Oregon Casinos – Best Places to Gamble in OR

According to Oregon law, gambling is when you put something valuable at risk in a game of chance, and you’ll get something valuable in return if you win. The law doesn’t talk about internet games specifically, but it’s pretty clear that you can’t use that as an excuse if you get caught gambling online.

If you’re curious about the specifics, you can read up on Oregon Revised Statutes 167.108 et seq. and 462.010 et seq. There are different age limits for different types of gambling, like 18 for lottery games, DFS contests, and pari-mutuel betting, and 21 for casino games and poker.

List of Top Gambling Venues in Oregon

Related reading: Oregon online casinos

Best Casinos in Oregon

1. Spirit Mountain Casino

Spirit Mountain Casino is one of the largest and most popular casinos in Oregon, located in Grand Ronde. The casino opened its doors in 1995 and has since become a major entertainment destination in the state.

The venue features over 2,000 slot machines, including popular titles such as Wheel of Fortune, Buffalo Grand, and Lightning Link. There is also a wide variety of table games available, including blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. The casino also features a poker room where players can enjoy cash games and tournaments.

The venue is quite large, spanning over 250,000 square feet. Admission to the casino is free of charge, but guests must be at least 21 years old to enter.

Spirit Mountain Casino offers several dining options to guests, including the Cedar Plank Buffet, Legends Restaurant, and a food court with a variety of fast-casual options. The venue also has a full-service bar and lounge, as well as a coffee shop.

For guests looking to stay overnight, Spirit Mountain Casino features a 254-room hotel with luxurious amenities such as a fitness center, indoor pool, and hot tub. There is also an RV park on-site for those traveling by RV.

2. Chinook Winds Casino Resort

Chinook Winds Casino Resort is a hotspot for gaming and entertainment in Lincoln City, Oregon. The casino first opened its doors in 1995 and has since grown to include a hotel, numerous dining options, and a variety of amenities.

Guests can enjoy playing over 1,200 slot machines, with popular titles such as Buffalo Grand, Dancing Drums, and Dragon Link, and try their hand at table games like blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. There’s even a dedicated poker room that hosts cash games and tournaments.

Spanning over 227,000 square feet, Chinook Winds Casino Resort is a vast space for fun and excitement. And the best part? Admission to the casino is free for all guests who are at least 21 years old.

When it comes to dining, Chinook Winds Casino Resort has something for everyone, including the upscale Rogue River Steakhouse, the all-you-can-eat Siletz Bay Buffet, and a food court with quick, casual options. Plus, there’s a full-service bar and lounge, as well as a coffee shop for those looking for a caffeine fix.

And for those who want to stay overnight, Chinook Winds Casino Resort boasts a 227-room hotel with luxurious amenities, like an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub, as well as breathtaking oceanfront views and a variety of room types to choose from.

3. Seven Feathers Casino Resort

The Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Canyonville, Oregon is a well-known destination for gaming and entertainment. Established in 1992, the resort has expanded over the years to include a hotel, various dining options, and numerous amenities.

Gamblers will appreciate the vast selection of over 900 slot machines, including popular titles like Buffalo Grand, Lock It Link, and Dancing Drums, as well as a diverse range of table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. Additionally, there is a poker room where players can enjoy cash games and tournaments.

The casino sprawls over a generous 68,000 square feet, and although admission is free, patrons must be at least 21 years of age to enter.

Seven Feathers Casino Resort offers several dining options for guests, including the Cow Creek Restaurant, Stix Sports Bar, and Kabi Café, in addition to a full-service bar and lounge, and a coffee shop.

4. Wildhorse Resort & Casino

Wildhorse Resort & Casino is located in Pendleton, Oregon, and is a popular destination for gaming and entertainment. The casino opened in 1994 and has since expanded to include a hotel, multiple dining options, and a variety of amenities.

The casino features over 1,200 slot machines, including popular titles such as Buffalo Grand, Lock It Link, and Dancing Drums. There is also a wide variety of table games available, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. In addition, there is a poker room where players can enjoy cash games and tournaments.

The expanse of the location is impressive, covering an impressive 85,000 square feet. Although entry to the casino is complimentary, guests are required to be of legal age, which is 21 years or above. For the convenience of the visitors, the Resort provides an array of dining choices such as the exquisite Plateau Fine Dining restaurant, the Traditions Buffet, and a food court that offers fast-casual options.

5. Kla-Mo-Ya Casino

Located in Chiloquin, Oregon, the Kla-Mo-Ya Casino opened its doors in 2005, providing guests with a variety of gaming options, dining experiences, and amenities. The casino features over 300 slot machines, boasting popular titles such as Buffalo Gold, Lock It Link, and Lightning Link. Additionally, table games like blackjack and three-card poker are also available.

With a span of over 18,000 square feet, the Kla-Mo-Ya Casino is comparatively smaller than other Oregon casinos. Nevertheless, admission is free, although guests must be 21 years or older.

Guests can dine at the Crater Lake Junction Restaurant, or grab something to-go from the small café. However, Kla-Mo-Ya Casino doesn’t currently offer on-site accommodations. Nevertheless, visitors can choose from several nearby lodging options.

Oregon Gambling Revenues

Oregon is known for its robust gambling industry, which generates millions of dollars in revenue each year. In 2019, the state’s gambling industry generated a total of $1.15 billion in revenue, with a significant portion coming from video lottery terminals (VLTs). These machines accounted for $937.8 million in revenue, while table games and other forms of gambling contributed the remaining $211.5 million.

The state of Oregon benefits greatly from its gambling industry, with a large portion of the revenue generated going towards important public services. In 2019, the state allocated $375.2 million in gambling revenues towards economic development, education, parks and natural resources, and problem gambling treatment. The state’s General Fund also received $73.7 million in gambling revenue, which is used to fund various government programs and services.

Despite the significant revenue generated by Oregon’s gambling industry, the state is committed to ensuring that it is done responsibly and ethically. The Oregon State Lottery, which oversees the industry, has implemented various measures to promote responsible gambling and prevent problem gambling. These include self-exclusion programs, responsible gaming training for staff, and partnerships with organizations that provide problem gambling treatment and support.

Exploring Indian Gaming Tribes in Oregon

Oregon is home to nine Indian gaming tribes, each with its own unique history, culture, and challenges. These tribes have played an important role in shaping the state’s gaming industry, which generates significant revenue for both the tribes and the state. The history of Indian gaming in Oregon dates back to the 1980s when the first tribal casinos opened their doors. Since then, the industry has grown substantially, and the tribes have been able to invest in a variety of economic and social programs for their members.

However, Indian gaming in Oregon has not been without its quarrels. Some critics argue that the industry has led to increased crime and gambling addiction, while others claim that it has harmed traditional tribal cultures and values. Additionally, there have been disputes among the tribes themselves over issues such as revenue sharing, gaming regulations, and land rights. Despite these challenges, the Indian gaming industry in Oregon continues to thrive, and the tribes remain committed to using their resources to improve the lives of their members and the surrounding communities.

Here is a list of all Indian gaming tribes in Oregon:

1. Burns Paiute Tribe
2. Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians
3. Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
4. Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
5. Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
6. Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation
7. Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians
8. Klamath Tribes
9. Coquille Indian Tribe

A Brief History of Gambling in Oregon

Gambling has a long and complex history in Oregon, dating back to the 19th century. Initially, gambling was mostly unregulated, with games taking place in private homes, saloons, and other informal settings. However, as the state grew, so did the demand for more organized and regulated forms of gambling.

In 1947, Oregon became the first state to legalize parimutuel betting on horse racing. This move was aimed at boosting the state’s struggling horse racing industry, which was facing competition from other forms of entertainment, such as movies and sports. Over time, the state expanded its gambling options to include other forms of betting, such as lottery games and bingo.

In 1984, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation opened the first tribal casino in Oregon. This move was made possible by the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988, which gave Native American tribes the right to operate casinos on their lands. Today, there are nine Indian gaming tribes in Oregon, which generate significant revenue for the tribes and the state.

However, not all forms of gambling have been welcomed in Oregon. In the 1990s, a proposal to legalize video poker machines in bars and taverns was met with significant opposition from religious groups and other concerned citizens. In 1995, a statewide ballot measure was passed, effectively banning video poker and other electronic gambling machines outside of tribal casinos.

Despite these setbacks, gambling continues to be a popular and lucrative industry in Oregon. In addition to the tribal casinos, the state also offers a variety of lottery games, including scratch-offs and multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Additionally, charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is allowed under certain conditions.

Understanding Gambling Taxes in Oregon

If you’re a regular gambler in Oregon, it’s important to understand how gambling taxes work in the state. Gambling winnings are considered taxable income, and you are required to report them on your state and federal tax returns. Here’s what you need to know about gambling taxes in Oregon:

First, it’s important to note that Oregon has a unique tax structure for gambling winnings. Instead of taxing your gross winnings, the state taxes your net winnings. This means that you can deduct your gambling losses from your winnings, up to the amount of your total winnings for the year. For example, if you win $10,000 in a year but lose $8,000, you would only pay taxes on the remaining $2,000 in net winnings.

Second, the tax rate on gambling winnings in Oregon is 8%. This applies to all types of gambling, including lottery games, casino games, and sports betting. So, if you have $2,000 in net gambling winnings for the year, you would owe $160 in state taxes.

Third, if you have any federal tax withholding on your gambling winnings, you can use that to offset your state tax liability. For example, if you have $500 in federal tax withholding on your gambling winnings, you can use that to reduce your state tax liability on those same winnings.

Finally, it’s important to know how to report your gambling winnings and losses on your tax return. You will need to fill out Form 1040 and include Schedule 1 (Additional Income and Adjustments to Income). On Schedule 1, you will report your gambling winnings on line 8 and your losses on line 16. The difference between these two numbers is your net winnings, which you will report on line 8 of your Form 1040.

Oregon Gambling FAQ

How much can you win at Oregon casinos before being taxed?

In Oregon, you are required to pay taxes on all gambling winnings, regardless of the amount. However, the state only taxes your net winnings, which means you can deduct your gambling losses from your winnings before paying taxes. The tax rate on gambling winnings in Oregon is 8%.

How to ban yourself from casinos in Oregon?

If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction and want to ban yourself from Oregon casinos, you can sign up for the Oregon Voluntary Exclusion Program. This program allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from all casinos in the state for a period of one or five years. To enroll, you’ll need to complete an application and submit it to the Oregon Lottery.

Who regulates gambling in Oregon?

The Oregon State Lottery regulates all forms of gambling in the state, including casino games, sports betting, and the state lottery. The Lottery is overseen by a five-member commission appointed by the Governor.

What is the minimum gambling age in Oregon?

The minimum gambling age in Oregon is 21 for all types of gambling, including casino games, sports betting, and lottery games. This age limit is strictly enforced at all casinos and other gambling establishments in the state.

Can I gamble online in Oregon?

Online gambling is not currently legal in Oregon. However, the state does offer a mobile sports betting app, Scoreboard, which allows residents to place sports bets from their phones or other mobile devices.

What types of gambling are legal in Oregon?

The types of gambling that are legal in Oregon include casino games, sports betting, and lottery games. The state also allows certain types of social gaming, such as poker and bingo games that are held for charitable purposes.

Can I deduct gambling losses on my taxes in Oregon?

Yes, you can deduct your gambling losses on your Oregon state tax return, up to the amount of your total winnings for the year. However, you must itemize your deductions in order to claim your gambling losses. Be sure to keep accurate records of your gambling activities, including wins and losses, in order to accurately report them on your tax return.