Entire home

Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect

Photo gallery for Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect

A wooden deck with two chairs and a table, a welcome sign, and a lattice fence.
A rustic wooden building with a star on the roof, a front door, and a small porch with a lattice railing.
A living room with two couches, a coffee table, and a ceiling fan. There are two lamps on side tables, a vase with flowers, and a patterned rug on the floor.
A living room with a red leather sofa, a glass-top coffee table, and a patterned rug.
A living room with a glass coffee table, a brown leather sofa, and a patterned rug.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade and game room.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 11

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Royal, AR
  • Place, Lake Hamilton
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Hot Springs National Park
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Magic Springs and Crystal Falls
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hot Springs, AR (HOT-Memorial Field)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 11)

1) Primary

1 Single Bed and 1 King Bed

2) Front Bedroom

1 Double Bed

3) Kids Middle Bedroom

1 Single Bunk Bed and 2 Single Beds

Lower Card Room

1 Double Futon

3 bathrooms

1) Primary en suite

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

2) Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

3) Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect

Tucked beneath the shade of a sprawling old tree and just moments from the water, this thoughtfully updated retreat was designed for families to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy time together again.
With plenty of room to comfortably sleep up to 11 guests, this home is perfect for family vacations, fishing weekends, reunions, tournament getaways, or simply escaping the nonstop pace of everyday life.
Outside, the spacious yard invites everyone to unplug and enjoy the simple things again. Kids can run and play beneath the trees, challenge each other to badminton, or shoot hoops old-school style in the yard while grandparents relax nearby. As evening settles in, the stocked fishing pond becomes the heart of the property, where stories are shared, fish are caught, and sunsets reflect across the water.
Inside, the home combines warmth, comfort, and thoughtful details throughout. Guests enjoy strong Wi-Fi, smart TVs with Alexa integration, spacious sleeping arrangements, and inviting gathering spaces designed to make everyone feel at home.
The primary suite offers its own private retreat after a day on the lake or exploring Hot Springs. Relax in the whirlpool soaking tub tucked into a quiet alcove, dim the lights, and let the day melt away. The steam shower creates a spa-like experience perfect for eucalyptus or lavender oils and a little well-earned stillness.
This home also holds a special place in the owner’s story.
It was the very first property JB personally renovated and transformed into a guest retreat. What began as a modest home slowly became something much more through years of hands-on care, thoughtful updates, and attention to the little details that make a stay memorable. From relaxing spa features to unexpected comforts like heated bathroom touches, every addition was made with guests in mind.
JB believes vacations represent something valuable: hard-earned time, meaningful moments, and the rare opportunity to step away from busy schedules and reconnect with the people who matter most.
That belief shapes every stay here.
Because your time away should feel worth every moment.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
With non-refundable pet fee & host approval.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Events allowed only with prior approval. Additional event fees, parking limits, and house rules apply.
Pet deposit fee of $99 non-refundable applies. No glitter, silly string, paints, candles, or fireworks inside or out. Quiet hours from 11pm- 6am.
Weight limit for top bunk bed is 150lbs Missing or Damaged items that are the direct result of the guests will incur a fee.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2536701vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 40
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Royal

Located in Royal, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a lake. Bathhouse Row is a notable landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Ouachita National Forest and Hot Springs National Park. Travelling with kids? Make time for Magic Springs and Crystal Falls, or head to an event or a match at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
Map
Royal, AR

What's nearby

  • Lake Hamilton - 2 min drive - 1.5 km
  • Hot Springs National Park - 12 min drive - 14.1 km
  • Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort - 18 min drive - 19.9 km
  • Magic Springs and Crystal Falls - 22 min drive - 24.8 km
  • Lake Catherine State Park - 28 min drive - 41.1 km

Getting around

  • Hot Springs, AR (HOT-Memorial Field) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Canasta Club - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Wards Crawfish Hole - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Mama's Little Italy - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect?

As of 2 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect on 14 Oct 2026 start from AU$1,066, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Old Bear Family Lodge ~ Fishing Pond ~ Spa Bath ~ Where Families Reconnect located?

This family-friendly Royal holiday home is located on a lake, within a 15-minute walk of Ouachita National Forest and Lake Hamilton. Cathy's Quiltin Square and Extreme Fun Spot are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 36 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Angela R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I was late getting my code to get in and the hide a bed in the game room was worn out, but everything else was wonderful. Would stay here again
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tonya M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Could use a few more cooking supplies but we managed with what we had or went and bought more and left for next guest . The beds were very comfortable . A very relaxing stay for our time there . We will be back for this was our second stay .
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Apr 2026
Thank you for taking Great care of our home and the lovely note! We have ordered more Badminton Birdies JB
Verified review

8/10 Good

Hope D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The stay was nice . We needed a place to stay and go to Lake Ouachita daily on our trip . I told my husband that it stated that there was a pull through for our boat/trailer but there is a volleyball net in the pull through, although it worked out okay. Thankful we rented a slip at Safe Harbor to keep the boat in a slip. Wish the oven had a second shelf, it would have made cooking a lot quicker. There was plenty of room and the beds were comfortable. A small sauce pan was the biggest pan besides a big pot. Was thankful there was aluminum foil there, the baking sheets were rusted . If we come back for a stay I would come back .
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kelsey L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very welcoming host, great affordable option for a large group
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jammie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very good about answering questions when needed and I’m a good timing.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice layout for privacy and plenty of room for parking a boat trailer.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mary Jo W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Get Away

This was a great house for us! It had plenty of room on the inside and great outdoor spaces for the kids to play. I liked that it was a bit out of town but not to far away.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 July 2025
Great Guest Loved hosting you, please tell your friend about us on Face book and other social media. Plan your next family class reunion or wedding/renewal of vowels at our resort on the Lake Hamilton where we have 20 cabins on the lake that will seep 120 people and we have a converted barn into a club house where you can have your parties, see us at hotspringsgetaways.com for more info. JB
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The property was well maintained and in a quiet area but close enough to the city. My family enjoyed it very much and plan on staying there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

isaac d.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication, listing accuracy
Ive stayed in many VRBOs before and never left a bad review but this one was just horrible. Our first night there we started to realize just how bad, the sheets on the one bed were not washed, still had a hairball and dirt in it, our bathroom floor had a hairball and dirt, the toilet in the master toilet had pee, one of the other bathrooms had poop smeared under bowl, the bathroom in the main living area, does not drain fast so if you take a shower your standing in 6 inches of water. The last bathroom has a door to the outside and a gap all around the door large enough for bugs to enter and so on top of everything there's lots of, ants, crickets, roaches etc! in one of the bedrooms the hot water heater closet was gaping open even though it was obviously supposed to be locked, and there was a black mold in there! Couch blanket smelled like dog.We brought up our concerns with the property manager and she responded that she WAS coming by to look at everything, didn't give us the option, even though we were running out the door to a rehearsal dinner and asked her to not come at that moment so we wouldn't be late. Showed up and walked all through the house we're currently LIVING in, made excuses that there are bugs and mold just because it's "Arkansas", and that its our fault because we didn't DM her about it fast enough, as if that matters, it should have been clean We asked to be refunded at the LEAST our cleaning fee, but only got a PORTION of the fee refunded.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brandi C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

Great place to stay. House was amazing and has plenty of room for all of us. Was located not far from town and not far from downtown Hot Springs. Neighborhood was quiet. Beds were super comfortable. Will definitely rent again if we come back to hot springs!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2025
Great Guest Loved hosting you, please tell your friend about us on Face book and other social media. Plan your next family class reunion or wedding/renewal of vowels at our resort on the Lake Hamilton where we have 20 cabins on the lake that will seep 120 people and we have a converted barn into a club house where you can have your parties, see us at hotspringsgetaways for more info. JB
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Daphanie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A piece of paradise

This is a beautiful home and very accommodating. Host responded very quickly and stayed in touch. I sighs love to start here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 July 2025
Great Guest Loved hosting you, please tell your friend about us on Face book and other social media. Plan your next family class reunion or wedding/renewal of vowels at our resort on the Lake Hamilton where we have 20 cabins on the lake that will seep 120 people and we have a converted barn into a club house where you can have your parties, see us at hotspringsgetaways.com for more info. JB
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alissha W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Convenient location with a quiet neighborhood. Very clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Mar 2024
Thank you. We look forward to hosting you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Richard W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everything was great.

We had a 3 day weekend and the host gave ideals. We had a great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2024
Thanks for the great review Richard!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alisha H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Would stay again

We thought this place was super cute. We want to pick it up and take it to our area and live in it! Clean, had everything you needed, extra things to do outside, convenient location, and just good energy all around. Great communication with owner. 10/10!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Christy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home

We came down for our yearly family vacation and had an amazing time. The house is a close drive to Hot Springs and to the surrounding lakes. There are also numerous hidden water fall locations all around this house so we were able to keep the adults, teen, and small children busy all week. The owner was so helpful and assisted us with anything we needed. We would absolutely rent here again and would 100% recommend this home!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

J D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was super comfortable for us. I really liked the many things to do outside such as horseshoes, basketball, etc. I really wished we’d brought our fishing poles but hopefully we can stay there again sometime. This place was very clean and had a lot of room for us. We were very satisfied!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tammy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Trip

The house was very spacious with plenty of sleeping space. Love the fact that there were 3 bathrooms so we didn’t have to fight for time in the shower. There were indoor and outdoor games for the family to enjoy. Host responded quickly and providing help with anything needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Andrew T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

Had a great time. Communication was great.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing country stay

Wonderfully equipped house and a beautiful setting perfect for families. The rooms were large and spacious and well furnished. Kitchen was well-equipped. There were ample games and equipment for the family to play. There’s a large deck on the back overlooking a pond and woods. It’s just beautiful. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 July 2025
Great Guest Loved hosting you, please tell your friend about us on Face book and other social media. Plan your next family class reunion or wedding/renewal of vows at our resort on the Lake Hamilton where we have 20 cabins on the lake that will seep 120 people and we have a converted barn into a club house where you can have your parties, see us at hotspringsgetaways.com for more info. JB
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tonya S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Setup was good ... Did not have a pet
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice comfortable house. Everyone loved the beds! Its so pretty in the back with the pond and the treeline. We did see some turkey and a bob cat wandered on the back porch which was neat. I also saw an eagle soaring in the sky. The kitchen was well stocked with everything needed. We loved all the space outside, there was plenty to do to keep my son happy. He fished the pond, and although he didnt catch anything, he did say he saw a 10 lb bass. The couches were also super comfy. The host is very friendly and accommodating. We for sure would stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Sue C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fishing tournament

Close to where the boys were in the fishing tournament.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Leo R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome

Very relaxing. The wife really loved the steam shower.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2024
Thanks so much! We appreciate the 5 stars and hope you can visit us again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hot Springs/Crater of diamonds getaway

Large property in the country. Quiet neighborhood. Great location about 10 minutes from Hot Springs. Easy to get to. Clean well kept property. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2024
Thank you Michael for the five star review. We appreciate your 5 star review. Please come back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring break getaway

This is a great place. The bunk room for the kids was perfect. The fishing was so fun. If i had to complain about anything is that the outdoor furniture was not clean especially the table on the back porch. Of course we had a broken oven but they got there as soon as they could
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2025
Great Guest Loved hosting you, please tell your friend about us on Face book and other social media. Plan your next family class reunion or wedding/renewal of vowels at our resort on the Lake Hamilton where we have 20 cabins on the lake that will seep 120 people and we have a converted barn into a club house where you can have your parties, see us at hotspringsgetaways for more info. JB

About the host

Hosted by Rebecca Norris

Host profile image
I am a longtime local business owner, real estate investor, and passionate traveler whose love for hospitality was shaped through years of exploring the world. From scuba diving in exotic waters to discovering hidden destinations and unforgettable conversations across continents, I developed a deep appreciation for experiences that feel both inspiring and personal.
I am a devoted ballroom dancer with a special love for Argentine tango, I understand the beauty of atmosphere, connection, and intention. Every property I've created reflects that same spirit, welcoming, elevated, and thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind.
I believe vacation time is sacred. Guests are not simply booking a place to stay; they are investing their time, trust, and memories into an experience. That belief influences every detail, from the amenities chosen to the feeling guests have the moment they walk through the door.
For me, true hospitality is simple:
treat people exceptionally well, create spaces worth remembering, and make every stay feel like it mattered.

Why they chose this property

I chose this area because it offers the perfect balance of peaceful country living and convenient access to everything guests want to experience in Hot Springs. Located in Royal, AR, near Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita, the property gives families room to relax, reconnect, and enjoy nature while still being just a short drive from restaurants, grocery stores, marinas, shopping, Oaklawn, downtown Hot Springs, Bathhouse Row, and Magic Springs.
What I love most about this area is the slower pace, the beautiful trees and water nearby, and the feeling you can truly unwind here after a busy season of life. Whether guest spend the day fishing, boating, exploring the lakes, or simply enjoying time together at the house, the location makes it easy to enjoy both adventure and rest.
This was also the very first home I personally renovated for guests, so it holds a special place in my heart. This is a space where people feel comfortable, welcomed, and cared for from the moment they arrive.

What makes this property unique

Unlike many rentals, this home was not designed simply as an investment property. It was personally renovated and thoughtfully expanded by the owner with comfort, relaxation, and meaningful family time in mind. From the steam shower and whirlpool tub to the fishing pond and spacious yard, the property blends practical comfort with the kind of atmosphere that encourages guests to truly unwind and enjoy being together.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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