Ross Rhodes Reservation

Hello, fellow Arkansans! Are you searching for a unique outdoor venue for your next group gathering, youth camp, or family reunion? Look no further than Ross Rhodes Reservation in Bismarck, AR. This expansive property, with its rich history and prime location on the shores of beautiful DeGray Lake, offers a versatile setting for a variety of outdoor purposes. While it carries the legacy of past uses, particularly within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) community, it continues to serve as a valuable resource for group-oriented outdoor experiences in our state.

As locals, we appreciate spaces that can accommodate larger gatherings and provide diverse amenities for outdoor activities. Ross Rhodes Reservation, managed by the Quapaw Area Council of BSA, fits this need perfectly. It's a place where memories have been made for generations, and with ongoing efforts towards improvement, it remains a viable option for those seeking a dedicated space for their group's next adventure. Whether your purpose is organized youth activities, a large family camping trip, or an outdoor event, this reservation offers a unique combination of facilities and natural beauty.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about Ross Rhodes Reservation. We'll cover its precise location and how easily accessible it is within our state, outline the various services and facilities it offers, highlight its key features (including its historical context), and provide crucial contact information. Most importantly, we'll explain why this place, despite its acknowledged need for continued investment, is particularly suitable for Arkansans looking for a dedicated and functional space for group-focused outdoor activities.

Customer reviews provide insight into the nature of the reservation. One visitor notes, "Perfect for our purposes. RV pads (but we were using tents), a decent bathroom facility, and a boat ramp for lake access. We also had a nice bonfire area, and a covered pavilion with tables for meals." This highlights its core strengths for group use. Another review acknowledges the "ghosts of the past" and the need for significant financial investment to "bring up the facilities to date," but also recognizes that "they are making smaller improvements at time." This suggests a commitment to enhancing the property, even if it's a gradual process. The recognition of "lots of good memories" further underscores its historical significance to the local community.

The allure of Ross Rhodes Reservation lies in its established infrastructure for groups and its direct access to the recreational opportunities of DeGray Lake. It’s a place designed to facilitate large-scale outdoor activities, offering more than just individual campsites. Its past as a BSA camp means it has spaces and facilities geared towards organized programming, which can be a significant advantage for various local organizations and large family gatherings.

So, if you're an Arkansas local planning a group outdoor event, a youth camp, or a large family gathering, continue reading to discover why Ross Rhodes Reservation, with its rich history and ongoing improvements, could be the perfect location for your next memorable occasion in the Natural State.

Location and Accessibility

Ross Rhodes Reservation is situated at 987 Chestnut Dr, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA. This places it in the scenic Hot Spring County of Arkansas, directly on the shores of the popular DeGray Lake. Bismarck is a small town, offering a tranquil setting while still being relatively accessible from various parts of the state.

For Arkansans, the campground's location on DeGray Lake is a significant advantage. DeGray Lake is one of the state's "Diamond Lakes," known for its clear waters and diverse recreational activities, and it is easily accessed via State Highway 7, which connects directly to Interstate 30. From Little Rock, the drive is typically around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes south on I-30, followed by a short drive on local roads. From Hot Springs, it's an even closer drive, usually within 30-40 minutes. Texarkana residents can reach it in about an hour and a half.

The address on Chestnut Drive suggests it is located within a more established area or perhaps a dedicated access road leading to the reservation, ensuring a degree of privacy and a natural setting. The presence of a "boat ramp for lake access" directly on-site highlights its prime waterfront location and ease of engaging in water-based activities on DeGray Lake.

While the reviews don't detail road conditions, given its function as a large group facility, access roads are likely maintained to accommodate various vehicles, including those towing RVs. Its historical association with the BSA suggests an infrastructure designed for regular use by groups. The proximity to Bismarck means that basic supplies and services are within a reasonable driving distance, balancing the secluded feel with practical needs.

Services Offered

• RV Pads: The reservation offers designated RV pads, providing a stable surface for parking recreational vehicles.
• Tent Camping Areas: While RV pads are available, the property is also suitable for tent camping, accommodating various preferences.
• Boat Ramp for Lake Access: A significant service is the on-site boat ramp, providing convenient direct access to DeGray Lake for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
• Bathroom Facilities: Decent bathroom facilities are available on-site. While the specifics of hot water or lighting were questioned in one review, the presence of these facilities is a key service for campers and guests.
• Covered Pavilion with Tables: A covered pavilion with tables is available, which is ideal for group meals, activities, or shelter during inclement weather.
• Bonfire Area: A dedicated bonfire area is present, perfect for communal campfires and evening gatherings.
• Group-Oriented Facilities: Given its history and association with the BSA Quapaw Area Council, the reservation likely offers additional facilities geared towards large groups, such as open spaces for activities, potential programming areas, or meeting spaces.
• Versatile Use: The property serves multiple purposes, accommodating youth camps, general group events, and potentially family reunions, indicating a flexible approach to its services.

Features / Highlights

• Lakeside Location on DeGray Lake: A primary highlight is its direct access to DeGray Lake, offering a beautiful setting and opportunities for water-based recreation.
• Versatile Lodging/Camping Options: Offers both RV pads and tent camping areas, catering to different preferences for overnight stays. This flexibility is a significant asset for groups with varied needs.
• Group-Friendly Infrastructure: The presence of a covered pavilion with tables and a bonfire area specifically caters to group activities, making it an excellent venue for organized events, youth camps, and large family gatherings.
• Dedicated Boat Access: An on-site boat ramp provides convenient and immediate access to DeGray Lake, a major advantage for those interested in boating or fishing.
• Historical Significance: The property has a rich past, particularly in its association with the Boy Scouts of America, which may appeal to groups or individuals with connections to the organization or an interest in its legacy.
• Ongoing Improvements: Despite acknowledging areas needing renovation, the management is reportedly making "smaller improvements at time," indicating a commitment to enhancing the facilities over time.
• Natural Beauty and Serenity: Being on a lake and within a natural setting provides a peaceful and scenic environment for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
• Space for Activities: The expansive nature of a "reservation" implies ample open space for various outdoor games, team-building activities, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Contact Information

Address: 987 Chestnut Dr, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA

Phone: (501) 539-3729

Mobile Phone: +1 501-539-3729

For specific inquiries regarding facility availability, booking for groups, rates, or any current operational details, it is highly recommended to contact Ross Rhodes Reservation directly using the provided phone numbers, or to reach out to the Quapaw Area Council of BSA as they manage the property.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Arkansans, particularly those involved in youth organizations, community groups, or planning large family gatherings, Ross Rhodes Reservation in Bismarck offers a uniquely suitable and valuable resource. It embodies the spirit of group-focused outdoor recreation within the beautiful confines of our state.

Firstly, its primary suitability lies in its infrastructure designed for groups. Unlike many individual campsites, Ross Rhodes provides RV pads, tent areas, a covered pavilion with tables, and a dedicated bonfire area—all critical components for facilitating organized activities, communal meals, and evening programs. This makes it an ideal choice for scout troops, church groups, school trips, or large family reunions looking for a functional and spacious outdoor venue without having to piece together various elements.

Secondly, its prime location on DeGray Lake is a significant asset for our local community. Arkansans cherish our state's lakes for recreation, and direct access via an on-site boat ramp opens up opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming that are highly valued. This natural setting provides a picturesque backdrop for group activities and allows participants to fully engage with Arkansas's stunning aquatic environment.

While acknowledging that the facility "has seen better days" and requires "money needed to be spent to bring up the facilities to date," the fact that "they are making smaller improvements at time" shows a commitment to its future. For locals, this means investing in a place that serves our community, and by utilizing it, we contribute to its ongoing revitalization. Its rich history, especially within the BSA, adds a nostalgic and meaningful layer for many Arkansans who may have personal connections to the site.

Finally, its accessible location from various parts of Arkansas makes it a practical choice for group events, reducing travel burdens for participants. Ross Rhodes Reservation offers a dedicated and evolving space for locals to gather, connect with nature, and continue making "lots of good memories" in the heart of the Natural State. It's a testament to the enduring value of communal outdoor spaces in Arkansas.