While Yellowstone is often believed to be the oldest national park in the system, the title technically belongs to a great national park to visit in Arkansas. This relatively unknown park hiding in The Wonder State, Hot Springs National Park, is only a fraction of the size of other parks in America, yet it is no less impressive. In fact, the natural hot springs are what attracted people to this area of Arkansas, creating a town by the name of Hot Springs. Land was set aside by the federal government back in 1832, long before national parks had been conceptualized. Here’s more on the fascinating history behind Hot Springs National Park.

Hot Springs National Park's interesting history began long before its designation as Hot Springs Reservation in 1832. The park didn't receive its official title as a national park until 1921. Since it was the oldest area protected by the National Parks Service, it set the precedent for this important system.
Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs, AR 71901, USA
Adventures with 3/TripAdvisor
It is right downtown and easily accessible, with numerous hot springs, walking paths, an observation tower, visitor centers, and trails, making it one of the best parks in Arkansas. The park is located right next to the town of Hot Springs in Garland County. The town was established shortly after the land was given federal protection in the 1800s.
The hot springs found in this area of the state have been believed to hold medicinal qualities for thousands of years. Europeans, who marveled at the natural resource, first came to stay beginning in the early 1800s. The area quickly gained the nickname "The American Spa."
Bill K/TripAdvisor
You can still get a bath and spa treatments on bathhouse row, or bring a jug to fill with fresh mineral water at the few filling spring stations. The Bathhouse Row consists of eight bathhouse buildings that were constructed between 1892 and 1923. Take the Park Ranger Tour to understand how hot springs operated in the early 1900s.
You'll get the chance to marvel at the collection of hot spring pools, view historic baths, and even soak in the water for an additional fee. These springs of water flow from the western slope of the aptly named Hot Springs Mountain.
SouthernBelles98/TripAdvisor
Surrounded in history, it is easy to take your mind on a road trip, considering who came before all those long days ago.

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To truly see history alive, the Buckstaff Hot Springs Bathhouse is one of two out of the eight bathhouses, built over natural hot springs in Bathhouse Row in the 1900s, that are open today. Since opening its doors in 1912, this bathhouse has been in continuous operation, still offering a full traditional bathing experience.
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The Thermal Mineral Bath includes all or some rejuvenating services, such as a whirlpool mineral bath and a Swedish massage.
Along the visit, you will see the collections at Hot Springs National Park include a wide variety of natural history specimens and cultural artifacts.
Lowens 3131/TripAdvisor
Some of the collections include historic remnants and replicas associated with the bathing industry, and early exploration and the settlement of the Hot Springs area.
Don't forget to take advantage of the lush scenery surrounding the area, such as the few trails throughout the park. They offer beautiful views of the forested landscape.
Lowens311/TripAdvisor
The grounds and trails are very well-maintained, offering a wonderful, historical overview to some of the best hiking trails in the state. It is possible to hike almost every trail on the north side in just a few hours. Or take a small walk to enjoy the park's waterfalls.
This marker is located on Fountain Street, memorializing some of the famous baseball players who came to hike the trails for training.
deward070882/TripAdvisor
Join the ranks of the people still coming to enjoy the magical wonders at Hot Springs National Park, still one of the best things to do outside in Arkansas.

There is so much more to learn about Hot Springs National Park. Have you visited Hot Springs recently? We’d love to hear all about it! And when you are in Hot Springs, be sure to check out this fabulous surf-n-turf restaurant, located on the beautiful wharf of Lake Hamilton.

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America's Oldest National Park Has A Truly Fascinating History

Carolyn Harmon | June 28, 2022

Where is another national park to visit in Arkansas?

In 1975, the National Park Service acquired Lost Valley State Park, in Harrison, Arkansas, for the 135-mile Buffalo National River. The river is a sight to behold, with majestic limestone and sandstone bluffs reaching as high as 440 feet. This recreation area is a great place to camp, with accommodations adjacent to the river. The wildlife present here is astounding in this predominantly oak and history forest. In addition to fishing for goggle-eye and smallmouth bass, canoes and swimmers enjoy this free-flowing river. And don't forget this is the place to find some of the best hiking trails in Arkansas.

What is something else to do outside in Arkansas?

If you are feeling adventurous, check out this list of places to visit in Arkansas. One is Devil's Den State Park, located in Lee Creek Valley. The site was designated in the 1930s with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which built the park's wood and stone structures, using natural materials. Still standing as one of the most intact CCC sites in the U.S., its long-standing history can be admired through its trails and original cabins. Don't miss out on this park's unusual rock formations and caverns.

Where is one of Arkansas's best historic bed and breakfasts near a state park?

The Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast at Historic Washington State Park, is a real jailhouse that has been renovated with all the modern amenities. The original brick, one-story jail, completed in 1873, was a building with four jail cells, where criminals lived, who were convicted of burglary, assault, forgery, assault, seduction, and maiming. The building today was newly constructed, completed in 1918, replacing the old building, with six jail cells. The eight rooms each come with a private bathroom, satellite TV, WiFi, and a continental breakfast.

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Hot Springs National Park, AR, USA