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Hot Springs/Gulpha Gorge Campground
Overview
Gulpha Gorge Campground offers a unique opportunity to stay within the boundaries of the oldest unit in the National Park System. As the only campground in Hot Springs National Park, it serves as a serene basecamp for those looking to explore the intersection of natural beauty and historic architecture. The sites are nestled along the banks of Gulpha Creek, providing a tranquil atmosphere where the sound of flowing water complements the surrounding forest canopy.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a short drive from the historic downtown of Hot Springs, Arkansas, the campground feels worlds away from the city's hustle. It is tucked into a lush valley surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains. The landscape is defined by towering hardwoods and pines, with the gentle creek meandering through the heart of the park. This location offers the perfect balance of secluded woodland charm and easy access to the urban amenities and thermal springs that define the region.
Amenities & Park Features
While many national park campgrounds are rustic, Gulpha Gorge is notable for its modern conveniences. The park features full hookup sites including water, sewer, and both 30 and 50-amp electrical service. Every site is paved and includes a pedestal grill and a picnic table. While there are modern restrooms available for guest use, it is important to note that the facility does not offer on-site showers. The sites are well-spaced, though the layout is best suited for moderately sized rigs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate that the Gulpha Gorge Trail begins right at the campground, connecting visitors to an extensive network of hiking paths leading to the Goat Rock Overlook. A quick trip down the road brings you to Bathhouse Row, where you can tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse or enjoy a traditional soak in the thermal waters. Visitors also frequently explore the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding Arkansas landscape.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for active couples and families who want to blend a traditional camping experience with historical sightseeing. Because of its full hookups, it is a favorite for RVers who prefer not to dry camp while visiting federal lands. It is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy hiking and photography, but it is also perfectly suited for travelers who appreciate the convenience of being minutes away from fine dining and boutique shopping in a historic setting.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Connor Thompson
My group of 4 stayed for a weekend in mid-November and it was the most perfect weather, perfect fall foliage weekend we could have wished for. The campground was clean, full of people enjoying themselves. We didn't hike the trail, but I will next time. Only thing to keep a lookout for, is that this isn't a gated campground like a state park would be. I saw a few passerbys using the facilities. Also, there aren't showers on the grounds.
Kristie Brettman
Nice campground within Hot Springs National Park. There are spots along the creek which are difficult to get but beautiful. The middle section of the campground seems a little more crowded. Older campground but well kept. It is close to a main road, but during the week nightly traffic was not too bad. We ran a fan and then heard nothing.
Steve Thomson
Some of the sites were recently paved and are nice. We stayed in three different sites during our five nights stay. Site 39 and 40 were both on the water and we’re reasonable sites. One night we stayed in sight four which is technically a handicap site but was definitely the best of all. During the day, there are some questionable folks that use the day area. One guy was changing his oil, then left his oil behind and drove away. Some young teens were riding their e-bikes pretty fast around the park for a couple of days. The hiking trails of the mountains were really nice and the river was pretty.
Travis Adams
Campsite have full hookups. Showers, restrooms are very clean. Great hiking trails. Only a few miles from downtown Hotsprings. Highly recommend the free museum, tour of an original bathhouse.
Michael Scott
This is a very nice campground. There are only 40 spots and they are very close together 🫣 People seem to be arriving and departing from this campground quite often and at all hours. Easy access to the hiking trails.🚶🏻♂️🥾 You can actually hike across the mountain to the center of town! Very walkable campground. Pleasant at night. There is a scenic drive that runs right by the campground and is very busy. The noise from the cars is worse the closer you are to that road🙉