hot springs field trips

The Smartest Field Trips are in Hot Springs | Hot Springs National Park Arkansas

• Places to Stay
• Places to Eat
• Things to Do
• Events to Attend
• Meetings & Conventions
• Vacation Guide
• Get the Newsletter
• Thermal Water
• Our History
• Arts & Culture
• Crystal Digging
• Spas & Baths
• Bank OZK Arena
• Historic Baseball Trail
• Majestic Park
• Northwoods Trails
• Visitors Center
• Retirement and Relocation
• General Information
• Advertising and Promotion Tax
• Privacy Policy
• 134 Convention Boulevard Hot Springs, AR 71901 501-321-2277 [email protected]

The Smartest Field Trips are in Hot Springs

We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” -- T. S. Eliot

An adventure and a family field trip all wrapped up in one town; is it possible? We are going to go on a quest to clue you in on what I consider to be the smartest field trips for your money. We are also going to talk about some remote learning options that are available for road-tripping families trying to find the best experiences that Hot Springs has to offer.

Learning from experience the Hot Springs way can mean a lot of things; it means getting your hands covered in red clay while making geologic discoveries, it means building a better understanding of your natural surroundings as you examine native flora and fauna, it means discovering the intersection of where art meets science, it means knowing your history, it means the geometry of a curve ball, and it means testing out just how hot that water is that you discovered bubbling above the ground.

America’s First Resort has much to offer the inquisitive mind and to teach for those willing to learn and become engaged. It's an attractive valley town, not just for those seeking a healthy lifestyle retreat, but for those seeking to delve deep into a veritable well of educational opportunities. The only hard part can be deciding just where to begin.

For fans of Babe Ruth and the roots of professional baseball, the Historic Baseball Trail is a real home run. Go and download the Hot Springs Baseball Trail App for a convenient self-guided tour. The app will take you throughout the town leading you to points of interest like the one found directly outside the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo . According to the designated trail description, this site is where Babe Ruth hit one of the first-ever 500-foot-plus home run drives that landed directly into the alligator farm from a nearby baseball park on Whittington Avenue.

Location - 847 Whittington Avenue

A fond family destination, the Arkansas Alligator Farm at the tail-end of historic Whittington Avenue is still family-owned and operated. Established in 1902, the Bridges family has made alligator wrangling their business and have taught the public about these cold-blooded now for generations. Open year-round the Alligator farm features other live animals and offers a fun and safe outdoor environment for the family.

Location - Hot Springs Convention Center, 134 Convention Blvd.

Hot Springs, for those who do not know, is also a major destination for artists and art enthusiasts. Downtown Hot Springs hosts a monthly gallery walk and other touring art exhibits such as the current Hall of Fame Baseball Photography exhibit “Picturing America’s Pastime,” now on display at the Hot Springs Convention Center through October. The show features 51 photographs from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The exhibit includes panoramas and photos from award-winning journalists and esteemed sports photographers and is a good round off either before or after you tour the historic baseball trail.

Location - 155 Crystal Ridge Lane

If you are still seeking more fun in the sun and want to make geology a subject of interest on your family field trip, then be sure to bring a shovel and go seek out the crystal clear quartz buried over at Ron Coleman Mining . Another family-owned and operated business visitors have sought unique mineral treasures at this mine for more than thirty years now. Aside from being popular among local mineral hounds, Coleman's Mining is considered by many to be one of the best local quartz mines for visitors from all over the country. Take a break from your digging while you are there and jump on the zip lines that will take you over the mine itself for a stunning view of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

Location - 550 Arkridge Road

Another outdoor learning adventure planted in the Ouachitas is Garvan Woodland Gardens . For many adults and children, the Gardens have become a definite must-see. Especially now with its new Evans Children's Adventure Garden and treehouse, there is just so much exquisite outdoor beauty to appreciate. Also, be sure to take a walk-around the Hixson Nature Preserve that borders on Lake Hamilton and take a peek at the Perry Wildflower Overlook. Owned by the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Garvan Gardens flourishes in part thanks to the university landscape architecture program, which helps to maintain the grounds. The affiliation with UofA has extended opportunities in learning for both children and adults also. Garvan Gardens continues to strive in its mission to educate the public about plants and conservation here in the natural state.

Location - 420 Malvern Avenue

Lunch time in Hot Springs offers up a myriad of the most delectable "nom noms." For the most starving minds your best option is 420 Eats, a local food truck court, it offers up a variety of options all in one convenient place. Near the Hot Springs Greenway Trail in downtown you have the option of choosing some yummy Southern Style “Soul Food” from Mama Vees or let your hair down and feast on some fresh Asian food from Rock N Roll Hibachi. There is also Arroz Con Frijoles which is a Mayan style food truck offering unique fare that is South of the Border. 420 Eats also often hosts visiting trucks that bring new and unique flavors, desserts and more plus there are fun outdoor games and plenty of available seating for you and your family.

Location - 500 Mid-America Blvd

Mid-America Science Museum offers science enthusiasts a one-of-a-kind diversion into all things science-related. Take in an electrifying Tesla Theater show where visitors learn all about inventor Nikola Tesla or go on a walkabout on the Oaklawn Foundation DinoTrek to see and hear the dinosaurs crowding the 21-acre property. A favorite among families at this museum, of course, is the Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk, an outdoor interactive treehouse towering above the creek that flows through the museum property. On display through October be sure to visit Bionic Me, a traveling exhibit on display in the traveling exhibit hall, this exhibition explores the inventive and ingenious medical and industrial breakthroughs that have helped enhance the human experience.

CONSERVATION

Location - 369 central avenue.

Are you interested in becoming a Hot Springs National Park Junior Ranger? If you are planning to visit Hot Springs National Park anyway and you are scouting extra learning opportunities, then you might consider this program centered on exploring, learning, and protecting the parks! The National Park Junior Ranger program is targeted to children between the ages of 5 to 13 but is available to all ages. To gain your Junior Ranger badge, you must first complete a series of activities during your visit to Hot Springs National Park and share your answers with a park ranger to receive your badge.

To receive a Junior Ranger booklet, visit the National Park Service ranger station at the Fordyce Bathhouse on historic Bathhouse Row, where you can also take a look at other information and resources about the National Park.

As a parent, it is often easy to take your area learning resources for granted. Lessons about life, big or small, are best when learned with family and when traveling out on the open road. So whether you are a radical, road schooling fam out on an extended vacation or you are just looking for some leisurely long-distance learning, then there is a fountain of possibilities for you and your loved ones when you visit Hot Springs.

Born in Hot Springs, Jim Miller is a local writer and independent marketing consultant who has recently gone through the metamorphosis of becoming a father. A five-year marketing professional he has worked for area nonprofit organizations and small businesses here in Hot Springs for the past ten years. Nowadays he mostly dedicates himself to spending time with his wife and his 8-month old son Archimedes. Listen for him at least most of the time every Tuesday at 8 am on KUHS Radio 102.5 FM.

Featured Listings

The local art entity, lake ouachita state park, freddy's frozen custard & steakburgers.

Field Trips

& group admission.

• General Admission
• Field Trips & Groups
• Tricera-Tickets
• Rent the Museum
• Museum Maps
• Exhibit Scavenger Hunt
• Accessibility
• Hours & Location

(501) 767-3461 Ext. 3666

Plan Your Science Field Trip or Group Trip Today!

Nothing enhances your science lessons like hands-on experiences! Get your students out of the classroom and explore real world science phenomena with over 100 interactive exhibits in the 73,500 square-foot Museum and throughout the 21 wooded acres surrounding the facility.

Schools and non-profit organizations qualify for the group rate. Proof of non-profit status must be provided upon registering your group.

*A minimum two-week advanced registration required.

School Groups and Non-Profit Admission (15 persons or more)

Workshops & science shows, mid-america science museum wants to further support teachers in hands-on educational activities offered at the museum and as outreach and distance learning., tinkering workshops.

Reserve the Tinkering Studio for your group! (9:00am - 12:00pm)

Grades: K - 12

Your mission is to create a rocket out of paper and tape that can fly with the power of air!

Paper Circuits

Grades: 3 - 12

We put the “Art” in STEAM as students learn about electric circuits in creative ways.

Owl Pellet Dissection

Sponsored by: Gene Shelby Charitable Foundation Grades: 5th-7th

Explore the interconnections of species in an ecosystem by evaluating skeletal remains in owl pellet castings.

TINKER TOTS WORKSHOPS

Pre-K Through 1st Grade. (30 mins)

Cardboard Robots

Pete the Cat tries to build a robot friend. Can you build one too?

A House for the Three Little Pigs

After we read the Three Little Pigs, students try to build their own house for a piggy.

Open Tinker

Students get to explore the Tinkering Studio with just their classmates and the help of our Tinker facilitator.

PLEASE NOTE

General Admission, Memberships, Field Trips, Groups, and Birthday Party tickets cannot be used for entry to the museum on Eclipse Day, April 8, 2024.

Order Eclipse Day Tickets Here

The 8 Best Natural Hot Springs in Arizona: A Local's Guide

From luxury resort to epic off-trail adventure, add these hot springs to your must-visit list for a relaxing soak after a long travel day

Natalie Allen Carrasco

Image Courtesy Castle Hot Springs

Best known for geological and natural marvels like Grand Canyon National Park, the Sonoran Desert, the Arizona Trail , and towns like Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Sedona, the Grand Canyon State is full of hidden oases and off-the-beaten-path adventure destinations that can surprise first-time visitors and locals alike. Example: even though the state is often (too-often) known for its heat, there's a wealth of unique, destination-worthy natural hot springs in Arizona perfect for fall and winter visits.

It's true, dozens of them. The options cater to every nature enthusiast, from luxurious glamping resorts to remote soaking pools that require a multi-mile hike from off-road parking lots. Warm waters and natural springs set among high canyon walls aren't hard to come by in Arizona, but some guidance is required. Lucky for you, I’m a local, a hiker, and a hot spring lover—and in this guide I’ll share my insider’s tips for visiting some of Arizona’s best hot springs.

Below is a short list of my favorites—eight divinely unique, rejuvenating natural hot springs experiences, all independently vetted (without giving away too much intrigue). Some are easy to access, while others might challenge your treasure hunting skills. All are sprinkled across desolate parts of this State, ideal for those who dislike crowds, like road trips, and savor a unique getaway. If you do visit, remember to leave no trace, minimize cell phone use/geotagging, and bring plenty of water for staying hydrated, regardless of the season.

The 8 Best Arizona Hot Springs

[Verde Hot Springshttps://tidd.ly/3MtOWct — Tonto National Forest

Vibe: Nudist's Paradise

This renowned local treasure uniquely blends rustic charm and bohemian spirit. A hidden gem among the cottonwood trees at the base of the Verde River, you'll find graffiti-adorned, walled-in hot spring tubs with decades-old punk rock art adding a layer of historical intrigue.

This spot was initially built as part of the Verde Hot Springs Hotel by Floyd Williams in the 1920s. However, after a fire in 1962, only remnants of its past glory remain. Its foundation now provides hot pools to those adventurous enough to tackle the 18-mile dirt road and knee-high river trek to get there. If you're in the Camp Verde area and crave a unique, clothing-optional soaking experience, definitely add this place to your must-visit list.

Closest Town: Camp Verde, AZ Directions: via AllTrails Rate: Free to soak, but surrounding wilderness areas may require a permit for camping

Castle Hot Springs — Morristown, AZ

Vibe: Hot Springs Resort

This historical icon stands out among other places on this list, offering luxury resort-style accommodation in Yavapai County just north of Phoenix. Nestled amidst rugged backdrops rich in tales of cowboys, Castle Hot Springs emanates luxury and outstanding hospitality. It's often called the Shangri La of Arizona, a true oasis. Devastated by a fire and the passage of time in the early 1960s, this place has come back to life after stout renovations in 2019, offering new treasures and experiences for locals and visitors. The beautifully maintained hot spring pools are fed with mineral water by the untouched snowmelt from the Bradshaw Mountains and water temperature ranges from 86 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit.

The only caveat is the price to pay per night. But accommodations, which include casitas and cottages, also provide access to a spa and restaurants that source from the property's on-site farm. Castle Hot Springs carries a vibrant history every genuine Arizonan raves about. For those interested, you can watch an Emmy-nominated documentary showcasing the rich history of the Castle Hot Spring lands.

Closest Town: Phoenix, AZ, is only an hour south Directions: via Google Maps Rate: $1,600/night

El Dorado Hot Springs — Tonopah, AZ

Vibe: Pit Stop Soak

One hour west of downtown Phoenix heading toward California is a spot worth pausing your road trip for: El Dorado Hot Springs, a super intimate and quirky little spot in the middle of Tonapah's flat desert floor. Pay your respects and leave your cellphones and cameras in the car—this desert oasis is best enjoyed without likes and emails in mind. Multiple hot water soaking tubs with private, public, and clothing-optional varieties can be found, plus accommodations and campsites are available for an overnight camping, too. The place is reasonably petite in size, so you’ll get to know your neighbors plenty if strangers happen to join you. The grounds also have bountiful desert wildlife, including peacocks, pigs, quails, and ducks, for a truly unique experience.

Closest Town: Phoenix, AZ (1 hour) Directions: via Google Maps Rate: $15/person

Kaiser Hot Springs — Wikieup, AZ

Vibe: Sweeping Canyon Vistas and Classic Desert

Public reviews say Kaiser Hot Springs may not be the hottest, but it shines as the perfect warm, pebble-bottomed pool in the heart of Arizona's barren western canyons. It's a slice of serenity, showcasing stunning beauty and offering a deep sense of peace. The unspoiled, quiet surroundings transform the 1.5-mile journey into an adventure well worth the effort. Remember, clothing is optional here, so be mindful of your camera or cellphone use if greeting other passersby soaking guests.

Nearest Town: Kingsman, AZ Directions: via Trailforks Rate: Free

Sheep Bridge Hot Springs — Tonto National Forest

Vibe: Hard-To-Find Faraway Gem

If you're up for group camping, campfire melodies, and a dash of dirtbag—Sheep's Bridge is your spot. Hidden amid grassy plains and mountain walls, this off-the-beaten-track natural pool is an actual treasure chest. This place is a big hit with the locals, offering a playground-sized BLM land just begging for weekend-long exploration. Built in the 1880s, the original bridge near the hot springs helped sheep cross the Verde River into the Bloody Basin. Thanks to the U.S. Forest Service, the 1989 replica still stands strong, providing recreationally safe passage for pedestrians.

Open all year round, Sheep Bridge Hot Springs is a haven for seasoned van dwellers and road junkies. However, it’s a long, rocky, winding road to get there—crossing the river at multiple points, and those boulders aren't small! I wouldn’t recommend this spot for vehicles with low clearance. But hey, the scenic views and the chill vibes at the journey's end make it all worth the wild ride.

Nearest Town: Carefree, AZ Directions: via AllTrails Rate: Free

Essence of Tranquility — Safford, AZ

Vibe: Quirky Hole In the Wall

Essence of Tranquility is a mom-and-pop outfit with various hot spring tubs and sitting areas outside Safford, AZ. Although the website may seem outdated, the 2006-era web graphics and funky-colored fonts add to the venue's unique charm. The facility offers six baths with different temperature ranges, allowing you to find the perfect soak to suit your preference. Additionally, the property is dotted with picnic benches and serene spots ideal for meditation or reading, as well as accommodations in basic casitas that also offer access to a communal kitchen and patio. Hot spring water temperatures range from 98 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nearest Town: Safford, AZ Directions: via Google Maps Rate: $15/hour or $35/day

Pumpkin Spring Pool — Grand Canyon

Vibe: Halloween in the Canyon

A natural, obscure wonder at the bottom of the Colorado River in Arizona’s famous Grand Canyon, Pumpkin Hot Springs attracts thrill seekers of all backgrounds. It’s a giant arsenic geothermal hot spot in the shape of a pumpkin. Bright orange on the exterior with patches of effervescent limestone overflowing its sides makes for a hypnotic terra incognito wonder. The only problem? It’s far too hot and toxic to bathe in, let alone touch, carrying the highest concentration of poison amidst the entire river. Despite these restrictions, the site is worth checking out during your Canyon visit. Located at mile 212.9 along the Colorado River, it’s worth noting that you can only access this area by boat.

Nearest Town: Littlefield, AZ Directions: via Google Maps Rate: Free to observe, but you must take a boat along the river to access it.

Arizona (Ringbolt) Hot Springs — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Vibe: Road Warrior’s Paradise

Ringbolt Hot Springs is ideal for a day or two of adventure if you're road-tripping across the American Southwest. It's located on the Arizona-Nevada border just outside Boulder City, near the famous Hoover Dam, and reaching the hot springs requires a scenic yet challenging hike down the White Mountain Canyon trailhead through a winding slot canyon. The journey involves knee-deep river walks and climbing a 20-foot ladder alongside a waterfall to reach the geothermal pools. One important note: avoid getting the water up your nose due to the risk of a dangerous amoeba. Flash floods are possible, and super hot weather is a significant setback in the desert: this trail is closed from May 15th to September 30th each year, due to the risk of extreme (and sometimes life-threatening) heat exposure.

This fountain-of-youth soak is worth the 5.8-mile trek (during the months the trail is open to the public) and is an excellent refresher after a long car ride if you find yourself in the area.

Nearest Town: Boulder City, NV and Las Vegas Directions: via AllTrails Rate: $15/day for day permits (per vehicle) are required to enter the Lake Mead Recreational Area.

Bonus acknowledgments go out to Kachina Mineral Springs and Hot Well Dunes Hot Springs, the former a motel with hot spring pools and the later a natural site located on rugged BLM land. Both are also worth a visit if the vibe is right for you.

What's the next best thing to a natural hot spring? How about a wood fired hot tub and cold plunge pool .

Published 08-11-2023

Updated 10-30-2023

In a true wilderness emergency, a strong, sharp, reliable blade can be your ticket to fire, shelter, and survival—they're also fun for regular camping

Two decades since invention, Crocs are more popular than ever. And so are the many Croc like shoes from other trusted names in the footwear world

Whether you're trekking across the Grand Canyon or through Grand Central, you'll want a pair of supportive and responsive shoes to get you going

A local's guide to Japan's first national park and its neighboring hot spring town, where visitors can experience a slice of authentic life in Japan

From Central Park classics to Brooklyn climbing gyms (and the Gunks), we break down all you need to know about climbing in America’s largest city

Tested over hundreds of miles and different types of terrain from Utah to Wyoming, these hiking sandals can handle it all

Gallery Mode

Little Rock Family

The ultimate arkansas field trip guide: destinations around the state.

About Our Cover Model: Presley is 7 years old and took the top spot with the most votes in our 2019 Cover Kid Contest ! She takes piano lessons, swim lessons and is a cheerleader at Maumelle Gymnastics and Cheer.

Welcome to Little Rock Family's 2019 Field Trip Guide, a complete list of educational destinations around Arkansas, with options focused on nature, arts, history, science and more.

Featured Field Trips

Central Arkansas Nature Center

Clinton Presidential Center

Altitude Trampoline Park

Arkansas State Capitol

Central Arkansas Library System

Heifer International Campus

MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

Museum of Discovery

Arkansas 4-H Center Programs

Choose from Little Rock Family's extensive list of field trip adventures the next time you venture outside of the classroom with your students. Click on one of the category links above or scroll down to see them all!

* Denotes Field Trip Guide sponsor

Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo 847 Whittington Ave., Hot Springs | 501-623-6172 Ages: All ages Rates: $4.50 ages 12 & under; $7.50 adults This attraction is one of Hot Springs’ oldest and features alligator feedings, a petting zoo and a mini museum. Groups of 20 or more should call ahead.

Holtzman Riding Academy 4618 Highway 5 South, Benton | 501-860-2378 Ages: Up to 10  Rates: $8 The academy emphasizes the care, health, and responsibility of owning a horse and each child will have personal contact with one.

Lichterman Nature Center 5992 Quince Road, Memphis | 901-636-2221 Ages: Grades K-12  Rates: Varies This urban nature center offers exciting exhibits, nature walks, wildlife programs and many other entertaining activities designed to put students in touch with nature.

Little Rock Animal Village 4500 Kramer St., Little Rock | 501-376-3067 Ages: 4-17  Rates: Free Visit this animal shelter for the city of Little Rock for a tour lasting up to an hour.

Little Rock Zoo 1 Zoo Drive, Little Rock | 501-661-7200 Ages: 3 & up Rates: $9.95 ages 3-12; free under age 3; $12.95 adults Expose students to more than 500 different species of animals and teach them about nature and conservation in a fun, interactive environment. Customized educational programming and lunches are available for an extra fee. Group reservations for 15 or more people must be made 10 days in advance.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs | 479-253-5992 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Turpentine is one of the largest big cat sanctuaries in North America and provides a lifetime home to neglected and abused victims of the exotic pet trade. Admission includes a guided walking tour and access to the self-guided area.

(Return to top)

Arkansas Repertory Theatre 601 Main St., Little Rock | 501-378-0405 Ages: 10-18  Rates: $8 per seat Student Matinee Program performances have reduced-price tickets, study guides and talk-backs with cast and crew. Tours of the theater let students explore backstage magic and talk with the production crews.

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra P.O. Box 7328, Little Rock | 501-666-1761 Ages: 8-12  Rates: Varies The ASO offers 30-minute, in-school quartet demos that are tied to the teacher’s curriculum. Add to the experience with program features like an instrument petting zoo or recorder karate. The ASO also holds a children’s concert performance customized for young audiences.

Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas 701 S. Main St., Pine Bluff | 870-536-3375 Ages: 5 & up  Rates: Free; $2 donation per student suggested for field trips. School groups, day camps and child care centers are welcome to schedule a guided tour and/or hands-on activity.

Ballet Arkansas 520 Main St., Little Rock | 501-223-5150 Ages: 3 & up Rates: $5-$8 student matinee Ballet Arkansas exposes students to the power and beauty of live dance with four student matinee performances during the 2019-2020 season: “Sleepy Hollow,” “Nutcracker Spectacular,” “Cinderella” and the “Master/Works” mixed bill.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art 600 Museum Way, Bentonville | 479-657-2395 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free A variety of tours focus on subjects such as the Wild West and Modernism, and specific artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz. Teachers can submit applications to visit the museum on the website; each year, school groups are selected in a lottery.

Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville | 479-443-5600 Ages: Grades pre-K-12 Rates: $10, reservation required The center offers live matinee performances in a variety of art forms including dance, theater, puppetry and world music. Free guided tours of the art gallery must be reserved in advance.

COMMUNICATIONS

AETN 350 S. Donaghey Ave., Conway | 501-682-2386 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Visit the studio and production facilities where programs about Arkansas are made. Technical-oriented tours can be arranged for high school or college broadcasting classes.

ENTERTAINMENT

Altitude Trampoline Park 15707 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock 501-353-1281, AltitudeTrampolineParkLR.com Ages: All ages Rates: $11 per person (1 hour) Bounce around on 125 interconnected trampolines, jump into a 60-foot foam pit, play dodgeball and experience a virtual reality arcade.

Arkansas Skatium 1311 Bowman Road, Little Rock | 501-227-4333 Ages: All ages Rates: $9 for roller skating or ice skating; $11 for both Open year-round for roller and ice skating activities.

Arkansas State Fair 2600 Howard St., Little Rock | 501-372-8341 Ages: 4-18 Rates: Free from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, $5 otherwise A variety of livestock shows and displays are held during the fair each October. Students can enjoy magic shows, a petting zoo, arts and crafts displays, exhibitions and activities.

Big Rock Fun Park 11411 Baseline Road, Little Rock | 501-455-3750 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Enjoy mini-golf, bumper boats, a lazer frenzy maze, arcade games with prizes, go-karts and more. Counting, adding, following directions, team building and other educational features are incorporated into activities.

Celebrity Attractions 426 W. Markham St., Little Rock | 501-244-8800 Ages: 4 & up  Rates: Varies The 2019-2020 production lineup for student groups includes “Wicked,” “Cats” and “The Play That Goes Wrong.”

DEFY Little Rock 4711 Talley Road, Little Rock | 501-313-0100 4699 S. Dixieland Road, Rogers | 479-802-0140 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies DEFY gravity at this 30,000-square-foot trampoline park that offers dodgeball, a ninja obstacle course, silks and slacklines, a zipline and more.

Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum 250 Central Ave., Hot Springs | 501-623-5836 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Wax sculptures of famous politicians, entertainers and historical figures will fascinate your tour group.

Loco Ropes! Ozark Folk Center State Park, 1025A Park Ave., Mountain View | 870-269-6566 Ages: All ages   Rates: Varies Loco Ropes offers group, team-building and high adventure events with more than 35 heart-pumping obstacles. Discounts are available for school groups.

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park 1701 E. Grand Ave., Hot Springs | 501-318-5370 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies During “Education in Motion” in May, the park is open only to pre-booked school groups, perfect for year-end field trips. Select water attractions will be running.

National Park Duck Tours 418 Central Ave., Hot Springs | 501-624-3825 Ages: All ages Rates: Varies depending on total group participants Climb aboard an amphibious World War II DUKW and enjoy a 75-minute sightseeing tour by land and water of sites including Lake Hamilton and Bathhouse Row.

Silver Dollar City 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, Missouri | 800-417-7770 Ages: All ages   Rates: Varies This field trip blends educational elements with fun rides, shows and attractions. Silver Dollar City offers a living history lesson as well as an education in earth science, applied physics, drama and American craftsmanship.

Verizon Arena 1 Verizon Arena Way, North Little Rock | 501-340-5660 Ages: All ages   Rates: Free Take a tour of the state’s largest arena to see the arena bowl, backstage area, meeting rooms and suites. Tours last 30-45 minutes but are not available on event days.

Wild River Country 6820 Crystal Hill Road, North Little Rock | 501-753-8600 Ages: All ages Rates: $12.50 Make a splash at this 26-acre water park in North Little Rock, which reserves two days each year exclusively for school field trips.

Arkansas Food Bank 4301 W. 65th St., Little Rock | 501-565-8121 Ages: 8 & up  Rates: Free Students can have team-building experience through volunteer shifts to sort and box donated food. Groups of volunteers ages 8-15 require one adult for every five students. Groups with ages 16-18 need one adult for every 10 students.

Kilwins Little Rock 415 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock | 501-379-9865 Ages: All ages  Rates: $10-$15 Experience the nostalgia of an old time soda fountain from the making of handmade fudge to dipping ice cream. Kids get to be a part of the process and make their own tasty treat to enjoy.

GOVERNMENT/CIVICS

Arkansas Governor’s Mansion 1800 Center St., Little Rock | 501-324-9805 Ages: 5 & up  Rates: Free Tour the grounds, gardens and public rooms of the Governor’s Mansion.

Arkansas Secretary of State 500 Woodlane, Little Rock | 501-682-5080 Ages: 5 & up  Rates: Free The Secretary of State’s Education Department uses traveling classroom presentations, workshops and guided tours of the Arkansas State Capitol to teach about the state’s history, the importance of voting and how elections are conducted.

Arkansas State Capitol 500 Woodlane Ave., Little Rock 501-682-5080, SOS.Arkansas.gov Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Students can see several historic points of interest throughout the building on a guided or self-guided tour.

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum 120 Riverfront Park Drive, North Little Rock | 501-371-8320 Ages: 5 & up Rates: Reduced group rates available Enjoy an educational tour of the USS Razorback submarine and ask about the museum’s other Navy vessel, the tugboat Hoga.

Arkansas Post National Memorial 1741 Old Post Road, Gillett | 870-548-2207 Ages: All ages   Rates: Free Arkansas Post Visitor Center provides a museum, educational tour and a 22-minute orientation film. Historical sites related to more than 300 years of Arkansas history are situated on the park grounds, as well as a picnic area and three miles of walking trails.

Arkansas State University Museum 320 University Loop W., Jonesboro | 870-972-2074 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free See Native American artifacts, war memorabilia, a replica of a mastodon skeleton and how the early settlers once lived. Students can also do some tinkering in the Tinkering Studio.

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site 2120 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Little Rock | 501-374-1957 Ages: Grades 4-College   Rates: Free The National Park Service visitor center offers exhibits and Ranger-led programs that explore the history of the 1957 desegregation of Central High School. Tours are by reservation only.

Clinton House Museum 930 W. Clinton Drive, Fayetteville | 479-444-0066 Ages: Grades K-12  Rates: Free The Clinton House Museum focuses on the lives of Bill and Hillary Clinton during their time in Fayetteville. Its programs match the Arkansas Curriculum Frameworks for history, social studies and government.

Clinton Presidential Center 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock 501-374-4242,  ClintonPresidentialCenter.org/Education Ages: Grades pre-K-12 Rates: Free with reservation The Clinton Center offers a unique perspective of the work of President Bill Clinton. We offer a variety of interactive exhibits, including a White House Cabinet Room reconstruction and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, as well as unique temporary exhibits.

Delta Cultural Center 141 Cherry St., Helena | 870-338-4350 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free The museum focuses on the 27 counties of the Arkansas Delta and the history of its people. Topics include exhibits on Native Americans, European explorers, the Mississippi River, the Civil War, Delta towns and music of the Delta. Tours are available upon request.

Historic Arkansas Museum 200 E. Third St., Little Rock | 501-324-9351 Ages: Grades K-12  Rates: Varies Historic Arkansas Museum offers many field trip programs that bring pioneer Arkansas to life. The multilevel programs progress as students advance in school so they can come back year after year to fresh experiences.

Historic Curran Hall-Little Rock Visitor Information Center 615 E. Capitol Ave., Little Rock | 501-371-0076 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Tour the garden and home, while hearing a short talk on the home’s history and occupants. Call to arrange a tour.

Historic Washington State Park 103 Franklin St., Washington | 870-983-2684 Ages: 8 & up Rates: $5 ages 6-12, $9 adults Historic Washington offers student tours, extended learning programs and overnight programs. Distance learning through CILC lets students experience the park without leaving school, if desired.

Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center and Museum 369 Central Ave., Hot Springs | 501-620-6715 Ages: All ages   Rates: Free Students can discover the park’s various attractions such the bathhouses and hot springs through group or self-guided tours. Make reservations at least six weeks in advance.

Jacksonville Museum of Military History 100 Veterans Circle, Jacksonville | 501-241-1943 Ages: 6 & up  Rates: $1 per student The museum focuses on local and regional military history from the Civil War era to current day engagements. Call in advance for tours for more than five students.

MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History 503 E. Ninth St., Little Rock 501-376-4602, ArkMilitaryHeritage.com Ages: All ages Rates: Free Take a guided tour of the historic arsenal, learn about the contributions that many Arkansans have made during military conflicts and see the birthplace of Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Interactive programs, arts and crafts, and special programs are available upon request.

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center 501 W. Ninth St., Little Rock | 501-683-3593 Ages: Grades 4-12  Rates: Free The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is dedicated to telling the story of Arkansas’ African American history and using those stories to encourage understanding and excite the imagination. Reservations are required three weeks in advance.

Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie 921 E. 4th St., Stuttgart | 870-673-7001 Ages: 5 & up  Rates: Free The Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie demonstrates how the prairie pioneers lived, worked and played. With more than 10,000 artifacts, the museum has exhibits ranging from waterfowl to agriculture and all points in between. Call to make arrangements for groups of more than six people.

National Civil Rights Museum 450 Mulberry St., Memphis | 901-521-9699 ext. 2224 Ages: 4 & up Rates: $11 ages 5-17; $12 college students; $14 adults; free for bus drivers The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., chronicles key episodes of the American civil rights movement and  its legacy through collections, exhibitions and educational programs.

Old State House Museum 300 W. Markham St., Little Rock | 501-324-8642 Ages: Grades K-12   Rates: Free The Old State House Museum’s guided tours are an exciting way to learn about Arkansas history. They feature the museum’s permanent exhibits, changing exhibits and the history of the Old State House.

Ozark Folk Center State Park 1032 Park Ave., Mountain View | 870-269-3851 Ages: 9 & up Rates: $2 discount per child ticket; free for teachers and bus drivers The folk center offers programs and tours where elementary students can experience music, folk arts and crafts and learn the history of the region.

Parker Homestead 16944 Homestead Road, Harrisburg | 870-578-2699 Ages: All ages Rates: Call for details Students can experience how Arkansans once lived and worked by touring the grounds of the homestead. A tour of the grounds includes a general store, grist mill and more.

Plantation Agriculture Museum State Park 4815 State Highway 161 S., Scott | 501-961-1409 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Exhibits and programs interpret the history of cotton agriculture and farm life in Arkansas. Learn about growing and picking cotton, as well as ginning and storing the seeds. Tour the 1912 museum building, Dortch Gin Building and Seed Warehouse #5.

Scott Settlement Tours County Road 84 & Alexander Road, Scott | 501-351-5737 Ages: 6 & up Rates: $3 per person; free for teachers and bus drivers Scott Connections created this special setting depicting early settlement life in Scott. All tours are conducted by guides who grew up in the area.

Shiloh Museum of Ozark History 118 W. Johnson Ave., Springdale | 479-750-8165 Ages: Grades K-12   Rates: Free Come experience Ozark living from historic days to the present. The Shiloh Museum focuses on the northwest Arkansas Ozarks and the everyday people who lived there. Visit a modern museum, seven historic buildings and shaded grounds.

The Walmart Museum 105 N. Main St., Bentonville | 479-277-8923 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free See where the Walmart retail empire began. Enjoy a three-part experience with a world-class exhibit gallery, Walton’s 5&10, and the Spark Cafe, a 1950s-style soda fountain.

Toltec Mounds Archaeological State Park 490 Toltec Mounds Road, Scott | 501-961-9442 Ages: All ages Rates: $3 per student; free for teachers and bus drivers Visit a Native American site and its facility where students can participate in educational activities.

War Eagle Mill 11045 War Eagle Road, Rogers | 479-789-5343 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Take a guided tour of the Mill and the historic bridge, learn how the grist mill operates and hear stories about battles, legends and ghosts.

MISCELLANEOUS

Pink Palace Family of Museums 3050 Central Ave., Memphis | 901-636-2362 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies This wide-ranging collection of attractions offers students the experience of hands-on inquiry and discovery with a variety of educational programs and activities for groups.

The Wonder Place 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, Suite E2, Little Rock | 501-225-4050 Ages: 0-8 Rates: $6.75 for groups of 15 or more This is a creative play space for kids featuring interactive stations for imaginative play that includes a tree house, an artist studio, a drama stage and puppet area, a mock River Market, an infant/toddler area and more.

OUTDOORS/NATURE

Arkansas Frontier 1625 Wesley Chapel Road, Quitman | 501-589-3122 Ages: Grades pre-K-8 Rates: $9-$11, varies by package This living history farm is open each October. Field trips include a pumpkin patch and farm tour and hayride. Students can tour a pioneer homestead, Native American village and a one-room schoolhouse. There are also pig races, an enchanted forest, a dinosaur dig and more.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock | 501-223-6300 Ages: 4 & up  Rates: Free AGFC nature and education centers across the state use hands-on experience and education to focus on the natural elements and ecosystems found around the state.

Arkansas Outdoor School Arkansas Four-H Center, 1 Four-H Way, Little Rock 501-821-6884, UAEX.edu/AOS Ages: Grades K-12   Rates: Varies The school’s day and overnight programs combine an outdoor setting (indoor options available) with hands-on, experiential activities including orienteering, outdoor cooking, geology, astronomy, map reading, GPS technology and more.

BoBrook Farms 13810 Combee Lane, Roland | 501-519-5666 Ages: K-5 Rates: $8 per child, $5 per parent; free for teachers Trips to BoBrook include a short presentation on crops, hayrides, a sunflower maze, farm zoo, hay pyramid, corn pit and more.

Crater of Diamonds State Park 209 State Park Road, Murfreesboro | 870-285-3113 Ages: All ages Rates: $5 ages 13 & up; $3 ages 6-12; ages 5 & under free Request a mining demonstration or another program when making reservations.

Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center 600 E. Lawson Road, Jonesboro | 870-933-6787 Ages: Grades K-12  Rates: Free The center offers programs and exhibits on the wildlife, natural history and topography of the Crowley’s Ridge area. There is an observation deck in the education complex and a series of trails for nature walks.

Garvan Woodland Gardens 550 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs | 501-262-9603 Ages: 6-12  Rates: $5 Take a walking tour of this 210-acre botanical garden and explore a children’s adventure garden and huge tree house. Topics include forest ecology, plant identification and dendrology.

Good Earth Learning Center 511 Ernie Davis Road, Austin | 501-732-0321 Ages: Grades pre-K-6  Rates: $10 Students can gather eggs, feed chickens and lambs, pet rabbits, learn how worms create compost, plant or harvest food and more.

Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith | 479-452-3993 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free The center lets groups enjoy exhibits, nature trails and native plants on the grounds, and fishing at Wells Lake.

Lake Ouachita State Park 5451 Mountain Pine Road, Mountain Pine | 501-767-9366 Ages: All ages Rates: Varies but several programs are free Park interpreters offer year-round programming to provide recreational and educational opportunities. There are barge and kayak tours, nature talks, hikes, activities and crafts for all ages.

Ozark Gateway Region 453 Batesville Blvd., Batesville | 870-793-9316 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Experience six state parks, float on a beautiful river, discover Blanchard Springs Caverns and have treetop adventures. Find rich history in state parks and museums in the area.

Ozark Natural Science Center 1905 Madison 1305, Huntsville | 479-202-8340 Ages: Grades 4-12  Rates: Varies Students explore, discover, experiment, question and observe in this 15,000-acre classroom without walls. ONSC teacher naturalists guide students through hands-on outdoor science classes and overnight programs are also available.

Petit Jean State Park 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road, Morrilton | 501-727-5441 Ages: All ages Rates: Free, unless otherwise noted Programs include tours of Bear Cave, Rock House Cave and Cedar Falls Overlook. Students can learn the legend of Petit Jean and take the C.C.C. History Stroll of Petit Jean State Park.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, Little Rock | 501-868-5806 Ages: All ages Rates: Free but special rates may apply for use of facilities Interpretive programs include guided trail hikes, canoe and kayak floats on the local rivers, boat cruises on Lake Maumelle and more.

Ron Coleman Mining 155 Crystal Ridge Lane, Jessieville | 501-984-5396 Ages: 5 & up  Rates: $5 per activity Students dig into a quartz mine and get to keep everything they find. They can also take a tour and ride the Army truck into the mine and see where and how crystals form. Fly across the mine on a zip line for extra excitement!

Roseberry Farms 12223 Hwy. 9, Benton | 501-722-8545 Ages: All ages Rates: $6 per student/parent; free for teachers and bus drivers Take a hayride or barrel ride, play in a hay fort, try a beanbag toss, visit farm animals and more. Educational activities include learning how to grow pumpkins and other fall crops.

The Vines Center 1 Four-H Way, Little Rock | 501-821-4444 Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies The center’s educational programs put students in natural settings for hands-on learning adventures. Options include the Arkansas Outdoor School or ExCEL and programs are offered on- or off-site.

Wildwood Park for the Arts 20919 Denny Road, Little Rock | 501-821-7275 Ages: Grades K & up Rates: Donations only Take a tour of the theater, garden, and nature and art galleries.

Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center 602 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock 501-907-0636, AGFC.com Ages: All ages  Rates: Free The center offers conservation education with programs focused on water, animals, habitats and outdoor skills.

Wye Mountain Flowers & Berries 20309 Hwy. 113, Roland | 501-330-1906 Ages: 5-10  Rates: $6 per child Learn about locally grown flowers and berries. Children can make and decorate their own basket and then pick berries. See bunnies and other farm animals and stop by farm funland to try slides, swings and ride the berry choo-choo.

Central Arkansas Library System 100 Rock St., Little Rock 501-918-3000, CALS.org Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Tour the library and participate in programs and events for all ages. Visit the website for information about programming at the other 13 branches in Pulaski and Perry counties.

Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library & Learning Center 4800 W. 10th St., Little Rock | 501-978-3870 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free The library includes a computer lab, teaching kitchen, large activity area, a greenhouse, individual and group study rooms, theater and community room in addition to a collection of more than 21,000 books, DVDs and CDs.

Saline County Library 1800 Smithers Drive, Benton | 501-778-4766 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Visiting groups are welcome anytime the library is open. The library offers tours, storytimes, crafts, makerspace activities, database training and scavenger hunts.

Arkansas Archeological Survey 2475 N. Hatch Ave., Fayetteville | 479-575-6550 Ages: All ages  Rates: Free Groups of 30 or less are invited to learn about how archeologists do their jobs and what kinds of information they discover. Tour the University Collections and try fun, hands-on educational activities.

Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub 204 E. 4th St., North Little Rock | 501-794-8106 Ages: Grades 4 & up Rates: $6-$12 per student The Innovation Hub offers educational experiences that support each class that comes through its doors. Field trips can cover electricity, laser cutting, flight and video game design. The Hub Immersion field trip is available for groups of 50-100.

Coon Creek Science Center 2983 Hardin Graveyard Road, Adamsville, Tennessee | 901-636-2362 Ages: Grades K-12 Rates: Varies Coon Creek Science Center contains one of the most important fossil sites in North America. Students can see impeccably preserved marine shells and vertebrate remains left on the site 70 million years ago.

Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority 11 Clearwater Drive, Little Rock | 501-376-2903 Ages: Grades 6 & up  Rates: Free Visit local treatment facilities and walk through the treatment process. It is an industrial site so closed-toe shoes are recommended for visitors.

Mid-America Science Museum 500 Mid-America Blvd., Hot Springs | 501-767-3461 ext. 115 Ages: All ages   Rates: $7 per student Discover all of the great possibilities that are available for encouraging hands-on science education for students and adults. See the online Field Trip Guide on the website for information.

Museum of Discovery 500 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock 501-396-7050, MuseumOfDiscovery.org Ages: All ages  Rates: Varies Ignite students’ imaginations with more than 40 educational programs on science, technology, engineering, math, health and social science. All hands-on classes are taught by trained museum educators.

Reynolds Science Center Planetarium 1100 Henderson St., Box 7784, Arkadelphia | 870-230-5417 Ages: All ages  Rates: $3 per student The Planetarium is open to the public for shows, star-gazing events, field trips and private functions.

Scott Family Amazeum 1009 Museum Way, Bentonville | 479-696-9280 Ages: Grades K-4 Rates: $6 per person for groups of 20 or more The museum’s Unfield Trips are hands-on experiences that use the museum to help students connect concepts taught in the classroom.

SIGHTSEEING

Little Rock Tours & Travel 3100 Interstate 30, Little Rock | 501-868-7287 Ages: All ages   Rates: Varies Little Rock Tours offers affordable transportation to field trip destinations in and out of state. Popular destinations include Toltec Mounds in Arkansas, Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia and Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.

WORLD CULTURE

Heifer International Campus: Featuring Heifer Village and Urban Farm 1 World Ave., Little Rock 501-907-2697, Heifer.org/Village Ages: All ages Rates: Free The Heifer International Campus features interactive exhibits and programs that provide a stimulating and challenging educational experience for people of all ages.

Heifer Ranch 55 Heifer Road, Perryville | 855-343-4337 Ages: All ages  Rates: $10 The Ranch offers tours, overnight experiences, service-learning programs and more. Programs use an experiential approach to teaching about hunger and poverty, which inspires and challenges participants to become the change that creates a better world.

Get Little Rock Family In Your Inbox

Thank you for subscribing.

•  Print This Page
•  Text Size
•  Scroll To Top

FIND A HOT SPRING

• Board of Directors

Presentations

• Professional Development
• Annual Conference
• Field Trips
• Event Calendar
• Newsletters
• Members in the News
• Reference Library
• Support Flow-through
• Become an Ambassador

GET INVOLVED

Conference Registration

• Rules and Policies
• Join the Team
• Babe Ruth Statue
• 3 – 4 YO BALL
• 5 – 6 Division
• 7 – 8 Division
• 9 – 10 Division
• 11 – 12 Division
• Scholarship Fund
• Babe Ruth Field
• Hank Aaron Field
• Cy Young Field
• Honus Wagner Field
• Jackie Robinson Field
• NPC Baseball
• NPC Softball
• Champion Christian College
• Things to Do
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Hot Springs Baseball Trail
• Our Partners
• Our Sponsors

About the Park

Youth league, tournament schedule, visit hot springs, catch the eclipse, cts usssa midseason championships, sas youth fastpitch, cts youth baseball tournament, fasa youth fastpitch, majestic park league championships, follow us on instagram, majesticparkbaseball.

Sign-up for Majestic Park eNews!

Sign-up for our eNewsletter to be the first to know about upcoming events, promotions and exciting developments at Majestic Park!  By signing up, you are agreeing to receive emails about events & activities specific to Majestic Park Baseball Complex.  You can opt out at any time.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

12 of the Best Hot Springs in the United States

Warm up at these unique hot springs around the country.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

No matter the season, natural hot springs offer relaxing, geothermal waters in often scenic settings. Across the country, you can find them to fit every travel preference, whether you're looking to take a dip in nature after a hike or prefer a spa-like experience. From Alaskan pools perfect for viewing the northern lights to the national park named for its geothermal waters, here are 12 of the best hot springs in the United States.

Of course, hot springs can be very dangerous, so use caution and only swim where you know it's safe.

Calistoga, California

Located in beautiful Napa Valley, Calistoga is known for its abundant hot springs. Several resorts in the area offer mineral pools where visitors can enjoy the waters. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs , for example, has four geothermal mineral pools, including a warm lap pool. For those looking for a luxurious stay during their wine country trip, Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection is home to an expansive spa with a bathhouse featuring geothermal pools of ranging temperatures.

Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis, Wyoming

Named Thermopolis ("hot city" in ancient Greek) for its many natural hot springs, this town is home to Hot Springs State Park . Visitors can soak in the public bathhouse's 104-degree waters for free. Keep an eye out for bison, and be sure to check out the petroglyphs at Legend Rock while you're there.

Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, California

Take in views of the Sierra Nevadas while soaking in the natural Travertine Hot Springs near Bridgeport. Located on California state park land off of Route 395, these small, rustic pools are the perfect stop after a day of hiking.

Warm Springs Pools, Virginia

The main pool here is enclosed by a stunning octagonal stone basin originally built in 1761. Guests soak under the skylight of a domed ceiling inside the Gentlemen’s Bathhouse, believed to be the oldest spa structure in the U.S. A second bathhouse was built in the 1870s. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Franklin D. Roosevelt reportedly visited Warm Springs Pools back in the day. Both bathhouses are owned and operated by The Omni Homestead Resort and reopened in 2023 after extensive renovations.

Chena Hot Springs Resort, Fairbanks, Alaska

One of the more remote soaking spots on this list, Chena Hot Springs Resort is located in Fairbanks, Alaska. The resort offers interesting activities all year, including the Aurora Ice Museum, but we recommend visiting during the winter months. The hot springs offer a cozy respite from Alaska's bitter temperatures, and you might even spot the northern lights as you soak.

Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores, Colorado

Dunton Hot Springs , an 1800s ghost town-turned-upscale resort, offers a variety of hot pools in a picturesque setting. Soak inside the bathhouse or in an outdoor spring, or book the Well House for your own private hot springs experience.

Yellowstone Hot Springs, Montana

Vince Fergus/Travel + Leisure

After safely viewing the thermal basins and geysers from a distance at Yellowstone National Park, experience a dip in some geothermal waters for yourself. You cannot soak in the national park's hot springs, as they can be very dangerous, but you can go for a dip in the warm mineral waters of the Yellowstone Hot Springs in Montana, which is a 30-minute drive from the park's North Entrance.

Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

This dreamy resort is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a luxurious hot springs experience. Secluded pools are located within the beautiful desert landscape, offering stunning scenery for soaking; and an all-inclusive stay here comes with farm-to-table meals, access to the springs, and activities like guided hikes and farm tours.

Utah Crater, Midway, Utah

Utah Crater  is a unique beehive-shaped limestone crater containing a 65-foot-deep hot pool. It's so deep that the crater has become a major diving destination and claims to be the only place in the U.S. where you can scuba dive in warm water. Don't worry, though: plenty of people go just to swim and soak at the surface.

Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas

No list of hot springs in the U.S. would be complete without Hot Springs National Park , located in Hot Springs , Arkansas. See the thermal water in its natural setting at the Display Spring or Hot Water Cascade before visiting Bathhouse Row. There are no outdoor hot springs suitable for bathing at this park, but you can visit the nearby Buckstaff Bathhouse or Quapaw Baths to soak in the geothermal waters.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

With mountains, lakes, and a canyon, Glenwood Springs has outdoor activities for everyone. Once you've spent a day hiking or hitting the slopes, take a dip in one of the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is the most famous because it's home to the world's largest mineral hot springs pool. Iron Mountain Hot Springs features a bathhouse and 16 geothermal pools overlooking the Rocky Mountains .

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

Uniquely named Truth or Consequences (aka "T or C"), this spot known for its hot springs, which are fed by a rift along the Rio Grande. The pools around here are mostly commercially owned, and the ones at Riverbend Hot Springs are arguably the most appealing. Pick from a string of pools, varying from 95 to 107 degrees, ideally set along the river for a seriously serene soak in "healing" spring water.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, plan a field trip.

Last updated: March 26, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

101 Reserve Street Hot Springs, AR 71901

501 620-6715

Stay Connected

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

OUTSIDE FESTIVAL JUNE 1-2

Don't miss Thundercat + Fleet Foxes, adventure films, experiences, and more!

The 25 Best Hikes to Hot Springs in the U.S.

Cap off a day on the trail with a soak in a steamy mineral pool. We found the best from Alaska to North Carolina.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

These geothermal treats emerge near earth’s tectonic plate boundaries, which means the country’s hot springs are largely clustered out west . But even the East Coast has a sprinkling of its own geothermal splendor. Here are the best hikes to sulphur pools in the United States. Keep in mind that the ever-changing Covid-19 pandemic and wildfires may cause closures; consult this guide to planning a hike during fire season before heading out.

1. Radium Hot Springs, Colorado

The Colorado River is one of the West’s best adventure hubs, and the toasty Radium Hot Springs offer an ideal spot to soak post-outing. Located some 100 miles west of Denver, this primitive spring-fed pool sits on the banks of the river, with water that hovers around 80 degrees. Reaching it requires a one-mile hike or a quick paddle from the Mugrage Campground, which makes for a good overnight spot for those seeking a sunrise soak.

2. Fifth Water Hot Springs, Utah

A sizzling soak in bright-blue water isn’t the only treat at the end of central Utah’s Fifth Water Hot Springs Trail . This 4.5-mile out-and-back trail leads to three cascading waterfalls that feed their own pools. Start at Three Forks Trailhead in Diamond Fork Canyon, then weave through Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest before reaching the springs. The pools appear around mile 2.5; it’s worth hiking farther along the stream to find your soak du jour.

3. Goldmyer Hot Springs, Washington

Reaching Goldmyer Hot Springs is a delightful journey. The 24-mile round-trip hike starts at the Pratt Connector Trail parking lot, then winds through fern-filled forests, with multiple Snoqualmie River crossings along the way. You can avoid them by taking the ten-mile Dingford Trailhead , which connects to a closed road out to the springs. Either way, the routes lead to the same place: rock-bottomed pools nestled in the mossy foothills of the Cascade Range. One important note: These hot springs are on private land and require a reservation .

4. Jordan Hot Springs, New Mexico

The Little Bear Canyon Trail to Jordan Hot Springs is not for the faint of heart—you’ll make up to 27 river crossings. It’s roughly 12 miles round-trip through the Gila National Forest , with the trail starting at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Visitor Center. Those who are up for the journey will reap scenic rewards, from colorful bluffs and rock spires to slot canyons. The final attraction is a welcome sight: a cerulean 95-degree pool shrouded in trees.

5. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Idaho

For a soak among cedars, bookmark Idaho’s Jerry Johnson Hot Springs . This patchwork of scenic springs lies on the eastern slope of Clearwater National Forest’s Bitterroot Mountains. They are accessible via a one-mile hike from Warm Springs Trailhead #49 . It’s technically located in Idaho, but the closest town is Missoula, Montana. You’ll have your pick of three soaking pools here, with waterfalls, mountain peaks, and, if you’re lucky, moose sightings as your backdrop.

6. Conundrum Hot Springs, Colorado

Ready to work for your soak? Head to Conundrum Hot Springs near Aspen. The 17-mile round-trip trail leads through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness before reaching a series of high-elevation pools at 11,200 feet. You’ll gain 2,400 feet on your journey from the trailhead , with multiple creek crossings, including some that are particularly tricky with seasonal runoff. Snow makes the tough hike even trickier; if you plan to camp (which most people do) make sure to get a permit .

7. Wall Creek Springs, Oregon

For a quick outing that doesn’t skimp on scenery, try Oregon’s Wall Creek Warm Springs , located 50 miles outside Eugene. The half-mile path twists through old-growth Willamette National Forest and leads to a sand-, gravel-, and rock-bottomed pool, known as Meditation Pool , which simmers around 95 degrees. The Warm Springs Trail starts just off the National Forest Development Road. (Note: It was temporarily closed due to wildfires in summer 2021 and remained so as of December 2021.)

8. Deep Creek Hot Springs, California

Half a dozen hot springs fill the desert foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, each hovering around 100 to 105 degrees. The Mojave River feeds this thermal retreat, known collectively as Deep Creek Hot Springs . The area’s unspoiled nature allures hikers via the two-mile one-way trail from Bowen Ranch; expect an entry fee of around $10 per person. The springs are also a welcome indulgence for those attempting the Pacific Crest Trail. Upon arrival, you’ll see a variety of soak options, from smaller pools that fit one to two hikers, to the largest pool that provides ample room for swimming.

9. Boquillas Hot Springs, Texas

Hike to healing waters at Big Bend National Park ’s Boquillas Hot Springs , one of Texas’s most peaceful natural resources. This desert-fringed pool has welcomed soakers for millennia, with rock art decorating the craggy limestone cliffs and a primitive bathing experience with 105-degree water. Reach it via a one-mile loop that starts at the parking lot off the gravel Hot Springs Road.

10. Olympic Hot Springs, Washington

To truly soak up Olympic National Park ’s beauty, head to hot springs haven Elwha Valley, where some of the park’s most soothing landscapes await. Here, a 2.5-mile stroll from the Boulder Creek Trailhead leads to pools that heat up to 118 degrees. The pool’s lush forest backdrop is as calming as the steamy, fern-flanked waters. (Note: The road to the Olympic Hot Springs Trailhead is closed due to flood damage . In the meantime, you can reach the pools by hiking or biking about eight miles to the trailhead from the Madison Falls parking area.)

11. San Antonio Hot Springs, New Mexico

If a hot dip on a mountainside perch sounds enticing, add San Antonio Hot Springs to your bucket list. This geothermal area near Los Alamos features four pools of varying temperatures, all naturally carved into the Santa Fe National Forest. The hike is about one mile from the hot springs parking lot . Once you’ve arrived, prepare to be spellbound: the smattering of crystal-clear, rock-flanked pools are like a playground for springs enthusiasts.

12. Weir Creek Hot Springs, Idaho

This geothermal hot spot is several miles past the Jerry Johnson pools (see number five, above) along US-12. The pool typically attracts fewer crowds despite its toasty 100-degree waters. You can access them via the half-mile Weir Hot Spring Trail along Weir Creek; trailhead parking is right off US-12. Expect a rock-bottomed pool that fits around ten people, with the Clearwater National Forest as your woodland backdrop.

13. Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs, Nevada

The Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs feel a world away from the glitz and glam of the Vegas Strip, but in reality, they’re only 45 minutes away. The six-mile trail to the springs involves scrambling across boulders and rappelling down ropes, with the state’s signature red rocks lining the way. Several hot springs pop up along the route, with a warm waterfall at the route’s end. You can access it from October to early May, with summer closure necessary given the extreme heat.

14. Rainbow Hot Springs, Colorado

The Colorado town of Pagosa Springs is famous for its aquifer —one of the world’s deepest at more than 1,000 feet—but just north of this is a more rustic yet equally pristine option: Rainbow Hot Springs . It’s a nine-mile round-trip hike from the West Fork Trailhead to reach the pools, but this trek through the Weminuche Wilderness Area is as stunning as the pools it leads to. The surroundings alternate from trickling streams to pine-dotted hills, with two steaming mineral-rich pools ranging from 95 to 105 degrees as the grand finale.

15. Sykes Hot Springs, California

The trail to Sykes Hot Springs is no joke. It’s a 20-mile out-and-back path along the Pine Ridge Trail, one of the Big Sur’s most beloved treks. Be ready for stream crossings (which can be impassable during winter’s heavy snows), downed trees, and an elevation gain of 1,000-plus feet. Add an overnight trip to your journey via Sykes Camp so you can wake up and enjoy this geothermal wonder sans crowds.

16. Montecito Hot Springs, California

Santa Barbara is home to numerous hike-to hot springs, but few beat the grandeur of the sapphire-blue pools at Hot Springs Canyon , which also goes by the name Montecito . These were once part of an 1800s-era hot springs resort . Stone ruins are among the only remnants from the hotel’s heyday. The roughly four-mile round-trip hike starts just off Mountain Drive (look for the Montecito Trails Foundation sign), traverses through Los Padres National Forest, and hits multiple 112-degree pools.

17. Goldbug Hot Springs, Idaho

The hike to Goldbug Hot Springs will keep you on your toes. It’s a hilly jaunt through cactus-studded desert valleys, with an ultrasteep last half-mile. It starts just outside Salmon, Idaho, and reaches six mountain-view pools, all fed by waterfalls. For a wake-up-and-soak experience, spend a night camping just below the Goldbug Hot Springs (at least 500 feet from water).

18. Verde Hot Springs, Arizona

These Cococino National Forest springs are remnants of a 1920s resort; rumor has it Al Capone used the hotel as a hideout. While a fire in the 1960s ultimately led to the resort’s demise, the pools remain open for those willing to make the journey. The 2.5-mile hike , which starts at Childs Dispersed Camping Area, sometimes requires wading across the Verde River during the summer monsoon season. (Note: Due to the Backbone Fire, the Forest Service has closed the area as of December 2021.)

19. Remington Hot Springs, California

Located in the southern Sierra, Remington Hot Springs promises easy-to-reach tranquility via a quick quarter-mile hike. The springs’ three man-made tubs hover at around 100 degrees and are surrounded by boulders. Catch the trail to Remington Hot Springs via the parking lot just off Kern Canyon Road. The earlier you can get here, the better; the springs can get crowded around midday.

20. Paulina Lake Hot Springs, Oregon

Just 25 miles south of Bend is Paulina Lake Hot Springs , a series of primitive man-made pools. Water temperatures in this Deschutes National Forest hideaway hang around 95 degrees. The lake itself is located within the Newberry Volcano caldera. It’s fed by rain, snowmelt, and hot springs. Access these pools via a marked spur from the  7.5-mile Paulina Lakeshore Loop Trail , which starts at the Paulina Lake Campground .

21. Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

One of North America’s most jaw-dropping hot spring destinations is also accessible via hiking: Chena Hot Springs . These restful, steamy waters in Fairbanks are far from primitive—they have their own posh resort with an onsite ice museum. But you can still work for that soak via the Chena River State Recreation Area’s Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs hiking trail . It’s a challenging eight-mile route with 2,000 feet of elevation gain from the Angel Rocks Trailhead to the springs. If you’re coming in the fall through spring, keep your eyes up for a potential mid-soak aurora show.

22. Hot Springs Resort and Spa, North Carolina

The Appalachian Trail passes right through downtown Hot Springs, a small outpost 36 miles from Asheville, North Carolina. Reaching the town’s tranquil waters doesn’t require a hike—there’s a parking lot right next to the facility. That said, it’s worth heading into the woods first. For a quick trek, take the AT from Hot Springs to Lovers Leap for two miles, then end back at the town’s Hot Springs Resort and Spa , where mineral baths help reduce stress and increase circulation.

23. Warm Mineral Springs Park, Florida

Warm Mineral Springs Park isn’t necessarily a hiking destination, but it’s home to one of the East Coast’s best—and one of the world’s largest—hot springs, with numerous trail options in neighboring parks. This toasty 85-degree pool near Sarasota is the state’s only hot spring open to the public. To recreate the West Coast’s hike-to-hot-spring magic, start at Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park , seven miles north of the springs, and hit one of the site’s oak-shaded hiking paths before driving down to the park.

24. Baranof Warm Springs, Alaska

It takes 16 strenuous miles to reach Baranof Warm Springs, but the waterfall-view pools make it a can’t-beat experience. You’ll find these springs in southeast Alaska along the multiday Baranof Cross Island Trail . Start in Sitka, and be ready for ice fields, soaring peaks, and wildlife, from bears to bald eagles. The route requires an average of three days before you’ll reach the boardwalk to Baranof Warm Springs , where nine pools of up to 124 degrees overlook the glacier-fed Baranof River.

25. Gaviota Hot Springs, California

It only takes half a mile to reach California coast’s Gaviota Hot Springs , just outside Santa Barbara. The trail to get here, off Highway 101, is designed for access to the 2,548-foot Gaviota Peak, but the teal pools about a half-mile in are equally popular. From the trailhead on Gaviota Park Boundary Road, walk the main fire road up to Trespass Trail, and then hike until you reach the creek, which you’ll follow to a clear-blue geothermal pool.

• Hiking and Backpacking
• North America
• United States
• Water Activities

• Outreach Performances & Programs
• Fundraising
• Field trip lesson plans
• Field Trips Grants
• Service Learning
• Hot Springs
• Little Rock
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Statewide / Region
• Daytona Beach
• Fort Lauderdale
• Gainesville
• Jacksonville
• Orlando-Metro
• Palm Beach Metro
• Space Coast
• Tallahassee
• St. Augustine
• St Petersburg-Clearwater
• Atlanta-Metro
• Chicago-Metro
• Springfield
• Central Region
• East Region
• Indianapolis
• North Region
• South Central Region
• South Region
• West Region
• Bowling Green
• Baton Rouge
• New Orleans
• Baltimore-Metro
• The Berkshires
• Boston-Metro
• Cape Cod/Plymouth
• Greater Lowell
• Greater Springfield
• Capital-River Region
• Delta Region
• Gulf Coast Region
• Hills Region
• Pines Region
• Jefferson City
• Kansas City
• Springfield-MO
• Delaware River Region
• Gateway Region NJ
• Greater Atlantic City
• Shore Region
• Skylands Region
• Southern Shore Region
• Capital District Region
• Central New York Region
• Finger Lakes Region
• Hudson Valley Region
• Long Island
• Mohawk Valley Region
• New York City
• North Country Region
• Southern Tier Region
• Western New York Region
• Canton Ohio
• Cincinnati Ohio
• Cleveland Ohio
• Columbus Ohio
• Oklahoma City
• Allegheny Mts. & Valleys
• Gettysburg/York
• Harrisburg-Metro
• Lakes & Erie Regions
• Lancaster-Metro
• Lehigh Valley
• Philadelphia Metro
• Pittsburgh & Laurel Highlands
• The Poconos
• Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
• Chattanooga
• East Tennessee
• Middle Tennessee
• The Smokies
• West Tennessee
• Bryan - College Station
• Corpus Christi
• Dallas/Fort Worth
• Panhandle Plains Region
• San Antonio
• Central Virginia
• Chesapeake Bay Region
• Coastal Virginia -Eastern Shore
• Coastal Virginia-Hampton Roads
• Northern Virginia
• Shenandoah Valley
• Southern Virginia
• Southwest Virginia-Blue Ridge Highlands
• Southwest Virginia-Heart of the Appalachia
• Virginia Mountains
• Martinsburg
• Madison Wisconsin

ARKANSAS Field Trips

To help plan APRIL curriculum focused classroom activities, field trips and school assembly programs, these April themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY : Keep America Beautiful. National Gardens. National Humor. National Poetry. Stress Awareness. DAILY : Apr. 2: International Children’s Book Day. Apr. 3: National Geologists Day. Apr. 4: School Librarians’ Day. Apr. 5: Read a Road May Day. Apr. 7: World Health Day. Apr. 8: Draw a Picture of a Bird Day. Zoo Lovers Day. Apr. 10: National Farm Animals Day. Apr. 18: National Scrabble Day. Apr. 15: World Art Day. Apr. 22: Earth Day. Apr. 25: World Penguin Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about. For those unable to travel to these locations, have the fun come to you. Check out the Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

• Financial Support
• Children's Museums & Indoor Fun
• Petting Zoos/Barnyard Fun
• Civil Rights
• Government, Civics & Presidents
• Historic Places
• Historical Railroad Excursions
• History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
• Living History
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Transportation: Boats, Planes, Trains, & Trollies
• History, Heritage & Civics Outreach Field Trips
• Adventure Parks, Climbing, Ninja & Ropes Course, Ziplines
• Amusement Parks & Water Parks
• Educational Attraction
• Indoor Amusement & Recreation Centers
• Aquariums, Marine Life, Hatcheries
• Birds, Butterflies, Bees
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Behind-the-Scenes Tours
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• STEM/STEAM Enrichment
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Photography & Films
• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park

Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park offers you 7.5 acres of outdoor & indoor fun and excitement for school, scout, camp and homeschool groups field trips and family outings.

Arkansas Arboretum

Arkansas Aboretum is a 71-acre site exhibiting native flora representing Arkansas’s six, major natural divisions. Located below Pinnacle Mountain along the Little Maumelle River in Pinnacle Mountain State Park, the arboretum includes a .6-mile barrier-free, interpretive trail.

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is a maritime museum that includes artifacts from the nuclear-powered cruiser USS Arkansas and two floating Naval vessels from World War II: the tugboat Hoga ; and the submarine USS  Razorback .

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (previously the Arkansas Arts Center) is home to a renowned collection of international art, exceptional performing arts experiences. Under renovation-opening in 2023.

Arkansas State Capital Tours

Arkansas State Capital offers in-person self-guided and guided tours as well as a virtual option. Tour the Capitol Rotunda, Governor’s Reception Room, Old Supreme Court Room, Senate/House Galleries and Treasurer’s Office, provided that all rooms are available. 

Blue Spring Heritage Center

The Blue Spring Heritage Center is a botanical garden with over a mile of trails. The new gardens demonstrate crops, plants, flowers and healing herbs at home in the Ozarks. Programs features American Indian history and traditions in Eureka Springs.

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

The Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks is a collection of twelve themed gardens and includes the region’s only native butterfly house. At the Garden, a school field trip is an educational science adventure through the themed gardens.

Bradbury Art Museum

Bradbury Art Museum features changing exhibitions of contemporary art in all media with programming that promotes the understanding of art and its significance to society. Prominent regional, national and international artists are presented

Calico Rock Museum & Visitors Center

The Calico Rock Museum ignites a passion for history, art and science. Their heritage collection has unique items that range from prehistoric times to 1967. Exhibits cover The Birth of the Ozarks, its history, natural history and cultural history.

Compton Gardens and Arboretum

Compton Gardens and Arboretum has over six acres displaying the rich history of Ozark horticulture, including the conservation efforts of Dr. Neil Compton. Discover the woodlands, Champion Trees, native plants, and  greenery.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Crystal Bridge Museum of American Art includes a renowned collection ranging from Rockwell to Warhol in a striking architecture structure set on 120 lush acres of Ozark nature.

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway

On the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, step back in time to an earlier age of locomotive transportation and enjoy the Excursion Train or Dining Car. See our 1940-era diesel locomotive in operation or view our stationary steam locomotive exhibits.

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

• Trip Planner

The Ultimate Colorado Hot Springs Loop Road Trip

January 13, 2023 By //  by  Matt Thomas

Sourced from deep under the Rocky Mountains, there are dozens of hot springs that exist around this great state. With both spa-like resorts and free primitive pools to choose from, you should be able to find a hot springs retreat that’s right for you nearly anywhere.

Colorado.com, the state’s official tourism website, lists this historic hot springs loop , covering:

• Steamboat Springs
• Pagosa Springs
• Chaffee County
• Glenwood Springs

It lists 19 hot springs resorts within these 5 destinations, however, we uncover our own similar, more robust, route below.

6+ Night Historic Hot Springs Loop around Colorado

We divided a Colorado hot springs loop into two basic starting directions: Northwest and Southwest , which can be cut off at any point. You can also complete the whole itinerary for an ultimate hot springs road trip that lasts a week or longer, depending on how many nights are at each stop. At the very least, hopefully, you gain a few cool ideas for a hot springs holiday.

Most people arrive in Colorado via the Denver International Airport or at least begin their journey from the capital city. From here the Rockies await to the west with options for hot springs in several directions. So pack your favorite travel pants and attire designed for those on the go . Here are some of the best multi-day routes for a one-of-a-kind hot springs road trip.

Each region where you spend the night has at least one hot springs, oftentimes more. This provides a choice of resorts or primitive soaking options, so each traveler can find the best soak for them. We list the various local hot springs options and our pick for each occasion. You can start in either direction and substitute certain nights for others to make your own custom hot springs road trip.

The 6 hot springs destinations we will cover are the same plus the San Luis Valley:

• San Luis Valley
• Ouray County
• Roaring Fork Valley
• Yampa Valley

We also cover a few in-route destinations, including Southern Front Range, Durango, Hot Sulphur Springs and Idaho Springs.

Starting from Southwest Colorado Hot Springs Loop

The route below begins in Denver heading southwest into the Rockies. You’ll spend the first night about 2 hours away in Chaffee County. You can also head northwest first starting from the bottom of the list. This spends your first night in Steamboat Springs. Both offer options for hot springs on the way to your destination and more once you get there.

Night 1 – Buena Vista/Chaffee County

We begin our trip by heading southwest to spend the first night in Chaffee County. The 2-hour drive from Denver to Buena Vista is a stunning one and the fastest via Highway 285. However, you’ll also have the option to head south on I-25 first, then west on Highway 24 by Colorado Springs to BV, or further south then west on Highway 160 by Pueblo to Salida .

This minor detour allows you to hit another additional hot spring on the way, or just swing by a different Pikes Peak or Royal Gorge region attraction.

If you’d like to add one of Colorado Springs’ famous tourist attractions to your hot springs road trip, like the Garden of the Gods, then consider also stopping by SunWater Spa in Manitou Springs. This modern El Paso County resort has hot tubs filled with thermal mineral water and spa treatments.

Afterward just continue on Highway 24 west until you reach Nathrop and Buena Vista, only a few miles apart. Each has its own public hot springs resort with overnight lodging on-site.

In Colorado’s Sun Belt around Pueblo lies Desert Reef and Dakota hot springs, two laid-back resorts with a clothing optional option if that’s your preference. These may lack some of the Rocky Mountain scenery found at the other resorts, as they sit on the foothills of the Great Plains. It’d be a good opportunity to combine one with a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge near Canon City.

45 minutes south of BV, there’s also the Salida Hot Springs with a large indoor mineral water swimming pool and rentable hot tubs by the hour. It’s only recommended if you happen to hit Desert Reef or Dakota around Pueblo and are coming straight to Salida via Highway 160 and skipping BV.

Cottonwood Hot Springs – If you’re looking for more of a locals’ favorite, later hours and strictly soaking, spend the night relaxing at Cottonwood Hot Springs . There is a handful of soaking pools to choose from. You can stay on-site in a motel room, rent a rustic cabin with your own private hot springs pool, or a tent camp. Overnight guests are usually permitted to soak after hours. It lies at the start of Cottonwood Pass, which holds free dispersed campsites not far from the resort.

Mt Princeton Hot Springs – Those with kids should opt for Mount Princeton Hot Springs , due to its mineral water swimming pools. In the summer there are even pool slides.

Year-round, except for during spring when the river runoff is too high, you can soak directly in little natural rock-made hot springs pools on the side of Chalk Creek. This is an exceptionally rare treat for hot springs in Colorado, so consider this Nathrop hotspot if you haven’t visited yet.

You can sleep at the attached hotel or stay in one of the many top hotels in BV. There are also several hot springs vacation rentals down Chalk Creek Canyon, all with private soaking if that’s your thing. Private hot springs house rentals in Nathrop include Antero Cabins  and Treehouse . Another private hot springs retreat is found in BV called Merrifield Homestead Cabins .

Night 2 – San Luis Valley

From Poncha Springs on Highway 285, which neighbors Salida, 30 minutes south of BV, you’ll head south over Poncha Pass into the vast San Luis Valley. Upon descent to one of Colorado’s strangest, most unique regions, you’ll quickly reach two incredible hot springs resorts. In addition to soaking here, there is a slew of the weirdest attractions in the state in this peculiar valley.

Both Valley View and Joyful Journey hot springs provide multiple soaking pools, year-round hours and overnight accommodations. While Valley View is clothing optional all the time, Joyful Journey requires clothing except for a single night of the week. Both resorts are among the favorites in the state .

Valley View – Hidden in the woods high over the San Luis Valley are several natural rock hot springs pools, affordable cabins, and a couple of campgrounds. Reserve your room early because the resort is so isolated that it’s best to stay overnight.

Valley View is open to both day and overnight guests, the latter of which gets unmatched 24-hour access. There’s nothing quite like walking down a dark trail in the forest to stumble upon an empty hot springs pool under the brightest star-lit sky.

It’s worth noting that it’s all-natural here and birthday suits are the most popular form of swimwear. So you should be comfortable in your skin, otherwise, you may feel outta place in a bathing suit. Perhaps head to Joyful Journey below if that’s the case.

Joyful Journey – With a few different pools of varying temperatures, reasonable prices, and overnight options, Joyful Journey is a solid pick. Choose from a motel room, yurt, or teepee, or bring your own tent. While Valley View overlooks the valley, Joyful Journey is a bit easier to get to, located on the valley floor. The views are still splendid and the locals like it here.

Night 3 – Pagosa Springs

Home to the world’s deepest hot springs aquifer, Pagosa Springs is one the most popular destinations for a mineral water retreat. There are three soaking options in town and even a couple of primitive hike-to hot springs in the surrounding wilderness.

Because these two primitive undeveloped pools require a fairly long hike to reach, we’ll skip over them in favor of the paid resorts below so we can keep on road-tripping. However, if interested, check out Rainbow and Piedra River hot springs. Both free pools have dispersed camping close by.

The Springs Resort – This is among the fanciest and most developed resorts in the entire state. With a nice hotel attached and over 20 pools to soak in, The Springs Resort is our favorite pick in town. The full spa and upscale hotel sit on the banks of the San Juan River overlooking downtown Pagosa. Locals of Archuleta and nearby counties like La Plata receive discounts with proof of address.

Overlook – If you’re just looking for an affordable day or evening soak and don’t need a hot springs hotel to stay in, consider Overlook . Aptly named, the locals’ favorite provides prime views of downtown and even the above Springs Resort. There are several indoor and outdoor pools filled with hot mineral water, and spa services, and they even serve beer.

Healing Waters Resort – Located next to The Springs Resort, but unfortunately not on the banks of the San Juan River, lies Healing Waters . This hotel has a few hot springs pools, one outdoor soaking pool, and one outdoor swimming pool, as well as indoor mineral water baths. All of which are open to both day and overnight guests.

There is also a seasonal swimming pool. Welcoming Archuleta County guests since 1950, This is a great pick for those that want a hot springs hotel but want to save money over the town’s top signature resort.

Night 4 – Ouray/Ridgway

Ouray lies about 3 scenic hours from Pagosa Springs, a portion of which drives on the famous Million Dollar Highway north of Silverton. On the way, you can stop by Durango Hot Springs for a soak in one of Colorado’s favorite mountain towns.

It caters to day guests and does its job of providing a few natural soaking options effectively. Locals do get a discount. Once you reach Ouray County, home of Ouray and Ridgway , you have a few more options.

Ouray Hot Springs Pool – The largest resort in town showcases a huge hot springs-filled swimming pool and water-themed attractions. There are a few smaller hotter soaking pools. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool has a community pool/park kind of feel to it and is best for families and those looking to really stretch their legs with some laps. Swimsuits are required.

While there is no lodging on-site, Ouray has plenty of top accommodations, even a couple of hot springs hotels too, including Wiesbaden Spa , Twin Peaks Lodge , and Box Canyon Lodge .

Orvis Hot Springs – Another clothing-optional resort, Orvis is probably the best hot springs resort on the Western Slope. If nudity offends you consider a hot spring in Ouray. If not, enjoy the myriad of hot springs pools laid out beautifully around the resort. Situated at the start of the staggering San Juan Mountains, it’s open year-round with campsites and six lodge rooms on-site. Overnight guests get unrestricted soaking.

Night 5 – Roaring Fork Valley

From Colorado’s Southwestern Slope, we’ll head about 3 hours northeast to the start of the Roaring Fork Valley. As one of the most historic hot springs towns, Glenwood Springs has a long history of celebrities that visited the region for its reputed health benefits. Around here there are two main free primitive soaking options, as well as three developed resorts.

South Canyon lies 15 minutes west of town on I-70 so you can hit that coming in from Ouray. Or if reversing the loop, consider hitting it after your night in Glenwood. The other free hot spring is Penny , which lies 10 minutes southeast of Carbondale on the side of Highway 133. It’s a slight detour from Glenwood and not something you’d pass on the way, but definitely worth checking out because it’s free and close by.

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool – The largest hot springs-filled swimming pool in the whole of North America happens to be in Glenwood Springs. Coincidentally it’s also probably the most popular resort in the state.

The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is an expansive resort, with lodging, the Spa of the Rockies, a separate hotter pool for soaking, diving boards, a family-friendly Sopris Splash Zone, locker rooms, a gym, and a restaurant. There are discounts for the last round of the night if you just need a quick soak.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs – The new hotness in Garfield County is Iron Mountain , open daily from 9 am to 10 pm. Similar to The Springs Resort in Pagosa, Iron Mountain also boasts 16 pools that overlook a rushing river, this time the Colorado River.

Opened in 2015, the resort has dining available at The Sopris Café on-site too. It’s best for adults looking for a relaxing time without the bustle of the above hot springs pool.

Yampah Vapor Caves – Perhaps you’re looking to try something different or already hit one of both of the above two. Yampah Vapor Caves features a wet sauna-type environment, except fueled by thermal mineral springs deep underground. You can trade off steaming in these caves with a rest in the cool-down room.

Treat yourself too, with massage treatments, and even rent your own bath filled with hot springs water.

Night 6 – Yampa Valley

Last but not least, or fantastically first if reversing the loop, the Yampa Valley will keep you coming back year after year. Another giveaway by its name, Steamboat Springs is host to a couple of soaking options. Only the first of which has lodging, though Steamboat is loaded with top hotels, so no worries there.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs – If you’re a local to Colorado and love hot springs, chances are this is one of your favorites. Strawberry Park showcases one of the most unique layouts, with a myriad of natural hot springs pools tucked away in an alpine forest. It lies about 15 minutes from downtown Steamboat, with 4WD recommended in the winter months, or you can take a shuttle.

There are massages available, crazy lodging like an old covered wagon, and a clothing-optional policy after dark. It’s also adults only after the sun sets.

Old Town Hot Springs – Often overlooked for the above resort, Old Town is actually pretty damn cool. It’s best for families that are looking for a little more adventure and play at their hot springs. There are numerous pools to choose from, with larger options for swimming and slides.

It’s located right in downtown Steamboat, so it’s a good call for those who may have been to the above hot springs already or are going with younger ones in the evening. There is no lodging on-site, but the Rabbit Ears Motel is across the street.

On your triumph and fully relaxed drive back to Denver, consider adding one more hot spring to the itinerary. Or if you’re starting your Colorado hot springs loop in the ‘Boat, maybe stop at one of these two on the way.

The Hot Sulphur Springs Resort is another top pick of the state. With over a dozen unique hillside pools to choose from, this is the better choice for a relaxing hot spring soak mid-drive. It lies almost halfway from Denver to Steamboat, just a tad closer to the latter. There’s also lodging on-site if you get tired and need to spend another night on the road.

The final optional resort I’ll mention is one that probably everyone has passed by on I-70 if they’ve been around these parts before. Situated in Idaho Springs only 40 minutes west of the capital, Indian is the closest hot springs to Denver .

It’s good for families who want to splash around in their rainforest-themed central room. It has a larger swimming pool and a smaller pool for soaking. There are also separate men’s and women’s caves that have a few hot springs baths in them. FYI clothing is optional in the caves.

Happy soaking! Hope you’ve enjoyed our Colorado hot springs loop and consider venturing into the Rocky Mountains for a tranquil trip soon!

About Matt Thomas

Matt is an avid writer and explorer, who loves to showcase this wild, wondrous world. His favorite place to be is right here in the Centennial State.

Join our Colorado travel community

Get In Touch

• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer—Terms of Service

Things To Do

• Travel Blog
• Colorado Activities
• Colorado Events
• Colorado Towns
• Colorado Hotels
• Colorado Restaurants
• Colorado Transportation
• Made in Colorado

Fall Activities

• Federal Lands
• Ghost Towns
• Hot Springs
• Ski Resorts
• State Parks
• Train Rides

Hot Springs State Park

Hot Springs State Park , in Thermopolis on the east side of the Bighorn River, offers a free campground, paved walking trails, a state bath house where bathers may soak for free, and two commercial bath houses, the Star Plunge and the Teepee Pools . For more information, on hours, directions, etc., visit the websites linked above.

School Field Trips and Nature Walks

Our nature programs provide an opportunity for your group to practice science and connect to nature. Nature educators lead your students through a variety of activities to help them learn about the plants, animals, and geology of Portland.  We use small group exploration, inquiry, observation, data collection, sensory experiences, play, and discussion.

Walks can be bilingual upon request. Nature Educators speak Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, Zulu, Hebrew, Shona, Thai, and Nepali.

Request a Program

Programs are rain or shine, year-round!  We usually schedule programs Tuesday - Friday between 9am and 3pm.  We can usually teach up to 40 children at one time. 

Spring 2024: We have very limited availability. Please fill out the form, and you will be contacted with any open dates. By filling out the form, you will be added to a wait list in the event of a cancellation.  You will also receive emails when booking opens for summer and fall. 

Summer 2024: We will begin scheduling for summer in mid-April.  Fill out the form, and you will be contacted by mid-April.

Fill out this form to request a field trip or nature program.

Cost for programs

Field tripsare charged per participant.  Each participating school or organization should choose the appropriate cost for their situation.

Rates for 2024

• $5/participant  - Schools and programs located in Portland
• $7/participant -  Schools and programs located outside of Portland
• $0/participant - Schools that qualify for federal funds (Title I, Head Start), or organizations that demonstrate financial need. 

Participant fees help cover the costs of teaching, program coordination, lesson development, evaluation, materials, and supplies.  

We offer priority scheduling to schools and organizations located within Portland. 

back to top

Field Trip Topics

Bees and other pollinators (may - september), exploring emotions with bugs, habitats of oaks bottom, ladybug nature walk (age 2-6 only), life in a rotten log, nature hike.

• Volcanoes in Your Backyard 

We may also be able to build a custom program for your school, club, or organization. Please inquire.

This is one of our most immersive and engaging nature experiences.  Students get the opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge was originally a wetland but people turned it into a landfill in the early 1900's.  The City bought the property in 1969 and began work to bring back habitat for wildlife.

Students will try to answer the question: can restoration work?  During this field trip, students look for salamanders and frogs in both wetland and forest habitats and collect data.  After careful observation, they have a chance to reflect on species diversity and habitat restoration.

Park :  Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Season : March to early June

Possible activities:

• Visit a pond. Catch, observe, and learn to identify frog tadpoles and salamander larvae. In February and March, we may see egg masses.
• Look for adult salamanders and frogs in the forest.
• Collect data about the amphibians we find.
• Discuss amphibian life cycles.
• Learn how to protect and create habitat for these important creatures!

There are hundreds of species of bees in Portland! We will closely observe bees and other pollinators doing their work and learn how important they are to ecosystems and human survival!

Parks :  Gabriel Park Pollinator Garden (SW), Hoyt Arboretum (SW), Willamette Park (SW), Laurelhurst Park (SE), Powell Butte Nature Park (E), Foster Floodplain (SE), Baltimore Woods (N), Leach Botanical Garden (E) and any park with flowers (dandelions are fine!)

Season : May - September

• Play a game to learn about pollination.
• Search for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.  Observe how their bodies are adapted to help pollinate plants.
• Collect data about the pollinators we find.
• Each student will take home a  pocket ID guide to local bees. 

We don’t have to travel to remote, natural areas to find birds – they are living around us all the time. Learn some common birds we find in our neighborhood parks: chickadees, robins, juncos, nuthatches, creepers, flickers, hawks, corvids, and more!Students will spend time listening for bird language, making observations, and reflecting on how birds adapt to their built environment.

Park :  Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge (SE), Powell Butte Nature Park (E), Kelley Point Park (N), Whitaker Ponds (NE), Errol Heights (SE), Westmoreland Park (SE), Hoyt Arboretum (SW), Leach Botanical Garden (E)

Season : Fall, Winter and Spring 

• Practice using binoculars and learn the basics of birdwatching.
• Observe birds in the wild; practice noticing the characteristics of different species.
• See and touch nests; match them to the bird species that created them.  Try to build a nest!
• Create a sound map of bird sone, or try a "sit spot," to deepen awareness of birds.
• Each student will take home a  p ocket guide to the most common Portland birds .

Bugs and other creepy crawlies inspire a wide range of feelings - fear, excitement, wonder, joy, and even anger!  Students will catch, observe, and study the various creatures in the park.  Nature educators will guide students to notice, name, and reflect on their emotions, while practicing empathy for all living things. This field trip complements "Social Emotional Learning" concepts taught in classrooms.

Park:  Any natural area, neighborhood park, or nature patch. 

Season :  Any / year-round

• Tell stories about previous experiences with bugs. Play a game to predict how you will feel today.
• Catch and observe the animals we find in the park. Learn the names of the animals.
• Students will practice noticing and naming the emotions they feel. All feelings will be accepted and treated with respect. Students will be celebrated for trying new things, taking risks, sharing their feelings, and being empathetic.
• Students will be encouraged to show empathy towards the animals and classmates. 

We share our city with many plants, animals, and other living things! Let’s go on a hike to see what lives in Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. We will visit a meadow, a forest, and a pond. We will look for invertebrates, birds, and amphibians.  We may also see signs of mammals such as beavers, deer, coyotes, and rabbits.  How are these creatures getting their needs met in the different habitats? What do these creatures need to survive and thrive?

Park:  Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

This field trip can also be adapted for Kelley Point Park (North Portland), Columbia Children’s Arboretum (NE Portland), and Wilkes Creek Headwaters (NE Portland), Woods Memorial (SW), Marshall Park (SW), Leach (East Portland).

• Hike to three different habitats: meadow, pond, and forest. Compare and contrast the habitats and the animals we find in each.
• Observe plants and animals.
• Participate in a creative “Build a Habitat” activity to learn about the 4 components of a habitat: food, water, shelter, and space.

Nature educators guide children in small groups to notice plants and animals. Groups move slowly through the park, stopping often. Walks are child-directed and open-ended. Children learn through observation, questions, and play. Each child gets to borrow a small "Ladybug Backpack" containing tools for exploring (magnifying glass, bug box, spoon for digging, cup for collecting, etc.). 

Park : any park

Season : any / year-round

• Catch and observe bugs, slugs, and other small creatures.
• Investigate plants, fungi, tree bark, rocks, and other interesting things we find.
• Participate in guided sensory activities.
• Read a nature story.

What happens when a tree falls in the forest? Students become detectives to find out what happens to a dead log.  We will turn over logs and look for the plants, animals, and fungi that do all the dirty work of changing dead plants and animals back into nutritious soil that sets the stage for new growth. Without these decomposers, our world would be piled high with dead things and poop!  During this field trip, students will examine all kinds of fungi, bugs, and other invertebrates .

Best Parks:  Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge (SE), Columbia Children's Arboretum (NE), Whitaker Ponds (NE),  Gabriel Park (SW), Marshall Park (SW), Hoyt Arboretum (SW), Mt. Tabor Park (SE)

Season :  Fall, winter, and spring

Possible Activities

• Look under and around logs, make observations, and try to answer the question "what happens to a dead log?"
• Catch and identify creatures including slugs, snails, millipedes, centipedes, spiders, and roly polys. We may see salamanders and other vertebrates.
• Observe fungi, moss, lichen, and plants with magnifying glasses 
• Categorize the living things we find based on the characteristics that we observe
• Listen to a story
• Play games!

Come see the "best of" at some of our favorite parks.  We will take you to the most interesting parts of the park, and look for plants, animals, and geological features along the way. Each hike will be different depending on the season, location, and group's age.   

Best Parks:  Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge (SE), Kelley Point Park (N), Columbia Children's Arboretum (NE), Whitaker Ponds (NE), Powell Butte Nature Park (E), Gabriel Park (SW), Marshall Park (SW), Hoyt Arboretum (SW), Mt. Tabor Park (SE), Leach Botanical Garden (E)

• Hike to special spots of the park
• Observe the plants, animals, and geology that make the park special
• Learn about the history of the park
• Play "nature awareness" games

Volcanoes in Your Backyard

Oregon's topography was greatly impacted long ago by volcanoes, lava flows, sediment deposits, and huge floods. Our state has seen some of the largest lava flows to have ever occurred anywhere on Earth, making it a perfect landscape to talk about geology. Come act out the eruptions, flows, and floods that make up Portland's geologic timeline all while standing atop an actual cinder cone volcano.

Park : Mt. Tabor Park, Powell Butte Nature Park

• Climb to the top of a cinder cone volcano.
• Visit the caldera and see a cross-section of lava rock (Mt. Tabor only)
• Observe characteristics of different rocks: texture, color, streak, hardness, fracture, and luster.  Compare lava rocks with river rocks. Smash rocks with rock hammers and safety goggles (2 nd  grade and younger will see a demonstration). Make predictions.
• Play games like “Escaping Magma” and “Volcano Simon Says”
• Depending on the weather, we may be able to see Mt. Hood and other nearby volcanoes.
• Observe and feel rocks students might know from Minecraft.

Kelly Rosteck

See something we could improve on this page?  Give website feedback .

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, for teachers.

Last updated: January 18, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

101 Reserve Street Hot Springs, AR 71901

501 620-6715

Stay Connected