Hot Springs
Hot Springs, NC
A small river town where the Appalachian Trail passes along the main street, with the French Broad River beside it and hot mineral pools in town. Stop for a short trail walk or a paddle, and keep time for the pools.
Hot Springs is one of the few towns where the Appalachian Trail runs right through the center. The town lies on the French Broad River and Spring Creek; the Springs Resort & Spa offers mineral baths with naturally warm water. The history goes far back: visitors have come to the springs since 1778, and William Nelson bought the property in 1791. In 1831 James Patton took over and by 1837 had built a 350-room hotel, and in 1882 the railroad reached the town.
The Mountain Park Hotel, built in 1886, was among the country's elegant resorts; in 1917 it served as an internment camp for German seamen, and it burned down in 1920. The Lovers' Leap Loop (about 2 miles / 3 km, demanding) offers views of the river. Allow half a day for a stroll through town, a short hike and a soak, and check bath hours and reservations in advance.
- Nearest town
- Hot Springs, NC
- Category
- History & culture
- GPS
- 35.8970, -82.8260
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and August–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, July and October. Cold, short days in January–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Big Creek CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Hot SpringsTentsDrinking waterToiletsDogs allowed
- French Broad River CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Hot SpringsTentsCaravansShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowed
- The Glamping CollectiveCampsite21 mi from Hot SpringsWi-Fi
- KOA JourneyMotorhome stopover23 mi from Hot SpringsTentsMotorhomes
- Cataloochee CampgroundCampsite23 mi from Hot SpringsTentsCaravansDrinking waterToilets
- Love's RV HookupMotorhome stopover24 mi from Hot Springs · 4 pitchesMotorhomes
All campsites in North Carolina · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Hot Springs?
Hot Springs is in Hot Springs, NC, at GPS 35.8970, -82.8260. It is about 26 mi from Asheville.
Can you camp near Hot Springs?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Hot Springs Campground, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 35 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Hot Springs?
Places worth a stop nearby: Craggy Gardens (28 mi), Biltmore Estate (29 mi), Mount Mitchell State Park (33 mi) and Jonesborough Historic District (34 mi).
When is the best time to visit Hot Springs?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and August–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, July and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)