Hot Springs National Park, affectionately known as “America’s Spa,” is a unique national park that combines natural beauty with historical significance. The park is centered around a series of natural hot springs, which have long been celebrated for their healing properties. In addition to the springs, the park offers a range of recreational activities and opportunities to explore the rich history and culture of the area.
Hot Springs National Park Location
Hot Springs National Park is located in the Ouachita Mountains in central Arkansas, near the city of Hot Springs. The park covers an area of 5,550 acres and includes portions of both the city and the surrounding wilderness. The park’s headquarters and visitor center can be found at 101 Reserve Street, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
Hot Springs National Park Things to Do
There is no shortage of activities to enjoy at Hot Springs National Park, ranging from relaxation and wellness to hiking and sightseeing. Some popular things to do include:
Visiting the Bathhouses
The historic bathhouses are a must-visit attraction in the park. Fordyce Bathhouse, which now serves as the park’s visitor center, offers a glimpse into the luxurious spa experience of the past. Several bathhouses are still in operation, such as the Buckstaff Bathhouse and the Quapaw Baths & Spa, where visitors can indulge in a traditional thermal bath or spa treatment.
Hiking the Trails
With over 26 miles of trails, hiking is a popular activity in Hot Springs National Park. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty and showcase the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to picturesque mountain vistas. Some popular trails include the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, the West Mountain Trail, and the Sunset Trail.
Scenic Drives
For those who prefer to explore the park by car, scenic drives such as the Hot Springs Mountain Drive and the West Mountain Drive offer stunning views of the surrounding area. These drives also provide access to various overlooks and picnic areas.
Touring the Historic District
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the park’s historic district, which includes a variety of architecturally significant buildings and structures. Notable sites include the Grand Promenade, the Arlington Hotel, and the Maurice Bathhouse.
Hot Springs National Park Itineraries
Depending on your interests and the duration of your visit, there are several ways to experience Hot Springs National Park. Here are some suggested itineraries:
One-Day Itinerary
If you only have one day to explore the park, focus on visiting the bathhouses and taking a short hike or drive to enjoy the natural scenery. Start your day at the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history and plan your day. Then, stroll along the Grand Promenade and visit the operational bathhouses for a relaxing soak or spa treatment. In the afternoon, hike one of the shorter trails, such as the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, or take a scenic drive to soak in the views.
Two-Day Itinerary
With two days to spend in the park, you can delve deeper into the area’s history and explore more of its natural beauty. On your first day, follow the one-day itinerary and add a visit to the historic district, where you can tour the various buildings and learn about the park’s architectural heritage. On your second day, set out for a longer hike, such as the Sunset Trail, to fully immerse yourself in the park’s diverse landscapes. Alternatively, you could explore the park’s scenic drives, stopping at overlooks and picnic areas along the way. If time permits, consider attending a ranger-led program or visiting the nearby Garvan Woodland Gardens.
Three-Day Itinerary
With three days at Hot Springs National Park, you’ll have ample time to delve into the park’s many offerings. In addition to the activities outlined in the one- and two-day itineraries, consider exploring the surrounding area, including Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreational activities. You might also visit the Gangster Museum of America or the Hot Springs Mountain Tower to learn more about the area’s history and take in panoramic views of the park.
Best Season to Visit Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique experience. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what activities you’re interested in:
Spring
Spring is a popular time to visit the park, as temperatures are mild and the landscape is in full bloom. This season is ideal for hiking and exploring the park’s natural beauty. Be prepared for occasional rain and pack accordingly.
Summer
Summers in Hot Springs National Park can be hot and humid, but the thermal baths offer a refreshing respite from the heat. The park can be crowded during this season, so plan your visit accordingly and make reservations for popular attractions and accommodations in advance.
Fall
Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage to the park, making it an ideal time for hiking and scenic drives. The park is typically less crowded during this season, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Winter
Winter is the least crowded time to visit Hot Springs National Park, and the park’s thermal features provide a unique contrast to the colder weather. Some trails may be closed or more difficult to navigate due to ice and snow, so exercise caution and plan accordingly.
Hot Springs National Park Weather
The weather in Hot Springs National Park can vary greatly depending on the season. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the upper 80s to low 90s°F (30-34°C). Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-50s°F (1-13°C). Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures, making them popular times to visit the park.
Hot Springs National Park receives an average of 56 inches of rainfall per year, with the wettest months being May and November. Snow is relatively rare, but occasional winter storms can bring a few inches of accumulation.
Hot Springs National Park Hotels and Camping
There are a variety of lodging and camping options available in and around Hot Springs National Park to suit a range of budgets and preferences:
Hotels
Several hotels are located within the park’s historic district, including the historic Arlington Hotel and the Park Hotel. In addition, a wide range of accommodations can be found in the nearby city of Hot Springs, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.
Camping
Hot Springs National Park offers one campground, the Gulpha Gorge Campground, which is open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground features 44 sites, including RV and tent sites, with amenities such as restrooms, water, and picnic tables. Additionally, several privately-owned campgrounds and RV parks are located in the surrounding area, offering a variety of amenities and services.
Hot Springs National Park Restaurants
While there are no restaurants within the park itself, the nearby city of Hot Springs offers a wide variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Some popular restaurants in the area include:
Steinhaus Keller
This German restaurant, located in the historic downtown area, offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional German dishes such as schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerkraut.
Colorado Grill
A local favorite, Colorado Grill offers a diverse menu of American and Tex-Mex cuisine, including steaks, burgers, and fajitas.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery & Distillery
Located in a converted historic bathhouse, this unique brewery and distillery offers a selection of craft beers, spirits, and a menu of elevated pub fare.
Hot Springs National Park Wildlife and Plants
Hot Springs National Park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, thanks to its varied habitats, including forests, wetlands, and streams. Wildlife commonly spotted in the park includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Although less common, black bears and bobcats have also been known to inhabit the park.
The park’s plant life is equally diverse, with over 400 species of native plants found throughout the area. In the spring, visitors can expect to see colorful displays of wildflowers, including trillium, violets, and bloodroot, while fall brings vibrant foliage to the park’s deciduous forests.
Hot Springs National Park History
The history of Hot Springs National Park dates back thousands of years, with Native American tribes such as the Caddo, Quapaw, and Choctaw using the hot springs for their medicinal properties. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to establish a settlement around the springs, and by the 1830s, bathhouses were constructed to accommodate the growing number of visitors seeking the healing waters.
In 1832, Congress designated the area as a federal reservation to protect the hot springs, making it the oldest protected area in the U.S. National Park System. The area continued to grow in popularity throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, with the construction of elaborate bathhouses and hotels to cater to the burgeoning tourism industry.
Hot Springs National Park was officially established in 1921, and today, the park continues to draw visitors for its historic bathhouses, thermal waters, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Hot Springs National Park Geology
The geology of Hot Springs National Park is characterized by its unique thermal features. The park’s hot springs are the result of rainwater that has seeped deep into the earth and become heated by the Earth’s mantle. This heated water then rises to the surface, where it emerges at an average temperature of 143°F (62°C).
The area’s geology also includes a variety of rock formations, such as sandstone, shale, and novaculite, which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion and geological processes. The Ouachita Mountains, which surround the park, are part of the larger Ouachita fold and thrust belt and are primarily composed of sandstone, shale, and chert. These mountains were formed by the collision of the South American and North American tectonic plates during the Paleozoic Era, approximately 300 million years ago.
The park’s unique geology has also resulted in the formation of several mineral springs, which contain a variety of dissolved minerals and trace elements. These mineral springs have long been believed to possess healing properties and continue to draw visitors seeking their therapeutic benefits.
Conclusion
Hot Springs National Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that combines the allure of natural hot springs, rich history, and diverse recreational activities. With its unique blend of relaxation and adventure, the park offers something for every visitor. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, explore the historic district, or hike the park’s scenic trails, Hot Springs National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
