About Highway 7 Recreation Area
Overview Highway 7 is a small, popular scenic area adjacent to State Highway 7. A narrow wooded land spur provides the facilities and ennvironment picnickers enjoy throughout the warm and mild season. A group shelter is located inside the loop turn-around at the extreme west end of the area. The open and gradually sloping land near State Highway 7 provides two beach areas where visitors find relief from high summer temperatures. Recreation DeGray Lake hosts thousands of professional fishing tournaments, triathlons and it is one of the most popular swimming destinations in the region. The area is also ideal for boating and jet skiing. Facilities Hwy 7 Recreation Area is a day use area that features two swim beaches, playground, two restrooms, numerous picnic areas, and a reservation group use pavilion. To see USACE DeGray Lake Virtual Tour,click here Natural Features The pavilion is located at the end of a tree-covered peninsula. Highway 7 Recreation Area is known for the many black squirrels that call it home. Degray Lake encompasses 13,500 water acres, with 207 miles of shoreline and an average depth of 47 feet. Nearby Attractions The DeGray Lake State Resort Park lies on the northern shores of the lake, and kayaking tours, golf, tennis courts and a horseback riding trail are available.
How to Get There
From Interstate 30 take exit 78. Merge onto State Highway 7 north for 4 miles. Turn left into Highway 7 Recreation Area and proceed to the end of the road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Highway 7 Recreation Area
Heading to Highway 7 Recreation Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Highway 7 Recreation Area?
No central reservation system listed for Highway 7 Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10159064) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Highway 7 Recreation Area?
From Interstate 30 take exit 78. Merge onto State Highway 7 north for 4 miles. Turn left into Highway 7 Recreation Area and proceed to the end of the road.
How do I contact Highway 7 Recreation Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-246-5501 or email: degray.lake@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
