Arkansas Highway 84 offers a short but scenic glimpse into the heart of Hot Spring County as it stretches east from the small town of Bismarck to the rural community of De Roche. This 8-mile segment is one of those lesser-known state highways that still captures the peaceful charm of Arkansas’ backcountry. Starting at the junction with Arkansas Highway 7 in Bismarck, the route immediately sets a relaxed tone, inviting drivers to slow down and enjoy the drive.
As we leave Bismarck behind, AR-84 cuts through a varied landscape of piney woods, open farmland, and the occasional cluster of homes or outbuildings. It’s a pleasant mix, one that’s easy on the eyes and gives you a real feel for the quiet rhythm of life out here. The land is gently rolling in this area, so you’ll find yourself easing up and down small hills, with views that open up between the trees. During spring and early summer, the roadside is often speckled with wildflowers, and the fields to the south glow golden with hay and grasses. This part of the highway doesn’t see a lot of heavy traffic, making it a nice, low-stress drive.
About halfway through the route, there aren’t any large towns, but you might spot local landmarks like small churches, family farms, and roadside stands depending on the season. These subtle touches highlight the character of rural Arkansas — it’s not flashy, but it’s authentic. Eventually, the road bends slightly as it reaches the outskirts of De Roche. Here, AR-84 intersects Arkansas Highway 128 twice — once heading south, and then again heading north just a short stretch later. It’s at this second junction that this segment of Highway 84 officially ends, though the road continues on northeastward toward Friendship and eventually I-30.
While this drive may only span eight miles, it offers a relaxed and pleasant route through part of central Arkansas that many travelers overlook. If you’re already in the area visiting Lake DeGray or cruising down AR-7, it’s worth taking the detour east to De Roche just for a change of pace. There are no major attractions along the way, but that’s part of the appeal — it’s a simple, rural road that showcases a quieter side of the Natural State.
🗺️ Route Map
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