Des Arc (/ˈdɛz.ɑːrk/ DEZ-ark) is a city on the White River in the Arkansas Delta, United States.

Incorporated in 1854, Des Arc's position on the river has shaped its culture, history, and economy, beginning as a major lumber shipping port but leaving the city vulnerable to major floods in 1927 and 1937.

As river shipping declined, Des Arc was bypassed by railroads, Interstate highways, and much of the post-industrial society.

French from Canada and South Louisiana passed through the area while hunting and trapping bears and other animals.

They shipped furs and bear oil downriver to Arkansas Post, which was the only established settlement in the region, then likely onto New Orleans.

[Note 1] Within Prairie County, Des Arc is the northernmost city, located 10–15 miles (16–24 km) north of Hazen, DeValls Bluff, and Fredonia (Biscoe).

Prairie County experiences all four seasons, although summers can be extremely hot and humid and winters are mild with little snow.

Record snowfall in Des Arc occurred January 7, 1912, with 18 inches (46 cm).

[9] As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,905 people, 715 households, and 446 families residing in the city.

The city is home to White River Energetics' factory manufacturing primers for small arms ammunition.

It will be the first single-base smokeless propellant factory built in the United States in a half-century.

[17] Des Arc has seven properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Bethel House, at Erwin and 2nd Streets, designed by architect Charles L.

Also included in the council's duties is balancing the city's budget and passing ordinances.