Hot Springs is the perfect vacation spot for the outdoor enthusiast. Hot Springs is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, making it one of the loveliest spots in the country. The mountains are home to sparkling lakes, babbling creeks and real diamond mines. With the area being so rich in nature and beauty, it's no wonder that outdoor activities abound.
Hot Springs Parks
Hot Springs National Park is the oldest National Park in the National Park System. The Reservation was established in 1832 to protect the hot springs that flowed from Hot Springs Mountain. The water from these springs is used as a natural therapeutic remedy to treat physical ailments. The Park is home to eight historic bath houses. The former Fordyce Bathhouse is now the park's visitor's center. The area not only offers bath and spa services, but the park also offers visitors an array of picnic, boating, hiking and scenic driving opportunities.
Hot Springs Animal & Wildlife Exhibits
If you're looking for adventure, this is the place to be. At the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo you will find over 300 alligators, some up to ten feet long! You'll also see deer, pygmy goats, llamas and other animals. The museum is home to a variety of monkeys, mountain lions and 100-lb turtles. While there, you have to see the "Mer-Man" that was featured on Ripley's Believe-It-Or-Not. This is one stop that you cannot leave off your list. The farm is open year round, so anytime is a good time to visit.
Hot Springs Carriage & Horse Rides
If you want to see the historic downtown area in class with a touch of romance, Hot Springs Carriage Company has exactly what you need. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown historic Hot Springs for a night that you are sure to remember. Castleberry Riding Stables, Inc. lets you enjoy the outdoors the best way possible, on horseback. This family-owned operation has been in business for over 42 years and offers guided trail riding for people of all ages and skill levels. Located just eight miles from the Hot Springs National Park, this attraction is easy to get to and is open year-round, weather permitting.
Hot Springs Fishing
Action Fishing Trips with Jerry Blake offers year-round guided fishing adventures. Depending on the time of year, you'll be fishing for Crappie, Largemouth, Smallmouth and Spotted Bass as well as Trout, Strippers and Walleye. Or contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to get the licenses and permits you'll need to take advantage of the awesome fishing that the area has to offer.
Hot Springs Misc. Outdoor Activities
The area isn't only known for spas and relaxation; it is also rich in crystal mining opportunities. Get your mining permit at Fiddler's Rock Shop and Mines and take a 20-minute ride to the mines where you will dig for your very own crystals. Or, why not try your hand at parasailing or take a ride on a Sea Doo? Dare Devil's Water Toys offers parasailing, Sea Doo and boat rental as well as a full-service marina.
