Every now and then on the road, you stumble upon a place that feels like a well kept secret, a little haven tucked away from the usual roar of the highway. That’s exactly the feeling I got when we first discovered HSV RV Park inside Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. The idea of finding a dump station, let alone a peaceful RV park, inside a massive, private gated community seemed almost too good to be true. But there it is, nestled between two serene lakes, offering a kind of quiet and security that’s almost impossible to find at a public campground or a truck stop. This isn't your typical "in and out" dump station. It's a destination in itself, a place where you can empty your gray and black tanks in a calm, beautiful setting before heading deeper into the stunning Ouachita foothills.
Hot Springs Village is an experience all its own. We’re talking about a sprawling community covering 26,000 acres of wooded hills. It’s home to eleven different recreational lakes, nine golf courses, and more than thirty miles of hiking and biking trails. It’s the kind of place where you can start your day with a sunrise kayak on the glassy waters of Lake Balboa, spend the afternoon fishing for bass on Lake DeSoto, and still be just a twenty minute drive from the historic thermal baths in downtown Hot Springs. The village sits at a slightly higher elevation than the city, which means the summer evenings are a bit cooler and more comfortable, a real blessing if you've been battling the southern heat.
Now, staying at an RV park inside a private community comes with its own set of rules and a unique rhythm. This is not a place you just pull into on a whim. Access is controlled, and you'll be checking in with a friendly camp host rather than a clerk behind a counter. You’ll need to make reservations in advance, and they’ll give you a temporary gate pass to get in. The great thing is that every single one of the 21 sites offers full hookups, including water, sewer, and both 30 and 50 amp electric. This means that if you’re staying overnight, you won’t even need to use the separate dump station located on the main loop; you can handle everything right at your own site.
However, there are some very important things you need to know before you book. This park is designed exclusively for fully self contained rigs. That means there are no public restrooms, no showers, and no laundry facilities on site. You need to be prepared to use your own onboard systems for everything. They also don't have public trash disposal, so you’ll need to pack out your own trash. This is a key part of what keeps the park so pristine. The other major factor, and this can be a deal breaker for many travelers, is that the park has a strict no pets policy. As someone who often travels with a four legged copilot, this is a critical piece of information. You’ll need to make other arrangements for your furry friends if you plan to stay here.
Because of its exclusive nature, you won't find a standard dump only fee or nightly rate listed online. The value here is tied up in the security, the tranquility, and the access to the village’s incredible recreational facilities. To get the real numbers and find out about access, you’ll need to call the Hot Springs Village Parks and Recreation office directly. They can tell you about their "Discovery Packages" for non members and walk you through the reservation process. It takes a little more planning, but for the right kind of RVer, the payoff is immense.
Here are a few tips to make your visit go off without a hitch. First, reserve as early as you possibly can. The park is small, and it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during the summer lake season or when there’s a golf tournament in town. Second, when you get your directions, pay close attention. Your GPS might get confused by the private roads. For larger rigs, the West Gate entrance is the recommended point of entry. Third, stock up on groceries, propane, and any other supplies you need in Hot Springs proper before you enter the village. While there are some small stores inside, your options will be more limited and likely more expensive. Finally, embrace the local culture. Once you’re settled, take a paddle on Lake Coronado or go for a hike on the Cedar Creek Trail to see a beautiful waterfall. And remember, you’re in a residential community, so respecting the quiet hours, which are strictly enforced, is essential.
So, who is HSV RV Park for? It's for the RVer who craves peace and quiet above all else. It's for the self sufficient traveler who has a fully contained rig and doesn't need external facilities. It’s for the outdoor enthusiast who wants to spend their days hiking, golfing, and kayaking in a beautiful, secure environment. If you travel with pets or need access to campground showers and laundry, this isn't the spot for you. But if you fit the bill, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most serene and scenic RVing experiences in all of Arkansas. It’s a true hidden gem.
Hot Springs Village, AR 71909
(501) 922-5050
Cost: Price not available
Category: RV park
Has Water
explorethevillage.com/golf-and-recreation/rv-park-information