At a glance
Hot Springs National Park has a rich cultural past. The grand architecture of our historic bathhouses is equally matched by the natural curiosities that have been drawing people here for hundreds of years. Ancient thermal springs, mountain views, incredible geology, forested hikes, and abundant creeks – all in the middle of town – make Hot Springs National Park a unique and beautiful destination.
Things to do: Auto and ATV · Scenic Driving · Biking · Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · RV Camping · Fishing · Food · Dining · Picnicking · Guided Tours · Hiking · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching
ParkAtlas, maintained by Stellaroos, combines its park and trail dataset with public information from the National Park Service. NPS data snapshot retrieved . Fees, access, and conditions can change; verify current details with NPS before traveling.
Trails
Hot Springs has roughly 26 named trails. Log the one you hiked in the app — or just the park if you're not sure.
Camping
Approximately 26 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (April – October).
Best time to visit
Peak season: April – October. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
7°C). Summer days can be hot and humid, with heat index values up to 110ºF (43ºC). 4ºC). Spring and fall typically have the most rainfall. Generally, Hot Springs experiences mild weather throughout the year.
Pack for Hot Springs
Four things worth having for forest trails and afternoon showers. From the full gear list; links support ParkAtlas.
Black Diamond daypack
Room for water, layers, snacks, and a first aid kit — nothing more.
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Marmot PreCip rain shell
Afternoon thunderstorms are a feature of the mountain West, not a bug.
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Salomon Speedcross trail runners
Grippy on slickrock and mud, light enough to forget about. I hike in these more than boots.
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EVERLIT mini first aid kit
Blister care and tweezers get used more than anything else.
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Entrance fees
Entry is $20 / vehicle. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers entry to every national park — it pays for itself in about three visits.
Getting there
Nearest city: Hot Springs, AR. Park center: 34.510°, -93.050°.
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. , the Park will be on the right after Reserve Street.
Coming from a big city? See every park near Dallas or St. Louis.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Hot Springs National Park?
Entry is $20 / vehicle. An America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance fees at every national park.
When is the best time to visit Hot Springs?
Peak season is April – October. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. 7°C). Summer days can be hot and humid, with heat index values up to 110ºF (43ºC). 4ºC). Spring and fall typically have the most rainfall. Generally, Hot Springs experiences mild weather throughout the year.
Can you camp in Hot Springs National Park?
Yes — about 26 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs, AR is the nearest major city. 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. , the Park will be on the right after Reserve Street.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.