Oak Bower Group Use Area

For Arkansans planning a significant group gathering, whether it's a bustling family reunion, a productive company retreat, or a vibrant youth group outing, Oak Bower Group Use Area on the stunning DeGray Lake stands out as an exceptional choice. This unique facility, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), is specifically designed to accommodate large groups, offering a dedicated and comprehensive setup that goes far beyond a typical campground. Nestled along the tranquil Big Hill Creek arm of DeGray Lake near Bismarck, Oak Bower provides a picturesque and functional setting that makes organizing group events seamless and enjoyable. Locals appreciate its ability to bring people together in a beautiful natural environment, with all the necessary amenities to ensure comfort and convenience.

DeGray Lake, one of Arkansas's celebrated "Diamond Lakes," is known for its crystal-clear waters and offers a spectacular backdrop for any event at Oak Bower. Unlike standard individual campsites, Oak Bower Group Use Area provides purpose-built facilities including sleeping cabins, a large dining hall, a full kitchen, and shower houses, making it an all-inclusive solution for group accommodations and activities. Reviews from past visitors highlight its beauty, even in the winter, and its suitability for large gatherings, underscoring its reputation as a well-regarded local resource. This commitment to providing a top-tier group experience sets Oak Bower apart, ensuring that your next big Arkansas gathering will be both memorable and hassle-free, allowing everyone to focus on connection and celebration amidst the natural splendor of the Ouachita Mountains.

Oak Bower Group Use Area is strategically located at 121 Sitka Ln, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA, placing it on the tranquil Big Hill Creek arm of DeGray Lake. This prime location in central Arkansas, near the city of Arkadelphia and within easy reach of Hot Springs, makes it highly accessible for groups traveling from across the state and beyond.

For those traveling by car, Oak Bower is generally reached via Interstate 30. From I-30, visitors would typically take Exit 78 and merge onto State Highway 7 North, driving for approximately 9 miles. From there, specific directions would guide you to turn onto Arlie Moore Road, then Chestnut Drive, and finally onto Oak Bower Road, which leads directly into the Group Use Area. While it involves a few turns off the main highway, the roads are generally well-maintained and suitable for vans, buses, and other vehicles transporting groups. Its slightly removed location from major thoroughfares contributes to the "very quiet" atmosphere praised by visitors, ensuring a peaceful setting for your gathering.

Once at Oak Bower, the facilities are designed to be easily navigable for groups. Its lakeside position provides direct access to DeGray Lake for various water activities, a key feature for many group outings. The area is also well-situated for exploring broader attractions in the region, including the nearby DeGray Lake Resort State Park and a relatively short drive to Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita National Forest. This combination of seclusion and accessibility makes Oak Bower an ideal and convenient choice for hosting multi-day group events in the heart of Arkansas.

Oak Bower Group Use Area, unique to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a comprehensive suite of services and facilities specifically tailored to meet the needs of large groups, distinguishing it from standard campgrounds.

• Sleeping Cabins: The facility provides multiple sleeping shelters, typically seven or eight cabins, each equipped with bunks (e.g., 4 to 6 bunks per cabin). Crucially, these cabins are furnished with heat and air conditioning units, ensuring comfort regardless of the season, even in winter as noted by a reviewer.
• Large Dining Hall: A spacious dining hall is available, capable of seating up to 150 people. This central gathering space is ideal for shared meals, presentations, and indoor group activities.
• Full Kitchen Facilities: Complementing the dining hall is a fully equipped kitchen. While groups are responsible for bringing their own food, cookware, and dishes, the presence of a full kitchen (with amenities like refrigerators, stoves, and ovens) greatly simplifies meal preparation for large numbers.
• Shower Houses and Restrooms: Well-maintained shower houses with hot water and flush toilets are provided, ensuring essential hygiene facilities for all attendees, a highly valued amenity.
• Drinking Fountains and Jug Fillers: Convenient access to potable water is available through drinking fountains and jug filler stations.
• Group Size Grill: A large, group-sized grill is typically on-site, perfect for outdoor barbecues and cooking for numerous people.
• Playground Equipment: For family reunions or youth groups, dedicated playground equipment offers a safe and engaging space for children to play.
• Internet Access: Internet access is available in the dining facility, providing connectivity for planning, communication, or even work during retreats.
• Reservations Required: As a dedicated group use area, reservations are mandatory and typically made directly through the USACE DeGray Lake Field Office, allowing for structured planning.

Oak Bower Group Use Area stands out with several key features and highlights that make it an exceptional choice for group gatherings in Arkansas, leveraging its unique design and natural surroundings.

• Dedicated Group Facility: Unlike typical campgrounds, Oak Bower is purpose-built as a group use area, providing a self-contained and private environment ideal for family reunions, company retreats, scout groups, and other large gatherings. This exclusivity ensures a focused and cohesive experience.
• Comfortable Sleeping Cabins: The inclusion of heated and air-conditioned sleeping cabins is a major draw, offering a more comfortable and weather-protected lodging option than traditional tent camping, especially appealing for multi-day events or cooler seasons, as noted by a reviewer who found it "very pretty even during the winter."
• Comprehensive Amenities: The combination of sleeping cabins, a large dining hall, a full kitchen, and modern shower facilities provides a near-all-inclusive base for groups, significantly simplifying event planning and logistics.
• Scenic DeGray Lake Access: Located directly on the Big Hill Creek arm of DeGray Lake, the area offers immediate access to one of Arkansas's most beautiful and popular lakes, known for its clear waters. This allows for easy enjoyment of fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming.
• Peaceful and Secluded Environment: Despite its comprehensive facilities, Oak Bower maintains a "very quiet" atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape from urban noise and creating an ideal setting for focused retreats or relaxed family time.
• Versatile Recreational Opportunities: Beyond lake activities, the surrounding DeGray Lake area provides opportunities for hiking, biking on nearby trails (like the Arlie Moore Interpretive Trail), and exploring the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains foothills.
• Proximity to Area Attractions: While secluded, Oak Bower is conveniently located near other popular Arkansas attractions, including DeGray Lake Resort State Park (offering golf, horseback riding), the Ouachita National Forest, and a relatively short drive to Hot Springs National Park.
• Managed by USACE: As a USACE-managed facility, visitors can expect well-maintained grounds and adherence to established recreational standards, ensuring a reliable and safe environment.

For detailed information, to schedule a tour, or to make reservations for the Oak Bower Group Use Area, it is essential to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) DeGray Lake Field Office directly, as this is a specialized group facility.

Address:

(Physical address for the site): 121 Sitka Ln, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA

(Mailing address for the managing office):

DeGray Lake Field Office

729 Channel Road

Arkadelphia, AR 71923

Phone Number: (870) 246-5501

Mobile Phone: +1 870-246-5501 (This is the same number, often indicating it is a direct line that may also accept mobile communication.)

For reservations, information is generally available through the Recreation.gov website, where specific group use areas like Oak Bower can be found. However, due to its unique nature as a group facility with cabins and a dining hall, direct contact with the DeGray Lake Field Office via phone is highly recommended to discuss availability, pricing for group use, and any specific requirements for your event. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding booking procedures, facility details, and guidelines for your stay.

Additional information and virtual tours may also be found on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District website, under their DeGray Lake recreation section (mvk.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/DeGray-Lake/).

For Arkansans, Oak Bower Group Use Area on DeGray Lake is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for any large gathering that seeks a blend of natural beauty, comprehensive amenities, and a truly communal experience. We understand the challenges of finding venues that can comfortably accommodate big groups while offering engaging activities, and Oak Bower excels in this regard. Its unique setup with insulated sleeping cabins, a spacious dining hall, and a full kitchen means that local families planning their annual reunion, companies looking for a distinctive team-building retreat, or youth organizations organizing a memorable camp can find everything they need in one beautiful location, regardless of the season – even "very pretty during the winter," as one reviewer noted.

The location on the pristine DeGray Lake, one of our cherished Diamond Lakes, provides immediate access to water sports, fishing, and serene natural beauty that embodies the best of Arkansas's outdoors. This allows groups to enjoy a wide range of activities without ever leaving the property or needing extensive off-site coordination. The peace and quiet of the area, combined with well-maintained facilities, ensure a comfortable and stress-free environment for everyone. For Arkansans, who value community and the opportunity to share our state's natural wonders, Oak Bower Group Use Area stands out as an invaluable resource. It's not just a place to stay; it's a dedicated space designed to foster connection, create lasting memories, and celebrate together in the heart of our beautiful Natural State.

Oak Bower Group Use Area

121 Sitka Ln, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA