Bismarck

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism

With a laid-back pace of life and easy access to the stunning DeGray Lake, this small town in Arkansas is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, either relaxing on the banks of the river or getting active on the water.

Make Bismarck a daytrip from the state’s capital or linger here for a few days to appreciate the small-town atmosphere. Bismarck is set within the beautiful landscape of central Arkansas and is just 75 miles (121 kilometres) from Little RockOpens in a new window.

Spend some time in the town centre to find shopping, dining and cultural attractions along its two main avenues and the streets that lead off from them. See the whitewashed façade of the Hickory Groove Baptist Church as it stands out amid a backdrop of lush green fields. Join locals at restaurants serving burgers, fresh fish and pizzas.

Bismarck’s greatest attractions lay a short drive south at DeGray Lake. Lining the banks of this sprawling reservoir are well-equipped recreational areas, which attract large numbers during summer. Cycle, camp, play golf, hike or horseback ride in the recreation areas surrounding the lake. Venture onto the water to try out a range of watersports, including waterskiing and swimming. DeGray Lake Resort State Park is the largest recreation area with beaches, campsites, a lodge, marina and yurt accommodation.

Move around the lake to reach Caddo Drive Recreation Area, Edgewood Recreation Area and Oak Bower Recreation Area, each offering their own activities on the banks of the lake. On the southern banks are Iron Mountain Recreation Area and Lakeview Recreation Area. All have boat launches, camping grounds, waterfront picnic sites and washing facilities.

Reach Bismarck by flying to Little Rock’s Bill and Hilary Clinton National Airport and then rent a car from there. With a car you can explore more of Arkansas’ great oudoors. A 40-minute drive north of Bismarck is Hot Springs, a gateway to the Hot Springs National ParkOpens in a new window and the sprawling Ouachita National Forest.

Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa

Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa

2.5 out of 5
239 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR
The price is €97 per night from 10 Sept to 11 Sept
€97
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Hot Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the bar and the helpful staff in our ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,811 reviews)
"Amazing location with proximity to Bath House Row. Great classic hotel in the process of upgrading facilities with a cool history."

Reviewed on 14 Aug 2025

Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa
The Hotel Hot Springs

The Hotel Hot Springs

3 out of 5
305 Malvern Avenue, Hot Springs, AR
The price is €89 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
€89
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Hot Springs. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,821 reviews)
Nice place, no parking.
"Room was very nice. My only complaint is having to pay for parking. Even when paying for parking, there was no accommodations for a car and trailer. I was fortunate that one corner spot worked. Nice cafe and bar there. Breakfast was very good. A pool would have been nice."

Reviewed on 17 Aug 2025

The Hotel Hot Springs
Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs On the Lake

Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs On the Lake

2.5 out of 5
5321 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR
The price is €66 per night from 21 Aug to 22 Aug
€66
21 Aug - 22 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Hot Springs. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,006 reviews)
"Nice hotel at a good price Pool was dirty and room had an odor upon arrival. Staff was friendly"

Reviewed on 16 Aug 2025

Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs On the Lake
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
“Fun” place! — Exceptional" —near Oaklawn Park, Garvin Gardens and Restaurants

“Fun” place! — Exceptional" —near Oaklawn Park, Garvin Gardens and Restaurants

Hot Springs
Book a stay at this family-friendly cabin in Hot Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a garden. Popular attractions Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Bathhouse ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (336 reviews)
"The cottage is really nice, and well stocked. The host was extremely helpful. Definitely recommend."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

“Fun” place! — Exceptional" —near Oaklawn Park, Garvin Gardens and Restaurants
Your PRIVATE Hot Springs Lake Hamilton Vacation Paradise

Your PRIVATE Hot Springs Lake Hamilton Vacation Paradise

Royal
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Royal. Enjoy private pools, a fitness center, and a garden. Popular attractions Hill Wheatley Park and Cathy's ...
10/10 Exceptional! (103 reviews)
Comment
"Everyone had a wonderful time. Would love to use this property again for our vacation."

Reviewed on 18 Jul 2025

Your PRIVATE Hot Springs Lake Hamilton Vacation Paradise
Amazing lakefront house- DISCOUNTED RATES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Amazing lakefront house- DISCOUNTED RATES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hot Springs
Stay at this vacation home in Hot Springs. Enjoy laundry facilities, a pool table, and patios. Popular attractions Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Bathhouse ...
10/10 Exceptional! (117 reviews)
"It was a beautiful home and wonderful. Very comfortable"

Reviewed on 8 Aug 2025

Amazing lakefront house- DISCOUNTED RATES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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