A hot spring is a spring that is produced by the emergence of geothermally heated groundwater from the Earth's crust.  In general, the temperature of rocks within the earth increases with depth.  If water percolates deeply enough into the crust, it will be heated as it comes into contact with hot rocks.

Because heated water can hold more dissolved solids, hot springs also often have a very high mineral content, containing everything from simple calcium to lithium, and even radium. Because of both the folklore and the claimed medical value some of these springs have, they are often popular tourist destinations, and locations for rehabilitation clinics for those with disabilities.

For the perfect relaxing vacation, visit the hot springs in Hot Springs National Park where the waters have been soothing visitors for hundreds of years.  Some of the area's most popular and renowned health spas include  the historic Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Baths and Spa on Bathhouse Row.