Mississippi’s gambling laws are among the most interesting in the nation. In some cases, the state is as open as any other modern state with gambling, while in others, it’s very conservative on the matter. For instance, it has housed dozens of land-based casinos for decades but only embraced a Mississippi state lottery in 2018.
Mississippi’s love-hate relationship with gambling has also extended to online gambling. So far, the only legal form of internet gambling is daily fantasy sports betting. Online sports betting is under consideration. However, Mississippi lawmakers have yet to regulate online casinos in the state. Luckily, you’re free to play online casino games in Mississippi. We’ll tell you how in this guide.
This review will cover the best Mississippi casinos and everything about online casino gambling in Mississippi. We will also go through all the gambling options available in the Magnolia State.
Key Things You Need to Know
- Online gambling is not fully legalized in Mississippi, with the exception of online sports betting, which is allowed only within licensed casino premises.
- For online sports betting, you should be physically present in a licensed Mississippi casino that provides this service.
- The minimum age to engage in any form of gambling in Mississippi, including online activities, is 21.
- Payment options for gambling online are restricted due to its legal status; using regular credit cards might not be an option, leading people to use alternatives like cryptocurrencies.
- Online sports betting applications often require geolocation features to be active to confirm that you are within the premises of a licensed casino.
- Both federal and state taxes apply to winnings from online sports betting, and consulting a tax specialist is recommended for compliance.
Types of Legal Gambling in Mississippi
Mississippi was a pioneer in legalizing riverboat casinos, being the third state to do so, and also became the fourth state to legalize single-game sports betting in 2018.
Most of the casinos in the state are conveniently located near the Gulf Coast and the northern border, with at least 12 cities hosting one or more casinos. The state is home to nearly 30 land-based casinos, which include three tribal establishments, collectively providing around 40,000 slot machines and 1,000 table games.
After previously being one of only six states without a lottery, Mississippi introduced lottery games in 2019.
While the state doesn’t have its own horse or dog racing tracks, it does permit pari-mutuel wagering through simulcasting at its casinos; however, dog racing is not allowed.
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Mississippi passed new laws requiring casino operators to build their establishments within 800 feet of the shoreline but inland, marking a significant departure from the original rule that casinos must operate on riverboats above a body of water.
Charitable Gambling
In Mississippi, charitable gambling is a legal and regulated activity, providing a means for non-profit organizations to raise funds. The state’s charitable gaming laws lay out specific requirements and guidelines that these organizations must follow to conduct gaming events legally. Charitable events usually include raffles, bingo games, and sometimes poker nights.
Organizations need to obtain a permit or license from the Mississippi Gaming Commission and are required to file a report detailing the financial results of their events. Additionally, these charitable events must be operated strictly by volunteers, and the proceeds must go towards the charitable cause.
Bingo Halls
Bingo is a popular form of charitable gambling in Mississippi and is governed under the charitable gaming laws. MS has multiple Bingo halls which are usually operated by non-profit organizations, religious groups, or fraternal organizations.
Some of the well-known Bingo halls in Mississippi include “Island Bingo” in Gulfport, “Heidelberg Hotel Bingo” in Jackson, and “American Legion Bingo” in Biloxi. These establishments are not only recreational centers but also places that contribute to community development and social causes.
Like other forms of charitable gambling, Bingo halls are required to be licensed and are subject to regulations to ensure that the games are fair and that proceeds go to the intended charitable organizations.
Mississippi Online Casinos vs. Local Casinos
In Mississippi, the gambling landscape is primarily marked by its prominent local casino industry, while the online sector is currently limited to sports betting. Local casinos in Mississippi were among the first to be legalized in the U.S., with laws later amended to allow these establishments to be built within 800 feet of the shoreline but inland after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
These casinos are rigorously regulated by the Mississippi Gaming Commission. In contrast, as of my last update in January 2022, online casinos have not been legalized in the state, although online sports betting is allowed within the premises of licensed casinos.
When it comes to accessibility, nearly 30 local casinos are conveniently located near the Gulf Coast and the state’s northern border, with at least 12 cities in the state housing one or more casinos. Online casino gaming, however, remains inaccessible through state-regulated platforms, forcing residents to rely on offshore options.
Local casinos offer an extensive range of games, featuring over 40,000 slot machines and 1,000 table games, often complemented by live entertainment and other amenities. The online options are limited to sports betting available within traditional casino premises.
Promotions at local casinos are plentiful, offering everything from free play and comped rooms to special events. While state-regulated online casino promotions are non-existent due to the lack of legalization, players can avail themselves of online sportsbook promotions when betting within a land-based casino.
As for banking methods, traditional casinos typically accept cash, credit cards, and sometimes checks, while the unregulated nature of offshore online casinos means a variety of payment methods may be available, albeit with less security.
Overall, Mississippi has a robust local casino industry but lags in the legalization and regulation of online casinos. The only form of gambling online permitted here is sports betting, which is restricted to the confines of traditional casinos.
How To Gamble Online in Mississippi
Step 1: Pick Your Online Casino
We recommend Cafe Casino as the premier online wagering platform in Louisiana, yet we encourage you to explore additional alternatives from our previously reviewed selections.
Step 2: Get Registered
Make your way to the Cafe Casino website and select the “Join” option. You’ll need to enter essential details such as your email, full name, and date of birth to activate your account. Shortly after, you’ll receive an email containing a verification link; clicking on this link is going to complete setting up your account.
Step 3: Add Money to Your Account
With your account ready, it’s time to fund it. Visit the “Cashier” area of the website to make a deposit. There’s an attractive bonus for using cryptocurrency on your initial deposit, with the potential to receive an additional $2,500. Determine your desired payment option and continue with the payment.
Step 4: Start Betting
With funds in your account and any bonuses claimed, you’re all set to start wagering. Discover the array of games available, including real-time dealer options, and video poker, or jackpot-heavy slots. Select the game of your choice, place your bet, and dive into the action.
Gambling in and Near Mississippi
Mississippi houses nearly 30 land-based casinos, including three tribal casinos. You can play hundreds of the best video slot games and table games, including Texas Hold’em and Pai Gow Poker. Most commercial casinos in the state are located on the Gulf Coast. Below, we’ll tell you about the best land-based casinos in Mississippi.
Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
Address: 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, 39530
The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is one of the largest gambling venues in Mississippi. This 1,749-room casino resort features 1,800 gaming machines and more than 100 table games. You can also bet on your favorite sports at the retail sportsbook here. In addition, Beau Rivage Resort features nine restaurants, two bars, and 14 shops.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi
Address: 777 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, 39530
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi opened its doors in 2007. It includes 479 rooms, 11 restaurants, and a fitness center. You can choose from over 1,200 machines and 50 table games. All the Biloxi Mississippi casinos are within walking distance. A stone’s throw away from Hard Rock Casino Biloxi is Palace Casino Resort, the only smoke-free casino on the Gulf Coast.
Palace Casino Resort
Address: 154 East Howard Ave, Biloxi, 39530
The newly renovated Palace Casino Resort is a luxurious venue with many casino gaming options. Visitors, particularly non-smokers, can enjoy over 1,000 slots, table games, and more at Palace Casino Resort. Retail sports betting is also available here.
IP Casino Resort Spa
Address: 850 Bayview Ave, Biloxi, MS 39530
IP Casino Resort Spa houses more than 1,000 guest rooms and suites. This 80,000-square-foot gaming property boasts over 1,500 slots, 53 tables, and a ten-table poker room. Table games include blackjack, craps, baccarat, roulette, Pai Gow Poker, Three-Card Poker, and more.
Horseshoe Tunica Hotel and Casino
Address: 1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, 38664
Horseshoe Casino Tunica, located along the Mississippi River, is a huge gambling venue. This Las Vegas-style hotel and casino was built by Jack Binion. Its 63,000-square-feet of gaming space houses over 1,200 slot and video poker machines and 70 tables. Additionally, there’s a poker room at this casino. Visitors can dine at one of the six restaurants at Horseshoe Casino Tunica.
Hollywood Casino Tunica
Address: 1150 Casino Strip Resorts Blvd, Robinsonville, 38664
Hollywood Casino Tunica is home to 400 guest rooms and suites. This two-tower property features over 1,100 slots, video poker, video keno machines, and a sportsbook. Additionally, Hollywood Casino Tunica hosts over 20 table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps, Mississippi Stud, and more.
Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast
Address: 711 Hollywood Blvd, Bay St. Louis
Another Hollywood-branded property is Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast, located in Bay St. Louis. Formerly known as Casino Magic Bay, the property was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. It now houses 291 rooms and suites, with a gaming floor covering around 40,000 square feet.
Golden Moon Casino
Address: 13541 Highway 16 West, Choctaw
The Golden Moon Casino is a tribal casino owned and operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. This property and Silver Star Hotel and Casino make up the Pearl River Resort.
The Golden Moon Casino includes 600 guest rooms and suites. You can choose from over 1,100 slot machines, 25 table games, and a poker room. The venue also features a sportsbook.
Silver Star Casino
Address: 13550 Highway 16 West, Choctaw
Silver Star Casino is the other half of the greater Pearl River Resort property. This 500-room establishment is also owned and operated by the Choctaw Indians. Its 90,000-square-foot gaming space features over 1,200 games, including video poker, slots, and video keno machines. You may also pick from 40 table games at this resort.
Gold Strike Casino Resort
Address: 1010 Casino Center Dr, Tunica Resorts, 38664
Gold Strike Casino Resort, owned by MGM Resorts International, is a massive property with 1,258 rooms and suites. Its gaming floor covers 50,000 square feet, featuring around 1,200 slots, video poker, and video keno machines. Gold Strike Casino Resort also offers some exciting table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, mini-baccarat, three-card poker, four-card poker, Mississippi Stud, and more.
Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel
Address: 1980 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, 39531
The Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel is a luxurious hotel and home to an RV Park. This 195-room casino resort features over 800 slot machines, 26 table games, and a sportsbook. Its table games include blackjack, craps, roulette, Mississippi Stud, Three Card Poker, and High Card Flush.
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Lula
Address: 777 Isle of Capri Parkway, Lula
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel features over 900 slots, video poker, video keno machines, and 20 table games.
Other Forms of Gambling in Mississippi
In addition to its local casinos and online sports betting, Mississippi offers many other gambling avenues:
- Mississippi online casinos
- Mississippi online sportsbooks
- Mississippi poker sites
- Mississippi online racebooks
- Mississippi casinos
- Mississippi bingo
- Mississippi lottery
- Mississippi sportsbooks
- Mississippi race tracks
- Mississippi poker rooms
Casino Games You Can Play in Mississippi
Blackjack
Blackjack is a classic casino card game where the objective is to get a hand total as close to 21 as possible without going over. Most casinos in Mississippi offer multiple variants of Blackjack, including Single Deck and Double Deck.
Roulette
Roulette involves betting on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. Mississippi casinos generally offer both American and European versions of this popular game.
Poker
Poker is a card game that combines skill, strategy, and luck. Casinos in Mississippi feature various poker games with the likes of Omaha, Texas Hold’em, and Seven-Card Stud, often with both cash games and tournaments.
Craps
Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of a roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. It’s a high-energy game that offers multiple betting options.
Slots
Slot machines are automated games that require little to no skill. Players simply insert coins, tokens, or digital credits to spin the reels. Casinos in Mississippi offer a wide range of slot machines, from classic 3-reel slots to more complex video slots.
Baccarat
The card game known as baccarat, where players bet on one of two hands, either the “player” or the “banker,” with the objective of having the hand with a total closest to 9. It’s a game often associated with high rollers but is easy to play.
Pai Gow Poker
Pai Gow Poker is a blend of traditional poker and the Chinese game Pai Gow. Players receive seven cards and have to make two separate poker hands, a 5-card hand and a 2-card hand, to beat the dealer’s hands.
Let It Ride
Let It Ride is a poker variation where the player makes three bets and has the option to withdraw two of them as cards are revealed. It’s a slower-paced game with the potential for high payouts.
Mississippi Stud
Mississippi Stud is a 5-card poker game that’s a hit in many Mississippi casinos. The objective is to create a winning hand with at least a pair of 6s from two hole cards and three community cards, while using a 3-card, 4-card, or 5-card bet.
Keno
Keno is a lottery-like game where players select numbers, usually between 1 and 80, and then 20 numbers are drawn randomly. The more numbers matched, the higher the prize.
Timeline of Gambling Legislation in Mississippi
The timeline of gambling legislation in Mississippi outlines the state’s legal developments concerning many types of gambling, from riverboat casinos to the current status of online betting.
- 1790: Horse races become the first legal gambling option in Mississippi.
- 1990: House Bill 2 of the Special Legislative Session regulates dockside casino gambling.
- 1990: The Mississippi Gaming Commission is created as a result of the Gaming Control Act. The passage of the Mississippi Gaming Control Act regulates riverboat gambling.
- 1992: The first licensed Mississippi bingo hall and first legal casino open their doors.
- 1994: The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, the only federally recognized tribe in the state, opens the Silver Star Casino.
- 2005: Hurricane Katrina sweeps away most oceanside casinos in Mississippi, forcing state lawmakers to revise the state’s gambling laws.
- 2016: Mississippi lawmakers regulate fantasy sports betting.
- 2018: Legal sports betting launches in Mississippi at retail locations
Mississippi Online Gambling FAQs
Is online gambling legal in Mississippi?
Although Mississippi gambling laws do not encourage online gaming, you may still gamble online in the state using secure offshore online casinos. While Mississippi houses dozens of brick-and-mortar casinos, they can hardly compete with casino sites in terms of gaming variety, bonuses, and overall convenience.
What forms of gambling are allowed in Mississippi?
Mississippi allows brick-and-mortar casino gambling, retail sports betting, and pari-mutuel wagering at licensed casinos. In addition, daily fantasy sports and lottery games are also legal in the state.
Can I trust online casinos in Mississippi?
Online gaming using reliable casinos is as fun as it is safe. For the best experience, we recommend only the best of all online casinos that use SSL encryption to ensure your personal information is protected. These casino sites are ranked for the best game variety, bonuses, and transparent financial transactions.
What is the fastest withdrawal online casino in Mississippi?
Wild Casino is the fastest withdrawal casino site in Mississippi, as you can withdraw your casino winnings in a time frame of approximately 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the payout speed depends on the banking method you choose.
Is BetOnline legal in Mississippi?
BetOnline is among the best gambling sites you can access from Mississippi. Although its legality is a gray area, the Magnolia State doesn’t prosecute residents who play online games via offshore sites.
What is the legal gambling age in Mississippi?
Residents must be 21 or above to play casino games and bet on sports.
Can I bet on sports online in Mississippi?
Yes, you can bet online using Bovada, BetOnline, or BetUS in Mississippi. These betting sites offer extensive lists of sports to wager on, from professional leagues like football to college games.
Is there any tribal casino in Mississippi?
While commercial casinos dominate the gambling landscape in Mississippi, the Pearl River Resort is the only tribal gambling resort in the state.