When it comes to gambling in the Tar Heel State, there is a lot to know. So, we created this guide to fill you in on what’s what when it comes to casinos in North Carolina, from laws and taxes to the state’s fascinating casino history.
We also rank and review the best North Carolina online casinos and show you how to wager online. So, keep reading to find out which gambling sites topped our list and where to find the most generous welcome bonuses.
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List of the Best Online North Carolina Casinos
Before we tackle the nitty-gritty of North Carolina casinos, here is our experts’ list of the best online casinos in the Tar Heel State:
- Ignition – The Best North Carolina Casino Overall
- Slots.lv – Best Slots Tournaments of all the North Carolina Casinos
- Wild Casino – Top Table Games of all the Casinos in North Carolina
- Bovada – Top Bonuses of all the North Carolina Online Casinos
- BetOnline – Best Gambling Selection of all the North Carolina Casinos
- Cafe Casino – Top NC Casino for Video Poker
- XBet – Best of all the North Carolina Casinos for Sports Wagering
- BetUS – NC Casinos with the Fastest Payouts
- MyB – North Carolina’s Top Casino for BetSoft 3D Slots
- Big Spin – Best Reload Bonuses of all the NC Casinos
The Best Online Casinos in North Carolina Reviewed
While having a list of the best online casinos in North Carolina is helpful, knowing more about them is even handier. So, take a look at our reviews below:
1. Ignition – The Best North Carolina Casino Overall
When looking for the best new casinos in North Carolina, there are a few things to keep in mind. For instance, whether the site offers SSL encryption, what payment methods are accepted, and how many games can you enjoy? Since Ignition provides SSL encryption, takes various payment methods, ranks as one of the best Litecoin casinos, and clears crypto payouts in 24-hours, it is one of our top NC casinos.
In addition to these impressive features, the site offers 280 games for players to discover, including 218 slots, 22 specialty games like Keno, and 28 table games. But, where Ignition shines is in its offering of live dealer games. As a result, players can enjoy 36 different live dealer options. So, it is no surprise that our experts regard Ignition as one of the best blackjack casinos in North Carolina.
However, the site does not limit itself to only offering high-quality games. Instead, it provides some excellent promos too. For instance, crypto players can claim promos up to $3,000. Further, new players depositing for the first time can access a welcome bonus of a 50% match deposit up to $1,500. But, players won’t need an Ignition promo code as the site automatically applies the reward.
Pros: Cons:
2. Slots.lv – Best Slots Tournaments of all the North Carolina Casinos
While Slots.lv offers NC players over 400 casino games, the site’s primary focus is on slots. As a result, players can experience 193 exciting options, from classics like 777 Deluxe to newer titles like Golden Buffalo and Raving Wildz. In addition, the site offers slots tournaments, progressive slots, and generous jackpots. Further, Slots.lv works with leading software developers BetSoft and RTG to create its high-quality games, leaving the site as one of the best new slots sites in North Carolina.
However, this online casino also provides a range of alternative casino games for players to discover, from live dealer options and table games to an impressive video poker suite.
Another outstanding feature of this site is the generous promos available. For instance, following their first deposit, new players can claim a 200% welcome bonus of up to $1,000. However, to access the reward, players must use the Slots.lv promo code HELLOSLOTS200. Additionally, crypto players making their first deposits can claim a 300% crypto welcome match deposit of up to $1,500. But, keep in mind, Slots.lv attaches a higher 35x wagering requirement to these promos.
Pros: Cons:
3. Wild Casino – Top Table Games of all the Casinos in North Carolina
Besides the other North Carolina casinos mentioned here, a newer site to look out for is Wild Casino. Despite only launching in 2017, this site offers features comparable to more established sites. For instance, Wild Casino makes it simple for players to deposit and withdraw funds by accepting 15 different payment methods. Further, the site encourages the use of cryptocurrency and ranks as one of the best Bitcoin casinos in the state.
Because the site makes it so simple to deposit, NC players can take advantage of the exceptional promos available. For instance, those depositing funds for the first time can unlock a whopping 250% matched deposit of up to $1,000. However, they must use the Wild Casino promo code WILD250. Additionally, players can access a 100% bonus of up to $1,000 for their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th deposits using the code WILD100.
So, once players have boosted their bankrolls with these exciting bonuses, they can discover Wild Casino’s 300 high-quality games. Besides offering top titles created by developers like BetSoft and FreshDeck Studios, the site provides variety. As a result, gamers can enjoy 240 video slots, a large selection of live dealer games, and typical table games like roulette and blackjack. So, it is no wonder Wild Casino earns the reputation of being one of North Carolina’s top gambling sites.
Pros: Cons:
4. Bovada – Top Bonuses of all the North Carolina Online Casinos
Another slightly more established site that caught our experts’ attention is Bovada. Although still considered a relatively new site, having launched in 2011, Bovada offers a host of features that will leave NC players impressed.
Firstly, the site features a well-stocked online casino packed with slots and table games like American and European Roulette. Additionally, gamers can participate in several live dealer options and enjoy a high RTP of 97.8% across the board. However, it doesn’t end there. Instead, Bovada caters to sports fans too by providing an excellent sportsbook. As a result, bettors can wager on various sports teams and events from the NHL and NFL to the NBA and MMA. So, if you’re looking for the best MLB betting sites, Bovada is one to try.
Secondly, Bovada makes it simple for players to access these gambling options on the go by providing an easily downloadable app. In addition to being compatible with iOS and Android devices, the platform is functional and straightforward to use, ranking it as one of North Carolina’s best gambling apps.
Lastly, Bovada encourages players to sign up by enticing them with generous promos. For instance, when depositing funds for the first time, players using the Bovada bonus code BTCCW1250 can access a welcome match bonus of 125% up to $1,250.
Pros: Cons:
5. BetOnline – Best Gambling Selection of all the North Carolina Casinos
When it comes to more established online casinos in North Carolina, players may want to give BetOnline a try. Firstly, this Panama-licensed casino offers players nearly 500 games to explore. Since it launched in 2001, the site has built up its gaming selection to offer over 100 slots, including jackpot and progressive slots, and various table games. Further, the site accommodates those wanting to place higher than average bets, earning the title of one of the best high roller casinos in the state.
Since BetOnline works with top software developers Nucleus Gaming and BetSoft, NC players can be sure the games offered here are of premium quality.
But, BetOnline’s gambling options don’t end with casino games. Instead, the site offers several impressive sports betting markets for bettors to enjoy. As a result, NC sports fans can wager on various events and leagues, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MMA. Further, BetOnline live-streams major sporting events in real-time so bettors can watch their teams in action. So, it is unsurprising that BetOnline ranks as one of North Carolina’s best sports betting sites.
Besides these great gambling options, BetOnline has some exciting promos up for grabs. For example, new players using the BetOnline promo code BOL1000 can claim a 100% matched deposit of up to $1,000 when making their first deposit.
Pros: Cons:
Comparison of Online Casinos in North Carolina
We compiled the table below to make it simple to compare the offerings of each of the North Carolina casinos, making it easier to find the one that best suits your needs.
| Casino | Games Available | Number of Games | Software Providers | Payment Method | Welcome Bonus | Wager Requirement |
| Ignition | Slots, blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, poker, live casino, progressive jackpots, virtual sports | 200+ | Rival Gaming, RealTime Gaming | Visa, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, Zelle, MatchPay, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 150% Deposit match up to $1,500 | 25X |
| Slots.lv | Slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino | 400 | RealTime Gaming, Rival, Makitone Gaming | Credit card, Debit card, MatchPay, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 200% deposit match up to $1,000 | 35X |
| Wild Casino | Slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat, live casino | 250+ | Fresh Deck Studios, Betsoft, Nucleus Gaming | VISA, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, Discover, Person to Person, Bank Wire, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Stellar, USD Coin | 250% deposit match up to $1,000 on first deposit | 35X |
| Bovada | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | Visionary iGaming, RealTime Gaming, Rival, Revolver Gaming | VISA, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, MatchPay, Zelle, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 125% deposit match up to $1,250 | 25X |
| BetOnline | Roulette, slots, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino, sports betting | 491 | Magma, BetSoft, Fresh Deck Studios, Concept Gaming, Visionary iGaming | VISA, MasterCard, Person to Person, Dogecoin, eCheck, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin | 100% Deposit Bonus Up To $1,000 | 30X |
| Cafe Casino | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino | 300+ | RealTime Gaming, Rival, Makitone Gaming | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 250% deposit match up to $1,500 | 40X |
| XBet | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | Magma, Fresh Deck Studios, BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Visionary iGaming | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 200% deposit match up to $500 | 40X |
| BetUS | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 300+ | Magma, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Betsoft | Credit card, Debit card, eCheck, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 50% deposit match up to $625 | 30X |
| MYB | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Magma | Credit card, Debit card, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin | 200% deposit bonus up to $1,000 | 40X |
| Big Spin | Slots, roulette, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino | 213 | BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Magma | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Ripple | 200% deposit match up to $1,000 | 30X |
Online Casino in North Carolina – Who Can Play?
Gamers in North Carolina who want to play at an online casino will find that they need to meet a few requirements before getting started. For instance, gamers will need a computer and a stable internet connection to access these sites. However, to set up an account and play the games, players must be of legal gambling age, which in North Carolina happens to be 21 or older.
How to Use an Online Casino From North Carolina
Although most online North Carolina casinos are relatively straightforward to use, navigating them at first can be challenging. But, by following the quick steps below, anyone can learn to operate these sites with ease.
1. Signing Up for an Account
Firstly, open the Ignition website, then locate and click the orange “Join” button. Thereafter, fill in your information on the “create account” page that opens before hitting the “Create Account” button.
2. Account Verification
Once you’ve signed up, you’ll need to verify your account. As a result, Ignition automatically sends a verification email to your given address when your account is created. So, you’ll need to open your inbox, find the Ignition verification email, and click the link within to complete verification.
3. Making Your Initial Deposit
Following verification, you’ll need to deposit money into your Ignition account. So, navigate to the “Cashier” tab, click it, and select your preferred payment method from the options provided. Then, follow the prompts to fund your account.
4. Choosing a Game and Placing Your First Bet
Finally, you can place your first bet. So, explore the casino games offered and open the one you want to play by clicking it. Then, add in your bet value on the bet slip before clicking “Place Bet.”
Casino Legislation in North Carolina – A Timeline
Since the Tar Heel State was formed, gambling has been in the picture, with lawmakers passing and repealing several bills. As a result, North Carolina has a fascinating gambling history. So, let’s take a look at the timeline of North Carolina casinos:
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- 1764: Lawmakers banned all forms of gambling.
- 1939: The state introduced a new law allowing pari-mutuel wagering on greyhound and horse racing.
- 1954: North Carolina terminated pari-mutuel wagering by repealing the racing law passed in 1939.
- 1979: Lawmakers permit charitable bingo and raffles, provided the prizes sat below $10.
- 1988: The U.S. government passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. As a result, legalizing Class III casino gambling on Indian land.
- 1994: The Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians signed a gaming compact with North Carolina, which permitted the building of tribal casinos.
- 1997: North Carolina’s first land-based casino opened.
- 2006: The state introduced the North Carolina Educational Lottery, scratch cards, and multi-jurisdictional games.
- 2007: Lawmakers prohibited all video poker machines.
- 2013: The Cherokee Indians signed a new gaming compact with the state permitting live table games at Tribal casinos.
- 2019: North Carolina legalizes retail sports betting
- 2021: North Carolina and the Catawba Nation sign a gaming compact. Additionally, State Senator Jim Perry filed SB 688, a bill set to legalize mobile sports betting in North Carolina. However, this bill is yet to be voted on.
Is Playing at North Carolina Online Casinos Legal?
Although North Carolina permits Tribal casinos and retail sports betting, the state prohibits most other forms of gambling. As a result, online casinos, online sports betting, DFS, pari-mutuel wagering, and commercial land-based casinos are all illegal in the state. Further, those caught participating in any of these are subject to a hefty fine.
However, in April 2021, State Senator Jim Perry filed SB 688, a bill that, if passed, will legalize mobile and online sports betting in the Tar Heel State.
But, for now, NC residents and visitors can still enjoy their favorite casino games by using the best offshore online casinos highlighted in this guide. Further, those wanting to wager on their top sports teams online can use the best offshore betting sites. Because these sites base themselves outside the U.S., federal and state gambling laws have no jurisdiction over them. As a result, these sites are essentially legal for use.
When will North Carolina Online Casinos be Legal?
Presently, North Carolina classifies online casino gambling as a Class II misdemeanor. As a result, there is currently no legislature in the pipeline to change this. Despite the introduction of SB688 to legalize online sports betting, this bill holds no place for online casinos. But gamers in the state hope that if the House passes this bill, it could pave the way for online casino gambling later down the road.
However, North Carolina permits Tribal land-based casinos that offer Class III gaming. So, let’s review a few:
Charlotte North Carolina Casinos
Although the Tar Heel State has three Tribal casinos that players can visit, they won’t find any in Charlotte. However, by looking closely at the North Carolina casinos maps, players will find that a 30-minute drive outside Charlotte to Kings Mountain will put them on the path to the Catawba Two Kings Casino. Although under construction, the casino offers a temporary site with several table games and slots. However, the finished casino will feature over 1000 slots and numerous table games.
Cherokee North Carolina Casinos
Those looking for North Carolina casinos open in Cherokee will find two gambling establishments to visit. Besides the centrally located Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, which offers over 100 table games and 3,500 slot machines, gamers can head to the newer Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel in Murphy.
Taxes Imposed on Online Casino Winnings in North Carolina
Although North Carolina prohibits online casino gambling, the state still imposes a 5.50% tax on land-based casino winnings. Additionally, the state withholds a 24% federal tax on earnings over a set limit as per IRS stipulations.
Payment Methods Accepted at North Carolina Casino Sites
While the best gambling casinos in North Carolina offer several features, one of the most prominent is the number of payment methods accepted. So, let’s review the most common options found at online North Carolina casinos:
Casinos Accepting Cryptocurrency
When depositing funds in an online casino account, players tend to use payment methods that offer greater security, like cryptocurrency. As a result, most North Carolina casinos accept several forms of crypto, including Ethereum, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and Ripple. So, for the best Ethereum casinos in North Carolina, visit MYB, BetOnline, or BetUS.
Casinos Accepting E-Wallet
In addition to cryptocurrencies, E-wallet payments also offer a level of fraud prevention. As a result, this payment method has gained popularity with casino-goers. So, it makes sense that more online casinos now accept various E-wallet providers like Pay-Pal, EcoPayz, Neteller, Skrill, and PayForIt.
When looking for the best PayPal casinos in North Carolina, try Bovada, Ignition, or Wild Casino. Similarly, BetOnline takes eCheck and Neteller payments.
Casinos Taking Traditional Payment Methods
Although most players use E-wallets or crypto, some still prefer using more traditional payment options like credit cards, debit cards, cashier’s checks, or bank wire transfers. As a result, many online North Carolina casinos accept these formats. So, for the best casinos that accept Visa or MasterCard, visit the sites on our list of casinos in North Carolina. But, if you want to pay using a bank wire transfer, BigSpin and Ignition are the sites to see.
Bonuses Offered at North Carolina Online Casinos
Because there are so many online casinos in North Carolina, these sites compete to gain new players by offering exciting promos. So, let’s review some of the best casino bonuses available:
Matched Deposits
While there are several promos offered, the Matched Deposit is the most common. In this case, the casino rewards players for funding their accounts by matching their deposits up to a specific amount. For example, a casino offering a 100% matched deposit up to $2,000 will give a player depositing $1,500 an additional $1,500 to spend.
Free Spins
Another typical promo for North Carolina casinos with a large selection of slots is Free Spins. In this case, the casino gives the player a set number of chances to spin the reels for free. Further, the casino allows the player to keep any winnings earned from the free spins.
No Deposit Bonuses
Although the Matched Deposit requires players to make a deposit, the No Deposit Bonus rewards them for merely signing up. In this case, the casino gives the player credits to explore the site risk-free. However, the player often deposits funds to continue playing once the credit runs out, securing a new player for the site.
Popular Games to Enjoy at North Carolina Online Casinos
While online casinos offer several promos to encourage players to sign up, their games keep players coming back. So, let’s look at the most popular casino games:
North Carolina Casino Sites Offering Slots
Without a doubt, slots are one of the most popular online casino games. Because they don’t have a host of rules and offer instant rewards, players find them fun and exciting. As a result, many online casinos ensure they offer a large selection of slots. For instance, one of the best high limit slots sites, Slots.lv provides 193 slots, including several jackpot slots that often top $1 million. Additionally, players can visit sites like Wild Casino to participate in slots tournaments or visit Cafe Casino to check out the site’s progressive slots offering.
North Carolina Casino Sites Offering Table Games
In addition to slots, many online casinos offer typical table games, including Sic Bo, Pai Gow, Craps, Baccarat, Caribbean Stud, Big Six Wheel, Roulette, Poker, Video Poker, Blackjack, and Keno.
Because these games come with a set of rules, they test a player’s skills and luck, making them all the more exciting.
So, for the best online Roulette casinos, try Ignition, Bovada, or Wild Casino.
Live Casinos in North Carolina
Another casino game gaining popularity is a spin on traditional table games called live dealer games. However, this particular game allows the site to provide a player with an authentic casino experience. In this case, the casino live-streams table games as they play out in real-time. Further, players watching can participate by communicating with the croupier over live chat.
So, for the best live casinos, visit Ignition, Bovada, or Wild Casino.
North Carolina Online Casinos Vs. Online Casinos in the Neighboring States
Presently, North Carolina prohibits online sports betting and online casino gaming. So, to play or wager a bet, NC gamers will need to use alternative measures. For instance, a trip across borders to neighboring states to try out their gambling sites is always a great option.
So, why not test out Tennessee’s best online casinos or try out the top casinos in Virginia? Similarly, Georgia’s best sports betting sites offer an ideal way to bet on your favorite sports teams.
Land-Based North Carolina Casinos
Presently, there are only three North Carolina casinos. Further, the state only permits the establishment of Tribal land-based gambling establishments. As a result, these three casinos are all Indian casinos located on Tribal land. However, these Tribes hold Class III gaming compacts with the state, which allows them to offer a selection of Vegas-style casino games, including slots and table games. So, let’s look below for a list of the North Carolina casinos:
| Casino | Address | Opening Hours |
| Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel | 777 Casino Parkway, Murphy | 6am – 9pm |
| Catawba Two Kings Casino | 538 Kings Mountain Blvd. Kings Mountain | 24/7 |
| Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort | 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee | 24/7 |
Best Online Casino in North Carolina
Although North Carolina has legislation in the pipeline to legalize online sports betting, online casino gambling remains illegal in the state.
However, that does not mean residents are out of options. Instead, NC players can use the best casinos in North Carolina, like Ignition, to play their favorite casino games. So, don’t waste another minute. Instead, sign up with Ignition and boost your bankroll with a generous bonus.
