At 147°F, the source water at Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:Hot thermal water coming out from the ground (37477948694).jpg — cc by 2.0
Hot Springs flows at a remarkable 147 degrees Fahrenheit (63.9 degrees Celsius) in the city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, ranking among the hottest thermal features in the continental United States. The spring emerges 84.2 degrees above ambient temperature just 5 meters from the nearest road at the famous Thermal Water Jug Fountain in the heart of Hot Springs National Park.
The spring emerges at 620 feet elevation where Hot Springs Mountain slopes downward toward the city's downtown core. Average annual temperature stands at 62.8 degrees Fahrenheit with precipitation of 51.2 inches and minimal snow at 3.4 inches. The water chemistry displays total dissolved solids of 186 mg/L with calcium at 45 mg/L and remarkably low sodium at just 4.2 mg/L—mineral-balanced water that has attracted visitors for generations. The downtown location places thermal water emergence at the intersection of mountains and urban landscape.
History of Hot Springs
Hot Springs has held cultural significance for centuries. Native American peoples visited these thermal springs long before European contact. Federal protection began in 1832 when the government reserved land around the springs, making it the first federally protected thermal area in the United States. Bathhouse Row—a collection of historic bathhouses and associated buildings from the 1800s and 1900s—represents the third and fourth generations of bathing infrastructure built around these thermal waters.
Access is among the easiest of any thermal spring, located directly within the city along the park's bathhouse facilities. The Thermal Water Jug Fountain provides free public access to the thermal water. Multiple historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, offering hot spring bathing experiences with varying amenities and price points. The park includes museums, hiking trails, and visitor facilities. Hot Springs's location as a tourist destination means abundant lodging and services nearby. Spring temperature remains stable year-round near 147 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
42°Jan
46°Feb
54°Mar
62°Apr
70°May
79°Jun
82°Jul
81°Aug
76°Sep
64°Oct
52°Nov
45°Dec
Annual Precip: 51.2 inAnnual Snow: 3.4 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 42°F · Water 147°F · +105° contrast
DecemberAir 45°F · Water 147°F · +102° contrast
FebruaryAir 46°F · Water 147°F · +101° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
142.7°F
(61.5°C)Measured Jul 08, 1993
Water ChemistrySampled 1993-07-08
The water at Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.0) with 186 mg/L total dissolved solids.
Overview
Brady Mountain Campground delights visitors with its family-friendly facilities, fabulous views and idyllic placement on Arkansas's Lake Ouachita. The lake attracts visitors who come for the crystal clear waters and bountiful fishing opportunities. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.
Recreation
A unique way to explore the lake is to follow the Geo-Float Trail, coined as the first water-based interpretive trail included in the National Trails System. The self-guided boat...
USGS Quad: HOT SPRINGS NORTH 7.5 · PP 492: 2.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: LITTLE ROCK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has a water temperature of 147°F (64°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs located?
Hot Springs is located in Garland County, Arkansas at 620 feet elevation, near Hot Springs National Park. Coordinates: 34.5130°N, 93.0530°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has Roadside road access (17 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Hot Springs?
Yes, Brady Mountain is located nearby (13.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.0 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 186 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs?
The water at Hot Springs reaches 147°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs crowded?
Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Hot Springs?
Essentials for Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.
