Hot Springs National Park is in an urban area, surrounding the north end of the city of Hot Springs. Within the park, Gulpha Gorge Campground and the Hotel Hale offer accommodations for the night.
Even though there are no soaking opportunities outdoors, Bathhouse Row does have 2 available facilities that offer visitors the chance to fully submerge and relax in the thermal water. The thermal springs are piped directly into both of these bathhouses, offering users a true and authentic experience of the water.
Are there outdoor springs to soak in? No, there are not. However, since the mid-19th century, bathhouses have been a staple of Hot Springs, Arkansas, as a way for visitors to experience the region's famous spring water. This tradition still carries on today in Hot Springs National Park.
Of course, you should stay cognizant of how long you've been in the water. The intense heat can cause dehydration, fainting, and even burns depending on the temperature, so stick to 10- or 15-minute soaks with breaks in between to allow your body temperature to return to normal.
Over do it: Soaking is not an endurance contest. We recommend getting out of the water for 5 minutes every 15 minutes or so. This largely depends on the temperature of the pool you're in. You might need to get out more often in a hotter pool and less in a mild pool.
They will list the current temperature of the water as well as the maximum amount of minutes to stay in at a time. For the most part, almost all commercial hot springs in North America require swimsuits so always err on the side of caution and keep that suit on. Even if you see someone remove their suit – wait.
How much time do you need in Hot Springs National Park? If you want to just see the highlights, including Bathhouse Row, touching the hot spring, and going for a short hike, you could definitely get away with just 1 day in Hot Springs National Park.
It's the most urban national park you'll find, and most of it is in the city of Hot Springs itself. While you might not find the same dramatic scenery as some of the more popular parks like Yellowstone, there are still many worthy things to do at Hot Springs National Park and a visit is highly recommended.
Bathhouse Row should be your first stop, but the park also lures visitors with its 5,550 acres of green expanse in three of the Ouachitas — Hot Springs, North and West mountains.