Hot Springs in October: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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October is one of the best months of the year to visit Hot Springs National Park: crowds run 43% of the June peak (149,687 average visits), days average 75°F with 11.4 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in October
Hot Springs averages 149,687 recreation visits in October — 43% of what June, the peak month, draws. Trailheads and parking fill accordingly.
Weather & daylight
Days are mild (highs average 75°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 52°F). This is one of the wetter months (5.1″ of precipitation on average). Mid-month daylight runs 11.4 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station HOT SPRINGS 1 NNE, AR US (0 mi from park coordinates, 626 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of October.
What to pack for Hot Springs in October
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Rain shell + pack cover — 5.1″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Common questions
Is Hot Springs crowded in October?
Moderately: October runs 43% of the June peak, averaging 149,687 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Hot Springs in October?
Average highs of 75°F, lows of 52°F, 5.1″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, HOT SPRINGS 1 NNE, AR US station).
What should I pack for Hot Springs in October?
Rain shell + pack cover; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in October · Last verified 2026-07-16