Posted in Arkansas December 27, 2021 by

This Is The Year To Plan A Trip To Hot Springs, Arkansas’ 100 Year Old National Park

In 2021, Hot Springs National Park celebrated its centennial. (Can you believe it?!) Centered around the natural hot springs in Arkansas, it’s a true treasure – one that everyone should visit at least once. It is the oldest national park, after all. (It’s been around longer than Yellowstone, and we have proof!) But that’s not its only claim to fame. It’s also extremely accessible, since a large portion of downtown Hot Springs is part of the park. Last, but definitely not least, it’s the only place to visit hot springs in Arkansas! Let’s take a quick tour and see just a snippet of what Hot Springs National Park has to offer.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
We may be a bit bias, but Hot Springs National Park is undoubtedly our favorite.
Facebook/Hot Springs National Park
The area was the very first to be federally protected, thanks to President Andrew Jackson in 1832. The "special reservation" officially became a national park in 1921. Although it's the smallest national park, Hot Springs National Park has recreation unlike any other - and that's because it encompasses most of downtown Hot Springs!
The area may have modernized in 100 years time, but the essence of the park is well preserved.
Facebook/Hot Springs National Park
The park's main resource is the bubbling, mineral-rich waters of multiple hot springs. These hot springs in Arkansas have been vital for thousands of years and used by Native Americans, explorers, and tourists. According to the National Park Service, Hot Springs is the only national park that protects a unique combination of lithology, geologic structures, and water sources that produce the only non-volcanic geothermal springs of such high quality in the U.S.

The 47 hot springs can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Soak in the springs along Bathhouse Row, bring fillable jugs to the fountains, or touch one of the thermal springs bubbling out of the ground. You can see more details on the activities here.
So, you've come to Hot Springs National Park to celebrate this Arkansas treasure. But where can you stay?
Google Maps
You could certainly pitch a tent (or park your RV) at the park's Gulpha Gorge Campground. No reservations are needed and the campground is centrally located within Hot Springs National Park. You can see pictures and read more here. However, glampers will be glad to know that this isn't the only lodging option in Hot Springs.
If camping isn't your style, then splurge on this opulent stay instead.
AirBnB/Miss Fancy (Ladies of the Court)
Since the national park encompasses most of downtown, the nearby getaways are quite glamorous. A block away from Central Avenue (and just a short distance from the park's adventures) is an AirBnB that combines history and luxury. Miss Fancy's is one of the trio of houses known as the Ladies of the Court. The vintage Victorian was built in the late 1800s and has housed everything from spas to brothels. It's now a fabulous AirBnb and photography studio. See the details and book your fancy stay right here.
So, you've picked out your lodging for the weekend. Now, what do you want to do?
Facebook/Superior Bathhouse Brewery
We mentioned the numerous natural hot springs, but seeing and touching aren't the only ways to enjoy the water. Taste the splendor in a rather unexpected national park stop - the brewery! Superior Bathhouse Brewery is the first brewery ever to open in a national park, and it's the only one to use water from hot springs. Read this article for a more detailed look into the brewery.
You'll probably be hungry after strolling (and possibly soaking in) Bathhouse Row. Next, take a lunch break!
TripAdvisor/DamTeag2015
A must-stop when visiting Hot Springs National Park, just across from Bathhouse Row, is the Ohio Club! This eatery has a colorful history and is Arkansas' oldest bar. Built in 1905, the bar has served everyone from Babe Ruth to Al Capone. Savor the history as well as the best burgers! Have a bigger bite of the Ohio Club's history by reading this article.
Hot Springs wouldn't be a national park without some natural exploration; good thing there's no shortage here!
AllTrails/Karthik Sagar
The national park's downtown is a unique feature, but it's still a park with lots to explore. Take a hike to enjoy the park's natural perks, like endless vistas and a beautiful old growth forest. Casual strollers can meander through the park's Hot Springs and North Mountain trails that begin right behind the bathhouses. If you're up for more of an adventure, then we recommend the Goat Rock Trail. It's 2.4-miles-long and leads to one of the most gorgeous overlooks in Hot Springs.
You can also take a scenic drive in Hot Springs National Park.
Facebook/Hot Springs National Park
No hiking boots needed when you're in Hot Springs National Park! The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive will take you up to beautiful vistas and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Take a scrolling tour right here.
Whether you come for the nature, the shopping, or a mix of both - just be sure to bring a jug!
Google/Robbie Jansky
Our favorite thing about the park is the free spring water! You can fill up right next to the Visitor Center.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to check out the hot springs in Arkansas? Ever visited the natural hot springs in Arkansas? If so, what’d you think? Tell us!

The hot springs in Arkansas are a great way to warm up in winter; however, they’re not the only seasonal must-visit. There are several great winter getaways in Arkansas. Click here for the seven coziest towns to snuggle up in during the winter season.

Address: Hot Springs, AR, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Hot Springs In Arkansas

December 30, 2021
Daniella DiRienzo

Are there any hot springs resorts in Arkansas?

There are several hot springs resorts in Arkansas, including the Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa. One of the state’s oldest hotels, it’s been hosting overnight guests since 1875! In addition to comfy accommodations, the resort boasts tons of amenities, such as front-door access to the neighboring Hot Springs National Park. Even better, the on-site spa, the Arlington Bath House, offers tons of services. What really sets the spa apart from others, though, is that thermal waters from the nearby hot springs are piped directly into it, allowing visitors to enjoy thermal whirlpool baths right in the spa.

What are some great winter getaways in Arkansas?

As far as great winter getaways in Arkansas go, there are tons of options. One place that should be visited before the season’s end is Mount Magazine State Park. Easily one of the best winter getaways in Arkansas, the park is brimming with perks. For adventure-seekers, there are paved bike lanes, hiking trails, and, the park’s centerpiece, Mount Magazine. Those who prefer to snuggle up and keep warm will adore the park’s cozy cabins, on-site restaurant, and heated indoor pool.

Aside from natural hot springs in Arkansas, what are some other must-visit natural wonders?

When it comes to natural wonders, Arkansas has got plenty. (It is the Natural State, after all!) With so many natural wonders to choose from, it can be easy to overlook a few, and one you don’t want to overlook is Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfeesboro. Utterly unique, it’s home to the only public diamond-producing site in the world. Not only can park-goers dig for diamonds, but, thanks to the park’s “finders, keepers” policy, everyone gets to keep what they find. There’s a lot more to the park than its 37.5-acre diamond field, though. The 911-acre park features an array of flora and fauna as well as walking trails, picnic sites, campsites, a gift shop, and seasonal water park.

Address: Hot Springs, AR, USA