DeGray Lake
4.8(2.5K)google
4.7(30)yelp
NatureLake
Overview
DeGray Lake is a reservoir on the Caddo River constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in Arkansas, 8 miles (13 km) from Arkadelphia. Arkansas Scenic Byway 7 is located on the eastern shore of the lake, and provides views of the lake, and also places to stay. DeGray Lake Resort State Park was opened in 1974 to encourage tourism and recreation on DeGray Lake.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration4-8 hours
Best TimeThe summer recreational season from June to August is the absolute peak window when the lake's state park marina is fully operational. Hit the water between 4:30 PM and sunset; facing due west, the low evening sun paints the vast mirror-clear reservoir against the backdrop of the blazing Ouachita Mountains beautifully.
Getting ThereLocated northwest of Arkadelphia. Driving is highly efficient via I-30; take Exit 78 for AR-7 North toward Caddo Valley. Drive north on the scenic highway for 6 miles, follow the prominent state park markings, and turn left straight into the expansive, complimentary paved surface asphalt parking plaza outside the lodge.
Travel Tips
- Parts of DeGray Lake are under strict US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) jurisdiction; rangers heavily fine unauthorized boat mooring, swimming outside designated beaches, and uncontained fires. Always verify boundary markers at the visitor center before launching.
- The Iron Mountain Trail System trailhead parking fills completely by 08:30 AM on weekends and race days. Visitors towing bike trailers or driving oversized vehicles must arrive early or utilize designated overflow lots to avoid being towed for blocking thoroughfares.
- The park marina closes completely from November through February, cutting off all boat rentals, kayak provisioning, and water fuel stations. Winter Eagle Watch Tours run on an isolated, highly restrictive schedule and require fixed reservation confirmation online.
Reviews
Positive
- The lake views are beautiful and peaceful; you can look out from the resort over breathtaking sunsets and open water.
- The resort offers a fantastic variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, fishing, a huge pool, and a golf course.
- There are several different beach locations across the park, and none of them felt crowded, making it perfect for a family vacation.
- The staff provides excellent and friendly service, going above and beyond to accommodate any requests.
Heads up
- Some resort rooms feel a bit run down and small for the price, and they lack a microwave oven inside.
- The rooms use individual window A/C units which are quite loud and can disrupt a peaceful night's sleep.
- You cannot reserve or guarantee a lake-view room ahead of time; it is only allocated based on availability at check-in.
- There is no exhaust fan in the bathroom, leading to poor ventilation and a very humid room after showering.