Ross Rhodes Reservation

For Arkansans seeking a versatile and spacious venue for group camping, family reunions, youth retreats, or other outdoor events, Ross Rhodes Reservation in Bismarck, AR, offers a compelling option. Once a significant Boy Scouts of America (BSA) camp, this expansive property on Lake DeGray is now operated by the Ouachita Camp Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Ross Foundation. It provides a unique setting that blends rustic charm with essential amenities, making it suitable for a variety of gatherings. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Ross Rhodes Reservation, helping local users in Arkansas understand its offerings and plan their next large-scale outdoor adventure.

Ross Rhodes Reservation boasts a rich history, having served generations of Scouts, instilling in them a love for the outdoors. While it has transitioned from a direct BSA council camp, its legacy as a place for outdoor education and recreation continues under the Ouachita Camp Foundation. Spanning a vast 250 acres on the shores of the beautiful Lake DeGray, one of Arkansas's premier recreation lakes, the reservation offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains region. Despite some past challenges regarding facility updates, efforts are continually being made to improve and maintain the property, preserving its role as a vital resource for the community. It’s a place where new memories are forged, building upon a foundation of countless good times, making it a perfect spot for Arkansans to reconnect with nature and each other.

Ross Rhodes Reservation is situated at 987 Chestnut Dr, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of Lake DeGray, a prominent feature in Hot Spring County, Arkansas. For Arkansans, the location is highly accessible. From Little Rock, the drive is typically about an hour south on I-30, taking exit 78 (AR-7 N) towards Bismarck, or continuing on I-30 to Arkadelphia and then taking AR-7 N towards DeGray Lake. The camp is also conveniently located for residents of Hot Springs and Arkadelphia, being a relatively short drive from both cities.

The reservation's extensive 250-acre property ensures ample space and privacy. Access to the camp is via well-maintained roads leading directly to the camping areas and facilities. One of its key accessibility features is its direct frontage on Lake DeGray, complemented by a private boat launch. This makes it incredibly convenient for groups bringing their own watercraft. As a large group-oriented facility, securing a reservation for Ross Rhodes Reservation is crucial. Due to its nature, it typically operates on a reservation-only basis for groups, rather than individual campsite rentals. Prospective users should contact the Ouachita Camp Foundation directly to inquire about availability and booking procedures, especially for popular seasons and weekends.

Ross Rhodes Reservation, managed by the Ouachita Camp Foundation, offers a variety of services designed to support large group camping and events, leveraging its extensive property and lakeside location.

• RV Pads and Tent Camping Areas: The reservation includes at least 13 RV pads, as confirmed by available information, making it suitable for groups utilizing recreational vehicles. Additionally, there are ample areas for tent camping, allowing for flexibility in accommodating diverse group sizes and preferences. While RV pads are noted, a reviewer mentioned using tents, highlighting this flexibility.

• Decent Bathroom Facilities: A key amenity for any camp, the presence of a "decent bathroom facility" ensures comfort and convenience for campers, particularly important for larger groups and families.

• Covered Pavilion with Tables: The reservation features a covered pavilion equipped with tables, providing an excellent central gathering space for meals, meetings, or sheltered activities, regardless of weather conditions. This is a significant asset for group events.

• Private Boat Ramp for Lake Access: A major highlight is the private boat ramp, offering direct and exclusive access to Lake DeGray. This is invaluable for groups planning water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming without contending with public boat launch crowds.

• Bonfire Area: The availability of a designated bonfire area provides a quintessential camping experience, perfect for evening gatherings, storytelling, and s'mores, fostering camaraderie among participants.

• Outdoor Chapel and Amphitheater: As a former Scout camp and now a foundation-run facility, it includes an outdoor chapel (described as "lake side with blue water, flowing green trees and rays of sunshine or moonlight") and an amphitheater. These facilities are ideal for ceremonies, presentations, or large group meetings, adding unique elements to any event.

• Private Beach/Swimming Area: The property boasts a private beach and swimming area on Lake DeGray, offering a safe and exclusive spot for water recreation away from public beaches.

• Parade Field/Activity Areas: Large open spaces, including a parade field, are available for various outdoor activities, games, and organized events, providing ample room for group dynamics.

Ross Rhodes Reservation's extensive acreage and lakeside setting on DeGray Lake offer a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for groups in Arkansas.

• Expansive Lake DeGray Access: Its location on the renowned Lake DeGray, known for its pristine, clear waters, provides unparalleled opportunities for fishing (walleye, bass, crappie, catfish), swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The private boat launch significantly enhances this experience.

• Ideal for Group Events and Retreats: The comprehensive facilities, including RV pads, tent areas, a covered pavilion, and communal spaces like the outdoor chapel and amphitheater, make it perfectly suited for hosting large groups. This includes family reunions, church retreats, school functions, youth camps, and even weddings.

• Flexible Camping Options: While it has RV pads, the adaptability for tent camping on grass areas provides flexibility for groups with diverse preferences, accommodating traditional campers alongside those with RVs.

• Nature Immersion: The 250-acre property within the beautiful Ouachita Mountains provides a serene and natural backdrop. Campers can enjoy the lush green forests, rolling mountain ranges, and abundant wildlife, offering a genuine escape into Arkansas's natural beauty.

• Rich History and Legacy: The camp's past as a BSA facility imbues it with a sense of history and purpose, appealing to those who appreciate its legacy of outdoor education and youth development. Despite calls for further modernization, its foundational elements are strong.

• Seclusion and Privacy: As a large, privately-managed reservation for group bookings, it offers a level of seclusion and privacy often not found at public campgrounds, allowing groups to fully enjoy their time together without interruption.

• "Everything Arkansas outdoors has to offer": The Ouachita Camp Foundation's description highlights the availability of forests, mountains, clear waterways, fishing, and wildlife, encapsulating the comprehensive outdoor experience offered.

Ross Rhodes Reservation is operated by the Ouachita Camp Foundation. For inquiries, reservations, and the most current information, it is best to contact the foundation directly.

Address: 987 Chestnut Dr, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA

Phone: (501) 539-3729 (Primary contact for the Ouachita Camp Foundation)

Mobile Phone: +1 501-539-3729 (Same number, for direct contact)

Email: rdixon72@hotmail.com (As listed on the JustServe site for Richard Dixon, likely a primary contact person.)

Website: It is highly recommended to visit the Ouachita Camp Foundation's official website (ouachitacampfoundation.com) for detailed information on facilities, reservation requests, pricing, and photo galleries of the camp. This is the authoritative source for planning your group's visit.

For Arkansans, Ross Rhodes Reservation on Lake DeGray represents an exceptional and highly suitable venue for a wide array of group-oriented outdoor activities and gatherings. Its appeal to locals is multifaceted, blending convenience, comprehensive facilities, and a deep connection to the state's natural beauty.

Firstly, its strategic location in Bismarck provides relatively easy access for residents across a significant portion of the state, making it a practical choice for weekend retreats or longer events. Its extensive 250-acre property ensures that groups have ample space for privacy and varied activities, a significant advantage for larger gatherings like family reunions, church youth camps, or corporate team-building events.

Secondly, the range of amenities, including RV pads, tent areas, a spacious covered pavilion with tables, dedicated bathroom facilities, and a crucial private boat ramp, addresses the practical needs of diverse groups. This comprehensive offering means that organizers can focus more on their program and less on logistical challenges. The availability of unique features like an outdoor chapel and ample activity fields further enhances its suitability for structured programs and special occasions.

Despite some historical notes regarding needed improvements, the ongoing efforts by the Ouachita Camp Foundation demonstrate a commitment to making Ross Rhodes Reservation a vital community resource. For Arkansans looking for a dedicated, well-equipped, and naturally beautiful space to host a memorable group experience, this reservation stands as a testament to the state's rich outdoor heritage and its ongoing commitment to providing exceptional recreational opportunities. It's a place where communities can come together, enjoy the wonders of Lake DeGray, and create new cherished memories in the heart of the Natural State.

Ross Rhodes Reservation

987 Chestnut Dr, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA