DeGray Lake Resort State Park Travel Guide — Arkansas

Our DeGray Lake Resort State Park guide covers practical planning for DeGray Lake Resort State Park Arkansas — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

As the Roam States editorial team, we've explored countless corners of the US, but few destinations blend natural beauty with resort-style amenities quite like DeGray Lake Resort State Park Arkansas. This gem, nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable lodging, making it Arkansas's only resort state park. We're here to provide you with the definitive guide to planning your visit, ensuring you make the most of this exceptional destination.

Why Visit DeGray Lake Resort State Park

DeGray Lake Resort State Park stands apart from other state parks, offering a comprehensive vacation experience rather than just a place to camp or hike. We find its appeal lies in the sheer variety of activities available, all set against the stunning backdrop of DeGray Lake, one of Arkansas's crystal-clear Diamond Lakes. Whether you're an avid angler, a golf enthusiast, a family seeking a fun-filled getaway, or simply someone looking to unwind amidst nature, this park delivers. You can expect well-maintained facilities, from a championship golf course to a full-service marina, alongside pristine natural landscapes perfect for birdwatching and exploring. It’s a destination where you can truly tailor your adventure, whether it’s a serene paddle on the lake or an exhilarating round of golf.

Who It's Best For

DeGray Lake Resort State Park genuinely caters to a broad spectrum of travelers. Our team has observed that it's particularly ideal for:

• **Families:** With swim beaches, playgrounds, easy hiking trails, and kid-friendly interpretive programs, there's ample entertainment for all ages. The lodge offers dog-friendly rooms, allowing furry family members to join the fun.
• **Outdoor Enthusiasts:** Anglers will revel in the abundant bass, crappie, bream, and catfish in DeGray Lake, with year-round fishing opportunities. Boaters and paddlers have access to a full-service marina with rentals and designated water trails.
• **Golfers:** The 18-hole championship golf course, complete with a driving range and pro shop, is a major draw.
• **Couples and Retreats:** The lodge's amenities, including a restaurant, pool, hot tub, and conference facilities, make it suitable for romantic getaways or corporate events.
• **Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers:** The park is a haven for birdlife and wildlife, with specific trails designed for optimal viewing, including opportunities to spot eagles in winter.

If you're looking for a destination where you can blend relaxation with a wide array of activities without ever leaving the park's embrace, then DeGray Lake Resort State Park is undoubtedly for you.

How to Get There & Parking

Getting to DeGray Lake Resort State Park is straightforward, thanks to its convenient location in central Arkansas. The park is situated just 6 miles north of I-30 (exit 78) via Highway 7, or approximately 21 miles south of Hot Springs on Highway 7. For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, about an hour's drive northeast. From there, we recommend renting a car to fully explore the park and surrounding areas. The park's address is 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929.

Once you arrive at DeGray Lake Resort State Park, you'll find that parking is generally ample and free of charge. The largest parking areas are conveniently located near the lodge and stables. Additional parking lots are available by the docks, the golf course, and along Caddo Bend Road. While parking is usually plentiful, we advise arriving earlier during peak summer months, as popular spots can fill up with day visitors. For those staying in RVs, the park roads are paved and wide enough to accommodate even large vehicles and trailers, making navigation a breeze.

Top Things to Do

When considering things to do at DeGray Lake Resort State Park, the options are as varied as the landscape itself. Our team consistently finds that visitors are impressed by the sheer breadth of activities available, blending classic outdoor recreation with resort-style amenities. Here's a rundown of the top things to do at DeGray Lake Resort State Park:

Water Activities

• **Boating & Marina Services:** The full-service marina is your gateway to DeGray Lake. It offers boat rentals, including party barges, flat-bottom boats, pedal boats, kayaks, and canoes. You can also find bait, tackle, and fuel here. A free boat launch ramp is available for personal watercraft. Boat rentals start at approximately $220, but we recommend calling the marina at (501) 865-5840 for current 2026 pricing and advance bookings.
• **Swimming:** Enjoy the sandy swimming beaches located within the park, perfect for cooling off on a warm Arkansas day. The lodge also features a heated swimming pool, open seasonally from May 1 to September 30.
• **Fishing:** DeGray Lake is a renowned fishing destination, teeming with hybrid striped bass, walleye, crappie, bream, and catfish. Whether you prefer bank fishing or heading out in a fully equipped bass boat, the lake's diverse habitats offer excellent opportunities year-round.
• **Paddling & Kayak Tours:** Explore the tranquil coves and forested shores of DeGray Lake by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. The Islets Cove Paddle Trail is a three-mile loop designed for self-guided exploration and wildlife viewing. Guided kayak tours and workshops are also offered by park interpreters.
• **Scuba Diving:** The lake's exceptional clarity makes it a popular spot for scuba diving.

Land Activities

• **Golf:** Tee off at the 18-hole championship golf course, featuring a driving range, putting green, and a modern pro shop where you can rent equipment. We encourage calling the Pro Shop at (501) 865-5830 for tee times and current 2026 rates.
• **Disc Golf:** An 18-hole disc golf course is available near the Visitor Center, with complimentary loaner disc sets.
• **Horseback Riding:** Guided horseback riding is offered seasonally, weather permitting. Reservations are encouraged, and you can call (501) 865-2820 for more information.
• **Tennis & Basketball:** Courts are available for those looking to enjoy a game.
• **Mountain Biking:** While the park itself has hiking trails, world-class mountain biking trails are available nearby at the Iron Mountain Trail System, offering over 24 miles of singletrack.
• **Interpretive Programs & Special Events:** Park interpreters offer year-round programs, including guided hikes, lake cruises, snorkeling adventures, nature programs, and outdoor workshops. Look out for special events like full moon kayak tours, meteor shower cruises, and annual events such as the Fourth of July Island Festival and winter Eagle Watch Tours.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park Hiking Trails

For those who love to explore on foot, DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers a selection of scenic hiking trails that meander along the lake shore and through lush forests. Our team appreciates that these DeGray Lake Resort State Park hiking trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for various skill levels, with most being a mile or less in distance. Here are some of the trails you can enjoy:

• **Island Trail:** A 1-mile loop trail that starts near the lodge entrance, offering pleasant views of the lake and solitude amidst the hardwoods.
• **Green Heron Trail:** This 0.75-mile loop begins at the Visitor Information Center and is renowned for excellent birdwatching opportunities, including a wildlife viewing station for spotting eagles and waterfowl.
• **Chickadee Trail:** A 0.5-mile loop near the tennis courts, this trail winds through a pine forest and along the shoreline, providing chances to see wading birds and waterfowl.
• **Towering Pines Trail:** An easy to moderate 0.5-mile loop through a mixed hardwood and pine forest at the lake's edge. It's particularly beautiful in spring when dogwoods are in bloom.
• **Saginaw Historic Trail:** A 0.25-mile one-way trail that follows an old narrow-gauge railroad bed used by lumbermen around 1900, offering a shortcut to the lake.

Park rangers take great care to preserve the natural beauty, and we remind hikers that biking and automobiles are not permitted on these specific hiking trails, and visitors are asked to refrain from touching the natural greenery.

Best Time to Visit

The "best" time to visit DeGray Lake Resort State Park largely depends on your preferred activities. Our team has found that the park offers something unique in every season:

• **Spring (March-May):** This is an excellent time for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer. The blooming dogwoods along trails like Towering Pines are a particular highlight.
• **Summer (June-August):** Late spring through early fall is the busiest and most favorable for water recreation, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Summer weekends are especially popular, so we recommend making reservations well in advance for lodging, camping, and popular activities. The lodge's pool is open during these months.
• **Fall (September-November):** Quieter than summer, fall offers comfortable weather for hiking and enjoying the lake views, often accompanied by beautiful foliage.
• **Winter (December-February):** While some resort services might be reduced or seasonal, winter is a tranquil time to visit, especially for birdwatching. DeGray Lake is known for its winter Eagle Watch Tours, offering unique opportunities to spot bald eagles.

Overall, if water sports are your priority, aim for late spring to early fall. For hiking, birdwatching, and a more serene experience, spring and fall are ideal. The park is open year-round, with general hours from 8 AM to 10 PM daily.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park Lodging

As Arkansas's only resort state park, DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers a variety of lodging options designed to suit different preferences and budgets. Our team has thoroughly reviewed the choices, from the comfortable lodge to rustic yurts and traditional campsites.

The Lodge

The centerpiece of DeGray Lake Resort State Park lodging is the 90-room lodge and conference center, situated on its own island with stunning views of DeGray Lake and the Ouachita Mountains. The lodge is open year-round and features amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite TV, refrigerators, coffee makers, and irons in each room. Accessible rooms and select dog-friendly rooms are also available.

Lodge guests can enjoy the Shoreline Restaurant, a spacious lobby with a fireplace, a lakeside heated guest pool (open May 1 - Sept. 30), a hot tub, and a fitness center. A day spa is also available by appointment. Room rates vary by season and view, with typical resort view rooms ranging from $100-$110 in-season and $85-$95 in winter, and lake view rooms from $130-$140 in-season and $100-$110 in winter. Children 12 and under stay free, with an additional $10 per day for guests 13 and older (limit four adults per room).

We highly recommend making reservations, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods, which often require a two- or three-night minimum stay. Check-in is at 4:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Lodge reservations can be made by calling 1-800-737-8355 or (501) 865-5850.

Camping & Yurts

For those who prefer a more traditional outdoor experience, DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers 113 campsites. These sites are shaded by beautiful trees and come in various classes:

• **Class AAA Sites (83-107):** Offer full hookups (30/50 amp electricity, water, and sewer) and are ideal for larger RVs.
• **Class B Sites (1-82):** Provide 30 amp electricity and water hookups.
• **Walk-In Tent Sites (108-113):** Offer a quieter tent camping experience with tables and grills.

All campsites include a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. Centrally located bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are accessible, though restrooms are open seasonally from March to November. Camping is open year-round, and all sites are reservable up to one year in advance. Check-in and check-out for campsites are both at 3:00 PM. Pets are welcome in all campsites.

For a unique "glamping" experience, the park also features three Rent-A-Yurts (Year-Round Universal Recreational Tents). These circular, insulated tents are set on decks and furnished with bunk beds, a locking door, electricity, wood flooring, an outdoor propane stove, and an ice chest, sleeping up to six people. Guests need to bring their own linens, cooking utensils, and matches. Yurt reservations can be made online or by calling 1-800-737-8355 or (501) 865-5810. There is a non-refundable $15 fee per dog (limit 2) for designated lodging facilities like yurts.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you plan your visit, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary for DeGray Lake Resort State Park, blending relaxation with adventure:

Day 1: Lake & Links

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Start your day with a round of golf at the 18-hole championship course. Call ahead to reserve your tee time.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Enjoy lunch at the Shoreline Restaurant located in the lodge, offering great lake views.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Head to the marina for some water fun. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Islets Cove Paddle Trail, or opt for a party barge rental for a leisurely cruise on DeGray Lake.
• **Late Afternoon (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM):** Relax by the lodge's heated pool or in the hot tub.
• **Evening (6:00 PM onwards):** Enjoy dinner at the Shoreline Restaurant again, or if you're camping, prepare a campfire meal. Check the park's schedule for any evening interpretive programs or special events, such as a sunset cruise.

Day 2: Trails & Tranquility

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Lace up your hiking boots and explore the DeGray Lake Resort State Park hiking trails. We recommend the Green Heron Trail for birdwatching or the Island Trail for scenic lake views.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the Caddo Bend day-use area picnic sites, which also offer a sandy swimming beach.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM):** For a different kind of adventure, consider a guided horseback ride (reservations encouraged). Alternatively, try your hand at disc golf near the Visitor Center.
• **Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Visit the park's Visitor Center to learn more about the local ecology and history, and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
• **Evening (5:00 PM onwards):** If you're extending your trip, consider a day trip to nearby Hot Springs National Park, just 30-40 minutes away, for its historic bathhouses and vibrant downtown. Or, for another unique Arkansas experience, head to Crater of Diamonds State Park, about an hour away, where you can dig for real diamonds and keep what you find.

Is It Worth Visiting?

From our extensive travels across the United States, we can confidently say: yes, DeGray Lake Resort State Park is absolutely worth visiting. It's not every day you find a state park that seamlessly blends the raw beauty of nature with the comforts and amenities of a full-service resort. The park offers an unparalleled range of activities, from championship golf and diverse water sports to serene hiking and engaging interpretive programs, ensuring there's something for every member of your group. The commitment to maintaining both the natural environment and high-quality facilities truly sets it apart. Whether you're seeking an active outdoor adventure, a relaxing lakeside retreat, or a unique family vacation, DeGray Lake Resort State Park delivers on all fronts, making it a standout destination in Arkansas and a place we highly recommend.

The ability to stay in a comfortable lodge, a cozy yurt, or a well-equipped campsite, all within steps of a pristine lake and an array of recreational opportunities, makes DeGray Lake Resort State Park a truly exceptional value and experience. We believe its unique status as Arkansas's only resort state park is well-earned, providing a comprehensive and memorable travel experience that will leave you refreshed and eager to return.

How to Get There

Understanding how to get to DeGray Lake Resort State Park is key to a smooth arrival. The park is conveniently located in west-central Arkansas, making it accessible from several major cities. Its address is 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929.

• **By Car:** The most common way to reach the park is by car. If you're traveling on I-30, take Exit 78 and head north on Highway 7 for approximately 6 miles to the park entrance. From Hot Springs, head south on Highway 7 for about 21 miles. The drive is scenic and well-maintained, even for larger vehicles or those towing trailers.
• **By Air:** The closest major airport is Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, which is about 60-75 miles (approximately an hour's drive) northeast of the park. We recommend renting a car at the airport to provide flexibility for exploring the park and nearby attractions.

Once you arrive at the park, clear signage will direct you to the Visitor Center, lodge, campgrounds, and other facilities. Parking is readily available and free throughout the park.

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

DeGray Lake Resort State Park also serves as an excellent base for exploring other incredible places in Arkansas. Consider these popular day trips:

• Hot Springs National Park: Just 30-40 minutes north, explore historic Bathhouse Row, hike 26 miles of trails, or visit the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
• Crater of Diamonds State Park: Located about an hour southwest in Murfreesboro, this is the world's only public diamond mine where you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find.
• Lake Ouachita: A bit further afield but renowned as one of the cleanest and most beautiful lakes in the country, offering swimming, kayaking, and scuba diving.

FAQ Longtails

DeGray Lake Resort State Park camping

DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers 113 campsites, including Class AAA sites with full hookups (50 amp electricity, water, and sewer), Class B sites with 30 amp electricity and water, and walk-in tent sites. All sites come with a picnic table, grill, and fire ring, and bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets are conveniently located (open seasonally from March to November). Camping is available year-round, and reservations can be made up to one year in advance. Pets are welcome in all campsites. Additionally, the park features three Rent-A-Yurts, which are furnished, insulated tents sleeping up to six people, offering a unique "glamping" experience.

things to do in Bismarck

While DeGray Lake Resort State Park is the primary attraction, the small town of Bismarck, Arkansas, and its surrounding area offer additional activities. You can find local dining and shopping in Bismarck itself. Nearby, you can explore the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains, visit Lake Ouachita for more water activities, or take day trips to Hot Springs National Park and Crater of Diamonds State Park. Other local activities include fishing in various nearby lakes and rivers, and for those interested in local events, checking community calendars can reveal unique happenings.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park with kids

DeGray Lake Resort State Park is an excellent destination for families with kids. Our team notes the park provides numerous kid-friendly activities such as sandy swimming beaches and playgrounds. The easy hiking trails, like the Chickadee Trail, are suitable for younger adventurers. Kids can also enjoy fishing, paddle boating, and participating in interpretive programs offered by park rangers, which often include guided nature walks and wildlife viewing opportunities. The lodge offers a heated swimming pool, and some rooms are dog-friendly, allowing the whole family to enjoy the trip.

best hotels near DeGray Lake Resort State Park

Beyond the park's own lodge, several hotels are available in nearby Arkadelphia and Hot Springs for visitors to DeGray Lake Resort State Park. In Arkadelphia, popular options include Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Arkadelphia and Quality Inn Arkadelphia - University Area. Hot Springs, a short drive away, offers a wider selection of hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Hot Springs, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hot Springs, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hot Springs. For