If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway in a natural setting, Arkansas is the perfect destination for you. With its numerous hot springs, you can experience the healing powers of mineral-rich waters while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Bathhouse Row.
Hot Springs, Arkansas is a city known for its natural hot springs that have been attracting visitors for centuries. The hot springs have long been considered a place of healing, and many people come to soak in the mineral-rich waters to alleviate a variety of ailments.
Today, only two bathhouses are operational. We share the history, the features, and how you can enjoy bathing in these magical waters of Hot Springs National Park!
History of Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Native Americans were the first to discover the healing powers of the hot springs, and they considered the area sacred. They believed that the hot springs had the power to heal both the body and the spirit.
In the 1800s, the hot springs of Arkansas became a popular destination for people seeking a cure for their ailments. By the early 1900s, the hot springs were protectively enclosed, and the era of ornate, architectural bathhouses began.
In 1923, the Lamar Bathhouse was the first of Bathhouse Row to open its 20th century structure. Nine bathhouses soon lined this special street in Hot Springs National Park. People came from all over the country to soak in the mineral-rich waters.
However, by the mid 1980s, the public demand for hot springs dwindled. The thermal waters of the bathing industry no longer drew people to Hot Springs. Sadly, “Spa City” slowly shuttered its bathhouses, and only one of the original bathhouses continues to offer historically traditional spa services.
Buckstaff Bathhouse: Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park
Buckstaff Bathhouse is the only remaining Hot Springs bathhouse that has been in continuous operation since it opened in 1912. Not only is it still operation, but it continues to offer the same, traditional bathing experiences of the early 20th century!
The Traditional Service includes the opportunity to store your items in a locker and proceed to a private, soaking tub. This traditional bathing experience includes and attendant to guide guests through each step of the service.
Guests may wear a swimsuit or proceed without one. They will have a choice of a bath towel or sheet. The entire Traditional Service is around 90 minutes.
Buckstaff Bathhouse does not accept appointments for its traditional services. Visitors are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis, and the facility does advise early arrival.
Children as young as 10-years-old are permitted services; however, there are no modifications, and the experience is independent.
(Given my own, 26-year, background in child safety training and concerns, I would advise that children be 14-years-old before sending them, independently, through a set of spa treatments.)
No matter how you choose to enjoy the Buckstaff Bathhouse experience, it is sure to be a memorable experience.
Quapaw Bathhouse: Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park
The Quapaw Bathhouse, though not operating as it was in the early 1900s, has been revitalized. It now offers modern spa services. Visitors to this bathhouse can enjoy modern spa packages, or they can enjoy bathing in large, thermal pools.
While the opportunity to bathe in the thermal pools is on a first-come, first-served basis, the spa services do require advanced reservations. You can make these reservations by call (501) 609-9822.
The Quapaw Bathhouse pools offer guests the nostalgia of soaking in the Bathhouse Row hot springs of centuries gone-by. This national park experience may be fun to enjoy with friends or family. However, Quapaw Bathhouse does not serve or permit children under 14-years-old.
Fordyce Bathhouse: Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park
Today, due to the ornate nature of the Fordyce Bathhouse, it is the home of the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center. The marble and tilework in the building’s interior are stunning. Guests can tour scenes of the traditional bathing rooms and fittings; however, hot spring bathing is not available in the Fordyce Bathhouse.
The visitor center is a great way to begin your Hot Springs National Park experience. You can collect a map and junior ranger programs. Even if you aren’t interested in earning a badge or entertaining little ones, the junior ranger book offers an excellent briefing on the history and significance of the stunning, downtown, Bathhouse Row.
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park offers more than just the soaking experience. There are displays of the hot springs, with several small pools and cave-like features behind the bathhouses.
The park also offers several family-friendly hiking trails through the beautiful hillsides.
One of the more popular activities is to taste and drink the hot springs waters! There are several faucets near Bathhouse Row that offer guests free opportunities to taste the water. It is definitely a can’t miss opportunity in Hot Springs National Park!
Some fountains permit visitors to fill up jugs of water for private consumption. We suggest that opportunity as well. It makes a great souvenir!
Although Hot Springs National Park’s primary attractions are in town, its federal land includes a campground! Gulpha Gorge Campground is a serene and lovely spot to pitch a tent or park your RV. Gulpha Creek runs through the back of the property with the sounds of water to rock you to sleep.
Reservations are required at this campground. Visit Recreation.gov to secure your campsite for $34 per night. All sites have FULL HOOKUPS!
What time of year should you visit Hot Springs National Park?
The lovely thing about the bathhouse experience being indoors is that the weather has little effect on your bathing experience. However, if you want to enjoy walking through the charming town of Hot Springs or if you want to hike in the stunning hills behind the bathhouses, you may want to consider a time of year with favorable temperatures.
Below is a picture from a time when we visited in February. You can see the beautiful pink-flowered trees lining the streets. It was cool but not cold. In spite of the forests lacking many leaves, it was actually a lovely time of year to enjoy Hot Springs National Park!
The fall is another favorite time of year due to the changing colors of the leaves. However, the short answer is that Hot Springs has moderate temperatures, so you can comfortably visit almost any time of the year!
Tips for Visiting Hot Springs National Park and Bathhouse Row
If you’re planning a trip to Arkansas to soak in the hot springs, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Wear comfortable clothing: You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing that you can easily change in and out of for your hot springs experience.
- Consider brining a swimsuit: The bathhouses provide towels, and you may enjoy your private services in the nude. However, the thermal pools and public areas request that you wear a swimsuit to remain modest in the presence of other guests.
- Stay hydrated: Soaking in hot springs can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your visit.
- Be respectful: Hot springs are a natural resource, so it’s important to be respectful of the environment and follow any rules or regulations in place.
Arkansas is a beautiful destination for anyone seeking relaxation and healing.
Today, the hot springs of Arkansas are still a popular destination for people seeking relaxation and healing. The bathhouses of Hot Springs National Park have been preserved. Two of these historic structures still offer visitors the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Enjoy Hot Springs National Park, and, remember to get there early to partake in the thermal baths or traditional treatments of centuries-gone-by! Read more about what makes Hot Springs so special!
