Photography in the Park

Gulpha Creek at the Gulpha Gorge Campground

NPS Photo/ Mitch Smith

Photography is an important part of national park history. Photographers took pictures to show why special places needed protection. People were able to see how beautiful and unique park landscapes were even if they could not visit them in person. Today, professional and amateur photographers alike travel from around the world to capture scenic and historic vistas.

Iconic Locations

Hot Springs National Park has many locations to capture a unique and picturesque photograph. A few of our favorites include:

• Bathhouse Row
• Gulpha Gorge Campground
• Rick's Pond and the Stonebridge
• Goat Rock Overlook
• Balanced Rock 
• Pagoda atop Hot Springs Mountain

Safety First!

Zoom with your lens.

Never approach or pursue animals to take their picture. Wild animals can become aggressive without warning or carry infectous diseases.

Park in roadside pullouts.

Don't block traffic to take pictures. Keep roads clear and stay with your vehicle if you encounter heavy traffic. Don’t drive or park on roadside vegetation.

Leave the drone at home.

The launching, landing, or operation of unmanned aircraft is prohibited in Hot Springs National Park.

Details

Activity

Hands-On

Exploring the park through the lens of a camera is a great way to become more intimate with the park. This is a free form expression of art, so explore, wander, and get creative! Be sure to stay on trails and park in assigned spaces. 

Age(s)

Photography is great for anyone, as long as they can hold a camera!

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be kept on a leash while in the park.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

Photography locations are available all throughout the park. The most accessible locations, located in downtown Hot Springs are along Bathhouse Row and at Whittington Park. Bathhouse Row has a paved, 6 foot wide side walk that cirlces the Bathhouses, with a maximum grade of 3.7%. Whittington Park has a flat, gravel pathhway that is 1.2 miles long with a 0.6% grade.