Oak Bower Group Use Area
Unique to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Oak Bower is located along the Bill Hill Creek arm of DeGray Lake. This quality group use camping facility offers sleeping cabins, a large dining hall and kitchen, shower houses and playground equipment. Oak Bower is an ideal location for family reunions, company retreats and large group outings. For more information or to schedule a tour call 870-246-5501. To see USACE DeGray Lake Virtual Tour click here
ITEMS GROUPS WILL NEED
1. Food
2. Sleeping apparel, including bedrolls, air mattresses, pillows and blankets.
3. Cookware, dishwashing soap, plates, glasses and dishes.
4. Lawn chairs, flashlights, first aid kit and radios.
FURNISHED BY THE CORPS
1. Eight sleeping shelters (6 bunks each) with heat and air conditioning units.
2. Dining Hall and full Kitchen that seats up to 150 people.
3. Restrooms and showers.
4. Drinking fountain.
5. Jug filler fountains.
6. Group size grill.
7. Internet access in dining facility.
Need to Know
Charging of an entrance fee is restricted,Title 36, CFR 327.24 b. Please refer to the link for rules and regulations. click here
It is understood that the above named group will abide by all posted regulations and restrictions applicable to Vicksburg District Recreational Areas. The group will be responsible for cleanup of the area and facilities during and after the period occupied by them. It is understood that lessee will bear cost of repair or replacement of all damaged property resulting from abuse or negligence. If facilities are left unclean, littered, and/or in a disorderly manner, the ranger may issue a citation to the group’s representative and possibly restrict the group from future use.
It is understood that the above named facilities are made available on a “use at your own risk” basis. The Vicksburg District will not be held liable for personal injuries or loss of or damage to private property unless resulting from negligence on the part of the Vicksburg District Corps of Engineers.
Security arrangements will be the responsibility of the group reserving the facilities.
It will be the lessee’s responsibility to furnish all desired kitchen utensils, linens, sheets, pillows, bedrolls, air mattresses, and related supplies.
Quiet hours shall be maintained during the hours of 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. The operation or use of any audio or any noise producing devices in such manners as to unreasonable annoy or endanger persons is prohibited.
All fires will be confined to fire rings or grills designed for this purpose.
The permittee will not cut any trees or remove any natural vegetation or other materials from the area. Firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground.
Tents and RV’s are prohibited in the area.
Vehicles shall be operated and parked only at designated locations.GOLFCARTS, 4 WHEELERS and/or other ATV’s are prohibited.
All vessels must be launched at a designated boat ramp facility.
Repairs to facilities and/or ground maintenance are normally scheduled during non-occupancy periods;however, the government reserves the right to perform repairs and/or maintenance at any time, without prior notification of occupants.
TV and Sound Receiver remotes shall be placed in the specific holder. If remotes are missing, the above named group will be held accountable for the cost of replacement plus labor as well as any cords/cable/wires/TV/speakers/receiver damaged or missing. Repair/Replace costs will be determined by Lake Manager.
Check out is at 10:00 am, check in is at 3:00 pm. (NO EXCEPTIONS).
The key for the Facility should be picked up at the Visitor Center between 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm. Check out inspection forms will be provided and must be completed upon checkout. Inspection form should be left on the counter for a Ranger to inspect. Deposit key in black box near entrance gate upon departure. Please call Visitor Center to check out. Call 870-246-5501 with any questions.
Natural Features
Degray Lake is one of the region's five Diamond Lakes, known for their crystal clear waters. The lake flows from the Caddo River in western Arkansas and spans 13,500 surface acres.
Nearby Attractions
The DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers golf courses, tennis courts, horseback riding trails and more along the 207 miles of lake shoreline.
The Ouachita National Forest and Hot Springs National Park are both located nearby.
Recreation
Boating, water skiing, kayaking and other water sports are the biggest draw to the lake.
The lake is also stocked with a variety of game fish, including plenty of hybrid striped bass, making it an ideal area for both boat and bank fishing.
Numerous hiking and bike riding trails wind around the lake shore, including the Arlie Moore Interpretive Trail which is located a short drive away.
Contact Information
Mailing
729 Channel Road Arkadelphia AR 71923
Physical
121 Sitka Lane Bismarck AR 71921
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 870-246-5501
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Interstate 30, take exit 78 and merge onto State Highway 7 north for 9 miles. Turn left onto Arlie Moore Road for 1.1 miles. Turn right onto Chestnut Dr for 1.4 miles. Turn left onto Oak Bower Rd and follow into Group Use Area.
