Online casinos have everything you could ask for: the thrill of high-stakes gaming, a wide range of games, and the convenience of playing from the comfort of your own home. The only problem? Casino gambling sites and apps are legal in less than 15% of all U.S. states today.
This unfortunate fact has left many casino lovers in California and beyond desperately looking for a way to get in on the action. Well, the search is finally over! California sweepstakes casinos are the answer to the problem faced by players all over the Golden State.
These innovative platforms provide a safe and legal way to experience the excitement of mobile casino gaming without the geographical limitations or financial risk associated with traditional online casinos.
Today, we’ll be your guide as we explore this brand-new arena for online gaming. We’ll explain how California sweepstakes casino sites and apps work, introduce you to the best options on the market today, and provide all the information you need to sign up and get started today.
Now, let’s dive right in!
List of California Sweepstakes Casinos That Pay Real Money
With the social and sweepstakes gaming industry surging in popularity over the last decade, hundreds (if not thousands) of platforms have launched and are competing for your attention.
To help you navigate through the seemingly infinite number of options and identify the best of the best, we’ve taken the time to compile a list of the top 10 sweepstakes casinos in California today.
These platforms all offer a wide range of games, bring the excitement and thrill of Las Vegas casino right to your fingertips, and give you a chance to win real cash prizes without spending a dime.
Just take a look below to find the top 10 best CA sweepstakes sites and apps on the market today, along with a brief overview of what they have to offer!
Top 10 Legal California Online Casinos for 2024
| Sweeps Casino🎰 | Welcome Bonus🎁 | Games Offered🎮 | App Ratings📱 |
| High 5 Casino | 250 Gold Coins, 5 Sweepstakes Coins, & 600 Diamonds | 1200+ Slots, Table Games, & Live Dealer Games | 4.6/5.0 (App Store) & 4.2/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| Stake.us | 250k Gold Coins & $25 Stake Cash | 750+ Slots, Table Games, Stake Originals, & Live Dealer Games | N/A |
| WOW Vegas | 8,500 WOW Coins & 4.5 Sweepstakes Coins | 800+ Slots & Jackpot Games | N/A |
| Pulsz Casino | 5,000 Gold Coins & 2 Sweepstakes Coins | 700+ Slots, Table Games, & Video Poker | 4.4/5.0 (App Store) & 4.2/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| McLuck | 2.5 Sweepstakes Coins & 7,500 Gold Coins | 700+ Slots, Jackpot Games, & Live Dealer | 4.3/5.0 (App Store) & 4.0/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| Pulsz Bingo | 5,000 Gold Coins & 2 Sweepstakes Coins | 200+ Slots, Table Games, Scratch Cards, & Bingo | 4.6/5.0 (App Store) & 4.3/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| Fortune Coins | 360,000 Gold Coins and 1,000 Fortune Coins | 200+ Slots, Table Games, & Specialty Games | N/A |
| My Jackpot | 150,000 Gold Coins & 1 Joker Card | 200+ Slots & Jackpot Games | 4.8/5.0 (App Store) & 4.3/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| Chumba | 2 Million Gold Coins & 2 Sweepstakes Coins | 150+ Slots, Table Games, Video Poker, & Bingo | 3.0/5.0 (App Store) & 4.2/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
| LuckyLand Slots | 8,177 Gold Coins & 10.3 Sweeps Coins | 100+ Slots, Table Games, & Specialty Games | 2.9/5.0 (Google Play Store) |
Comparing the Best CA Sweepstakes Casino Sites
Are you having trouble deciding which of these social casinos is the best fit for you? Don’t worry, we’re here to help!
Allow us to provide some additional information about each of the top California sweepstakes casinos and help you figure out which option is the best match for your gaming preferences and unique style of play:
Stake.us California
- States Available: 43 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, KY, MI, NV, NY, VT, & WA)
- Pros: Immersive Live Dealer Games, Weekly Rakeback
- Cons: Must Use Crypto for Deposits & Withdrawals
Have you heard of Stake.com, the world’s largest cryptocurrency casino and online sports betting site? Well, Stake.us is its free-to-play U.S. version.
It offers all the same games as Stake Casino (slots, table games, and even live dealer options) and gives players a chance to win Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies without risking a cent.
One thing most players enjoy about Stake.us California is its over two dozen Stake Original games, which include titles that are exclusive to the Stake brand and available nowhere else.
Plinko, Crash, HiLo, and Dice are just a few examples of the specialty games you’ll be able to play when you sign up at “America’s Social Casino.”
It’s also worth mentioning that Stake.us offers weekly rakeback to all existing players, meaning you’ll receive a bonus each week based on the total amount of virtual currency (Gold Coins and Stake Cash) that you’ve put into play.
And the best part? Rakeback is just one of the many bonuses and promotions available to everyday players on the site.
WOW Vegas California
- 🌎States Available: 46 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, MI, NV, & WA)
- ✅Pros: Great Selection of Vegas-Style Slots, Frequent Prize Drops
- ❌Cons: No Mobile App
Next up is WOW Vegas, an up-and-coming sweepstakes casino that brings the excitement and thrill of Sin City (i.e., the Entertainment Capital of the World) right to the comfort of your home.
While you won’t find any table games or live dealer games at WOW Vegas California, you will find over 800 Vegas-style slots with high-quality graphics and exciting bonus features (bonus rounds, free spins, wilds, scatter symbols, etc.) that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
However, what sets WOW Vegas apart is its commitment to player rewards. In addition to the thrill of the games themselves, the casino offers weekly prize drops and giveaways.
These promotions not only spice up the gaming experience but also give players the chance to score free coins and other valuable rewards.
The regular infusion of bonus opportunities adds extra value to your time spent at WOW Vegas, keeping the excitement alive and encouraging players to come back for more.
High 5 Casino California
- 🌎States Available: 46 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, MI, NV, & WA)
- ✅Pros: Top-Tier Mobile App for iPhone & Android, H5C Boosts for Extra Value
- ❌Cons: Limited Banking Options
High 5 Casino is another fantastic online sweepstakes casino. Owned and operated by High 5 Games, one of the world’s largest independent casino game providers, High 5 Casino delivers an unparalleled gaming experience.
Players will get to choose between 1,200+ slot games, casino classics like blackjack and roulette, and even live dealer options that make you feel like you’re at a real brick-and-mortar casino.
Another great feature of High 5 Casino California is their inclusion of H5C Boosts, which add an extra layer of excitement to your gameplay and can be used to multiply your winnings, unlock special bonus features, and earn other incredible advantages that give you a competitive edge.
High 5 also boasts one of the best mobile apps in the sweepstakes casino space, and they provide a generous welcome offer to make sure all new players get off to a great start on the platform.
McLuck California
- 🌎States Available: 43 of 50 U.S. States (all but AL, GA, ID, KY, MI, MT, NV, & WA)
- ✅Pros: Impressive Library of Slots & Progressive Jackpot Games, Above-Average Customer Service
- ❌Cons: Payouts Could Be A Bit Faster
Next, McLuck Casino is a U.S. sweepstakes gaming app that deserves your full consideration.
With over 700 slots from Pragmatic Play, 3 Oaks, Playson, NetEnt, Relax Gaming, and several other leading providers, players are guaranteed to have access to all of the iGaming industry’s hottest new titles almost as soon as they hit the market.
You’ll also get to enjoy immersive live dealer games, and you are likely to find that McLuck is one of the best in the business when it comes to its pooled progressive jackpot system and excellent customer service.
The casino’s pooled progressive jackpot system adds an extra layer of excitement, offering players the chance to compete for massive, linked jackpots that grow with every spin.
Moreover, McLuck Casino’s commitment to excellent customer service ensures that players have a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience, with a dedicated support team available 24/7 to answer questions and provide assistance.
Chumba Casino California
- 🌎States Available: 46 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, MI, MT, & WA)
- ✅Pros: User-Friendly Mobile App, Plenty of Progressive Jackpot Games
- ❌Cons: Limited Selection of Table Games
If you’re familiar with sweepstakes casinos, then Chumba is probably one of the first names that pops into your head.
With the backing of Virtual Gaming Worlds (a respected and trusted name in the social gaming industry) and over half a decade of experience, Chumba Casino California stands out as a reliable and entertaining platform that deserves your full consideration.
Players will enjoy over 150 online slots and a handful of table games, video poker options, and Slingo games to keep the gaming experience diverse and engaging. New titles are also added periodically, making sure you never run out of fresh and exciting options to explore.
A user-friendly mobile app for both iOS and Android devices, a generous welcome offer for all new players, and plenty of progressive jackpot games are just a few other reasons why you may want to give Chumba a try!
What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?
Sweepstakes casinos are free-to-play platforms that let you enjoy popular casino games (slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, and more) without risking any of your hard-earned money.
Instead of real money, sweepstakes casinos operate using virtual currency (e.g., Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins), which can be earned for free through sign-up bonuses and other special promotions or purchased directly on the casino’s website or mobile app.
Although sweepstakes casinos don’t offer any actual gambling opportunities, meaning you can’t wager real funds on online casino games, they do give players a chance to win real cash prizes and other incredible rewards through sweepstakes-style contests and promotions.
This innovative sweepstakes model allows sweepstakes casinos to operate in nearly all U.S. states, including California and many others that have strict regulations on traditional online gambling.
Since sweepstakes casinos do not involve actual wagers or real money gambling, they fall under different legal classifications, making them accessible to a much broader audience.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Available in Nearly All States | ❌Limited Banking Options |
| ✅No Purchase Required | ❌Below-Average Customer Support |
| ✅Chance To Win Cash Prizes | ❌No Licensing Requirement |
| ✅Tons of Different Games | ❌Limited Oversight |
| ✅Chats & Other Social Features | ❌Not Real Gambling |
| ✅Daily Login Rewards & Other Bonuses | ❌Lower Potential Winnings |
Sweepstakes Casinos vs Social Casinos
The terms “Social Casino” and “Sweepstakes Casino” are often used interchangeably. And, for the most part, that’s okay. However, there are a few important differences that you should be familiar with.
First, not all California social casinos offer real cash prizes; some are intended to be played for entertainment purposes only.
For example, Hard Rock Social Casino and BetRivers.net are best classified as “Social Casinos” rather than “Sweepstakes Casinos” because they do not operate using a sweepstakes model and virtual winnings cannot be redeemed for any real-world rewards.
Meanwhile, Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Golden Hearts Games give players a chance to win real cash prizes, digital gift cards, and other tangible rewards through sweepstakes-style promotions.
As a result, they better fit the true definition of the term “Sweepstakes Casino.”
In addition, compared to sweepstakes casinos, social casinos will typically focus more on the social aspect of the gaming experience by incorporating features like chat rooms, player profiles, and interactive challenges to enhance the communal atmosphere.
Sweepstakes Casinos vs Online Casinos
It’s also important to understand the distinction between sweepstakes casinos and real-money online casinos.
Real-money online casinos are traditional gambling sites and apps; they give players an opportunity to wager and win money directly while playing slots, table games, and other casino-style games.
As it currently stands, online casino gambling has only been legalized in seven U.S. states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.
Sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, operate under a different legal framework and are designed to offer a unique gaming experience within the confines of sweepstakes laws in California and many other states.
Unlike traditional online casinos, sweepstakes casinos use a dual-currency model where players can purchase virtual currency (Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins), and these can be used to participate in casino games.
The sweepstakes model relies on the premise that players are purchasing virtual currency for entertainment purposes, with the chance to win prizes being secondary to the gaming experience.
Bonuses & Promotions at California Sweepstakes Casinos
One of the best things about California sweepstakes casinos is the way they treat their players. Free Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins seem to always be up for grabs through various bonuses and promotions.
One opportunity that is especially appealing and offered by just about every sweepstakes casino is the no-deposit bonus.
These free-play offers allow all new users to dive right into the action without ever opening up their wallets, giving you risk-free access to all your favorite games and a legitimate chance at walking away with some extra money in your pocket.
Claiming Free Sweeps Coins
In addition to the no-deposit bonuses offered by social casinos to first-time users in California, there are many other ways to earn free Sweeps Cash, free Sweeps Coins, or whatever the platform calls their redeemable sweepstakes currency. This includes…
- Daily Login Rewards: Sweepstakes casinos often provide daily login rewards as a way to keep players engaged. By simply logging into the platform each day, players can earn free Sweepstakes Coins, offering a consistent and effortless way to add to your bankroll.
- Referral Bonuses: Players can boost their sweepstakes currency by referring friends to the casino. Referral bonuses not only reward the existing player but also provide the newly referred player with free Sweeps Cash or Sweeps Coins, creating a win-win scenario that encourages community growth and engagement.
- Social Media Contests & Giveaways: Many CA sweepstakes sites and apps leverage their social media presence to run contests and giveaways. Participating in these events, which may involve tasks like sharing posts or answering questions, can earn players additional Sweepstakes Coins, fostering a sense of community and excitement beyond the gaming platform.
- VIP Benefits & Player Rewards: Engaging in a sweepstakes casino’s VIP or loyalty program can unlock exclusive benefits, including bonus Sweeps Cash or Sweeps Coins. As players progress through different VIP tiers or accumulate loyalty points, they gain access to personalized promotions and increased opportunities to earn redeemable sweepstakes currency.
- Alternative Sweepstakes Entries: Lastly, many California social casinos offer an “Alternative Method of Entry,” which typically involves players sending in a hand-written request via mail and free coins being awarded once the request has been received and processed.
How To Sign Up Online With CA Sweepstakes Casinos
Time needed: 5 minutes.
Are you ready to sign up with a California sweepstakes casino and start playing all your favorite games for a chance to win big? Just follow the steps provided below!
- Choose Your Sweepstakes Casino
Begin by selecting a sweepstakes casino that aligns with your preferences and is legal in the Golden State. Consider factors such as available games, reputation, and bonus offerings. Once you’ve made your choice, head over to the casino’s website or download their mobile app (if applicable).
- Register for an Account
Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button on the casino’s homepage. Fill out the registration form with accurate information, including your email address and a secure password. Some sites and apps will allow you to sign up using your existing Facebook, Google, or Apple accounts as well.
- Verify Your Information
After submitting the registration form, the sweepstakes casino may require you to verify your information. This typically involves clicking a verification link sent to your email. Completing this step ensures the accuracy of your account details and helps maintain a secure gaming environment.
- Claim Your Sign Up Bonus
Once you’ve finished signing up and verifying your account, you will automatically receive free Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins through your California casino’s no-deposit bonus. As the name implies, no initial deposit or payment of any kind is required.
- Start Playing Games
Now, you’re all set! Head to the game lobby, choose your preferred games from the options provided, and use your coins to start playing. Once you have collected enough Sweepstakes Coins, you can redeem them for cash, digital gift cards, and other real-world prizes. Have fun and good luck!
Best Casino Games To Play on California Sweepstakes Apps
Before we go any further, let’s take a quick look at some of the different categories you can expect to find in the game selection at the best CA sweepstakes casinos available today:
Slots
Among the most popular online sweepstakes casino games are slots. These games come in various themes and formats, offering players an engaging and visually appealing experience.
With diverse features such as free spins, bonus rounds, wilds, scatter symbols, and progressive jackpots, slots cater to a wide audience and provide an element of excitement that keeps California players coming back for more.
Table Games
Sweepstakes casinos also feature a variety of classic table games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat. These games provide a more strategic and skill-based gaming experience compared to slots.
With realistic graphics and user-friendly interfaces, players can enjoy the thrill of traditional casino table games from the comfort of their homes, making sweepstakes platforms an excellent choice for those who appreciate the classic casino atmosphere.
Live Dealer Casino Games
For an immersive and interactive gaming experience, sweepstakes casinos offer live dealer casino games. Players can enjoy real-time gameplay with professional dealers, creating a more authentic feel reminiscent of retail casinos.
Live dealer options commonly include variations of blackjack, roulette, and poker, enhancing the social aspect of online gaming and bridging the gap between virtual and land-based casino experiences.
Specialty Games: Bingo, Keno, Fish Games, & More
Lastly, California sweepstakes sites and apps diversify their gaming options with specialty games like bingo, keno, and fish games. These games provide a break from traditional casino offerings, appealing to a broader audience.
Bingo and keno enthusiasts can enjoy the simplicity and luck-based nature of these games, while fish games introduce an arcade-style element with skill-based challenges.
Overall, the variety of specialty games on sweepstakes platforms ensures that players have a well-rounded gaming experience with options beyond the typical casino fare.
How We Rate the Best CA Sweepstakes Casinos
We already provided our list of the top 10 best sweepstakes casinos in California, but how did we determine their rankings?
Our team’s thorough evaluation process takes into account several key factors to ensure that we deliver an accurate and comprehensive assessment of each sweepstakes casino. Here’s a breakdown of how we rate the best CA sweepstakes casinos:
Game Library
We carefully examine the variety and quality of games offered by each sweepstakes casino, ensuring a diverse selection of engaging slots and table games.
A rich gaming experience is crucial for satisfying players and plays a significant role in determining a casino’s overall ranking.
Mobile App & User Experience
It is also important to consider the user-friendliness and responsiveness of the casino’s website or app, making certain that California users can effortlessly enjoy their favorite games on any device.
A positive mobile experience is key to enhancing accessibility and overall player satisfaction!
Welcome Bonuses & Promotions
Our assessment of welcome bonuses and promotions considers their generosity and fairness, looking beyond initial offers to evaluate ongoing promotions and loyalty programs.
The value and transparency of these bonuses significantly contribute to a casino’s overall appeal and can greatly influence whether or not it would be a good fit for potential players.
Safety & Security
Ensuring the safety of players’ personal and financial information is also a top priority. We scrutinize the security measures implemented by each sweepstakes casino, including encryption protocols and secure payment options.
A commitment to providing a secure gaming environment is crucial for building trust and allowing players to focus on what matters most (the games!).
Deposits & Withdrawals
Our assessment of deposits and withdrawals focuses on the convenience and reliability of payment methods offered by each casino.
We consider the efficiency and variety of options for both depositing funds into player accounts and withdrawing winnings.
It’s also appreciated when social casinos and sweepstakes casinos allow you to set limits for yourself. This makes it clear that the casino prioritizes player well-being by offering resources and tools to support responsible gambling.
Customer Service & Support
Lastly, effective customer service is a cornerstone of our evaluation process.
We test the responsiveness and knowledge of customer support through various channels, ensuring the California casino can promptly address player concerns and provide assistance.
A commitment to excellent customer service is a key factor in enhancing the overall player experience and contributes significantly to a sweepstakes casino’s ranking.
Conclusion: Play for Free & Win Real Money
Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about CA sweepstakes casinos, are you ready to take your online gaming experience to the next level?
If you live in California or another state where real-money online casinos aren’t yet available (or you’re just looking for a free way to get in on the action), then social casinos are the answer to all your problems.
Since they’re completely free to use, we encourage you to check out Stake.us, High 5 Casino, WOW Vegas, and any of the other California sweepstakes gaming sites and apps that we’ve discussed in this article.
Just sign up today, claim your no-deposit bonus, and experience the excitement for yourself!
And feel free to keep coming back to SportsBetting-California.com for all of the latest California gambling news and updates.
California Sweepstakes & Social Casinos FAQ
Yes and no. Traditional gambling sites and real-money online casinos are not yet legal in California. However, you can play at social casinos and sweepstakes casinos for a chance to win real cash prizes.
Yes! Sweepstakes casinos are 100% legal in California. Since these platforms are completely free to use and don’t offer real-money wagering, players can enjoy the thrill of gaming without worrying about violating any online gambling laws.
Stake.us, High 5 Casino, McLuck, Pulsz, and WOW Vegas are currently the top 5 best California sweepstakes casinos. These platforms offer a wide range of games, exciting promotions, and a user-friendly experience that caters to players of all levels.