If you’re heading to the beautiful state of Arkansas and would like to visit a national park while you’re here, you’re in luck! Hot Springs National Park is the only official national park in Arkansas, and it offers a unique experience you can’t have in any other national park in America!
My name is Ash, and I’m a former park ranger! In addition to exploring Hot Springs National Park, I’m excited to show you around the other amazing national park sites in Arkansas.
How Many National Parks are in Arkansas?
The state of Arkansas has one official national park — Hot Springs National Park.
This article contains important information about Hot Springs National Park, including how to get there, the best time to go, where to stay, and what to do.
We’ll also talk about some of the other really cool national park sites in Arkansas! You’ll find some other awesome places run by the National Park Service in Arkansas, such as historic sites, trails, and memorials.
This article may contain sponsored or affiliate links.
Map of Arkansas’ National Parks
Planning Your Trip to Arkansas
The Best Time to Visit Arkansas
Spring and fall are the best time to visit the national parks in Arkansas. You’ll love the comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage during this time. I personally prefer the fall when the area’s many trees change to vibrant shades of red and orange!
What to Bring to Arkansas
I’ve spent countless hours exploring the national parks, and there are a few items that I always bring with me when I’m exploring the parks.
1. Sunscreen — You’ll want good sunscreen while you’re out exploring.
3. Insect Repellent — I always bring a good mosquito repellent while I’m out exploring the parks. You never know what you might encounter while you’re exploring, especially in the evenings.
4. Topographic Map — Never hike or explore without a map! I like these topographic maps if you plan on hitting the trail. The last thing you want is to be lost out here.
You’ll also want to check out this post about the 10 essentials for hiking and my favorite gear that I always take with me when I’m out exploring!
HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK
Imagine unwinding in the warm embrace of Mother Nature’s own spa at Hot Springs National Park! Here, the thermal springs flow freely, inviting you to soak away your cares in their healing waters.
These natural hot springs have lured people here for centuries, and now it’s your turn to visit this unique place!
Getting to Hot Springs
The closest large airport to Hot Springs National Park is the Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, which is about an hour from the park. There is a smaller airport, the Hot Springs Airport, that gets you even closer to the park.
Where to Stay at Hot Springs
Hot Springs National Park is surrounded by the city of Hot Springs, making it easy to find lodging just steps from the national park itself! I suggest booking a hotel in Hot Springs or staying in the park’s Gulpha Gorge Campground.
The Best Time to Visit Hot Springs
Ready to experience the rejuvenating powers of natural thermal springs? Spring and fall months are your best bet for visiting Hot Springs National Park. Cooler temperatures bring the perfect balance for enjoying the naturally heated waters and the vibrant foliage of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
Summer visits offer abundant sunshine but can be hot; winter months turn the park into a quiet, steamy haven with fewer visitors.
The Best Things to Do at Hot Springs
The natural hot springs steal the show at this park, so be sure to stroll down Bathhouse Row and then head into Buckstaff Bathhouse for a unique bathing experience that dates back to 1912!
When you’ve finished relaxing in the hot springs, head up to the top of Hot Springs Mountain to enjoy the beautiful views of the Ouachita Mountains.
Here is a detailed list of my top suggestions for things to do at Hot Springs National Park!
Hey there, I’m Ash!
I worked as a park ranger, and I am so excited to help you plan your trip to these amazing Arkansas national parks. Each park is unique and beautiful, and you never know which one will speak to your soul the most.
I would love to hear from you, so please leave a comment on this post if you have any questions as you turn your dream trip into a reality!
FAQs About Hot Springs National Park
How big is Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs National Park is the second smallest national park in America at 5,544.2 acres!
When was Hot Springs National Park established?
Hot Springs was established as a national park on March 4, 1921, making it the 16th national park established in the U.S.
How busy is Hot Springs National Park?
Although Hot Springs is a small national park, it sees a huge number of visitors! This park consistently has over 2 million visitors each year, putting it in the top 15 busiest national parks.
Arkansas’ Other National Park Sites
Arkansas boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance, evident in its diverse collection of national park sites. Each location offers a unique and immersive experience, inviting you to explore the state’s cultural and natural heritage.
If you’re looking for some other awesome places to visit while you’re traveling through Arkansas, check out one of the state’s eight national park sites beyond Hot Springs!
Here is a list of Arkansas’ other national park sites:
Arkansas Post National Memorial
Arkansas Post stands as a testament to the state’s colonial history, being the site of the first European settlement in the lower Mississippi Valley.
Buffalo National River
Known as America’s first national river, Buffalo National River meanders through the Ozark Mountains, providing a pristine environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail
Tracing the path of the Butterfield Overland Mail, this historic trail commemorates the mid-19th-century transportation route that connected the eastern and western United States.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Fort Smith served as a crucial military outpost during the 19th century, playing a key role in maintaining peace on the western frontier.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
This historic site marks a significant chapter in the Civil Rights Movement, as it was the epicenter of the desegregation crisis in 1957. Little Rock Central High School stands as a symbol of courage and resilience.
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Pea Ridge National Military Park preserves the site of a pivotal Civil War battle, offering a poignant glimpse into the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period in American history.
President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site
This historic site honors the birthplace of the 42nd President of the United States, William Jefferson Clinton, preserving the humble home where President Clinton spent his early years.
Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail traces the harrowing journey of Native American tribes forcibly removed from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States.
To see the entire list of National Park Service units in Arkansas, click here. I hope that you have an amazing time visiting Arkansas’ national parks!
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I’m hoping to relocate to Hot Springs, Arkansas…🥰
Mahalo, for the Story & sharing this Fabulous Area…so unique!
I hope you enjoy the area! There are so many fun and beautiful things to see and do!
Aloha Vikki, I just relocated from Kona to Hot Springs. you’re going to love it here.