West Virginia Online Casinos and Gambling Sites
West Virginia has historically been at the forefront of gambling legalization for almost 100 years.
The Mountain State stands out as one of the few with legal online casinos, land-based casinos, and sports betting. It is also the only place where you can find live greyhound racing in the continental United States.
Despite the progressive stance, there are still laws you must follow when gambling in the state, especially when venturing online.
In this guide, I will examine the state’s legislation, examine its gambling history, and recommend where you can gamble safely.
West Virginia Gambling Highlights
Want to gamble in West Virginia? The following table gives you a snapshot of what types of gambling are legal in the state. From online casinos to land-based casinos and other forms of gambling such as state lottery.
Is Gambling Legal?
Yes
Legal Gambling Age
18 – 21
Land-Based Casinos
Yes
Online Casinos
Yes
Land-Based Sports Betting
Yes
Online Sportsbooks
Yes
Legal State Lottery
Yes
Charitable Gambling
Yes
Table of Contents
Learn everything about West Virginia Gambling Laws
Is Online Gambling Legal in West Virginia?
Key Takeaways
- West Virginians can participate in nearly all forms of gambling activities.
- The state passed the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act that legalized online casinos in 2019.
- The West Virginia Racing Commission and the West Virginia Lottery Commission are the primary authorities regulating the state’s gambling market.
- There are various state-run and offshore online betting sites available in West Virginia.
If anywhere Americans can gamble on any genre stress-free and legally, it’s West Virginia.
West Virginia gambling laws permit all types of casino games. In March 2019, the state officially allowed online casinos under the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act.
In fact, West Virginia became the fifth state to embrace and legalize digital casino gambling.
From lottery tickets, slots, blackjack, bingo, roulette, and poker to sports, you can bet on anything your heart desires.
As per Section 29-22-4, a seven-member West Virginia Lottery Commission manages the state’s gambling and services. The new regulation opened a gateway for the industry’s top players to enter the WV casino business.
Even many offshore gambling sites entered this flourishing market.
Recently, WV lawmakers also passed the West Virginia Sports Lottery Wagering Act. This new regulation created a massive scope for online sports betting for the residents.
Today, tax collection through gambling operators is a major source of revenue for the state to fund schools and community projects.
Recommended WV Online Casinos in 2024
Looking for online casino operators but can’t trust any? Fret not! Our experts combed through the market to find reliable West Virginia casino sites for gambling fans.
| RANK | CASINO | BONUS | PAYOUT SPEED | LICENSED | TOTAL GAMES | SLOTS | OUR RATING | CLICK TO PLAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
DuckyLuck Casino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-5 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 749 | SLOTS 646 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 2 |
Bovada Casino |
BONUS 125% up to $3,750 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 549 | SLOTS 435 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 3 |
SlotsandCasino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-2 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 691 | SLOTS 594 | OUR RATING 3.9 / 5 | Play Now |
| 4 |
BetUS |
BONUS 150% up to $3,000 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-7 days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 491 | SLOTS 367 | OUR RATING 4.5 / 5 | Play Now |
| 5 |
Cafe Casino |
BONUS 350% up to $2,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 547 | SLOTS 384 | OUR RATING 3.5 / 5 | Play Now |
*Last Updated: December, 2024
Favorite Online Casinos by Category
Not all online WV gambling sites are equal. One operator stands out from another due to a few key features. Let’s check out what we found unique in the top-rated betting sites.
Best Site for Slots & Other Games
DuckyLuck is winning several hearts in the online gambling market for its huge line-up of games.
This online casino leaves no stone unturned to impress every gambler. Here, you can bet on over 500 slots and other casino games such as blackjack, video poker, roulette, craps, keno, bingo, and Andar Bahar.
Experience real-time action with live dealers – the ultimate one-stop solution for playing real money games from the comfort of your home.
Top Features
- Smooth and sleek user interface
- Outstanding Reward Program
- Friendly support staff
- $25 Min. Deposit
Best Site for Sports Betting
Your search for the ultimate online sports betting experience ends with Bovada. Once you sign up, you can explore 25-30 betting markets and the most popular sports games.
The online sportsbook covers both local and international sports events. It includes basketball, NFL, boxing, volleyball, soccer, golf and more. You name it, they have it!
The operator accepts cryptocurrency for deposits and withdrawals. In fact, you can earn lucrative bonus credits if you use crypto as a payment option with a $20 minimum deposit.
Top Features
- Safe and quick payment methods
- Competitive betting odds
- Most popular sports options to bet
- 25x Rollover requirements
How We Choose the Best Online Casinos
Several factors play an integral role in selecting a credible West Virginia online casino. Hence, we perform hours of rigorous research before suggesting any casinos to the readers. Only the casino operators that tick mark the set metrics get our approval.
Reputation
Picking an honest and fair casino operator is crucial to play stress-free online. Thus, we do a thorough background check. From licenses to RNGs, our experts verify everything on your behalf.Fast & Reliable Payments
Next, we ensure online casinos offer safe and quick payment methods. It builds trust in the industry as gamblers can enjoy a seamless real-money gaming experience.Security & Safety
Checking security systems on online casinos is also our top priority. We ensure SSL encryption, legit blockchain technology, and password protection are in place.Game Variety
We check whether online operator hosts a wide selection of games from top software developers in the industry. Besides, casinos should frequently update their slot gaming portfolio to keep the players engaged.Quality Bonuses
Casino bonuses boost the entire online gambling experience. Hence, we pick a site that regularly releases bankable promos.
We even review the bonus conditions under the microscope to suggest an ideal offer.
Top Online Casino Games in WV
Ready to kickstart your online gambling adventure? You can enjoy a vast game portfolio, secure payment gateways, and bankable bonuses on licensed casino sites. Time to find out what’s in store for West Virginians.
Online Slots
WV gambling laws allow residents to play online real money slots. These legal casino sites regularly launch new game titles to maintain player’s engagement.
Online Poker
The West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act legalized online poker in 2019. Currently, there are no state-based casino sites. However, several offshore sites are available.
Online Blackjack
West Virginia’s Tables Games Act allows residents to play real money blackjack games. The state first legalized online betting by passing the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act in 2019.
Live Dealer Games
Live dealer sections provide an immersive and real-world casino environment. These sites host live games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and more. You no longer need to wait for the weekend to visit traditional casino clubs.
Other Online Casino Games
Want to try something different from standard casino games? Online WV casinos also have a unique library of gaming genres that might excite you. Here’s the checklist of those specialty games.
Online Casino Bonuses
West Virginians can play a few more gaming sessions for free by claiming lucrative bonuses on gambling sites. We searched for the best promos WV online gambling sites that will enhance your winning chances.
Welcome Bonuses
Large introductory offers that nearly every online gambling site provides to new players.
Free Spin Offers
Promotional deals that give you a set number of free rounds on specific games.
Reload Deals
Get additional bonus cash when you deposit additional funds or top off your account.
Recommended Casino Bonuses
500% up to $7,500 + 150 free spins Welcome Bonus
The promo can’t get better or bigger than DuckyLuck’s Welcome Bonus. You can earn up to $7,500 in bonus funds on the first deposit.
What’s more? After your first deposit, you’ll receive 150 free spins to reel the slot game of your choice. Fifty free spins during the first three days after making your deposit.
This Welcome Bonus is valid on all payment modes. So enjoy free credits on your preferred banking method.
125% up to $3,750 Welcome Bonus
Bovada’s Welcome Bonus will make your day. After signing up, you can claim its $3,750 bonus with your first deposit.
The operator will reward you with a 125% match bonus for depositing funds for the first three times if you deposit with crypto.
Code BTCCWB1250 will be required for the first payment, and for the next two deposits, code BTC2NDCWB. You can withdraw your winnings only after meeting 25x and 50x rollover requirements.
Casino Apps
Technology wonders allow gambling enthusiasts to gamble on the go. You can now play your favorite real money games with a few taps on your mobile device.
Casino operators release dedicated apps that players can download on their smartphones or tablets.
On the other hand, most online casinos are mobile-friendly sites. WV residents don’t need to install any app on their hand-held devices. Instead, you can directly browse the entire gambling platform from your phone’s browser.
The mobile-responsive casino sites or apps feature all games, bonuses, and payment systems. So, enjoy betting anytime and anywhere as you would on a desktop.
Important Facts About WV Online Casinos
Although West Virginia gambling conditions aren’t complex, precautionary steps are crucial when playing online. Remember these facts to sign up and gamble on casino sites hassle-free.
- Many local West Virginia land-based casinos offer online gambling services.
- There are also offshore casino sites that follow licensing and regulation measures outside of West Virginia.
- You’ll find casino apps or mobile-responsive gambling sites to bet on the move.
- You can enjoy unique game titles on out-of-the-state casinos such as Andar Bahar and Fish Table games.
- Unlike land-based casinos, you can earn free betting credits through bonuses and promos on online gambling sites.
- You can play using cryptocurrency since you can’t transfer money from a US bank account on offshore sites.
- Withdrawal fees and time vary based on chosen payment methods on all online gambling sites.
West Virginia Gambling Laws Summary
The Mountain State passed various statutes to regulate and permit every gambling genre. It includes Casino, Lottery, Bingo, Sports Wagering, Table Games, Charitable Gaming, and Racetrack Video Lottery laws.
The state’s relaxed betting laws make it easy for operators to start and manage gaming activities. Whether you like land-based or online casinos, you can play anything hassle-free in West Virginia.
| West Virginia Gambling | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Land-based casinos in West Virginia | Section 61-10-4 permits the operation of traditional casinos in West Virginia. The state has five physical casino venues. |
| Online Gambling | In 2019, the state legalized online casino gaming under the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act. |
| Online Sports Betting and Land-based | The West Virginia Sports Lottery Wagering Act allows both retail and online sportsbooks. |
| State Lottery | Section 29-22A legalized Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) at racetracks that the state lottery manages. You can find video lottery machines at hundreds of taverns across the state. |
| Charitable Gambling | Nonprofit organizations can host bingo and raffle gaming events for fundraisers after obtaining a license from the WV gambling authorities. |
| Poker | West Virginian residents can play real-money poker games at offshore online poker rooms In-state licensed poker rooms are yet be allowed in the state. |
| Horse & Dog Racing | West Virginia has horse and greyhound racetracks that regularly host racebook betting events. |
| Fantasy Sports | Fantasy sports have been legal in the Mountain State since 2016. |
| Social Gambling | There’s no specific statute on social gambling in West Virginia. |
| Taxes on Gambling Winnings | The state levies a 15% tax on GGR for online gambling and 10% on sports betting operators. However, winnings are non-taxable. |
Disclaimer: The information on this page does not, nor does it intend to, constitute legal advice. This page is for learning purposes and may not have the most up-to-date information year-round. Readers should contact their attorney and/or accountant for advice concerning any particular legal matter. Do not take any action without first contacting a lawyer in your state.
Gambling Laws: A Deep Dive
West Virginia Gambling laws clearly define how the state’s policymakers normalized every genre. It was one step at a time, but the legal stance kept revolutionizing.
Below, we’ll go into more depth on the most popular gambling types and their legal situation in the state.
Land-Based Casinos
Casino table games became a reality in West Virginia in June 2007. The state authorities allowed real-money gambling on table games at licensed racetracks.
It includes roulette, blackjack, poker, three- and four-card poker, baccarat, craps, and others.
Later, lawmakers permitted casino gambling at the Greenbrier Historic Hotel in 2008, currently the only private casino in the country. The hotel’s official casino club launched on 2 July 2010 for guests and members only.
Today, the Mountain State has four traditional casino venues. It includes Mardi Gras Casino, Hollywood Casino, Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack, and Mountaineer Casino Racetrack.
Horse & Dog Tracks
West Virginia also has an active and vibrant racing scene. According to WV Code § 19-23-12D, residents can bet on racebooks in the Historic Resort Hotel.
Everything is legal in this American state, from thoroughbred horse and greyhound racing and simulcasting to Pari-mutuel wagering.
There are two greyhound racetracks and two thoroughbred horse racetracks. The West Virginia Racing Commission manages and regulates the WV racing industry.
Moreover, it’s the only state in the American continent legally conducting live greyhound racing and gambling activity. In 2019, this sport collected a bet amount of over $13 million for the state.
Bingo, Lottery and Charitable Gambling
West Virginia legalized Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) at racetracks and the Greenbrier Historic Resort.
Further, the state’s lawmakers passed the Limited Video Lottery Act, which allowed the operation of VLT machines in adult-only locations.
West Virginians can play Mega Millions Lotto, the Hot Lotto Jackpot, Cash 25, Pick 3, the Powerball Lottery, Keno Bonus, and scratch-off lottery tickets.
The West Virginia Lottery Commission regulates the lottery games within the state. Winners must pay 24% federal and 6.5% local taxes on lottery prizes.
West Virginians can participate in charitable bingo and raffle events as per W. Va. Code §47-20-1 and Code §47-21-1.
Only licensed nonprofit organizations registered under the West Virginia Charitable Organizations Division (WVCOD) can host such casino nights for fundraisers.
An annual bingo license allows charitable groups to host a maximum of two 6-hour gaming events weekly.
However, raffle events have no limits with an annual license. Total prize value during bingo events shouldn’t exceed more than $10,000.
The state also permits a super bingo license. It allows NGOs to host one super game event each month with a prize not exceeding $50,000.
Social Gaming at Home
Unfortunately, no act or law allows social game nights at home in West Virginia. Nobody can host at-home gaming events for real money bets and prizes.
The WV laws don’t define anything on recreational gaming events at home. So, playing games with friends and family for fun can be the only possibility.
Poker Rooms and Clubs
Although not explicitly mentioned in the WV gambling laws, poker games are legal in the state. However, the state had no live poker rooms till June 2007. WV policymakers permitted real money poker gaming under the Table Games Act.
Fast forward to today, there are three regulated live poker rooms across the Mountain State. You can visit the Hollywood Casino, Mardi Gras Casino, and Wheeling Island Casino for real-time action on the poker tables.
The state even gave the world one of the best poker players – Jason Koon. He won his first WSOP bracelet in 2021.
Thus, you can legally enjoy gambling sessions at your local poker hall.
Online Sports Betting and Land-Based
West Virginia authorized sports betting within the state in March 2018. As per the West Virginia Sports Lottery Wagering Act, the pari-mutuel facilities host sports betting events for West Virginias.
After a year, the state also released sports betting apps for the residents. That said, residents can bet on retail and online sportsbooks based on convenience.
Many online operators have launched sportsbook sites and apps within the state till now. It allows punters to wager on global sports leagues throughout the year, such as Basketball, NFL, MLB, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Badminton, and more.
West Virginia laws only banned high school sports betting.
Bookies must pay a 10% tax on gross sports betting revenue.
Casinos in West Virginia
West Virginians have quite an option when it comes to land-based casino gaming. WV casino resorts throughout the state are famous for their world-class amenities and gaming services. Here’s a detail of all the licensed casino locations you can visit this weekend.
Casinos List
- Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
- The Greenbrier Historic Resort
- Mardi Gras Casino & Resort
- Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino & Racetrack
- Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack, & Resort
Casinos Summary
- Total Casinos: 5
- Retail Sportsbooks: 5
- Poker Rooms: 3
West Virginia Gambling vs. Neighboring States
Every US state has different gambling laws and rules. West Virginians can visit nearby regions to expand their gaming options. Let’s check out the legal conditions in neighboring states.
| State | Is some form of Gambling Legal? | Legal Gambling Age | Legal Land-Based Casinos | Playing at Online Casinos | Legal Sports Betting | Legal State Lottery | Charitable Gaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | Yes | 18-21 | Yes | Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | Yes | 18-21 | Yes | Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
| Ohio | Yes | 18-21 | Legal | Not Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
| Maryland | Yes | 18-21 | Yes | Not Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
| Kentucky | Yes | 18 | Not Legal | Not Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
| Virginia | Yes | 18-21 | Yes | Not Legal | Legal | Legal | Yes |
There’s no denying that West Virginia offers unparalleled gambling diversity. While nearby states are starting to enter the betting market, the Mountain State has held a monopoly for years and remains ahead of the curve in terms of gambling options.
These neighborhood states are gradually permitting different forms of gambling, especially online sportsbooks. However, it’s just the beginning compared to West Virginia. It’s the reason many locals travel to enjoy real money gaming at WV physical casinos.
A Brief History of West Virginia Gambling
Gambling laws in West Virginia are among the most progressive in the US. That said, the Mountain State has a thriving betting history.
The journey dates back to 1931 when the state legalized horse and greyhound races.
Residents participated in these betting events at Wheeling Racetrack and Mardi Gras Casino (previously known as Tri-State Race Track). Each of these now has attached racinos regulated by the state lottery.
In 1984, WV lawmakers authorized a state lottery. Further, it expanded into a video lottery in 1994. Since 1986, West Virginia has also been operating a state lottery.
However, it took two decades for West Virginia to pass a house bill for land casinos. The authorities legalized many other casino games by 2007, including table games, and live poker games.
Recently, the Mountain State made its way into the sports betting market. The state didn’t hesitate to release a sports wagering service after the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018.
During the soft launch, bettors placed the first wager at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town in collaboration with William Hill.
Further, West Virginia permitted online betting in 2019 after passing the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act. In the same year, two online sportsbooks went live within the state.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
The state has a dedicated, responsible gambling authority called WVGRA (West Virginia Gaming and Racing Association). It follows a code of conduct to address all problem gambling issues, including underage gambling, addictions, advertising, and improper use of alcohol.
The goal is to make betting a fun yet safe experience for gamblers.
The authority introduced various methods to encourage responsible gambling among players and operators alike. Online casino sites should provide bet limits and self-exclusion programs for problem gamblers. It’ll help the members to curb their gambling addictions.
WVGRA also instructs gambling service providers to conduct awareness programs and monitor player’s betting habits.
Online casinos and sportsbooks should add details about gambling support resources on the site. This way, anyone can instantly seek professional help.
Summary: West Virginia’s Gambling Journey
It’s safe to say that West Virginia is one of the best American states to enjoy gambling offline or online. The diverse and bright WV gambling market suffices every kind of gambler.
The cutthroat competition from the neighboring states motivates WV casino operators and lawmakers to provide better betting options.
Currently, West Virginia has five physical casino venues that residents can visit to play slots, card games, and table games.
If your interest lies in the racebook, you have horse and even greyhound race betting options in the state. Sports-wagering fanatics can access retail and online sportsbooks.
Do time restrictions stop you from visiting traditional casino clubs? WV gambling statutes also allow residents to gamble via online casino sites. It means you can play any casino game from the comfort of your home.
Hosting charitable gaming events is also legal in WV. Indeed, Mountain State has gambling options for every mood.
West Virginia Gambling FAQ
Did you miss out on something? This FAQ section will sum up the West Virginia gambling laws.
How do tribal casinos differ from commercial casinos in West Virginia?
Native tribes of America run tribal casinos, whereas hotels or resort owners operate commercial casinos after obtaining state licenses. In West Virginia, you’ll only find commercial casino venues.
Are there real money online casinos in West Virginia with no deposit bonuses?
Yes, there are myriad legal online casino sites available for West Virginians that offer No Deposit bonuses.
Is there any risk of playing at online casinos regulated outside of West Virginia?
No, playing on regulated offshore casinos is safe. The overseas-based casino operators adhere to the gambling measures of the region where they’re licensed.
