Bismarck Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
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 kilometers) from Little Rock.

Spend some time in the town center 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 Park and the sprawling Ouachita National Forest.

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 Rp1.426.036 per night from 10 Jun to 11 Jun
Rp1.426.036
per night
10 Jun - 11 Jun
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Hot Springs. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Baymount by Wyndham Hot Springs by the Lake, in my opinion, has great potential to be able upgrade hotel level due to beautiful location right next to the lake with beautiful mountains in the distance and the excellent cleanliness. The major problem is maintenance of the property and staffing. There ..."

Reviewed on 17 May 2024

Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs On the Lake
Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa
Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa
2.5 out of 5
239 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR
The price is Rp1.903.881 per night from 23 May to 24 May
Rp1.903.881
per night
23 May - 24 May
Stay at this spa hotel in Hot Springs. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their reviews. ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,559 reviews)
Stay at The Arlington Hotel
"Excellent location in Hot Springs. Excellent staff from valet to front desk to room service to restaurant waitstaff."

Reviewed on 20 May 2024

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 Rp2.070.749 per night from 16 Jun to 17 Jun
Rp2.070.749
per night
16 Jun - 17 Jun
Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in their reviews.
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,624 reviews)
"We loved how close this hotel was to downtown. It was within walking distance but in a quiet area. The staff were all really nice and helpful. The room was clean and the accommodations were great. They even have a shuttle service which was really great. We will definitely be staying here again."

Reviewed on 20 May 2024

The Hotel Hot Springs
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.
The Wharf Resort
The Wharf Resort
3 out of 5
408 Long Island Drive, Hot Springs, AR
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool.
9.4/10 Exceptional! (101 reviews)
"View of the lake."

Reviewed on 22 Apr 2024

The Wharf Resort
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.

Popular places to visit