Hot Springs National Park, located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is one of the oldest protected areas in the U.S. national park system. It combines historic bathhouses, thermal springs, forested hills, and an easy-to-visit downtown setting.
The park’s most famous feature is its naturally heated thermal water, which emerges from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain. Visitors cannot soak outdoors in the springs, but they can experience the water at historic Bathhouse Row businesses.
In addition to the hot springs experience, the park’s Bathhouse Row and extensive hiking trails make it a perfect haven for nature enthusiasts, as well as history and culture lovers.
- Tickets: Free
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. The park’s visitor center operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the best seasons. Winter also offers a peaceful hot spring bath experience.
- Major Attractions: Natural Hot Springs, Historic Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs Mountain, Forests, and Mountains
- Main Activities: Hot spring baths, hiking, historical site visits, observation towers, wildlife watching
- Nearby Airports: Little Rock (LIT), Memphis (MEM)
- Note: The summer months see higher tourist traffic, so be sure to book your accommodation and hot spring baths in advance. The hot spring water can be quite hot.
- Google Maps: Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center
- Paper maps: Download
- NPS official website: Hot Springs National Park
Recommended Travel Credit Cards:
Table of Contents
Hot Springs National Park Weather
Located in Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park experiences a typical subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons.
The weather varies throughout the year, but overall, it remains mild, making it a great year-round destination.
Winter: The temperatures range from a low of 0°C (32°F) to a high of 12°C (54°F). This cool weather is perfect for enjoying the hot springs and exploring the historical sites.
Spring: With temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F), spring offers pleasant warmth, making it ideal for hiking and soaking in the hot springs.
Summer: Summer temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 35°C (95°F). This hot weather is perfect for hot spring baths, swimming, and stargazing at night.
Autumn: Autumn sees temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), providing a comfortable climate for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the hot springs. The fall foliage adds vibrant colors, making it a great time to appreciate the park’s natural beauty.
Hot Springs National Park Transportation
Nearby Airports
There are two major airports near Hot Springs National Park:
Little Rock Airport (LIT): Located about 55 miles away, it takes about 1 hour to drive to the park.
Memphis Airport (MEM): About 180 miles (approximately 290 kilometers) away, a 3-hour drive by car.
Transportation within the Park
Hot Springs National Park is easily accessible by car from both Little Rock and Memphis airports.
Driving is the most convenient way to explore the park’s main attractions. There are many parking areas within the park, especially near Bathhouse Row.
Little Rock is approximately 80 kilometers (about 1 hour drive) from Hot Springs.
Memphis is about 280 kilometers (roughly 2.5 hours drive) from Hot Springs.
Hot Springs National Park Accommodations
Hot Springs National Park is conveniently located near the city, offering a wide range of accommodation options.
These can be divided into two main categories: hotels around the park and camping within the park.
Hotels Around the Park
If you are a
Courtyard Hot Springs
Located near downtown Hot Springs, this hotel is surrounded by several dining options, such as Texas Roadhouse and Chick-fil-A. It offers free parking and features a pool and gym.
TownePlace Suites Hot Springs
This hotel provides a stovetop and kitchenware, allowing you to prepare simple meals in your room. The accommodations are spacious, and a complimentary breakfast service is available.
Some other notable hotels are listed below:
The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa
One of Hot Springs’ most historic hotels, built in 1924, The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa is centrally located with an on-site spa, just steps away from Bathhouse Row.
Embassy Suites Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
Embassy Suites offers a hot tub and a full-service spa, perfect for relaxation.
Lookout Point Lakeside Inn
Located on Hot Springs Lake, this inn features a private lakeside deck with stunning views of the surrounding nature. It also offers a hot tub and massage services.
Camping in the Park
Gulpha Gorge Campground is the only campground within Hot Springs National Park, conveniently located near the Gulpha Gorge Trail.
- Address: Gulpha Gorge Campground, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, 71901, USA
- To Book: Reserve at Recreation.gov
- Price: $34 per night
The campground offers access to the beautiful forest, mountains, and streams along the Gulpha Gorge Trail.
Amenities Include:
- Full hookups (30 amp and 50 amp electricity)
- Clean water and sewage disposal
- Picnic tables and grills at each site
It is important to note that campers are limited to a 14-day consecutive stay and a total of 30 days per year.
A map of the campground is provided below:
Restaurants in Hot Springs
Since Hot Springs National Park is conveniently located near downtown, there are plenty of dining options available to satisfy all tastes, from casual eateries to fine dining.
For Breakfast and Lunch:
- The Pancake Shop: Known for its delicious pancakes and classic breakfast options, perfect for a hearty start to your day.
- Chick-fil-A: A popular fast food chain offering tasty chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and salads.
For Dinner:
- Texas Roadhouse: A quintessential American barbecue restaurant serving hearty portions of grilled meats and sides.
- Rolando’s Restaurante: A Mexican restaurant offering flavorful dishes with vibrant spices and authentic flavors.
- The Fisherman’s Wharf: A seafood restaurant where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood while taking in beautiful lake views.
- Bella Roma Italian Restaurant: A cozy spot for pizza and pasta, offering a wide range of classic Italian dishes.
- Porterhouse Grill: A steakhouse that also specializes in barbecue, perfect for meat lovers.
Hot Springs National Park Attractions
Hot Springs National Park is a unique destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.
Below, we highlight some of the key attractions and their locations:
- Area A (Bathhouse Row): Located along Central Avenue, this is the core area of the park. Bathhouse Row is home to eight historic buildings, each with its unique style and history. These buildings are labeled #1 through #8 in the following map.
- B (Hot Springs Visitor Center): This center is separate from the National Park’s Visitor Center. It provides information about Hot Springs City, including attractions and activities beyond the park’s boundaries. The National Park Visitor Center is located in Area A, at location #5, and will be described in more detail later.
- C (Hot Springs Mountain Tower): A must-see attraction, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower stands at 66 meters high. The observation tower offers expansive, panoramic views of the park, Hot Springs city, and the surrounding forests and mountains.
In addition, the map shows the locations of three Trail Zones, which house the park’s main hiking trails.
These areas provide a great opportunity for nature lovers and hikers to explore and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Visiting the Visitor Centers
There are two visitor centers located near Bathhouse Row, both situated on Central Avenue:
- Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center (Located at #5 in Area A above)
- Hot Springs City Visitor Center (Located in Picture B above)
| Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center | Hot Springs City Visitor Center | |
|---|---|---|
| Addresses | 369 Central Avenue. Hot Springs, AR 71901 | 629 Central Avenue. Hot Springs, AR 71901 |
| Opening Hours | Daily 5 AM -10 PM | Daily 9 AM – 5 PM |
Services | Provides information on the history, natural landscape, and hot spring culture in the park | Provides travel information about downtown Hot Springs and the surrounding area |
| Websites | www.nps.gov/hosp/learn/historyculture/fordyce-bathhouse.htm | www.hotsprings.org/explore/visitors-center |
Hot Springs City Visitor Center
The Hot Springs City Visitor Center provides a wealth of information for tourists visiting downtown Hot Springs, including recommendations for dining, lodging, activities, and entertainment.
It also offers directions to attractions beyond Hot Springs National Park, such as shopping areas and other local activities.
Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center
The Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center is located inside the Fordyce Bathhouse, one of the most impressive buildings on Bathhouse Row.
Built in 1915, the building has been beautifully restored and still retains many of its original decorations, providing a glimpse into the luxurious atmosphere of early 20th-century hot spring bathhouses.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits that cover the park’s history, the culture surrounding the hot springs, hiking trails, and other natural attractions. The Visitor Center also offers maps and guided tours to help you navigate the park.
Additionally, the Visitor Center hosts free walking tours where visitors can learn about the historical significance of the park, the health benefits of the hot spring water, and the stunning natural beauty that the park has to offer. T
he Onsen Museum, located within the Visitor Center, provides further insight into the region’s hot spring culture.
Visiting Historic Buildings
Bathhouse Row is the heart of Hot Springs National Park, brimming with history and showcasing the unique charms of the area’s hot spring culture.
As the symbol of this retreat, Bathhouse Row continues to attract a large number of visitors today.
There are eight bathhouses along Bathhouse Row, each with its distinct architectural style, history, and purpose. Below are the individual bathhouses on Bathhouse Row:
These eight bathhouses are arranged in order along Bathhouse Row, and visitors can tour them one by one as they walk along Central Ave.
Some of these historic bathhouses still offer spa treatments, while others have been converted into gift shops, breweries, or museums.
Lamar Bathhouse
Lamar Bathhouse now serves as a business and visitor information center. It offers exhibits detailing the history of Hot Springs National Park and the culture surrounding the hot springs.
This bathhouse is a significant stop for visitors wishing to learn more about the history of the springs. Today, Lamar Bathhouse is also known as the Bathhouse Emporium.
Buckstaff Bathhouse
Buckstaff Bathhouse is one of the few bathhouses still offering traditional spa services. Here, visitors can enjoy mineral baths, steam baths, and massages, experiencing a time-honored approach to health and wellness.
Ozark Bathhouse
The Ozark Bathhouse has been renovated into a spa culture and art center. This bathhouse now exhibits works by local artists and hosts regular cultural events and art exhibitions, blending history with contemporary art.
Quapaw Bathhouse
The Quapaw Bathhouse has been modernized into a spa that offers mineral baths, mud baths, steam baths, and other hot spring therapies. This bathhouse is an excellent place to enjoy modern spa services while still being rooted in the area’s therapeutic traditions.
Fordyce Bathhouse
Fordyce Bathhouse functions as the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center. This beautifully restored bathhouse not only highlights the history of the park but also features exhibits that explore the culture and healing practices associated with the hot springs. Guided tours are available to help visitors learn about the park’s history and the benefits of its thermal waters.
Maurice Bathhouse
Maurice Bathhouse currently operates as a commercial space, offering food, beverages, and retail services. Though it no longer serves as a bathhouse, it still retains its historical significance and provides an opportunity to experience the area’s past in a modern setting.
Hale Bathhouse
Hale Bathhouse has been converted into a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. It displays a collection of historical artifacts and serves as a place for various public events, continuing its legacy as a cultural gathering spot in the area.
Superior Bathhouse
The Superior Bathhouse has been transformed into a restaurant and craft brewery. What sets it apart is its use of hot spring water for brewing beer, offering a unique dining experience that combines the region’s hot spring heritage with modern culinary creativity.
3. Spa experience
Bathhouse Row is the heart of Hot Springs National Park and has historically been home to several renowned hot spring baths.
While many of these historic bathhouses have been repurposed for other uses, the following two continue to provide the traditional hot spring bathing services:
Buckstaff Bathhouse
- Website: buckstaffbaths.com
- Phone: (501) 623-2308
- Address: 509 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Buckstaff Bathhouse, which opened in 1912, has preserved its traditional approach to healing and is one of the most historic bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. It offers a variety of classic spa treatments, including:
- Mineral baths
- Mud baths
- Steam baths
- Massages
Buckstaff is known for maintaining the traditional therapeutic experiences that have made the area famous.
Please note that children under the age of 14 are not allowed to use the services.
To see the hot spring bath experience in action, watch the following YouTube video.
Quapaw Bathhouse
- Website: www.quapawbaths.com
- Phone: (501) 609-9822
- Address: 413 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Built in 1922 and named after the local Quapaw Indian tribe, the Quapaw Bathhouse was completely renovated and modernized in 2010.
It combines traditional hot spring experiences with modern spa services, making it a popular destination for relaxation.
Quapaw Bathhouse offers four different thermal pools with varying temperatures:
- Warm pool (approx. 98°F / 37°C)
- Medium temperature pool (approx. 104°F / 40°C)
- Hot Cell (approx. 108°F / 42°C)
- Super hot cell (approx. 112°F / 44°C)
These pools are filled with water from the natural hot springs in the park, rich in minerals such as sulfur, sodium, and calcium.
These minerals are known for their ability to soothe muscles, improve blood circulation, and relax the body and mind.
In addition to the thermal pools, Quapaw Bathhouse offers a variety of spa services, including deep tissue and hot stone massages to promote relaxation and recovery.
Please note that children under the age of 10 are not accepted here.
For a closer look at the spa experience at Quapaw Bathhouse, you can watch the following YouTube video.
4. Hot Springs Mountain Tower
- Website: hotspringstower.com
- Address: 401 Hot Springs Mountain Dr, Hot Springs, AR 71901
- Price: $14, Seniors $11, Youth $8.50, Children under 4 are FREE!
Hot Springs Mountain Tower is an observation tower located at the top of Hot Springs Mountain.
Standing at approximately 216 feet tall, the tower’s observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of downtown Hot Springs, the surrounding mountains and forests, as well as the expansive natural landscape beyond.
Once at the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, you will be treated to a magnificent panoramic view.
From this vantage point, not only can you see the beautiful scenery of downtown Hot Springs, but you will also be able to gaze upon the vast expanse of Arkansas, with distant mountains and forests visible on clear days.
The viewing platform is the perfect spot for taking photos and soaking in the natural beauty, especially during dusk when the landscape is bathed in warm light.
For a better understanding of what to expect at the Mountain Tower, check out the YouTube video below.
In addition to the observation deck, there are several hiking trails around the tower, making it a great place for visitors to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the spectacular views.
5. Hiking
Hot Springs National Park is not only famous for its hot springs but also for its scenic hiking trails, which cater to all types of hikers.
The park is divided into two main hiking areas: the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails area and the West Mountain Trails area. Both areas are composed of several relatively short, interconnected trails, making them perfect for a variety of hiking experiences.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Sunset Trail offers a longer route that takes hikers through the more remote sections of the park, providing a more rugged hiking experience.
Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails
The Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails area is one of the primary hiking zones within Hot Springs National Park.
This area features a network of interconnected trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a short, leisurely walk or a longer trek, this area provides a wide range of options to explore the park’s natural beauty.
| Trail/Length/Elevation | Details |
|---|---|
| Grand Promenade 0.5mi 619-717ft | The Grand Promenade, a National Recreation Trail, serves as the starting point for many of the trails in the Hot Springs and North Mountain areas. Trails like the Oertel, Peak, and Tufa Terrace branch off from the Grand Promenade, leading to other paths within the park. There are four entrances to the Grand Promenade: one at Reserve Street (stairs), one at Fountain Street (ramp), one at Stephen’s Balustrade (grand staircase), and one located behind the Fordyce Bathhouse. |
| Oertel Trail (formerly Dead Chief Trail) 1.4mi 670-863ft | From downtown, ascend the grand staircase (Stephen’s Balustrade) behind the Fordyce Visitor Center to enter the Grand Promenade. Climb two additional sets of stairs until you reach the gravel road. Follow the road until you encounter an iron gate, where the trailhead begins. The Oertel Trail becomes quite steep after the middle section. |
| Tufa Terrace Trail 0.3mi 650-745ft | This paved trail can be accessed from either the Grand Promenade or Arlington Lawn. The lower portion of the Tufa Terrace Trail is located near the Hot Water Cascade. |
| Peak Trail 0.6mi 644-1044ft | Peak Trail begins on a paved path before transitioning to gravel. The trail leads to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. |
| Short Cut Trail 0.2mi 813-1036ft | The Short Cut Trail connects the Oertel Trail to the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and is situated near the picnic area. |
| Reserve Trail 0.3mi 622-713ft | The Reserve Trail connects the Oertel Trail to Spring Street and Reserve Street at the “Y” intersection. |
| Hot Springs Mountain Trail 1.7mi 952-994ft | The Hot Springs Mountain Trail is an easy trail that loops around the top of the mountain, offering several scenic viewpoints. |
| Honeysuckle Trail 0.5mi 727-870ft | The Honeysuckle Trail connects the Peak Trail to the Hot Springs Mountain Trail. |
| Fountain Trail 0.2mi 657-760ft | This short trail starts at Fountain Street, just below the entrance to Hot Springs Mountain Drive. To reach the Honeysuckle Trail, simply cross the road. |
| Grand Avenue Trail 0.2mi 581-631ft | The Grand Avenue Trail connects the Oertel Trail to Grand Avenue. A local hotel is located near the trailhead. |
| Goat Rock Trail 1.1mi 886-1067ft | Limited parking is available at the viewpoints on North Mountain, with the trailhead located on the south side of the parking area. |
Gulpha Gorge Trail 0.6mi 530-968ft | The Gulpha Gorge Trail connects the Gulpha Gorge Campground to many of the park’s other trails. Starting at the campground, the trail ascends steeply in a westerly direction. |
Floral Trail 0.7mi 690-840ft | The Floral Trail connects the Lower Dogwood Trail with the Honeysuckle Trail. From either trailhead, you’ll descend into a valley and then ascend the opposite side. |
Arlington Trail 0.1mi 718-731ft | Ask the staff at the Arlington Hotel lobby for directions to the trailhead. The Arlington Trail connects with the Lower Dogwood Trail |
Lower Dogwood Trail 0.7mi 784-953ft | The Lower Dogwood Trail climbs North Mountain. Near the top, rocks mark the westernmost point of the trail, where it then begins its descent. |
| Upper Dogwood Trail 1.0mi 880-1131ft | The Upper Dogwood Trail includes a brief uphill climb followed by long stretches of flat terrain. |
Among the many trails in Hot Springs National Park, the Grand Promenade stands out as a historic route located near Bathhouse Row, making it one of the park’s signature attractions.
The trail begins at Bathhouse Row and connects several historic buildings. With a length of approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km), it is short, flat, and ideal for families with children.
West Mountain Trails
West Mountain Trails is located in the western section of the park and includes several trails, which are primarily known for their gentle terrain, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
| Trail/Length/Elevation | Details |
|---|---|
| Canyon Trail 0.7mi 626-933ft | The West Mountain Trail can be accessed from downtown via the Canyon Trail. The trailhead is located behind the Mountain Valley Water building. The section between West Mountain Drive and the West Mountain Trail is quite steep. |
| Mountain Top Trail 1.5mi 675-1100ft | If you’re traveling south, the trail is quite steep as it ascends rapidly. Heading north, the trail gradually gains elevation until it intersects with the Sunset Trail, then descends sharply, ultimately reaching the trailhead at Whittington Park. |
| Whittington Trail 1.2mi 647-685ft | This flat gravel trail is a favorite among joggers and walkers. The Whittington Trail forms a loop around Whittington Park. |
| West Mountain Trail 1.2mi 926-992ft | Both sections of the West Mountain Trail feature gradual elevation changes. Note that the West Mountain Trail can be turned into a loop by combining it with the Mountain Top Trail, which has an elevation change of 400 feet. |
| Oak Trail 1.0mi 698-922ft | The northeastern section of the Oak Trail is mostly flat, while the stretch between the West Mountain Trail and West Mountain Drive is quite steep. |
Sunset Trail
Sunset Trail is one of the most challenging hikes in Hot Springs National Park, and it is also among the park’s most popular trails.
The trail passes through several ecological zones, offering hikers a diverse array of natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and breathtaking sunsets, particularly at dusk.
The trail stretches for about 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) and typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
West Mountain Section
The West Mountain Section is a part of the Sunset Trail, with a total length of approximately 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometers), starting at West Mountain Summit and ending at Blacksnake Road.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the southern part of Hot Springs National Park, with a distant view of Lake Hamilton.
The highest point of the park, Music Mountain (elevation 1,405 ft/428 m), is located at the western end of this section and serves as one of the highlights of the trail.
Sugarloaf Mountain Section
The Sugarloaf Mountain Section of the trail is about 2.6 miles long and extends from Blacksnake Road to Cedar Glades Road, crossing the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain.
A highlight of this section is Balanced Rock, made of Arkansas Novaculite rocks, which offers one of the best panoramic views in the park. The Balanced Rock Trail is a spur of the Sunset Trail, about 0.2 miles long, connecting back to the Sunset Trail.
Please note that the section near Cedar Glades Road is steep and rocky, requiring careful navigation.
Stonebridge Road Section
The Stonebridge Road Section of the trail spans approximately 3.8 miles (6.1 km) and stretches from Cedar Glades Road to the Gulpha Gorge Campground.
This section passes through an estate once owned by the Fordyce family, offering scenic views along the way, including a visit to Ricks Pond, which is an ideal spot for observing aquatic wildlife.
Drinking Hot Spring Water
Some of the hot spring water at Hot Springs is drinkable and rich in a variety of minerals, particularly sulfur, sodium, and calcium, all of which are believed to offer health benefits.
Many people believe that mineral-rich water can promote relaxation, improve circulation, detoxify the body, and relieve muscle fatigue.
Here are a few hot water sources:
- Libbey Memorial Physical Medicine Center: Located on Reserve Street.
- National Park Service Administration Building: Also located on Reserve Street.
- Bathhouse Row: Between the Hale and Maurice Bathhouses.
- Noble Fountain: Located on Reserve Street, near the south entrance to the Grand Promenade.
- Dripping Spring: Found between the Hale and Maurice Bathhouses.
- Shell Fountain: Located at Stevens Balustrade (between the Fordyce and Maurice Bathhouses).
- Hill Wheatley Plaza: Located just outside the park boundary on Central Avenue.
