Hounds Stay in Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Luie Boone
- 1 minute ago
- 9 min read
This travel spot is featured in our seventh blog series, Sheps Stay.
What if your next dog-friendly getaway included a national park right in the middle of town—one where you and your dog can explore the trails together? That’s part of what makes Hot Springs, Arkansas such a unique destination for travelers with four-legged companions.
Hot Springs is a charming destination tucked into the Ouachita Mountains, where historic character, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere come together to create an inviting getaway. Known for its natural thermal waters, historic downtown, scenic lakes, and surrounding mountain landscapes, Hot Springs offers something for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy a change of pace. With its combination of outdoor beauty, local restaurants, and welcoming community, it’s an easy place to settle in and enjoy a few days away.
Even better, Hot Springs makes it easy to bring your dog along. From scenic walking trails and peaceful lakefront areas to dog-friendly patios and welcoming accommodations, there are plenty of ways to experience the area together. You can spend your mornings exploring the outdoors, your afternoons wandering through town or relaxing near the water, and your evenings enjoying dinner with your pup nearby. There’s enough variety to keep the whole family entertained without making your vacation feel rushed or overplanned.
A great way to enjoy Hot Springs with your dog is by exploring the area’s many outdoor spaces. Hot Springs National Park offers miles of scenic trails where leashed dogs are welcome, giving you the chance to enjoy the wooded landscape and mountain scenery together. The Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail is another option for a more relaxed outing, with a paved path that makes it easy to take your time. If your pup needs a little extra exercise, Hot Springs Bark Park provides a designated off-leash area where dogs can run, play, and socialize.
The area's lakes are another highlight for travelers visiting with their dogs. Lake Hamilton, Lake Catherine, and Lake Ouachita surround Hot Springs and provide beautiful places to enjoy the outdoors. You can take a leisurely walk near the water, find a peaceful spot for a picnic, or simply spend some time enjoying the scenery. If your dog enjoys being on the water, you can also look into pet-friendly boating and kayaking opportunities. Be sure to check individual policies before making plans, since not every rental company allows pets.
Downtown Hot Springs is another fun place to explore with your pup. The historic streets, unique architecture, local shops, and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to spend a few hours wandering around together. Take your time strolling through town, browse the shops, and enjoy the character of this historic Arkansas community. Some local businesses even provide water bowls for visiting dogs, making it easy to give your pup a break along the way.
After working up an appetite, you’ll find several dog-friendly restaurants in Hot Springs where you can enjoy a meal with your pup by your side. Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden is a popular option for a casual meal with your dog. Known for its pizza and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a good spot to settle in and relax after a day outside. Rolando’s Restaurante offers Latin-inspired dishes and outdoor seating, while Steinhaus Keller provides a comfortable setting for enjoying a meal together. If you’d like to combine dinner with beautiful lake views, Bubba Brews on Lake Hamilton is another option to consider. Since pet policies and patio seating can change, it’s always best to call ahead before visiting.
Traveling with your dog in Hot Springs is all about enjoying the outdoors while keeping a few practical things in mind. Bring plenty of water, avoid the hottest parts of the day, and give your pup time to rest. Keep your dog leashed where required and check that activities and rentals are pet friendly.
From scenic trails and lakeside walks to downtown exploring and dog-friendly patios, Hot Springs offers plenty of ways to make memories together. Take your time, enjoy the area, and bring your best friend along for the adventure.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone had paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay at Hot Springs, Arkansas. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Akers Lakefront Retreat
This rental has 3 bedrooms with 4 beds and 3 full baths.
Photos by AIRBNB.com
It features the following amenities:
Lakefront
Set on nearly 7 private acres with breathtaking views of Lake Catherine
Huge patio / deck
BBQ grill
Very large private fenced backyard for dogs
Fire pit
Gazebo with amazing views
Private boat dock with a swim platform
Floating lily pad
Kayaks, canoe and life jackets
What would Luie Boone have thought of this rental? He would have woofed:
My humans had planned the perfect vacation for us at Akers Lakefront Retreat in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The beautiful lakefront home sat on nearly seven private acres overlooking Lake Catherine, with high-end furnishings, a huge deck and patio, a gazebo, and a cozy fire pit for evenings under the stars. I was most excited about the huge fenced yard where I could run and explore safely. I would have loved all the wildlife, too—deer wandering by, rabbits near the gazebo, bluebirds, owls calling at night, and maybe even the adorable beaver other guests had spotted. There was also a private dock with a swim platform, kayaks, a canoe, and a floating lily pad. I imagined splashing in the water, chasing sticks, and watching the sunsets with my humans. But I never got to go. I crossed the Rainbow Bridge before our vacation, and my humans couldn't imagine going without me. So the vacation we had planned became a special dream instead. I like to think that somewhere beside that beautiful lake, I'm still running through the fenced yard, watching the deer, listening to the owls, and waiting for my humans to join me again.
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone had sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in Hot Springs, Arkansas!
Hot Springs Duck Tours
If you're exploring Hot Springs, Arkansas, with your four-legged companion, be sure to add Hot Springs Duck Tours to your itinerary!
This unique, dog-friendly adventure lets you and your leashed pup explore the area aboard a historic World War II-era amphibious DUKW.
The approximately 75-minute tour takes you past famous Bathhouse Row and other historic sites before making a splash on beautiful Lake Hamilton.
On the water, you'll cruise around St. John's Island and enjoy views of even more historic landmarks.
With your pup by your side, it's a fun and memorable way to experience the history and scenery of Hot Springs together!
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a beautiful place to explore with your dog.
Located along Lake Hamilton, the gardens feature wooded paths, colorful flowers, peaceful lake views, and plenty of interesting places for your pup to sniff and explore.
Dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas as long as they remain leashed and under control.
While pets aren't allowed in some buildings and indoor spaces, there is still plenty to enjoy outside.
One unique part of visiting with your dog is the mix of gardens and natural woodland trails. Your pup can experience new sights and smells while you take in the scenery and enjoy a relaxing walk together.
The lakeside views also make for some great photos with your four-legged travel buddy.
Bring water and waste bags, especially during warmer weather, and check the current pet guidelines before your visit. Garvan Woodland Gardens is a great stop for anyone who wants to enjoy beautiful Arkansas scenery without leaving their dog behind.
Goat Rock View Point
Goat Rock Trail in Hot Springs National Park is a short hike with a surprising variety of scenery and terrain.
The trail starts with scattered pieces of novaculite, an extremely hard, fine-grained rock that formed from ancient marine sediments over 400 million years ago.
Novaculite is best known for being used to make high-quality sharpening stones.
From there, the trail opens into pretty, flowery glades before becoming more uneven and rocky.
Along the way, you’ll come across a huge novaculite boulder, one of the trail’s most impressive natural features.
As you continue, the rocky path leads to a stairway climbing up to Goat Rock Overlook.
With its changing terrain, wildflowers, striking rock formations, and massive novaculite boulder, this short trail offers plenty to discover—and it’s dog-friendly, so your four-legged hiking buddy can enjoy it with you.
Balanced Rock
Balanced Rock in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a unique rock formation and a fun stop for outdoor-loving dogs and their humans.
Located along the Sunset Trail in Hot Springs National Park, Balanced Rock is surrounded by the rugged novaculite rock formations that make the Ouachita Mountains so distinctive.
Novaculite has been used for thousands of years by Native Americans for tools and sharpening stones.
Balanced Rock is one of the area’s interesting examples of the natural formations created by the region’s ancient geology.
The trail to Balanced Rock takes you through a peaceful forest before reaching the rocky formation and its surrounding views.
Dogs are welcome on-leash along the park’s trails, making this a great little adventure to enjoy together. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy shoes, water, and a leash are a good idea.
With its unusual rock formation, natural beauty, and dog-friendly trail, Balanced Rock is a memorable little stop for anyone looking to explore the outdoors around Hot Springs.
Slunger Creek Nature Trail
Slunger Creek Nature Trail in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a peaceful, dog-friendly trail that’s perfect for an easy walk through the woods.
Located in Lake Catherine State Park, the short, paved trail follows Slunger Creek and offers beautiful scenery and the soothing sound of flowing water.
One sign along the trail reads, “This stream supports life.” It’s a simple reminder that the creek is much more than a pretty view. It provides water and habitat for insects, fish, birds, plants, and other wildlife.
Dogs will enjoy all the interesting sights and smells along the trail.
Keeping pups leashed and cleaning up after them helps protect this beautiful area and the wildlife that depends on the creek.
Short, peaceful, and full of natural beauty, Slunger Creek Nature Trail is a great place to enjoy a relaxing walk with a furry friend.
Falls Creek Falls
Falls Creek Falls is one of the most beautiful dog-friendly waterfalls in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Nestled within Lake Catherine State Park, this scenic cascade flows over layered rock ledges into a peaceful pool, creating a relaxing destination for both hikers and their four-legged companions.
The waterfall is especially stunning after a rainfall, when the increased water flow creates a more dramatic display.
During drier months, the slower-moving water reveals the unique rock formations and clear creek that make this spot so picturesque.
Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, it's an ideal place to take a break, snap a few photos, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the area with their owners, and many enjoy cooling their paws in the shallow sections of the creek near the falls.
Falls Creek Falls offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a favorite destination for dog owners looking to experience one of Arkansas's most scenic waterfalls together.
Grand Promenade
The Grand Promenade is a beautiful half-mile brick walkway in Hot Springs and a relaxing place to explore with your dog.
Lined with mature trees landscaping, benches, and interpretive features, it offers an easy stroll rather than a strenuous hike.
One of the most interesting facts is that the promenade’s design was inspired by the Prado, a famous pedestrian promenade in Havana, Cuba.
You’ll also find tables with built-in chess boards along the walkway—a unique little feature that makes this peaceful path even more memorable.
Dogs are welcome on the Grand Promenade as long as they remain on a leash no longer than six feet. Bring water for your pup, especially on warm days, and enjoy taking your time along this charming brick pathway.
For dog parents, the Grand Promenade is an easy, scenic stop where you and your pup can stretch your legs, explore, and enjoy a little piece of Hot Springs together.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery
Superior Bathhouse Brewery is a unique, dog-friendly spot in Hot Springs where you can enjoy craft beer, great food, and time with your pup.
Fido can order something from the dog menu and relax beside you at a table inside or on the pet-friendly outdoor patio, complete with refreshing misters.
The brewery serves a variety of handcrafted beers brewed with Hot Springs thermal spring water, along with burgers, sandwiches, giant pretzels, and other favorites.
It’s a fun and welcoming place where both you and your four-legged companion can sit back and enjoy the experience together.
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Hot Springs, Arkansas
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that would have put Luie Boone's leash in a twist and he would have woofed:
My humans had planned a vacation to Hot Springs, Arkansas, and I was so excited to go. I loved water, so I imagined all the exploring and splashing I would get to do. But I never got the chance. I passed away before we could take that trip. I would have learned that the natural hot springs weren't meant for dogs. The water was dangerously hot and could burn my paws, and it wasn't safe for me to drink. I probably would have looked at that steaming water and wondered, “Why can't I get in?” Sadly, that vacation became one of the adventures my humans and I never took. But I like to imagine that somewhere beyond the Rainbow Bridge, I found the perfect place—a cool lake, lots of room to run, and water I could splash in whenever I wanted. And I know my humans would have loved every minute of it with me!
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