How do the Hot Springs work in Arkansas?

Thanks to the highly porous Bigfork Chert and Arkansas Novaculite, rainwater can travel down these conduits to depths between 2,000 and 8,000 feet. A natural thermal gradient heats the water. As the water moves deeper within the Earth, the hotter the water becomes.



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The naturally high temperatures of the spring water make the water unsafe for bathing, so think twice before you dip your toes in. Fortunately, there are other options at the park that make it possible to submerse yourself in the therapeutic waters at a safe temperature.

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We use thermal mineral water that comes directly from a collection of 47 protected springs flowing from Hot Springs Mountain. The water starts at an average temperature of 143° as it comes down through a unique pattern of rocks and flows to the historic Bathhouse Row.

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Local legend speaks of the thermal springs as constituting a neutral ground in which various tribes, even at war, could co-exist in peace, at least temporarily.

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Within the Park, there are 3 places where you can touch the thermal water. Even though the water comes out of the ground at 147 degrees F, it is cool enough to touch by the time it reaches the pools.

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Water from the hot springs is Hot Spring's National Park's primary resource. Congress first protected the hot springs in 1832, and it intended for the water to be used. Drinking the hot springs water is perfectly normal, even encouraged. Go ahead, quaff the elixir, as they used to say in the heyday of the spa.

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The minerals in the hot springs water is no more damaging to bathing suits than chlorinated pools, saltwater or hot tubs. However, there are a few keys to keeping it in pristine condition. After you're done enjoying the soothing and rejuvenating waters, be sure to thoroughly rinse your swimsuit in cool water.

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A unique chance to stay on Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park is now available. The Hale Bathhouse, one of the former bathhouses on the famous row, has been remodeled into the Hotel Hale.

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Unfortunately, this means not all primitive hot springs are safe to swim in, with many boasting dangerous levels of algae or bacteria. Luckily, these dangerous conditions are rare, and most primitive hot springs undergo natural purifying processes that ensure their clean and safe swimming conditions for visitors.

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Just as Hot Springs Reservation was reestablished as government property, a devastating fire swept up the valley, destroying most of the south and central downtown area but leaving the Arlington and Grand Central Hotels, the Hale, Rector, and Big Iron Bathhouses, and the buildings to their north.

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Arkansas's bathhouse row was vacation getaway for mob boss Al Capone. Room 443 of the Arlington Hotel was used by the Capone himself and comes complete with a closet that led to a secret gateway, which is now boarded up. HOT SPRINGS, Ark.

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