Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

The natural, historic, and tourist center of Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is a fascinating oasis of relaxation, history, and natural beauty. This unique park, renowned for its thermal waters and charming architecture, offers visitors a chance to experience the soothing allure of one of the oldest and smallest national parks in the United States.

Established as a national park in 1921, Hot Springs National Park spans just over 5,500 acres, encompassing the famous Bathhouse Row, the historic hot springs, and the lush Ouachita Mountains. The park's iconic thermal waters, flowing from the earth at a comforting 143°F, have been drawing visitors for centuries, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hot Springs National Park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, which has adapted to thrive in the park's varied environments. Iconic species such as white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkeys, and red-shouldered hawks inhabit the park's dense forests, while the skies are home to a variety of bird species, including the vibrant northern cardinal and the agile chimney swift.

Visitors to Hot Springs National Park can partake in a wide range of recreational activities that showcase the park's unique beauty and history. The park offers more than 26 miles of trails for hiking and exploring the picturesque Ouachita Mountains, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the park's diverse landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the historic bathhouses, which have been beautifully restored and continue to offer spa services. Guided tours, scenic drives, and picnicking are also popular activities, providing unique ways to engage with the park's natural and cultural wonders.

The charming city of Hot Springs serves as a gateway to Hot Springs National Park, offering a variety of accommodations, dining options, and local attractions. This delightful city, with its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, ensures that every visitor can experience the park's soothing beauty in comfort and style.

MUST SEE SITES

1. Bathhouse Row: This historic area features a collection of eight historic bathhouses, including the Fordyce Bathhouse, which has been restored to its original 1915 appearance. Visitors can explore the area by taking a guided tour, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning architecture of the bathhouses.

2. Hot Springs Mountain Tower: This iconic tower offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ouachita Mountains and the historic town of Hot Springs. Visitors can explore the area by taking a guided tour, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views from the top of the tower.

3. Grand Promenade: This scenic trail runs along the base of Hot Springs Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the forest and surrounding mountains.

4. Gulpha Gorge: This scenic area features a stunning waterfall, unique geologic formations, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the area by taking a guided hike, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.

5. Hot Springs Mountain Drive: This scenic drive takes visitors through the heart of the park and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the area by taking a scenic drive, hiking one of the park's trails, or simply taking in the stunning views of the mountains and forests.

GETTING THERE

The most popular way to arrive at Hot Springs National Park is by car. The park is located in central Arkansas, and can be accessed via several routes. From the north or south, you can take Interstate 30 to US Highway 70, which leads to the park entrance. From the east, you can take US Highway 70 to the park entrance.

If you prefer to travel by air, the closest airport to Hot Springs National Park is the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas, which is located about 55 miles from the park. The airport offers flights from several cities, including Dallas, Houston, and Chicago.

Once you arrive at Hot Springs National Park, the best way to get around is by car or by foot. The park is home to several scenic drives and hiking trails, including the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and the Grand Promenade. There are also several historic bathhouses available for tours, and ranger-led programs and tours are offered throughout the year.

GATEWAY COMMUNITIES

The city of Hot Springs serves as the primary gateway community to Hot Springs National Park, offering various accommodations, dining options, souvenir shops, and outdoor recreation equipment rentals.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Visitors to Hot Springs National Park can find various lodging options in the surrounding community, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. The park itself features one historic hotel, the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, which provides accommodations within walking distance of the park's main attractions.

CAMPGROUNDS

Hot Springs National Park has one developed campground, Gulpha Gorge Campground, which offers tent and RV sites, as well as basic amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas. The campground is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

WEATHER/CLIMATE

Hot Springs National Park has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach into the 90s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can dip into the 30s. Visitors should be prepared for potential rain, thunderstorms, and rapidly changing weather conditions.

RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

Numerous recreational opportunities await visitors at Hot Springs National Park, including hiking, thermal bathing, historic tours, and wildlife viewing. The park's most popular attraction is the historic bathhouses, where visitors can experience the therapeutic properties of the hot springs. There are also over 26 miles of hiking trails within the park, such as the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails. Wildlife viewing is popular, with a variety of species such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species inhabiting the area.

VISITOR CENTER

Hot Springs National Park has a visitor center, the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, which provides information about the park's history, ecology, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Rangers are available to offer guidance and answer questions. The visitor center is open daily, year-round, with reduced hours and services during the off-season.