People were first attracted to the water here and discovered that it could be used to heal and relax. Both rich and poor came here to do this, and eventually a city was built up surrounding this environment. Nicknamed "The American Spa," today this national park surrounds the north end of the city of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Relax here!
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
Arlington Lawn, Grand Promenade, sidewalks on Bathhouse Row, Reserve Street, and Fountain Street, except for walk through traffic, are open from to 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily. Roads to Hot Springs Mountain, North Mountain and West Mountain Summit are open to vehicle traffic from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Weather
Average temperatures in Hot Springs can range from about 90°F (32°C) to less than 27°F (-2.7°C). Summer days can be hot and humid, with heat index values up to 110ºF (43ºC). Winter wind chills can make temperatures feel much colder, as low as 15ºF (-9.4ºC). Spring and fall typically have the most rainfall. Generally, Hot Springs experiences mild weather throughout the year.
Things to Do
Become a Hot Springs Junior Ranger
Kids visiting Hot Springs National Park may earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing a number of activities as they explore the park. The Junior Ranger booklet is available at the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center.
Camp at the Gulpha Gorge Campground
BASIC INFORMATION Camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground costs $34 per night for all sites. All sites have full hookups: 30 and 50 amp electric, water and sewer connections. Sites are not pull-through. Each campsite has a picnic table, pedestal grill, and water.
Oak Trail
The northeastern end of Oak Trail is mostly flat. The trail is fairly steep for a short distance between West Mountain Trail and West Mountain Drive.
An Overview: Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails
The Hot Springs and North Mountain trails are popular since they are easy to reach and provide scenic views. You can get to these trails via Stephen’s Balustrade (grand staircase) behind the Fordyce Bathhouse, Hot Springs Mountain Drive, and the Gulpha Gorge Campground. See the Hot Springs and North Mountain trail map for more information.
Short Cut Trail
Short Cut Trail connects Oertel Trail with Hot Springs Mountain Trail near the picnic area atop Hot Springs Mountain.
Getting There
Address: 369 Central Avenue Hot Springs AR 71901
From Little Rock: Take I-30W towards Texarkana. Exit 111 for US 70W/Hot Springs. Turn Right onto Spring St. Turn Right onto Central Ave. Drive North, the Park will be on the right after Reserve St. From Texarkana: Take 1-30E. Exit 78 for AR-7 and turn left under the highway. Follow AR-7 North for 31 miles. AR-7 becomes Central Ave., the Park will be on the right after Reserve Street.
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Gulpha Gorge Campground
40 sites · $34/night
Camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground costs $34 per night for all sites. All sites have full hookups: 30 and 50 amp electric, water and sewer connections. Sites a…
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Hot Springs National Park?
Some entry windows or activities at Hot Springs National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.
When is Hot Springs National Park open?
Arlington Lawn, Grand Promenade, sidewalks on Bathhouse Row, Reserve Street, and Fountain Street, except for walk through traffic, are open from to 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily. Roads to Hot Springs Mountain, North Mountain and West Mountain Summit are open to vehicle traffic from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
What are the best things to do in Hot Springs National Park?
Popular things to do in Hot Springs National Park include Become a Hot Springs Junior Ranger, Camp at the Gulpha Gorge Campground, Oak Trail, An Overview: Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Hot Springs National Park?
Yes — Hot Springs National Park has 1 campground, including Gulpha Gorge Campground. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.