Despite being one of the most liberal states in the US, lawmakers in California have proven to have little interest in legalizing online casinos so far – they have been steadfast in referencing the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act any time that a bill has been brought to the table.
While there are a number of casino properties in the Golden State operated by Native American tribes, online casinos in California remain elusive.
Are Online Casinos Legal in California?
At the time of writing, the most popular forms of online gambling such as casinos, sports betting, and poker are all outlawed in CA.
The question “are online casinos legal in California?” comes with a simple black-and-white answer of ‘no’, even though some forms of internet gambling are allowed in the Golden State. The wait for real money online casino gaming in California goes on.
How to Bet Online in California
The hope for those planning to play for real money at an online casino in California is that some forms of wagering on the internet ARE allowed. These include ‘social’ casinos (which use play credits rather than real money like PayPal casinos), sweepstakes, daily fantasy sports platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, and pari-mutuel horse racing betting sites.
If you really want to try your luck at the slot machines, blackjack table, or roulette wheel, California also plays host to one of the most vibrant bricks-and-mortar casino communities in America. At the last count, there were more than 60 casinos located across the state, such as the Barona Valley Ranch in San Diego and the Colusa Casino Resort.
It’s frustrating that gamers in other states, such as Arizona and Michigan, are able to sign up for new accounts, access online casino bonuses and play their favorite games, but for now, these are the best options available to us.
Legal Online Casinos in California
One day, you will be able to visit our site and learn about the best online casino for California residents. That’s how confident we are that law changes will come in the near future, given that a bill to introduce legal mobile sports betting in the state is set to be introduced to November’s ballot. Online casino gaming could follow thereafter.
Our site is packed with reviews of the most trusted online casinos for USA players, such as BetMGM and Borgata, and soon we hope that players in the Golden State will have their chance to enjoy the games on offer.
In the meantime, it’s important that you don’t get suckered into playing at illegal or ‘black market’ casino sites. The risks just aren’t worth it, especially when there are other online wagering opportunities to enjoy, as listed above.
Hopefully, the best online casinos will become a reality for Californians in 2023.
