Janitor Ady Grieve and site manager John Clegg responded to the fountain with a pair of leather gloves that Grieve donned and stepped into the fountain.
"Fortunately the pool was fairly empty but the warm sun was beginning to take its toll on her," Clegg said.
Clegg then returned the hedgehog to the gardens, her natural habitat.
The rescue was applauded by Nottinghamshire County Councilor Pauline Allan, Vice-Chairman of the Culture Committee.
"Our country parks are always a popular destination for visitors of all ages with Rufford alone welcoming around 400,000 people every year," Allan said. "The summer holidays are no exception as a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and explore this historic site. This rescue story is a lovely example of just another exciting day in the life of a hedgehog and our staff team at Rufford!"
