About Oak Bower Group Use Area
Overview 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 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. Facilities ITEMS GROUPS WILL NEED1. Food2. 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 CORPS1. Seven sleeping shelters (4 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. 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.
How to Get There
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.
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 Oak Bower Group Use Area
Heading to Oak Bower Group Use 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 Oak Bower Group Use Area?
No central reservation system listed for Oak Bower Group Use Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10159068) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Oak Bower Group Use Area?
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.
How do I contact Oak Bower Group Use Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-246-5501 or email: degray.lake@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
