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Best Online Gambling Sites in North Carolina
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While North Carolina online casinos are not yet legit, residents can freely join sweepstakes and social platforms, as well as participate in bingo, lotteries, and sports betting. Our team has analyzed the local gambling scene and is ready to provide you with up-to-date information. In the paragraphs below, you will find out about the North Carolina laws, legal types of gambling, the best sweepstakes casinos, bonuses, game categories, and more.
Top-Rated Online Casinos in North Carolina
North Carolina, United States
- 1Best Games ChoiceBonus120,000 Gold Coins + 10 Swepstakes Coins
- Payout speed:1-5 days
- Number of games:2000+
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - 2Highly RecommendedBonus650,000 GC + 1,000 FC
- Payout speed:2-5 days
- Number of games:1500+
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - 3Top BonusesBonus170,000 Gold Coins + 7 free Sweeps Coins
- Payout speed:1-5 days
- Number of games:1500+
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - 4Highly RecommendedBonus1.75 million WOW Coins + 35 FREE Sweepstake Coins
- Number of games:1200+
- Min. deposit:$9.99
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+
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- Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+
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- Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+
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- 8Bonus1,2 Million Coins + 6000 SC for $24.99
- Payout speed:2-3 days
- Min. deposit:$4.99
- Number of games:1000+
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - 9Bonus1,2 Million Coins + 6000 SC for $24.99
- Number of games:1000+
- Payout speed:2-3 days
- Min. deposit:$1.99
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+ - 10Bonus25 Free Stake Cash + 250,000 Gold Coins250,000 Gold Coins
- Payout speed:up to 72h
- Number of games:1500+
Payment methodsTerms and conditions apply, 21+
Is Online Gambling Legal in North Carolina?
Just like in any other US state, gambling legislation in North Carolina remains rather tricky. Locals can freely buy lottery tickets online and offline, and play at one of the land-based casinos, operating under tribal compacts. Local authorities also permit online sports betting and horse racing following Roy Cooper’s signing of House Bill 347.
At the same time, North Carolina online gambling remains prohibited, and locals can’t play at real-money casinos or poker websites. Yet sweepstakes and social casinos remain a great alternative, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games and participate in prize draws without violating the law.
| Gambling Type | Legal | Minimum age | Who regulates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online casinos | No | - | - |
| Social casinos | Yes | 21+ | No formal regulator |
| Sweepstakes casinos | Yes | 21+ | No formal regulator |
| Bingo | Yes | 18+ | ALE |
| Lottery | Yes | 18+ | NCSLC |
| Online poker | No | - | - |
| Sports betting | Yes | 21+ | NCSLC |
| Fantasy sports | Yes | 21+ | No formal regulator |
The Best North Carolina Sweepstakes Casinos
While NC online casinos remain illegal, players can try sweepstakes casinos, which offer real money prizes. We have carefully tested the market and hand-picked the top sweepstakes casinos in North Carolina worth trying.
Zula Casino: Best for Bonuses
When searching for the best online casino North Carolina players often stumble upon Zula Casino. Founded in 2023, it is known for a generous welcome package, free Daily Login coins, and a refer-a-friend bonus. There’s also a first purchase bonus for $2.99. Zula Casino has an active social media presence with hundreds of thousands of subscribers on Facebook and Instagram.
Pros
- A generous welcome package for initial registration, phone verification, email and SMS consent, daily login, and Facebook/Google sign up
- 1,700+ games from over 40 providers, including Booming Gaming, 3 Oaks, and Kalamba
- Native iOS and Android apps
Cons
- Doesn’t have community chat rooms
Stake.us: Best for Slots
This NC casino offers new players a package of Sweeps and Gold coins upon registration and a 4-level VIP program with benefits such as weekly boosts, level-up rewards, and dedicated VIP hosts. Here you can play casino games from Evolution, No Limit City, Madlab, Hacksaw, Booming Games, and other renowned developers. We especially recommend trying Plinko, Keno, Limbo, Crash, and Mines. Stakes also partners with Drake, Davis Cup, Everton, and other popular teams, which guarantees lots of giveaways and unique events.
Pros
- Lots of regular promotions: 500,000 All In or Fold Jackpot, Double Trouble, 1M Bad Beat Jackpot, Slot Battle, Challenges, and more
- Over 2,200 slots
- Accepts cryptocurrencies
Cons
- x3 playthrough on Sweeps Coins
Chanced: Best for Fast Withdrawals
At Chanced sweepstakes casino North Carolina bettors can play slots, video poker games, and other engaging titles from the leading software providers. The welcome bonus consists of Gold and Sweeps coins without a deposit, followed by three purchase packages. Chanced also boasts a loyalty scheme with a dedicated manager, tailored rewards, and exclusive bonuses. It accepts Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, and Apple Pay, has fast prize redemption, and numerous responsible gambling measures. For example, session reminders, daily limits, self-exclusion, and account closure.
Pros
- Over 1,000 games, including Snoop Dog Dollars, Double Rainbow, Crazy Time, The Great Pigsby, VIP Baccarat, and Royal Riches Roulette
- You can sign up with Google, Facebook, Twitch, or Apple
- Great platform navigation, both on desktop and mobile
Cons
- Limited information before signing up
Crown Coins: Best for Daily Rewards
Crown Coins is a fresh and modern online casino in North Carolina, where you can play both for free and for your own money. Released in 2023 by Sunflower Limited, it gives away a decent share of coins upon registration. Loyal players can benefit from the Crown VIP Club with a premium store, daily bonuses, birthday gifts, monthly promos, and more. There’s also a Daily Login bonus for those who can’t go a day without Crown Coins.
Pros
- A generous referral program
- Native iOS app
- A direct phone number (+1 201 535 4587)
Cons
- A small lobby compared to other brands on the list
RealPrize: Best for Safe Gambling
This North Carolina casino online site has many virtues. It suits both new and existing players thanks to a decent welcome bonus, a multi-tiered loyalty program, and Gold Coin bundles ranging from $3 to $105. You can also subscribe to their pages on X, Instagram, or Facebook to participate in social media giveaways. RealPrize Casino hosts over 700 casino style games, including Panda Fortune, Sugar Rush 1,000, Llama, Joker’s Jewels, and Diamond Bounty 7 from NetEnt, Red Tiger, Relax, and other providers.
Pros
- A big New Register Bonus
- Supports Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, eCheck, and Bank Transfer
- 1-2 day redemption speed
Cons
- Most payment methods have a $100 minimum withdrawal limit
How to start online gambling in North Carolina?
Registering at North Carolina online casinos is relatively straightforward, regardless of whether you choose Zula Casino, Stake, Crown Coins, or another provider from our list. Here’s what you should do to enjoy casino gambling:
Create an account by providing the requested details. Most casinos have one-tap registration via Facebook or Google. You may still go the traditional way and insert all the details manually.
Verify the account if necessary. Some platforms will send a verification link by email, while others may send a unique code via text message. This stage is compulsory to complete the KYC procedure.
Confirm that you’re of legal age and accept the T&Cs. We recommend reading all terms and policies carefully to ensure a smooth, unimpeded gambling experience.
That’s all! Once the account is created, you can claim the welcome package and start exploring the lobby. Don’t forget to subscribe to social media pages and the newsletter to get the most rewarding deals and be aware of the latest releases.
What Bonuses Can You Get at North Carolina Casino Sites?
When playing at top sweepstakes casinos North Carolina players have access to a variety of promotions, from welcome bonuses to loyalty points. In the following paragraphs, we want to tell you about the most popular and rewarding bonuses to keep an eye on.
The first bonus to claim at NC online casinos is a welcome package. As a rule, it comes as a combination of Gold and Sweeps Coins, which are credited automatically when you open an account. At most sweepstakes casinos, new players can get 100,000 GC and 10 SC or more without making any deposits.
If you want to get more coins and play your favorite North Carolina online slots and table games with maximum benefits, there is a First Purchase bonus that adds a certain amount of coins to the balance. For instance, 250,000 GC and 10 SC for $2.99 at Zula Casino.
Another North Carolina online casino bonus that we like is the one that doesn’t require any money. Sweepstakes casinos often offer no deposit bonuses via social media and newsletters to keep players engaged. Their main differences from welcome bonuses are a smaller size and availability to regular players. No deposit bonuses often come with promo codes to activate the offer.
North Carolina online casino sites also encourage player loyalty by offering rewards for regular login. All that is needed is to access the platform every day and receive a certain amount of free coins or loyalty points. Logging in daily without breaks typically gives you higher rewards.
Games to Play at Recommended Online Casinos
The variety of NC sweepstakes games online is truly impressive, with something for everyone, whether you prefer fast and simple games or strategic, skill-based titles. Below, we have described the most common game categories at North Carolina casinos.
- Slot GamesAt sweepstakes casinos from our list, North Carolinians have access to hundreds or even thousands of online slots that vary in themes, features, bonus bets, and winning combinations. There are also progressive jackpot slots, where the prize pool is constantly growing and can reach millions of dollars. Slot games are perfect for beginners and those who prefer fast-paced games that don’t require strategic thinking.
- BlackjackAnother game that locals love as much as North Carolina slots is blackjack. In this card game, your goal is to bypass the dealer in getting closer to 21 without going over. Popular variations include American Blackjack, Spanish 21, and Grand Bonus Blackjack. This game has a longer learning curve but a lower house edge than slots. We recommend getting familiar with basic blackjack strategies to maximize your chances of winning.
- RouletteFans of virtual table games should also try roulette, known for a spinning ball and a numbered wheel. Unlike blackjack, it is a game of chance, and players bet on single numbers, odd/even, colors, and other combinations. At North Carolina online casinos, you can find lots of variations, including American, Stake, and Immersive Roulette.
- Video PokerIf you like playing games with unusual features, consider video poker, a hybrid of slots and poker. Here, Old North State gamblers play against a machine, not other people. Video poker is faster than the traditional game because the dealing and payouts are automatic. Our team especially likes Jacks or Better and Joker Poker, which have bright designs and simple navigation.
- Live Dealer GamesWhen joining online gambling sites North Carolina players have a unique opportunity to enjoy full immersion into the process without leaving their homes. By accessing the live category, they can play blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and table poker games, hosted by professional dealers, not computers. These games are streamed from actual studios, so players don’t have to go to Harrah’s Cherokee or Catawba Two Kings casinos.
What Payment Methods are Available to North Carolinians?
When choosing the best sweepstakes casinos North Carolina players have access not only to rewarding bonuses and diverse games, but to secure payment methods as well. After thorough testing and review, we have identified the three most popular and reliable categories: credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.
- Credit/Debit Cards. Most players from North Carolina remain loyal to Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX. These bank cards are widely accepted at social online casinos like Chanced, have chargebacks, and don’t involve middlemen. Card statements also provide a transaction history, useful for budget management and tax reporting.
- Digital Wallets. At an online casino NC bettors often choose e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. They act as intermediaries between a bank and a gambling site, offering a better user experience and enhanced data protection. Digital wallets often come with convenient apps and lower or absent transaction fees, so you don’t have to overpay.
- Cryptocurrencies. USDT, BTC, ETH, and other crypto coins are already widely accepted at sweepstakes casinos like Stake.us. They have several significant advantages over fiat payment methods: complete anonymity, decentralization, and top-notch data protection. Yet prices remain highly volatile, and your bankroll’s value may change rapidly.
If you prefer gambling on the go, we recommend choosing mobile-first payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or PayPal. They offer convenient apps that enable instant, encrypted deposits anytime, anywhere.
Veronica Foster, Casino Analyst
Are Online casinos legal in North Carolina?
At the moment, real money online casinos and offshore casinos are prohibited in the Old North State. However, North Carolinians can play at sweepstakes and social casino sites for free with an opportunity to redeem Sweeps Coins for cash or real-value prizes.
North Carolina Gambling Laws
In North Carolina, gambling is partially legal. Since the passage of House Bill 347 in June 2023, locals can freely enjoy lottery, bingo, horse racing, and sports betting. They can also visit one of the three commercial casinos operated by the Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission and the Catawba Indian Nation. At the same time, real‑money websites remain prohibited, while sweepstakes and social casinos offer an alternative.
Compared to other states, North Carolina online gambling laws offer a moderate range of options. In Iowa, for example, land-based casinos and sportsbooks are widespread, providing residents with many choices, while in South Carolina, only the state lottery and limited charitable gambling are permitted.
While the number of sweepstakes casinos in North Carolina is growing, some players may seek new experiences. That is when bingo, lottery, horse racing, and sports betting step in. They are completely legit and unlock the doors to a fun and engaging pastime.
In June 2023, North Carolina legalized virtual sports betting, allowing locals to join online sportsbooks and place bets on their favorite teams and events. Although not all popular sportsbooks are available in North Carolina, there are still several legal online sports betting platforms to choose from. For example, Bet365, ESPN Bet, and DraftKings.
In addition to sports betting online, the new Bill also legalized horse betting in the state. Players can bet on races on a racetrack or off-track betting site. They can only do so at an approved ADW site, where players must fund their account ahead of time before placing a pari-mutuel bet.
North Carolina is one of few states that allow players to gamble online on a lottery website. Players can buy lottery tickets online or at retail locations, and enjoy games similar to slots like Shamrock Winnings and The Lamp.
Gambling winning taxes in North Carolina
Under the state law, all gambling winnings, including lotteries and sports betting, are considered income. There’s a flat income tax of 4.75%, meaning that the percentage remains the same regardless of how much you win: $100 or $1,000. Gambling losses can’t be deducted from the taxable income, even if you’ve lost more than you’ve won within a year.
When will online gambling be legal in North Carolina?
In June 2023, Roy Cooper signed House Bill 347, authorizing sports wagering, and in March 2024, online and mobile sports betting was officially launched. As of 2025, no new laws have been passed to legalize online casinos, and proposals to expand gambling activities remain opposed. Residents who want to play slots, table games, or poker find solace in sweepstakes and social casinos. These websites offer a free, no-risk way to enjoy casino games and bonuses.
Land-based Casinos in North Carolina
While online gambling is gaining momentum, many North Carolinians still head to brick-and-mortar casinos to experience physical immersion, socialization, and a comprehensive outing with dining and relaxation. Here are three land-based casinos in the state we recommend considering.
Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
777 Casino Dr, Cherokee, NC 28719Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a top-rated casino located in Cherokee. Here, visitors can enjoy an immersive gambling experience with over 3,000 slots, 160 table games, and a dedicated poker room featuring regular tournaments, including the World Series of Poker circuit. The hotel features 1,800 rooms and numerous dining options across several towers. There’s also a big event center with regular concerts and shows, and direct access to mountains and a national park.
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel
777 Casino Parkway Murphy, NC 28906Located in Murphy, this tribal casino-hotel opened its doors in 2015 and recently underwent a complete renovation and expansion. It boasts over 1,000 video slots and electronic table games, as well as blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat tables. There’s also a dedicated poker room, sportsbook, and a hotel with around 300 rooms. To relax and entertain, visitors can head to one of the dining options, a bowling alley, or an arcade room.
Two Kings Casino
538 Kings Mountain Blvd, Kings Mountain, NC 28086North Carolina players should also keep an eye on the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort, which is currently under construction in Kings Mountain. Developers say it will become one of the state’s largest and most impressive tribal casinos, offering about 4,300 slot machines, 100 live-dealer table games, 11 restaurants, 11 bars, and a 24-story hotel, all within a planned 2-million-square-foot complex. But even now, while the work is in progress, players can enjoy hundreds of slot machines in an authentic gambling atmosphere.
Responsible Gambling
When joining sweepstakes or online social casinos, North Carolinians should always play responsibly. Harmful habits and gambling addiction, which result in compulsive behaviors, may develop insensibly. That is why every reputable online casino offers responsible gambling measures to help you keep this pastime harmless and fun. The most common and effective tools include deposit and session limits, reality checks, cooling-off periods, and self-exclusion.
You can read about them on international platforms such as Gamblers Anonymous, Gambling Therapy, and GamCare, or reach out to a local authority. For example, the North Carolina Council on Problem Gambling and the North Carolina Division of Mental Health.
Conclusion
In North Carolina, residents can freely bet on sports, participate in bingo and lotteries, and play at one of the three land-based casinos. They can also enjoy bonuses and games at sweepstakes and social casinos, like Zula, Stake, and Crown Coins, which our team has tested and reviewed in the sections above.
If you’re looking for details on casino games, bonuses, payment methods, or gambling laws in other states, explore the other Lucky Gambler articles, which offer precise and regularly updated information.
States with legal online gambling
FAQ
Is online gambling legal in North Carolina?
At the moment, North Carolina gambling online for real money is prohibited, but you can enjoy the same games and bonuses at sweepstakes casinos like Chanced, Stake, or Zula.
Where to find the best online casinos in North Carolina?
At Lucky Gambler, you can find the best North Carolina casinos, bonuses, and games. Our platform is the only gambling-related source you need for making an informed decision.
What is the legal gambling age in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, you must be 21 years old to gamble in retail casinos, and only 18 years old to play the state lottery.
Who regulates gambling in North Carolina?
The North Carolina State Lottery Commission now oversees online sports and horse betting in addition to the state lottery. The state’s Department of Public Safety and tribes also regulate NC casinos.
Are online casinos legal in North Carolina?
No, there are currently no legal NC online casinos. If you really want to have fun and play, online casinos worth exploring include social and sweepstakes casinos.
Can I win real money at online casinos in North Carolina?
No, you cannot bet or win with real money casino games online. This means you can’t wager money from a credit card, cash, or wager anything of value to win online. However, you can still have a chance to win prizes with social casinos. These are the best online casinos that allow you to legally play for free and gather coins, which you can use to enter contests for prizes.
Are online gambling North Carolina winnings taxable?
Yes, North Carolina players must pay a flat rate of 4.75% on winnings. You must also pay a federal income tax. It’s best to keep track of your losses so you can offset your tax liability.
When will online casinos be legal in North Carolina?
As for when online casinos launch in the state, that answer remains up in the air. While online sports betting and horse betting are now legal, laws for online casinos still haven’t budged, and might not do so for quite some time. While you wait, consider signing up for social casino or social poker sites to have fun for free!
I’m a seasoned gambler with a decade of experience in games like blackjack and roulette, and a particular fondness for slot machines. Now, as a writer for iGaming IQ Inc and Lucky Gambler, I use my expertise to educate others on smart, responsible betting, winning strategies, and choosing the best online casinos.