Located in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park experiences a humid subtropical climate. That means hot, often humid summers and mild to cool winters, with fairly even precipitation throughout the year. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your visit.
Hot Springs National Park Temperatures by Month
January
Winter is mild compared to much of the U.S.
- Average highs: ~50°F (10°C)
- Average lows: ~30°F (-1°C)
- Occasional frost and rare snowfall
- A quiet time to visit with fewer crowds
February
Still winter, but slightly warmer and unpredictable.
- Highs: ~54°F (12°C)
- Lows: ~33°F (1°C)
- Mix of chilly days and early hints of spring
- Rain is more common than snow
March
Spring begins to arrive.
- Highs: ~63°F (17°C)
- Lows: ~41°F (5°C)
- Trees start budding; wildflowers appear
- Rain showers increase
April
One of the most pleasant months.
- Highs: ~72°F (22°C)
- Lows: ~49°F (9°C)
- Lush greenery and blooming flowers
- Frequent rain, but usually short-lived
May
Warm and vibrant spring weather.
- Highs: ~80°F (27°C)
- Lows: ~58°F (14°C)
- Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities
- Thunderstorms become more common
June
Early summer heat begins.
- Highs: ~88°F (31°C)
- Lows: ~67°F (19°C)
- Increasing humidity
- Afternoon storms possible
July
The hottest month of the year.
- Highs: ~92°F (33°C)
- Lows: ~71°F (22°C)
- High humidity can make it feel hotter
- Great time for early morning or evening activities
August
Similar to July—hot and humid.
- Highs: ~91°F (33°C)
- Lows: ~70°F (21°C)
- Occasional thunderstorms
- Peak summer conditions continue
September
Transition into fall.
- Highs: ~85°F (29°C)
- Lows: ~63°F (17°C)
- Less humidity than summer
- Still warm, but more comfortable
October
One of the best months to visit.
- Highs: ~74°F (23°C)
- Lows: ~51°F (11°C)
- Fall foliage begins to appear
- Crisp, pleasant weather
November
Cooler and quieter.
- Highs: ~63°F (17°C)
- Lows: ~41°F (5°C)
- Peak fall colors early in the month
- Increasing chill toward the end
December
Cool and calm winter conditions return.
- Highs: ~53°F (12°C)
- Lows: ~33°F (1°C)
- Occasional frost
- Holiday atmosphere in nearby town areas
Hot Springs National Park Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (inches) | Sun (hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 50 | 30 | 4.4 | 5.2 |
| February | 54 | 33 | 4.5 | 5.8 |
| March | 63 | 41 | 5.3 | 6.5 |
| April | 72 | 49 | 5.2 | 7.5 |
| May | 80 | 58 | 5.6 | 8.5 |
| June | 88 | 67 | 4.3 | 9.8 |
| July | 92 | 71 | 3.7 | 10.2 |
| August | 91 | 70 | 3.3 | 9.6 |
| September | 85 | 63 | 3.9 | 8.7 |
| October | 74 | 51 | 4.6 | 7.6 |
| November | 63 | 41 | 5.1 | 6.0 |
| December | 53 | 33 | 5.3 | 5.1 |
Quick insights:
- Sunniest months: June–August (great for outdoor activities, but hot).
- Wettest period: Spring (March–May).
- Balanced conditions: April, May, and October offer a good mix of sunshine and moderate temperatures.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Best for flowers and mild weather
- Fall (October–November): Ideal for foliage and comfortable temperatures
- Summer: Good for spa experiences but expect heat
- Winter: Quiet, peaceful, and budget-friendly
20 helpful FAQs about weather at Hot Springs National Park
1. What type of climate does Hot Springs NP have?
It has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and year-round precipitation.
2. What is the hottest month in the park?
July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 90–92°F (32–33°C).
3. What is the coldest month?
January is the coldest, with average lows near freezing.
4. Does it snow in Hot Springs National Park?
Yes, but snowfall is rare and usually light, mainly in January and February.
5. When is the best time to visit for good weather?
Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) offer the most comfortable conditions.
6. How humid does it get in summer?
Very humid—summer heat often feels hotter due to high moisture in the air.
7. Does it rain a lot?
Rainfall is fairly consistent year-round, with slightly wetter conditions in spring.
8. What month has the most rainfall?
May is typically the wettest month.
9. Are thunderstorms common?
Yes, especially in late spring and summer afternoons.
10. Is the park crowded during certain weather conditions?
Yes, pleasant weather in spring and fall attracts more visitors.
11. What is the weather like in spring?
Mild, green, and blooming—with occasional rain showers.
12. What is the weather like in summer?
Hot, humid, and sunny with occasional thunderstorms.
13. What is fall weather like?
Cooler, less humid, and ideal for hiking and scenic views.
14. What is winter weather like?
Cool and calm, with fewer crowds and occasional frost.
15. How many sunny days does the park get?
It averages around 5–10 hours of sunshine per day depending on the season.
16. Can weather change quickly?
Yes, especially during spring and summer storms.
17. Is it safe to hike during summer?
Yes, but it’s best to go early or late in the day to avoid heat and storms.
18. What should I pack for a visit?
Light clothing for summer, layers for cooler months, and rain gear year-round.
19. Does weather affect the hot springs?
The thermal springs flow year-round at a constant temperature, unaffected by weather.
20. Are there weather-related hazards?
Heat exhaustion in summer and slippery trails after rain are the most common concerns.