sports betting options to open up for this great state. Head on over to the best and only online Arkansas sportsbook and start with a legal sports wager right from their app!
Betly Sportsbook
The first of the Arkansas sports betting sites is Betly. They're a brand new sportsbook launched in late 2021, and they have some great offers available. Although they're not as big as some of the other powerhouses we'll discuss, they do have some great bonuses, such as their $100 welcome bonus for new sports bettors that sign up for their app.
Potential Sportsbooks
As mentioned, there are a few other big names that may end up setting up their online sportsbook operations in Arkansas. These sportsbooks are major contenders in various other states, so we'll see if they start their operations any time soon.
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel Sportsbook has the second-largest reach and largest total handle amongst all US sportsbooks. The only two states with legal online sports betting in which FanDuel does not operate are markets for DraftKings has negotiated exclusive rights.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings is available in more states than any other sportsbook operator. DraftKings boasts the industry's highest-rated mobile app and consistently offers the best bonus offers among all operators.
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM is currently licensed to operate in 16 US states and offers online casinos and poker in four additional markets. Their current promo code offer is the industry's top-rated welcome bonus for 2024 and includes a $1,000 First Bet Offer.
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook is the fastest-growing US operator and currently operates in 15 US states. They recently had the largest total handle in New York over the first month of legal betting. The Caesars Rewards program is the best available, and sportsbook users are eligible to earn rewards by betting using the website and app.
What Bonus Offers are Available in Arkansas?
With online sports betting being legalized, many sportsbooks are offering bonus offers to entice new customers, and Betly is no exception. Bonuses such as bonus bets, deposit matches, and even cash back are available from some of the top operators in Arkansas.
Pre-Registration Offers
As new sportsbooks enter the Natural State, we will start to see pre-registration offers pop up. With these promotions, any Arkansas bettor who signs up prior to the official start date of legal mobile betting with that sportsbook will usually receive a hefty bonus. These offers typically include between $100-$200 in bonus bets.
Deposit Bonus Offers
Given the popularity of horse racing in Arkansas, the majority of sports bettors in the state should be familiar with how a deposit bonus works. With this offer, the sportsbook will match a percentage of your initial deposit. For example, the current Caesars promo code offer includes a 100% deposit bonus of up to $1,500.
Odds Boost Offers
Odds boost offers are the most popular promotion amongst new players as they often require a smaller deposit to receive a large total bonus. The previously mentioned offer from BetMGM is a great example of one of these offers. With this promotion, any new Arkansas bettor that places a $10 wager would receive a $200 bonus that is paid in bonus bets.
Second Chance Bets
Second Chance bets are extremely popular amongst sportsbooks right now. In fact, the current offers from FanDuel, Unibet, TwinSpires, and PointsBet are all Second Chance bet promotions. These range from $500 to $2,000 and include a full refund if your first wager loses. In most cases, the refund is paid as a site credit that must be used at least once before it can be withdrawn. Even though this credit can only be used at Arkansas Casinos in which you received the credits, it's still great to place bets on professional and college sports without any risk.
Recap of Legislative Timeline Leading to Legal Sports Betting in Arkansas
Unlike other states that have struggled to pass the legislation needed to legalize sports betting, Arkansas legislators were able to quickly approve the changes and get their online gambling underway. Here is a recap of the milestone achievements throughout this process—
January 5, 2022 — The Arkansas Racing Commission approved a set of rules and regulations that provide a pathway to legal sports betting in the state. It is worth noting that representatives from several sportsbooks were present for the vote, including both BetMGM and DraftKings. The rules include a 51% revenue share for the state, a rate that matches what we saw from New York where we have seen record revenue since January.
February 22, 2022 — The Joint Budget Committee approved a rule change that allows two mobile betting skins for each of the state's three casinos. With this approval, Arkansas could see its first mobile sportsbooks launch in time for March Madness.
March 4, 2022 - Online sports betting is officially live in Arkansas. As of right now, there is only one online sportsbook available within the state, Betly. Betly has a partnership deal in place with Southland Casino.
Now that we've seen six online sports betting sites active in Arkansas, several operators have started to offer bonus offers and continue to grow their operations. Sportsbooks are offering bonus offers to entice new customers, and pre-registration promos, deposit bonuses, boost offers, and second-chance bets are becoming more common. With the continued growth of sports betting in Arkansas, it's clear that the state is quickly becoming a major player in the US online gambling scene.
Arkansas Sports Betting FAQs
Ever since Arkansas online sports betting became legal in 2022, we've received tons of questions about sports betting in the Natural State. To help you get into online sportsbooks faster and get more out of your betting experience, we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Arkansas sports betting.
When will sports betting become legal in Arkansas?
Sports betting became legal in Arkansas on March 4, 2022, when the first online sportsbook, Betly, launched. Since that time, numerous sportsbooks have opened operations in both retail sports betting and online betting. As the industry continues to expand and evolve, more sports betting options are expected to be made available in the future.
Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?
It is now! It's been legal for a few years; however, the retail sportsbook was the king of the country until recently. Now you have more options than just in-person sports betting, you can also make legal online sports bets. Whether at your home or at a bar, you can download one of the sports betting apps we've mentioned and get into the action.
Who can bet on sports in Arkansas?
Anyone 21 years or older who is located within the state can bet on sports at online sportsbooks or even retail sports betting locations. If you're under 21, don't think for a minute you'll be able to pull a fast one on any sports betting sites. They have implemented strict identity verification processes that will automatically prevent anyone underage from betting.
What sports can I bet on in Arkansas?
Arkansas sportsbooks offer a variety of sports to bet on, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, boxing, horse racing, and more. Most online books also allow you to bet on esports events. The most popular sports bet in Arkansas is on college and professional football.
What types of bonuses and promotions are available for new players?
New players can take advantage of various bonuses and promotions, including deposit bonuses, odds boost offers, and Second Chance bets ranging from $100 to $2,000.
Can I play daily fantasy sports in Arkansas?
Absolutely! In 2017 the state officially legalized DFS sites such as FanDuel and DraftKings. So if you want to get in on the daily fantasy sports action and get your lineups set, you're good to go!
Is it legal to bet on college sports in Arkansas?
Of course! Sports bettors can bet on various college games, including in-state college sports. You can do so for those who want to place bets on the Razorbacks. A few states prohibit betting on in-state college sports, but Arkansas is not one of them.
How is mobile sports betting compared to retail sports betting?
Mobile sports betting is typically much more convenient for bettors, allowing them to place their wagers anywhere with an internet connection. It also opens up the door for better bonuses and promotions and a wider variety of odds and lines available than at retail locations. That being said, mobile and retail sports betting have advantages and disadvantages. We prefer the atmosphere of retail sports betting.
What are the best retail sports betting locations in Arkansas?
If a sports betting app isn't your thing, you might want to give Southland Casino Racing, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, or the Saracen Casino Resort a shot. Those are Arkansas's most popular retail sports betting locations and offer a great atmosphere for wagering. Plus, if you're planning on visiting one of these casinos for other reasons, why not make a few sports bets there? It's just another way to have fun and potentially win some money.
What is the best bonus in Arkansas?
Bonuses change weekly, but the best bonus is the FanDuel $1,000 No Sweat Bet. This bonus gives you a first bet of up to $1,000. FanDuel will give you that money back as site credit if your wager doesn't win. It's the best way to try sports betting without worrying about losing money.
Do all sportsbooks require a bonus code?
No, but some do. Different bonuses have different codes, so check the bonus terms and conditions for each sportsbook you join. If a bonus code is required, enter it when signing up or making your first deposit. Failing to do so could mean missing out on some great offers.
What is a bonus bet?
Many bonuses offer bonus bets which are bets that the sportsbook will give you for free or for taking a specific action. These are typically free bets when you sign up, but they can also be used to make larger wagers with higher odds. FanDuel's bonus, for example, is a $1,000 No Sweat Bet which means the sportsbook will give you up to $1,000 in bonus bets.
Do I need to be located in Arkansas to bet?
Yes, you must be located in Arkansas when placing any sports bets. Sportsbook operators use various methods to verify a customer's location and will not accept customers outside the state.
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Matthew Brown is an avid researcher and iGaming expert. He joined the EatWatchBet team in 2021 as a Senior Editor. His primary areas of focus include industry news, legislative changes, and sportsbook reviews. Matt is an avid sports fan and lifelong fan of the Packers and Tigers.
