Now you have almost reached the end of your adventure down Highway 18 and Hot Springs is a town to kick back and relax. According to legend, the Sioux Indians first discovered the warm mineral springs, which would mark the site of Hot Springs. Early growth of Hot Springs was attributed to the hot mineral springs. In the late 1800’s the population of Hot Springs more than doubled and by 1900 there was two railroads, a college, five public bathhouses and ten hotels. Today the population still continues to grow slowly in part to the Veterans Administration Center, the State Soldiers Home, Angostura Dam, discovery of uranium and many tourist attractions. Even today the warm water river continues to flow year around and people still collect and drink the healing mineral waters. There are many things to see and enjoy in Hot Springs with the family.