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 kilometers) from Little RockOpens in a new window.

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 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 P5,312 per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
P5,312
P6,933 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
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! (1,813 reviews)
"The staff was so friendly and absolutely amazing. The parking attendants and the front lobby staff were the best I have met."

Reviewed on Aug 11, 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 P5,196 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P5,196
P5,949 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
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! (1,816 reviews)
"We stay once a year and wouldn’t stay anywhere else"

Reviewed on Aug 10, 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 P4,001 per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
P4,001
P4,401 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
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)
"I enjoyed my stay here. Staff was nice. Bed was comfy. View from the balcony was beautiful. Would stay again!!"

Reviewed on Aug 11, 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.
Family Fun House - Pet Friendly-

Family Fun House - Pet Friendly-

4 out of 5
1219 Cedarglade Rd, Hot Springs, AR
Stay at this 4-star vacation home in Hot Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Hot Springs National Park and Bathhouse ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Beautiful House, Loved Our Stay
"This house is sooo worth it! It’s absolutely beautiful. We loved our stay and didn’t want to leave! Kiddo friendly. We will be returning in the winter!"

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Family Fun House - Pet Friendly-
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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