If you’re looking for one of Arkansas’s most scenic drives, look no further than the stretch of Arkansas Highway 7 from Hot Springs to Bismarck and DeGray Lake State Park. This 22-mile journey showcases the best of the Ouachita Mountains, winding past sparkling lakes, forested ridges, and some true Arkansas gems. Let’s roll south from Hot Springs and see why this route deserves a spot on any road tripper’s bucket list.
We kick off our drive in Hot Springs, a city famous for its historic bathhouses and vibrant downtown. Our journey begins at the intersection of Lakeland Drive and Central Avenue—better known locally as Highway 7. Almost immediately, you’ll feel the energy shift from city bustle to vacation mode as we head out of Hot Springs, crossing the Ouachita River and skirting the shoreline of Lake Hamilton. This popular recreational lake is a destination all its own, offering everything from boat rentals and fishing piers to lakeside restaurants and parks. If you have a few extra hours, consider a detour along Lake Hamilton Drive or stop at one of the public accesses for a picnic with a view.
Heading further south, we pass through the community of Lake Hamilton, marked by the intersection with Arkansas Highway 290. This area is dotted with resorts, marinas, and family-friendly attractions, making it a great base for exploring both Hot Springs and the greater Ouachita region. As Highway 7 turns southwest, the scenery starts to change—rolling foothills give way to forested ridges, with tall pines and oaks framing the highway. This section is classic Ouachita Mountain country: expect plenty of twists and turns, a couple of scenic pullouts, and maybe even a glimpse of local wildlife if you’re lucky. The ride is smooth but engaging, especially for those who enjoy driving or riding through curvy mountain terrain.
Approaching Bismarck, you’ll notice the landscape flattening out just a bit as you enter this small town at the intersection with Arkansas Highway 84. Bismarck is a quiet stop with a handful of cafes, convenience stores, and local shops—ideal for grabbing a snack, stretching your legs, or chatting with some friendly Arkansans. As you leave Bismarck behind, Highway 7 continues south toward the highlight of this trip: DeGray Lake State Park.
About six miles south of town, keep an eye out for Small Dike Road. This turnoff leads directly into DeGray Lake State Park, one of Arkansas’s premier outdoor destinations. For this trip, we’ve included the drive down Small Dike Road all the way to the park’s visitors center. The park itself is set along the banks of the sprawling DeGray Lake—a haven for fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and even golfing. The visitors center is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring everything DeGray has to offer, from the swimming beach to the scenic trails that loop through pine forests and lakeside coves.
If you’re a fan of classic road trips, mountain scenery, and lakeside recreation, this segment of Arkansas Highway 7 delivers all the right vibes. Whether you’re passing through, planning a weekend getaway, or looking for your next outdoor adventure, there’s a little something for everyone along this route.
🗺️ Route Map
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