Put In

Hot Springs Creek Put In is located in Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas, providing access to a medium-order stream in the Ouachita Mountains region. This is a headwater creek with significant elevation change, dropping approximately 1,967 feet over its 17.86-mile length, which creates a steep average gradient of 110.1 feet per mile. The creek features a relatively modest average flow of 0.46 cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 1.12 feet per second, indicating this is a technical whitewater stream suitable for experienced paddlers.

The creek's high gradient and headwater characteristics mean boaters should expect continuous whitewater with frequent drops and obstacles typical of mountain streams in Arkansas. The drainage area of 26,583 square miles indicates this creek is part of a larger system, though at this put-in location near the source, water levels will be seasonal and dependent on recent rainfall. The steep terrain and technical nature of this section make it best suited for kayakers and canoeists with intermediate to advanced skills who are comfortable navigating continuous Class II-III whitewater typical of Ouachita Mountain streams.