The hot springs here were used by Native Americans during the late 1700’s and likely far earlier. Then in the early 1800’s, after the USA acquired the area as part of the Louisiana Territory from France, more and more people started coming into the area. Finally, in the late 1870’s, the government took control and that is when the more complex bathhouses were built. So, “Bathhouse Row” is an important part of this park. Do also take note of both the East Mountain area, where there is a viewing tower, and the West Mountain area, which are both also part of the park. We did not take baths here, but did tour the Fordyce Bathhouse, which is the building the Visitor Center is in.