Hot Springs
National Park
The history of Hot Springs National Park stretches back over 3,000 years, when Native Americans first inhabited the area.
In 1818, the land came under U.S. ownership, and by 1832 it was designated as Hot Springs Reservation—making it the oldest area currently managed by the National Park Service. However, it wasn’t officially established as a national park until 1921.
As the name suggests, Hot Springs National Park is famous for its 47 naturally flowing hot springs, which maintain an average temperature of 143°F. Incredibly, about 850,000 gallons of thermal water flow from the springs each day.
But the park offers more than just hot springs—it also includes parts of the city of Hot Springs, historic bathhouses, scenic mountains, hiking trails, and even a brewery!
Hot Springs At a Glance
Hot Springs National Park is completely free to visit.
Hot Springs National Park is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It is about 1 hour southwest of Little Rock and relatively close to a handful of larger cities in the US!
Hot Springs National Park is open year-round, there will always be something to do regardless of the season or weather. However, if you want to enjoy everything the area has to offer, including the lakes nearby, we’d suggest visiting in the late spring through the summer. That’s when it’s warm enough to swim. However, this is one of the busiest times to visit the area. So be prepared to encounter a lot more people.
Reservations are not required to enter the park.
Things to do in Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas
Visiting Hot Springs National Park? In this guide we’re sharing where to stay, when to visit, things to know, and the best things to do in Hot Springs National Park!
