Elite Casino Resorts, the operator of five gaming properties across the Midwest, including Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, has announced its intent to acquire Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort located in Burlington, Iowa.
The acquisition involves the purchase of Great River Entertainment’s assets and operations, which currently owns those venues.
Elite Casino Resorts CEO Dan Kehl expressed a deep personal connection to the deal, describing it as a return to familiar ground. The Kehl family previously managed Catfish Bend Casino, according to company records.
“Our roots in Burlington and Southeast Iowa trace back to the early days of legalized gaming in the state,” Kehl shared. “Welcoming Catfish Bend and FunCity back into our portfolio is a way to celebrate that legacy while embracing new opportunities for expansion and collaboration.”
Kehl reflected on his early career, noting, “When Catfish Bend launched in 1994, I relocated my young family to Fort Madison to oversee the riverboat operations. Today, my sons are part of the business, and reclaiming this property feels like a true homecoming.” He also acknowledged the contributions of Randy Winegard and Gary Hoyer, praising their leadership and commitment to the community. “We’re excited to build upon the strong foundation they’ve established.”
Local Casinos In Iowa
Iowa is home to both riverboat-style casino venues and expansive resort gaming destinations. With over 20 licensed casinos spread across the state, Iowans and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse range of casino games, including slot machines, poker rooms, table games such as blackjack and roulette, and even sportsbooks.
Notable locations include Prairie Meadows in Altoona, which combines horse racing with casino gaming, and Grand Falls Casino Resort in Larchwood, known for its upscale amenities and scenic views near the South Dakota border.
Many of Iowa’s casinos also serve as entertainment hubs and community landmarks. For example, Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington offers more than just gaming; it’s part of the FunCity Resort, which includes a water park, hotel, and arcade, making it a family-friendly destination.
In Council Bluffs, visitors can choose from three major casinos: Ameristar, Harrah’s, and Horseshoe, each offering unique atmospheres and gaming options.
Online Casinos In Iowa
As of 2025, Iowa does not permit domestic online casinos, meaning residents cannot legally access real-money casino games through state-regulated platforms. Instead, Iowans who wish to play at online casinos must turn to offshore operators that are licensed in other jurisdictions. These platforms operate outside of U.S. regulatory oversight but are accessible to Iowa residents due to the lack of specific enforcement mechanisms against individual players.
The state has shown interest in expanding its gambling laws to include online casinos. However, no legislation has successfully passed to legalize or regulate domestic iGaming. A notable setback occurred when State Representative Bobby Kaufmann, a key advocate for online casino legislation, withdrew his support for a 2025 bill, leaving the future of online casino legalization uncertain.