If you're in Joplin, Missouri, and itching for some casino action, you're in luck. While Missouri itself has riverboat casinos, the closest options are just a short drive away in neighboring Oklahoma. Whether you're after slots, table games, or a full resort experience, there are solid choices within an hour's drive. Let's break down your best bets for a casino visit from Joplin.
Downstream Casino Resort: Your Go-To Spot
Located in Quapaw, Oklahoma, Downstream Casino Resort is the closest casino to Joplin—about a 15-minute drive west on I-44. It's a full-scale resort owned by the Quapaw Nation, offering more than just gambling. You'll find over 1,300 slot machines, from classic reels to the latest video slots, plus around 30 table games including blackjack, roulette, and craps. They also have a poker room with daily tournaments. For amenities, there's a hotel, multiple restaurants, and a pool. The legal gambling age here is 21, and they accept cash, with ATMs and cage services available; for hotel stays, you can use Visa or Mastercard.
Gaming Floor Details at Downstream
Downstream's gaming floor is spread across 80,000 square feet. Slot denominations range from a penny to $100, with popular titles like Buffalo Gold and Lightning Link. Table minimums typically start at $10 for blackjack and roulette. If you're new, sign up for their players club—it offers perks like cashback and free play, though no traditional deposit bonus like online casinos.
Other Casinos Within a Short Drive
If you're willing to drive a bit farther, you've got options. Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma, is about 40 minutes from Joplin, with 800+ slots and table games. Then there's the 7 Clans Paradise Casino in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, roughly an hour away, featuring slots and bingo. For a bigger trip, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is around 3.5 hours south, but it's a massive facility with over 2,300 slots. Most of these are tribal casinos, so they operate under Oklahoma gaming compacts.
What to Know Before You Go
Oklahoma casinos don't serve alcohol on the gaming floor, but you can get drinks in designated areas. Smoking is allowed in most casinos, so if that's a concern, check for non-smoking sections. Also, while Missouri has lottery and riverboat casinos, the closest Missouri casino to Joplin is the River City Casino in St. Louis, which is over 4 hours away—so Oklahoma is your practical choice.
Online Gambling for Joplin Residents
Missouri hasn't legalized real-money online casinos yet, so you can't play at sites like BetMGM Casino or DraftKings Casino from Joplin. However, you can access sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino or LuckyLand Slots, which use virtual currencies and are legal nationwide. These offer slots and table games without direct deposits; you buy gold coins for fun or sweepstakes entries for cash prizes. For sports betting, Missouri is also pending, but nearby states like Kansas have retail sportsbooks.
Maximizing Your Casino Trip
Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. Downstream often has mid-week promotions like double points on slots. Bring cash for gambling, as credit cards can't be used for chips, but ATMs are on-site. For dining, reservations at upscale restaurants like the Ruthie's Steak & Seafood are recommended. If you're driving, note that parking is free at all these casinos.
FAQ
What's the closest casino to Joplin, Missouri?
Downstream Casino Resort in Quapaw, Oklahoma, is the closest, just 15 minutes west via I-44. It's a full resort with slots, table games, and a hotel.
Can I play online casino games for real money in Joplin?
No, real-money online casinos aren't legal in Missouri yet. But you can play at sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino, which offer cash prizes through sweepstakes models.
What's the gambling age at Oklahoma casinos near Joplin?
You must be 21 or older to gamble at Oklahoma casinos like Downstream or Buffalo Run. For bingo only, it's 18, but casino gaming requires 21.
Do these casinos have hotels, and how do I pay?
Yes, Downstream Casino Resort has a hotel with rooms starting around $129 per night. They accept Visa, Mastercard, and cash for payments, but for gambling, use cash or ATM withdrawals.
Are there any player bonuses at physical casinos near Joplin?
Physical casinos offer players club rewards, not deposit bonuses like online ones. For example, Downstream's players club gives points for play that can be redeemed for food, cash, or free slot spins.