Historic bathhouses and mountain wilderness await you at Hot Springs, a remote vacation town perfect for a laid-back getaway and endless outdoor fun. Hot Springs Natural Park and the surrounding rivers and forests provide ample opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, boating, and fishing with the family. Whether you’re looking for chic condos with mountain views or rustic cabins, here are the best places to look for your perfect Hot Springs vacation rental.
1. Hot Springs National Park Area
Book a vacation rental along the national park border just north of downtown Hot Springs, and enjoy easy access to the park entrance as well as Hot Springs’ historic district. Take a tour of the old bathhouses on Bathhouse Row, and stop into one of the few that are still functioning to take a dip in the warm, therapeutic waters. Be sure to climb Hot Springs Mountain Tower for a bird’s eye view of the park. After a day of hiking or biking the winding mountain trails, stow your equipment in your vacation rental and enjoy the mountain views from your porch or balcony.
2. Downtown Hot Springs
Boasting a mixture of residential streets, business areas, and historic buildings, downtown Hot Springs offers easy access to major Hot Springs attractions while boasting a distinct hometown feel. Following a day of hiking or exploring the historic bathhouses, check out the antique shops and gift stores before heading back to your vacation rental to plan your next day of fun. With options for every price range, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home in the downtown area.
3. Lake Hamilton
Situated seven miles south of downtown Hot Springs, this waterfront paradise of lakes and rivers is a vacation destination in itself. Resorts, Inns, and riverfront cabins dot the peninsulas and islands, making Lake Hamilton ideal for travelers who love cruising the water on a speedboat, fishing, and going for a refreshing swim. Be sure to take a ride on the Belle of Hot Springs, an old-fashioned riverboat where you can enjoy a peaceful lunch or dinner cruise. You can also drive a boat parked at your vacation rental’s docking area to the 210-acre Garvan Woodland Gardens to see the flowers in bloom.
4. Hot Springs South
Offering a more residential feel, this area of Hot Springs is the perfect location for a quiet place to rest between adventures. Rentals here are close to the action, with a short drive up Central Avenue bringing you to downtown and the national park. Plus, staying here provides the convenience of home with a huge selection of markets and restaurants. If you want to practice your swing, enjoy a round of golf at the Hot Springs Golf and Country Club.
5. Rockwell
This community lies just southwest of Hot Springs along the shores of Ouachita River. Riverfront homes and resorts line the winding residential roads, creating a tranquil escape where you can canoe, feed the fish from the docks, and enjoy a cup of coffee by the water with views of the Ozarks. Find a vacation rental with river access if you’d love to cruise a river on a pontoon boat or take out a fishing boat when you’re not exploring Hot Springs.
6. Piney
Just west of Hot Springs, Piney is tucked between Hot Springs National Park to the east and Ouachita River snaking from west to south. With its laid-back atmosphere and ample river sports, this area makes for a great family stay while providing easy access to Hot Springs attractions. Be sure to check out the Mid-American Science Museum for interactive, kid-friendly exhibits.
7. Hot Springs Village
If you’re looking for a remote hideaway to reconnect with nature without having to rough it, consider Hot Springs Village, a beautiful gated community resting 17 miles north of Hot Springs. Here, find breathtaking lake views and well-kept homes tucked among forested acres. Take the family for a canoe excursion on one of the lakes, and stow the canoes in your rental garage. The area also boasts several challenging golf courses for those who feel more at home on the green.
8. Mountain Pine
Bordering Ouachita National Forest, this tiny community lies 10 miles northwest of downtown Hot Springs. Just 770 people live here as of the 2010 census, creating a remote wilderness feel for an unforgettable vacation. Enjoy a picnic along Ouachita River, and drive over to Lake Ouachita state park to kayak and swim before returning to the comfort of your vacation rental for a relaxing evening.
9. Fountain Lake
Looking to get away from the tourist crowd? This community situated 12 miles northeast of Hot Springs is the place for you. Test your skills at the scenic Balboa Golf Course or the PGA-rated Diamante course before heading down to Hot Springs to explore the historic buildings and park trails. When kicking back at your Fountain Lake vacation rental, take some time to enjoy Lake Balboa, where you can cast a line or enjoy the sunset from a rented boat. Be sure to stop by a lakefront cafe for a bite to eat.