Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park

Location: Hot Springs, AR
Length: 22 sq. km
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: hot springs, hiking, camping

About the Hot Springs National Park

Located in Garland County, Arkansas, it boasts of naturally occurring hot springs flowing from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain in the Ouachita Mountain range. The hot springs are managed to ensure continued supply of uncontaminated hot spring water to visitors to enjoy. The park is accessible through Hot Springs downtown. Activities such as hiking and camping are available here. Usage of the hot springs are paid. This park has been very popular because of the hot springs’ natural medicinal benefits. In fact, it has been given the nickname of America’s Spa.

The main trails are the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails and the West Mountain Trails, both relatively short and interconnected. The longer trail, the Sunset Trail, allows access to the more remote areas of the park. You can camp at Gulpha Gorge Campground – both available for RV’ and tents.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Prescribed fires

 To maintain a healthy woodland ecosystem, the park staff do properly planned prescribed fires

2) 360 views

The top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower offers a 360-degree view of the Ouachita Mountains, which is one for the books. Don’t forget to take pictures.

3) Beware of bats

Caves and mines in the park may bats hibernating during winter months. Be careful not to disrupt them.