Hot Springs National Park

Overview

Hot Springs National Park has a rich history and is best known for the 47 hot springs that can be found on Hot Springs Mountain. The temperature of the springs averages about 143° F, and the water is naturally potable due to a natural filtering process. Visitors can use these soothing thermal waters to heal and relax at the two operating bathhouses on the Row or enjoy a drink from the hot springs water fountains where many fill bottles to take home. Today, a thriving city has been built up around the hot springs. Together nicknamed "The American Spa," Hot Springs National Park today surrounds the north end of the city of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

To learn more about the park, visit www.nps.gov.

Local Info

Visitor Centers:

• Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center: Open daily 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25.
• Bathhouse Row Emporium (gift shop and bookstore): Open daily 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25.

Visiting Tips

Hot Springs National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Hot Springs National park is one of the few parks that allows LEASHED pets on the trails and in campgrounds. They are not allowed in any park buildings. Please pick up after your pet; pet waste stations are located in the campground.


Fees & Passes:
There is no entrance fee for the park.

• Purchase an annual pass for all national parks sites, $80

Camping & Lodging

The park operates one campground. Gulpha Gorge Campground has both primitive sites and sites with hookups. Sites are available on a first come, first served basis. More information on camping can be found at the park's website.

There are no lodging options within the park, but visitors can find many options for lodging in the nearby city. More information about lodging can be found at the Hot Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Food & Drink

The park does not operate any restaurants. Instead, head into the town of Hot Springs for a taste of local fare. Choices range from delicious barbecue to fresh Italian-style pizza, with everything available in between.

Other Activities

Take in the waters in private baths at Buckstaff Baths or soak in public pools at the Quapaw Baths and Spa. While there are not "natural" hot springs in the park, these two attractions provide excellent places to take a dip in Hot Springs' namesake waters. Once done exploring the park, those looking for other activities in the area can check out the mountain biking and rock climbing at nearby Lake Ouachita.

Maps & Guidebooks

To download a free brochure to help plan your visit, click here.