Dogs at Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs is one of the most dog-friendly national parks, with leashed dogs allowed on all 26 miles of park trails and in Gulpha Gorge Campground.
Hot Springs National Park Dog Policy
Hot Springs National Park is notably pet friendly, but dogs still need to follow NPS leash, building-access, and cleanup rules. Camping is limited to Gulpha Gorge Campground, and the park itself does not charge an entrance fee.
Pets are not permitted inside park facilities, though the NPS pets page notes dogs are allowed in the Superior Bathhouse Restaurant and Brewery. Trails are generally open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Dogs should be kept away from wildlife, including snakes, deer, birds, and other animals common in the park.
Last updated: 2026-03-25
Dog-Friendly Trails
Hot Springs National Park allows leashed dogs on all park trails. These popular options are good starting points for visiting with a dog.
Grand Promenade National Recreation Trail
Easy, 0.5 miles one way. A gentle downtown walkway and a convenient starting point for several mountain trails.
South entrance near 101 Reserve St, Hot Springs, AR
Visit WebsitePeak Trail
Moderate, 0.6 miles one way. Short but steep climb to Hot Springs Mountain Tower with a typical grade of 12.6%.
Trailhead off the Grand Promenade near Fordyce Bathhouse, Hot Springs, AR
Visit WebsiteGulpha Gorge Trail
Moderate, 0.6 miles one way. A steep connector trail linking Gulpha Gorge Campground with the park trail system.
Gulpha Gorge Campground / North Mountain trailhead, Hot Springs, AR
Visit WebsiteArlington Trail
Easy, 0.1 miles one way. Very short connector trail from Arlington Lawn to Lower Dogwood Trail.
Arlington Lawn area, Hot Springs, AR
Visit WebsiteOertel Trail
Moderate, 3.4 miles out and back. A longer forested route with about 498 feet of elevation gain.
Goat Rock and Upper Dogwood
Moderate, 2.5-mile loop. Popular scenic loop with overlooks and roughly 367 feet of elevation gain.
Hot Spring Mountain Loop via Gulpha Gorge Trail
Moderate, 3.2-mile loop. A classic park hike with steady climbing, views, and about 652 feet of elevation gain.
West Mountain Loop
Moderate, 2.3-mile loop. Well-maintained route with moderate inclines and about 387 feet of elevation gain.
Tips for Visiting Hot Springs National Park with Your Dog
Bring more water than you think you will need, especially in warm weather. NPS specifically warns that summer heat can make pavement hot and vehicles dangerous for pets. Keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times, and use the pet waste stations on Bathhouse Row and in the campground. Because Hot Springs is an urban national park, expect a mix of sidewalks, paved paths, dirt trails, and road crossings. Watch for wildlife such as snakes, deer, rabbits, and birds, and give animals plenty of space. If you plan to camp, reserve Gulpha Gorge Campground ahead of time and confirm your dog is comfortable around other campers. For the easiest walk, start on the Grand Promenade; for a short climb, try Peak Trail; and for longer outings, choose one of the mountain loops early in the day to avoid heat.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Hot Springs
0 milesThe park sits within the city, making it easy to pair hikes with pet-friendly patios and downtown walks.
Lake Hamilton
About 8 milesA nearby resort area with waterfront lodging and outdoor recreation close to the park.
Malvern
About 22 milesA small town east of the park that works well as a quieter base for regional travel.
Benton
About 32 milesA convenient stop north of Hot Springs with services, dining, and road-trip amenities.
Little Rock
About 55 milesArkansas’s capital city offers more hotels, restaurants, and urban dog-friendly outings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on trails in Hot Springs National Park?
Yes. Hot Springs National Park allows leashed dogs on all 26 miles of park trails.
How long can my dog's leash be at Hot Springs National Park?
Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Can I bring my dog into the visitor center at Hot Springs National Park?
No. Pets are not permitted inside park buildings, including the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, unless they are service animals.
Are dogs allowed in campgrounds at Hot Springs National Park?
Yes. Pets are allowed in Gulpha Gorge Campground, where there are also pet waste stations.
Does Hot Springs National Park charge an entrance fee for dogs or people?
No. Hot Springs National Park is a fee-free park with no entrance fee.
Is there a kennel at Hot Springs National Park?
No kennel or pet boarding facility is listed by the park, so plan for your dog to stay with you or arrange boarding off-site.
Can I leave my dog in the car while I go into a building?
You should not. NPS warns that summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles.