Summer Season Starts at DeGray Lake Resort State Park

Wondering what is in the works for this summer at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck? The below news release sent by Park Interpreter Elizabeth Bittner outlines the programs available at the park starting this weekend!

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer season for DeGray Lake Resort State Park.  Starting Friday, May 24through Labor Day, daily programs will be presented with 4 to 9 different programs offered each day. In addition to many land based programs, guests will have a chance to cool off by participating in water-based activities like snorkeling tours and  swimming cruises.

Each day will include a variety of activities like crafts, hikes, recreational programs, nature activities, and lake cruises.

Kayak programs will be offered on a weekly basis and range from free programs on kayaking basics to full kayaking lake tours.  Most programs are free and require no registration.  All programs are open to the public- guests do not have to be staying at the park to participate.  Boat cruises, swimming cruises, snorkeling, and kayaking tours require advanced registration and payment.

For wildlife enthusiasts, weekend animal programs  give visitors a chance to meet local snake species and an American alligator up close and personal.  The visitor center also has a new animal resident- a Texas brown tarantula.  Visitors will be able to view the tarantula daily, and a program highlighting the large arachnids will be offered periodically throughout the summer.

On Saturday, June 1,  the park will celebrate National Trails Day with a special interpreter led program on each of the park’s five trails.  Guests can practice the art of fire making, learn the basics of “Leave no Trace” camping methods, or identify some of Arkansas’ wild edible plants.  A night hike on the golf course will also be available for those who want a chance to view or hear some of the park’s nocturnal species including owls, raccoons, opossums, bats, and white tailed deer.

Daily horseback rides will be offered starting Memorial Day weekend.  Experienced stable hands will guide guests on a leisurely ride along the shores of DeGray Lake where they will be treated to scenic views of the lake and may spot some of the local wildlife.  Horseback rides will depart from the stables every hour starting at 10 am.  No experience is necessary.  Call (501) 865-2820 for more information or to make horseback riding reservations.

The spa at the state park, which had been temporarily closed, will soon be reopened as the “Blue Heron Spa” with services to help guests relax during their stay.  The spa, located in the lodge, will be open 6 days a week starting at 10.  The spa will be closed on Tuesdays.  For appointments or more information call (501) 865-2532.

For more details on specific activities and programs, please visit www.degray.com or pick up a printed activity sheet.  Activity sheets can be found at several area visitor centers including DeGray Lake Resort State Park’s own visitor center located at the entrance to the park.  For lodging reservations, call 1-800-737-8355.  RV camping, YURT camping, and tent camping sites are also available and reservations can be made by calling (501) 865-5810.    The park is located near Hot Springs and Arkadelphia, six miles north of I-30 at Caddo Valley (exit 78) or 21 miles south of Hot Springs, Arkansas on Highway 7.