Best Arkansas Sports Betting Sites in 2024: Top 10 AR Sportsbooks Reviewed
- Bookmakers Review
- November 7, 2024
When legal online Arkansas sports betting launched in 2022, it opened up new opportunities for bettors without the need to visit a casino. Below, we provide all the essential information about Arkansas sports betting sites and how to make the most of your betting experience in the Natural State.
SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
9.6
|
2001
|
100% Free Play
|
|||
9.8
|
1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
|||
9.3
|
2014
|
50% Free Play
|
|||
9.8
|
2001
|
$250 Free Bet
|
|||
9.9
|
2011
|
$750 Cash Bonus
|
|||
9.6
|
2002
|
55% Cash Bonus
|
|||
9.5
|
1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
The Arkansas Racing Commission granted Cherokee Nation Entertainment the Pope County casino license, disqualifying Gulfside Casino Partnership over missing paperwork.
Arkansas Sports Betting Apps FAQs
What app can you bet on sports in Arkansas?
There are a wide variety of sports betting apps available in Arkansas. Locally-regulated options like DraftKings and Caesars Sportsbook are restricted by geofencing technology and local sports betting rules.
Can I use DraftKings in Arkansas?
Yes, you can use DraftKings for sports betting in Arkansas. However, the site offers much fewer options, due to the local gambling laws. Sites like Heritage Sports and BetOnline offer college sports betting and more.
How can I bet on sports in Arkansas?
To start betting, navigate to your preferred sportsbook and look for the “sign up” or “join now” option. Proceed to make an account, deposit funds and find a sport to bet on. Make sure to take advantage of any bonuses that the site offers.
What are the 3 casinos in Arkansas?
The three casinos in Arkansas are Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Southland Casino Racing and Saracen Casino Resort. These venues offer a mix of casino gaming, sports betting and entertainment options.
Is Caesars Sportsbook legal in Arkansas?
Yes, Caesars Sportsbook is legal in Arkansas. Like other major sportsbooks, players may not access college sports betting and casino games, making options like BookMaker and Bovada more popular.
Can you bet on NFL in Arkansas?
Arkansas sports betting has been legal for a few years, so you can easily bet on NFL games any time, from your phone or computer, as well as heading to a retail sportsbook.
The Best Arkansas Betting Apps
Our team of experts has reviewed over a hundred online sports betting operators available in Arkansas. These are the apps that came out on top:
- BetOnline – Has opinionated betting lines and great bonuses
- Bovada – Largest menu of prop bets in Arkansas
- Heritage Sports – Great cashback system and quality customer service
- BetAnySports – Reduced juice on everything
- Everygame – Offers access to niche markets and unique sports
- WagerWeb – Live betting and 24-hour payouts
- SportsBetting.ag – Best crypto options in Arkansas
- BetUS – Largest welcome bonus
- JustBet – Has flexible betting limits
- BookMaker – Earliest odds and doesn’t limit winning bettors
These offshore betting sites offer Arkansas bettors a premium mobile experience, featuring a broad selection of betting markets for both popular and niche sports, along with attractive betting odds. Players can also enjoy generous bonuses and regular promotions on these platforms.
Arkansas Sports Betting Timeline
Arkansas has had a gradual shift towards the legalization of sports betting throughout the years. Below is a timeline of events that covers the history of sports betting in Arkansas.
The Arkansas Racing Commission granted Cherokee Nation Entertainment the Pope County casino license, disqualifying Gulfside Casino Partnership over missing paperwork.
Saracen Casino Resort requests for the Arkansas Racing Commission to expand the state’s online gambling options to enhance player protection. Driven by mobile betting, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration predicts that sports wagers will reach $500 million in 2024
The Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC) adds 17 new sports to the sports betting menu allowed in the state. Some of the new options include Lacrosse, volleyball and even cornhole.
The Department of Finance and Administration sends cease and desist letters to two daily fantasy sports companies as they consider unlicensed sports betting.
The first online sports bets are placed on legal sportsbooks licensed by Arkansas
A second operator goes live in Arkansas.
Lee Johnson introduced a bill to allow legal sports betting online. After a debate and lawsuit, it was limited to online sport s betting only. The bill eventually passed and was signed into law by Governor Asa Hutchinson
Oaklawn casino takes the first legal sports wagers signaling the start of in-person sports betting in the state
Voters approve Amendment 100, allowing full casino and sports betting in Arkansas. Four casinos are approved to begin operation
Daily fantasy sports are declared legal within the state
A state lottery is started
The Local Option Horse Racing and Greyhound Racing Electronic Games of Skill Act is passed, allowing for racetracks to offer electronic gaming machines, signaling the return of “racinos” to the state
A statewide crackdown on gambling results in the last racinos and casinos, in Hot Springs, closing
Arkansas legalizes betting on horse and greyhound races
A law is passed banning horse racing
The state’s first casino opens at Oaklawn
Arkansas’ state constitution includes a gambling ban, prohibiting “lotteries”
Arkansas is moving forward into a new era of regulated sports betting, shifting from its traditional conservative stance on gambling to embracing sports wagering. This change highlights a significant policy and public opinion transformation, mirroring a wider national movement toward legalizing and accepting sports betting.
Comparison of the Top Arkansas Sports Betting Apps
Our team reviewed top online sportsbooks in Arkansas, focusing on various factors that we will go over later. To assist you in finding the perfect fit, we’ve compiled thorough reviews for each of the top 5 sites, including key features to highlight what each platform excels at.
1. BetOnline: Has Opinionated Lines and Great Bonuses
Key Features:
- Opinionated lines that add variety and chances for extra cash
- Consistently fast payouts
BetOnline is favored in Arkansas not just for its opinionated lines and fast payouts, but also for its user-friendly mobile platform. The site makes it easy for mobile bettors to navigate through various sports and betting options.
BetOnline also offers a range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including cryptocurrencies, ensuring that every user finds a convenient online banking solution. The “FREE250” bonus is a standout offer, but there are also other promotions like reload bonuses and rebates that keep bettors engaged and rewarded.
This blend of features, from its generous bonuses to diverse online sports betting markets, positions BetOnline as a leading choice for Arkansas bettors seeking a comprehensive and rewarding betting experience.
2. Bovada: Largest Menu of Prop Bets in Arkansas
Key Features:
- Best prop builder in the industry
- World-class casino games and poker room
Bovada is the top mobile betting site in Arkansas for several reasons. Its #Whatsyawager system allows bettors to customize their own wagers, offering a unique betting experience for new and experienced bettors.
Besides the online sports betting options, Bovada provides a rich selection of casino games and a poker room, catering to a wide range of online gambling preferences. The mobile site’s user-friendly interface ensures easy navigation and betting on the go.
New users can enjoy a welcome bonus for sports betting, casino games and poker, making it more rewarding to start. They also keep the rollover requirements low, which means sports bettors can access their winnings more easily.
3. Heritage Sports: Great Cashback System and Quality Customer Service
Key Features:
- Best choice for live betting
- Great for beginner bettors
Heritage Sports is a top choice for mobile sports wagering in Arkansas. Its mobile site is fast and easy to use, making it simple for bettors to place their wagers on the go. With a wide range of sports and betting options, users can find exactly what they’re looking for quickly.
Live betting at Heritage Sports is a game-changer for bettors looking for action as it unfolds. This feature allows users to bet on games and events while they’re happening, offering a dynamic and engaging way to wager. With real-time updates and odds adjustments, bettors can react to the game as it progresses.
Heritage Sports’ reputation for reliable payouts and strong customer service ensures a secure and enjoyable betting experience for all bettors.
4. BetAnySports: Reduced Juice on Everything
Key Features:
- Best reduced Juice lines in Arkansas
- Better odds than most sites
BetAnySports is a top offshore sportsbook choice for mobile wagering in Arkansas due to its reduced juice option which offers better odds, increasing the value of each bet. The site covers a wide range of games and sports, ensuring bettors have plenty of choices.
Its in-play betting option adds extra excitement, allowing bets to be placed as the action happens. With a user-friendly interface and quick access to bets, BetAnySports stands out for its efficiency and comprehensive betting experience, making it highly valuable for bettors in the state.
BetAnySports also stands out for its fast payouts, ensuring winners access their funds swiftly. The platform’s commitment to customer service is also a major plus, with a team ready to assist with any queries or issues.
5. Everygame: Offers Access to Niche Markets and Unique Sports
Key Features:
- Offers niche markets and unique sports
- Oldest betting site in existence with a long record of trust and success
Everygame stands out as a top mobile betting site in Arkansas, thanks to its wide selection of sports and exclusive access to niche markets. Bettors can easily find their preferred events on the Everygame site, from mainstream sports to less common competitions.
Everygame’s commitment to providing extensive live betting options enhances the thrill of watching sports live. Players can place bets as the action unfolds, adding an extra layer of excitement to every game.
The mobile platform is optimized for performance, ensuring quick and easy access to betting markets, account management and customer support. This efficiency, combined with the platform’s broad sports coverage and unique betting opportunities, firmly establishes Everygame as a leading choice for mobile betting enthusiasts in Arkansas.
Best Arkansas Sports Betting Bonuses
- BetOnline – $250 Free Bet Welcome Bonus: New Arkansas sports bettors can enjoy a generous welcome bonus at BetOnline. Make your first deposit and get a 50% back in free bets up to $250, along with 100 free spins. A minimum deposit of $50 qualifies you for this offer. Use the code FREE250 to claim this bonus.
- Bovada – $250 Sports Welcome Bonus: Bovada invites new Arkansas bettors to take advantage of a 50% match bonus up to $250 on their first deposit. No promo code is needed. Just make a minimum deposit of $20 to qualify, with a 5x rollover requirement.
- Heritage Sports – 100% Free Play Bonus: Arkansas players registering at Heritage Sports for the first time can benefit from a 100% free play bonus, no promo code required. This bonus has a 10x rollover requirement and a minimum deposit of $100.
- BetAnySports – Less Juice Package: Arkansas bettors can take advantage of BetAnySports’ Reduced Juice Deal, which offers significant savings with lower odds. Risk less for bigger potential wins with 10-cent lines on popular sports like the NFL, NBA and MLB, providing a 50% reduction in standard juice rates.
- Everygame – $500 Non-Crypto Sign-Up Bonus: Arkansas sports fans can secure a 100% bonus up to $500 on their first deposit at Everygame using the code BMR500. This offer is exclusive to non-crypto payments. To meet the rollover requirements, wager your deposit and bonus amount 8 times at minimum odds of -200 (1.5).
Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?
Sports betting is legal in Arkansas. The state approved a ballot in November 2018, which allowed land-based sports betting to start in July 2019. Mobile sports betting was fully legalized in March 2022, letting bettors place wagers online through licensed apps and websites.
Bettors must be at least 21 years old and follow regulations set by the Arkansas Racing Commission. Additionally, offshore sportsbooks are legally available, offering more options and fewer restrictions for Arkansas residents who want to bet on sports.
The History of Gambling Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas has seen a significant evolution in its gambling laws over the years, reflecting a shift from strict restrictions to a more open stance towards various forms of betting. Initially, gambling in Arkansas was heavily regulated, with most forms of betting being illegal. This stance began to change in the early 20th century, although progress was slow and met with resistance.
A major turning point came in 2005 when electronic games of skill were allowed at racetracks, laying the groundwork for expanded gambling options.
The real breakthrough occurred in 2018 when Arkansas voters approved a constitutional amendment to legalize sports betting and casino gambling at four locations. This move opened the door for legal sportsbooks to operate, offering bettors regulated environments to place their wagers.
Today, Arkansas residents can enjoy a variety of legal sports betting options, reflecting a broader trend toward acceptance and regulation of gambling across the United States.
Our Rating Methodology
Our team of experts has carefully crafted rankings for the top mobile betting apps and mobile sites in Arkansas. Key to these rankings is ensuring that the mobile experience mirrors the full website. This means quick, glitch-free page loads and readability on small screens.
We assessed several factors, including user feedback, bonuses and mobile sports betting experience from each online sportsbook:
Fair Odds Across Betting Markets
Odds for various bets like point spreads, totals bets, futures, props or straight moneylines need to be competitive. This ensures bettors have a fair chance at winning, with payouts reflecting the bet’s risk.
Wide Range of Betting Options
Bettors should find a diverse selection of sports and leagues to bet on, including both popular and less-known events worldwide. Offering everything from standard point spread and moneyline bets to futures, parlays and player props is essential. Innovative betting options, such as same-game parlays and college prop bets, add value.
Flexible Banking Options
Users should have multiple ways to deposit and withdraw funds on their online sports betting sites. Options should include bank cards, wire transfers, e-wallets and cryptocurrencies, with minimal or no fees and quick processing times. We also look at the variety of payment and withdrawal methods offered.
Generous Promotions and Bonuses
With many online sportsbooks to choose from, users should benefit from bonuses for selecting a service. We favor sites that reward new accounts with deposit bonuses, free bets or even free casino spins. Ongoing cashback rebates and other incentives are a plus.
Live Betting Functionality
The rise of live betting means mobile sites must offer real-time betting capabilities. Fast loading times and quick bet processing are crucial for this feature.
High-Quality Mobile Site Design
Given the prevalence of mobile betting, the mobile site should not be an afterthought. An intuitive, well-organized and visually appealing interface is essential, with all functionalities of the desktop site available.
Accessible Customer Service
Good online sportsbooks provide easy access to support through various channels, including phone, email and live chat, available 24/7 and in multiple languages.
Strong Site Security
Protecting users’ personal and financial information is the most important feature the sites need. Any security issues with a site would lead to its immediate exclusion from our recommendations.
This approach ensures that bettors in Arkansas have access to the best mobile betting experiences, with a focus on ease of use, security and value.
Essential Tips for Arkansas Mobile Betting
When you bet on sports through your phone in Arkansas, there are a few key things to keep in mind to make sure your experience is the best it can be.
1. Choose User-Friendly Platforms: Select betting sites that are optimized for mobile use. They should load quickly and be easy to navigate on your smartphone.
2. Prioritize Security: Always bet over a secure connection. Avoid public Wi-Fi for betting to keep your personal information safe. Opt for sportsbooks with robust security protocols.
3. Track Your Bets: Use apps or tools to monitor your spending and winnings. This helps manage your betting budget and make informed decisions.
4. Look for Bonuses: Mobile users often get special bonuses and promotions. These can offer extra value, but always check the terms and conditions before participating.
5. Understand the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the betting rules of each sportsbook. Know how to deposit and withdraw money securely.
6. Bet Responsibly: Enjoy betting but do so within your means. If betting stops being fun, or if you suspect a gambling problem, get help immediately.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a safe and enjoyable mobile betting experience in Arkansas. Remember, smart betting is about making informed choices and having fun responsibly.
Commonly Offered Mobile Sportsbook Promos & Bonuses
In Arkansas, mobile sports betting has quickly become a go-to for fans eager to place bets on their favorite teams and sports events right from their smartphones. This surge in popularity is partly due to the enticing promotions and bonuses that online sportsbooks offer, making the betting journey even more rewarding.
- Welcome Offers: When you sign up with a sportsbook app in Arkansas, you’re likely to be greeted with a welcome bonus. This might be a match of your first deposit or a risk-free bet. For instance, you could see offers like a 100% match up to a specific limit, which means you start with double the money to bet. Remember, activating these bonuses might require a promo code.
- Free Bets: Who doesn’t love a free shot at winning? Free bets let you wager without dipping into your own pocket. It’s common to find deals where if you bet a certain amount, you get a free bet in return. This is a great way to get a feel for sports betting without a big investment.
- Reload Bonuses: For those who keep their accounts active, reload bonuses add extra value. These bonuses give you a percentage of your deposit as extra betting funds. These are often offered with loyalty programs on mobile operators.
- Risk-Free Bets: If you’re trying out a new betting strategy, risk-free bets are perfect. They mean if your first bet doesn’t win, you get your stake back as a free bet. It’s a win-win, giving you a second chance to score a win.
- Cashback Deals: It’s easier to accept losses when you know some of your money will come back to you. With cashback deals, a portion of your losses over a certain period is returned as bonus money. This can soften the blow of a bad run and give you another shot at winning.
- Odds Boosts: For bigger wins, look out for odds boosts on certain bets. These boosts increase the payout on winning bets, making them an attractive option for anyone looking to maximize returns.
- Referral Bonus: Encourage your friends to join in on the fun and both of you could benefit from referral bonuses. When someone signs up using your referral link or bonus code and makes a deposit, you both might get additional funds added to your accounts. It’s a win-win, expanding the betting community while giving you more to bet with.
Arkansas’s mobile sports betting scene is vibrant and full of opportunities, thanks to these generous promotions and bonuses. Whether you’re new to betting or a seasoned pro, these offers can make your betting experience more exciting and potentially more profitable.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Arkansas
Arkansas has a growing sports betting scene. Fans can bet on many sports, each with its own excitement and challenges. Here’s a look at the most popular sports to bet on in Arkansas.
Football – NFL
Football is one of Arkansas’ favorite sports. Although there are no NFL teams in the state, sports betting fans often support nearby teams like the Dallas Cowboys and the New Orleans Saints. Sports fans can place bets on point spreads, moneylines and prop bets. The Super Bowl is a major event, drawing in lots of bets and adding to the excitement. The NFL season offers many chances to place bets, making it a favorite among Arkansas bettors.
College Football
College football is a big deal in Arkansas. The Arkansas Razorbacks have a dedicated fan base. When you bet on college football, you can choose from point spreads, over/under totals and player props. The passion for college football in the state makes it a popular betting market. Fans eagerly place bets throughout the season, adding to the excitement of the games.
Basketball – NBA
Basketball is also a favorite in Arkansas. While there are no NBA teams in the state, fans follow nearby teams like the Memphis Grizzlies. Betting on NBA games includes point spreads, total points and player stats. The fast pace of basketball keeps the action lively. With many games in a season, there are plenty of opportunities to bet.
College Basketball
College basketball also has a strong following in Arkansas. Teams like the Arkansas Razorbacks draw a lot of attention. Betting on college basketball includes point spreads, total points and player performances. The excitement peaks during March Madness, making it a prime time for bettors. With many games to choose from, there are always opportunities to place bets.
Baseball – MLB
Baseball has a strong following in Arkansas. The state’s fans often support the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Royals. Betting on MLB games includes run lines, totals and player performances. The long season means there are many games to bet on, making baseball a great option for those who enjoy frequent betting. The detailed stats in baseball help bettors make informed choices.
Hockey – NHL
Hockey is gaining popularity in Arkansas. While there are no NHL teams in the state, fans often follow the Dallas Stars. Betting on NHL games includes moneylines, point spreads and total goals. The fast-paced action on the ice makes hockey a thrilling sport to bet on. With games happening frequently, there are many chances to place bets.
Popular Sports Teams in Arkansas
Arkansas might not be the first state you think of when it comes to major sports leagues, but it boasts a passionate sports culture, especially in college sports. Here, we’ll highlight some of the top college teams in Arkansas that offer exciting opportunities for sports betting fans:
- Kansas City Chiefs (National Football League): While not based in Arkansas, the Kansas City Chiefs have a strong following among Arkansas football fans. With their recent Super Bowl victories, betting on the Chiefs is popular, especially for games against rivals.
- Dallas Cowboys (National Football League): The Dallas Cowboys also have a huge fan base in Arkansas. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys’ games are closely watched, and betting on their point spreads, moneylines, and prop bets is common among Arkansas bettors.
- Arkansas Razorbacks (College Football and Basketball): The Razorbacks are the pride of the University of Arkansas, competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the premier conferences in NCAA Division I. Football and basketball games featuring the Razorbacks are not just state-wide events but also draw significant attention from sports bettors, offering a chance to support a team with a rich history and a vibrant fan base.
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (College Football and Basketball): Representing Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, the Red Wolves also compete in Division I, with their football team being a part of the Sun Belt Conference. Like the Razorbacks, the Red Wolves have a dedicated following and their games are a hotspot for betting, particularly for those looking to back a team that often punches above its weight.
- Little Rock Trojans (College Basketball): The Trojans, hailing from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, compete in the Sun Belt Conference for basketball. Their games are known for being competitive and are a great choice for bettors focusing on college basketball, offering plenty of action during the season and opportunities to bet on a team with potential for upsets.
- Niche Sports in Arkansas: Arkansas’ warm weather makes it an attractive spot for most outdoor sports. The state has hosted golf tournaments, tennis tourneys, horse racing and auto races at various pro and amateur levels. It has also hosted indoor sports such as boxing and MMA.
Arkansas’s vibrant sports scene, driven by a deep love for college athletics, offers diverse betting opportunities. From the excitement of college football and basketball to the steady pace of minor league baseball, sports fans in Arkansas have a rich tapestry of teams to support and bet on, making it a unique and engaging state for sports betting enthusiasts.
Creating a Mobile Sports Betting Site Account
Setting up a mobile sports betting account in Arkansas is straightforward and quick. Just follow these steps and you’ll be ready to start betting in no time:
- Choose and Sign Up: First, pick a mobile sports betting app or website from the top-rated options available in Arkansas. Hit the “create account” button. You’ll need to provide some basic info like your name, address and Social Security Number. The details required can vary by sportsbook.
- Account Verification: Most sportsbook will need to verify who you are. They’ll likely send a code to your phone via text. When you get the code, enter it on the website to confirm your identity.
- Deposit Funds: Once your account is set up, it’s time to add some money. Go to the cashier section to see all the deposit methods. You can usually use credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers and even cryptocurrencies. Input how much money you want to add and any financial details needed.
- Start Betting: Now you’re all set. You can look through the sports and bet types available and place your bets on your favorite teams.
By following these steps, you can easily get into mobile sports betting in Arkansas, enjoying the thrill of the game and potentially winning big.
Arkansas Betting Guides
For bettors who are looking for more ways to gamble in the Natural State, we recommend giving one of our other comprehensive guides a read: