Oklahoma Gambling Laws – Tribal Casinos & Betting
The Oklahoma gambling laws are among the most liberal in all 50 US states. Plenty of related activities are allowed here under the Tribal-State Compact from 1992. Punters are also able to place wagers on various horse races, including pari-mutuel, interstate, and off-track.
What Are the Laws Regarding Gambling in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has the biggest concentration of Indian casino establishments in the territory of the United States. The history of all that can be traced back to the early 1800s. Residents and guests of the Sooner State can also enjoy their free time on several tracks and OTB facilities.
Local legislators have made serious efforts in recent years to make progress on the legalization of sports betting and online gambling. Still, the hundreds of land-based casinos run by Indian tribes remain the biggest attraction in Oklahoma!
History of Oklahoma Gambling
In the early 19th Century, many native American tribes were forced to relocate to Oklahoma. As of today, 39 Indian nations live across the state. This is also the reason for the massive number of tribal-run casino establishments. The first form of Oklahoma gambling laws dates back to 1916, when all activities were banned.
For several decades nothing really changed despite the attempts of local legislators. The first breach was made in 1982 with the legalization of pari-mutuel horse wagering. Soon, off-track betting was also approved, and the installation of gambling machines on the territory of the racetracks. The Tribal-State Compact was signed in 1992!
Indian Casino-Style Game Facilities
Choctaw was the first indigenous nation to be allowed to run a gambling event outside the horse racing tracks. Five years before the Compact was signed, the tribe organized the first OK high-stake bingo game. This may not be a big deal, but it showed the legislators’ desire for dialogue in this direction.
Nowadays, more than 140 land-based casinos and gambling centers are operated by Indian tribes throughout 50 OK counties. They vary significantly in size and here are our top five facilities:
- WinStar World Casino & Resort – World’s Biggest Casino
- Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant – Largest OK Casino Hotel
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa – Over 3,000 Slot Machines
- Grand Casino Hotel & Resort Shawnee – Top-Rank Gambling Location
- Newcastle Casino – Massive Game Jackpots.
Many agencies organize gambling trips in Oklahoma, which isn’t surprising given the huge variety. Keep in mind that many facilities offer rewarding programs, like the Choctaw Rewards Club!
Horse Races & OTBs
According to the gambling laws in Oklahoma, wagering on horses is completely legal. The state provides three fantastic racetracks and nine off-track betting facilities. Remington Park in Oklahoma City is the first built OK horse racetrack. It was opened in 1988, and it’s still functioning. It hosts Thoroughbred and harness races!
Soon, other two facilities were opened in Oklahoma – Fair Meadows in Tulsa and Will Rogers Downs in Claremore. All three tracks provide a first-class pari-mutuel betting experience and dining services. Simulcasts are also available in all locations and in another six full-fledged casinos across the Sooner State.
Sports Betting Laws
Unlike wagering on horses, the Oklahoma gambling laws strictly prohibit betting on any other sports. The legal status was close to a change in 2020, but the efforts of certain legislators failed. There is no major push for more gambling in the state, but a couple of tribes are currently negotiating.
The Otoe-Missouria Tribe and Comanche Nation are going for permission to offer sports betting on the territory of their facilities, with an exception for college sports. Furthermore, earlier in 2022, House Bill 3008 was introduced by Rep. Ken Luttrell. It’ll allow all tribes to run sportsbooks through their establishments if it passes.
Online Gambling in Oklahoma
Despite the hundreds of land-based casino halls, massive resorts, and racetracks, online gambling is illegal in Oklahoma! However, as in many other states, gamblers can access numerous offshore gambling apps. They operate with no license, using the gaps in the OK law system.
Playing on such an unregulated casino platform is dangerous because no organization will defend your rights in case of fraud. Many reputable US-licensed brands already operate throughout the country. They are patiently waiting to step into Oklahoma as well. Here are the most best online casino is the USA legally providing gambling services in the USA.
Questoins & Answers
Check out the following FAQ section if you need more information about the gambling laws in Oklahoma. We regularly answer many questions of gambling enthusiasts. Our editors have published detailed replies to the most interesting ones, and you can find them below. You are also welcome to contact us directly.
1️⃣ What forms of gambling are legal in Oklahoma?
The Oklahoma gambling laws allow casino-style games, bingo, and lottery specially designated for that places. Only the native tribes have the right to run such facilities. In addition, the Oklahoma gambling laws approved charitable games, raffles, off-track betting, and pari-mutuel wagering on horses.
2️⃣ Can I play casino games online in Oklahoma?
Currently, online gambling is not legal in Oklahoma. However, the state offers more than 140 land-based casinos, betting centers, horse racetracks, and OTBs. Until the status of the Oklahoma online gambling changes, you can participate in the state's Lottery or take a seat in special games organized for charity.
3️⃣ Is sports betting legal in Oklahoma?
Sports betting other than wagering on horses is still not allowed. Several indigenous nations are negotiating for the license to add sportsbooks in their location. In addition, a House Bill was introduced by the Republican Party. However, there are no strong indications for change in the sports betting law in Oklahoma.
4️⃣ Which are the best Oklahoma casinos?
The gambling fans have a really tremendous choice of casino facilities. It's difficult to say which is the best, but perhaps the WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville comes closest to this definition. It has the largest casino floor stretching around 600,000 sq. ft., making it one of the best casino resorts in Oklahoma.
5️⃣ Are there any race tracks in Oklahoma?
There are three excellent racing facilities in Oklahoma - Claremore, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City. They all organize Thoroughbred races and the one in OK's capital - harness competitions too. Punters will find nine OTB centers spread across Oklahoma. Off-track betting desks are located in several luxury casino resorts.