Things to Do at Lake DeGray, Arkansas
There is no shortage of things to do at Lake DeGray, whether you're casting a line for a morning catch or gliding across the water on a kayak. From an early morning fishing trip to a peaceful afternoon paddling your kayak, you will find endless ways to enjoy the water. Located just moments away, the DeGray Lake Resort State Park serves as an ideal setting for your next outdoor getaway.
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About Lake DeGray
Lake DeGray is a 13,500-acre reservoir on the Caddo River, about 8 miles from Arkadelphia and just outside Bismarck, Arkansas. It is one of the region's five Diamond Lakes, known for their clear water, with roughly 207 miles of shoreline tucked into the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. That is a long way of saying there is plenty of room to spread out. It is a working lake in the best sense: people fish it hard, ski it, swim it, and paddle it, and there is still quiet water to be found if you know where to look. We are happy to point you in the right direction.
Fishing and Boating on Lake DeGray
The Arlie Moore boat ramp is less than a mile from the cabins, with boat parking on site, so launch mornings are about as easy as they get.
Anglers come to Lake DeGray for hybrid striped bass, crappie, bream, walleye, and catfish, and it fishes well from a boat or the bank.
Didn't bring a boat? The marina at DeGray Lake Resort State Park rents:
- Fishing boats and party barges
- Kayaks and canoes
- Stand-up paddleboards
- Pedal boats
They also carry bait, tackle, and fuel.
The Arlie Moore Recreation Area
The boat ramp is only part of it. Arlie Moore Day Use Area sits on the northern bank of Lake DeGray, less than a mile from the cabins, and it is worth a whole afternoon rather than a quick launch and go.
Swim Beach
There is a public swimming beach right at Arlie Moore, which makes for an easy morning with kids or a cool-off after a hot day on the water.
The Arlie Moore Interpretive Trail
A double-segment loop of about 1.3 miles that winds through mature southern pine forest. The National Recreation Reservation Service once named it one of America's Top 25 Hiking Trails, which is not something you expect to find a mile from your front porch.
Group Shelter and Picnicking
A reservable group-use pavilion with electricity, tables, and grills sits a short walk from the swim beach, and it seats up to 50. If you have booked several cabins for a reunion or a group trip, it is a good spot to put everyone in one place for an evening.
The Recreation area has toilets and showers, and pets are welcome as long as they stay on leash.
DeGray Lake Resort State Park
Arkansas's only resort state park sits on the lake, and most of it is open to day visitors. You will find:
- An 18-hole championship golf course.
- A free 18-hole disc golf course.
- Six hiking trails, most with lake views, including the Chickadee, Green Heron, Island, Saginaw, and Towering Pines trails.
- Swimming beaches and a full-service marina.
- Ranger-led programs including guided hikes, snorkeling, and sunset boat cruises.
- Horseback riding and tennis courts.
It is an easy drive from the cabins and an easy way to fill a day when the fish are not biting.
More Things to Do at Lake DeGray
Mountain Biking
Arkadelphia
Just a short drive away, Arkadelphia offers a charming small-town atmosphere with historic charm and local artisanal shops.
Hot Springs
Experience the healing waters of the famed Hot Springs. A short trip from Bismarck, it's the perfect way to unwind.