Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas, nestled in the Ouachita Mountains. It is renowned for its thermal springs, making it the first federally protected area in the US history. Established on April 20, 1832, it covers an area of 5,550 acres.

The park's main attraction is its hot springs, which have been drawing visitors for centuries. These thermal waters, with temperatures reaching up to 143 degrees Fahrenheit, are believed to have healing properties. People can still experience the historic bathhouses that once catered to those seeking rejuvenation in the early 20th century. The Fordyce Bathhouse, now converted into a visitor center, offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of the bathhouse era.

The park also boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails, offering visitors ample opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The Sunset Trail provides stunning panoramic vistas, while the Gulpha Gorge Trail leads to a picturesque waterfall. Birdwatchers can delight in the park's diverse avian population, which includes rare species such as the red-headed woodpecker and the summer tanager.

In addition to its natural wonders, Hot Springs also offers a wealth of historical sites and attractions. The nearby Bathhouse Row district is a part of the city of Hot Springs, featuring a collection of historic bathhouses along with art galleries, gift shops, and restaurants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic buildings to learn about the rich history of the area.

A visit to Hot Springs National Park is not complete without exploring the vibrant downtown area, where visitors can soak up its charming atmosphere and enjoy its museums, boutiques, and eateries. The Gangster Museum of America recounts the city's connection to organized crime during the 1920s and 1930s, while the Mid-America Science Museum offers interactive exhibits for the whole family.

Overall, Hot Springs National Park is a unique destination that seamlessly combines history, nature, and relaxation. Whether you are interested in discovering the healing thermal waters, hiking through the scenic trails, or exploring the downtown area, this national park offers a diverse array of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.

Hot Springs National Park is nestled in the heart of Arkansas, surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains. This stunning 5,500-acre park is located in the central region of the state, approximately 55 miles southwest of Little Rock. Its unique geographical location is characterized by its proximity to the Ouachita River, which flows through the region, offering a breathtaking view of cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. The park is renowned for its natural thermal springs, making it a remarkable destination for visitors who can soak in the healing mineral-rich waters. The surrounding landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and abundant wildlife further enhances the park's natural charm.

Address & Contact

369 Central Avenue
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Driving Directions
Phone: 5016206715
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Hot Springs National Park would be from January to March. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 52°F to 66°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is between 3.4 in to 6.1 in, ensuring a lower chance of rainfall. These months also have moderate visitor counts. This allows for a more enjoyable experience, avoiding large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Hot Springs National Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Biking Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Fishing Auto and ATV Scenic Driving RV Camping Dining

Topics

Learn about these topics at Hot Springs National Park: Animals Birds Geology Groundwater Freshwater Springs Architecture and Building Archeology Arts Native American Heritage Tragic Events Floods Tortoises and Turtles Trails Explorers and Expeditions Watersheds Photography Science, Technology and Innovation Forests and Woodlands Mountains Scenic Views Deciduous Forests Coniferous Forests Geothermal Hot Springs Mineral Deposits Medicine Urban America Landscape Design Catastrophic Fires

Visitor Centers

Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and Museum

The Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and Museum is a restored historic bathhouse with exhibits and interpretive films. Park staff is on-site to offer visitor information and public programming.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and Museum.

Campsites within or near Hot Springs National Park

Gulpha Gorge Campground

Camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground costs $34 per night for all sites. All sites have full hookups: 30 and 50 amp electric, water and sewer connections. Sites are not pull-through. Each campsite has a picnic table, pedestal grill, and water. Camping in Gulpha Gorge Campground is limited to a total of 14 consecutive days and a cumulative total of 30 days in any calendar year. Each 14 day consecutive stay must be followed by a minimum of a 7 day break.
Fees (US$): 34.00 (All Camp Sites)
Total Campsites: 40
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Hotels within or near Hot Springs National Park

Park Hotel of Hot Springs

When you a stay at Park Hotel of Hot Springs in Hot Springs, you'll be in the historical district, within a 5-minute walk of Hot Springs National Park and Hot Springs Wax Museum. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 211 Fountain Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

The Hotel Hot Springs

With a stay at The Hotel Hot Springs in Hot Springs, you'll be a 5-minute walk from Hot Springs Convention Center and 6 minutes by foot from Bank of the Ozarks Arena. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and ATM/banking services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 305 Malvern Avenue, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

Embassy Suites by Hilton Hot Springs Hotel & Spa

A stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Hot Springs Hotel & Spa places you in the heart of Hot Springs, steps from Bank of the Ozarks Arena and Hot Springs Convention Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 400 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

Economy Inn

Located in Hot Springs, Economy Inn is within a 15-minute walk of Bank of the Ozarks Arena and Hot Springs Convention Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 805 East Grand Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

All Seasons Lodge

When you stay at All Seasons Lodge in Hot Springs, you'll be in the historical district, just steps from T-Rex Fun Spot and 13 minutes by foot from Bathhouse Row. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1127 Central Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

The Happy Hollow

With a stay at The Happy Hollow in Hot Springs, you'll be in a national park, just a 1-minute walk from Hot Springs National Park and 5 minutes by foot from Hot Springs Wax Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 231 Fountain Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

The Gables Inn Bed & Breakfast

With a stay at The Gables Inn Bed & Breakfast in Hot Springs, you'll be in the historical district, within a 10-minute walk of Hot Springs National Park and Bathhouse Row. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 318 Quapaw Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa

When you a stay at Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa in Hot Springs, you'll be on the Strip, just steps from Hot Springs Wax Museum and Hot Springs National Park Aquarium. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests may use a roundtrip airport shuttle for a surcharge, and self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 239 Central Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

A stay at The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton places you in the heart of Hot Springs, steps from Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center and Bathhouse Row. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and a safe deposit box at the front desk.
Address: 340 Central Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link

1890 Williams House Inn

With a stay at 1890 Williams House Inn in Hot Springs, you'll be a 5-minute walk from Levi Hospital and 6 minutes by foot from T-Rex Fun Spot. Featured amenities include laundry facilities and a library.
Address: 420 Quapaw Avenue, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Web: Link