BISMARCK, Ark. (KTHV) — With Spring Break just around the corner, flooding could be an issue for some vacationers. Several campgrounds and boat ramps are closed, along with Arkansas's only resort state park.
According to Park Ranger Brad Depriest, all facilities but the visitor center at DeGray Lake Resort State Park closed after record rain in February caused DeGray Lake to rise about 20 feet
"We've never seen it this high," Depriest said.
On Friday, part of the park's golf course reopened, but all other facilities, including the 96-room lodge, campground and marina, remained closed.
As of Friday, water still covered the only road leading to the lodge. Depriest said the water is receding by several inches each day.
"The lake is doing what it was built to do," Depriest said. "It was built for flood control to protect all of the communities downstream along the Caddo and Ouachita rivers."
While the park experienced no structural damage, he said it could take some time to restore utilities to park facilities.
"We're taking it week-by-week," Depriest said. "And we sure hope to be open, or partially open, by spring break week."
In addition to the state park, boat ramps and campgrounds operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers were impacted by flooding. While many remain closed, a spokesperson said some have reopened.
Visitors to Corps of Engineers campsites and boat ramps are urged to call ahead. Boaters are also encouraged to exercise caution in the high water, watching out for debris and other hazards.
