Gulpha Gorge Campground and Creek
A serene, no-frills campground nestled in Hot Springs National Park, offering direct access to hiking trails and creek-side camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, less traffic noise
Gulpha Gorge Campground and Creek
Best Time
Quieter, less traffic noise

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, no-frills campground nestled in Hot Springs National Park, offering direct access to hiking trails and creek-side camping.
"Clean facilities and great hiking access make this a favorite national park stop for many campers.
"🎯 Book Ahead for Creek Sites
Popular creek-side spots fill up fast! Reserve early for the best views and sounds of the water.
👂 Manage Scenic Drive Noise
Sites closer to the scenic drive can be noisy. Consider a fan or earplugs for a quieter night's sleep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Creek-Side Campsites
Along Gulpha Creek
Pitch your tent or park your RV right beside the gentle flow of Gulpha Creek for a picturesque and soothing stay.

Hiking Trail Access
Directly from campground
Step out of your campsite and onto scenic trails that wind through the mountains, offering beautiful views.

Clean Facilities
Throughout campground
Enjoy well-maintained restrooms and showers, with hot water, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Proximity to Hot Springs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Creek Sites
Popular creek-side spots fill up fast! Reserve early for the best views and sounds of the water.
👂 Manage Scenic Drive Noise
Sites closer to the scenic drive can be noisy. Consider a fan or earplugs for a quieter night's sleep.
🚿 Shower Hack for Women
If the women's shower line is long, the men's showers are identical and often have no wait.
🥾 Hike to Town
Lace up your boots for a hike across the mountain directly to downtown Hot Springs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Creek Sites
Popular creek-side spots fill up fast! Reserve early for the best views and sounds of the water.
👂 Manage Scenic Drive Noise
Sites closer to the scenic drive can be noisy. Consider a fan or earplugs for a quieter night's sleep.
🚿 Shower Hack for Women
If the women's shower line is long, the men's showers are identical and often have no wait.
🥾 Hike to Town
Lace up your boots for a hike across the mountain directly to downtown Hot Springs.
🚗 Easy Access to Town
Just a few miles from downtown Hot Springs, making it easy to visit attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gulpha Gorge Campground is praised for its clean facilities, convenient access to hiking trails, and picturesque creek-side sites. While some find the campsites close together and the nearby scenic drive can be noisy, the overall experience is considered pleasant and well-maintained, offering a great base for exploring Hot Springs National Park.
"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🙉"
Michael Scott
"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."
Kristie Brettman
"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."
Travis Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gulpha Gorge Campground is located within Hot Springs National Park, just a few miles northeast of downtown Hot Springs. You can easily drive there via the scenic drive that runs by the campground. It's a straightforward route, making it convenient for visitors exploring the area.
Public transport options are limited in this area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for convenient access to Gulpha Gorge Campground and the surrounding Hot Springs National Park attractions.
The scenic drive is a road that runs adjacent to the campground, offering picturesque views. While it provides easy access, be aware that it can be busy, especially during peak hours, which might contribute to noise for some campsites.
The campground is situated within Hot Springs National Park, and the city of Hot Springs is just a short drive away. This provides easy access to amenities, dining, and attractions.
The roads leading to and within Gulpha Gorge Campground are generally well-maintained and paved. However, as with any mountain area, be mindful of winding roads and potential wildlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular creek-side sites. While walk-in sites might be available, booking in advance ensures you secure a spot, particularly during weekends and holidays.
Campgrounds typically operate 24/7 for check-in and check-out, but it's always best to confirm specific park hours for entry and exit if you have any doubts. Quiet hours are usually enforced.
Camping fees vary depending on the type of site and season. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website or reservation platforms for the most up-to-date pricing information.
While there is no general entrance fee for Hot Springs National Park itself, there are fees associated with camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground.
It's best to check the reservation system's policy. While some campgrounds allow on-site payment, pre-booking is often required or strongly encouraged to guarantee a site, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The campground offers full hookups for RVs, clean restrooms, and hot showers. There are also picnic tables and fire rings at most sites.
Absolutely! Gulpha Gorge Campground provides direct access to numerous hiking trails within Hot Springs National Park, allowing you to explore the natural beauty right from your campsite.
Cell service can be spotty within the park. Wi-Fi is generally not available at the campground itself, so be prepared to disconnect or use your mobile data sparingly.
You might encounter common woodland creatures like deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Always practice safe wildlife viewing and never feed the animals.
Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings, but always check for any current fire restrictions or burn bans in effect within Hot Springs National Park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gulpha Gorge Campground is a no-frills camping facility and does not have on-site restaurants or food services. You'll need to bring your own food and cooking supplies or dine in nearby Hot Springs.
Hot Springs offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. You can find everything from classic American fare to Southern cuisine.
Yes, most campsites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, allowing you to cook your own meals. Bringing a portable grill or camp stove is also a good idea.
There are several grocery stores located in the city of Hot Springs, which is a short drive from the campground. Stock up before you head in for your camping trip.
Yes, picnic tables are available at most campsites. There may also be designated picnic areas within the campground or along the scenic drive for day-use visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The creek itself offers beautiful shots, especially with the surrounding greenery. Look for trickling streams near parking areas for scenic close-ups. The hiking trails also provide opportunities for landscape photography.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical along the creek.
Beyond the natural beauty, keep an eye out for interesting textures in the rocks, the play of light through the trees, and any wildlife you might encounter.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and creek scenes. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flora and fauna. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Gulpha Gorge Campground is primarily a nature-focused area. While you can hike towards town, the best views of the historic bathhouses are found within the main Bathhouse Row area of Hot Springs National Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the campground itself is more about nature, the short drive to downtown Hot Springs opens up family-friendly activities like visiting the free museum and exploring Bathhouse Row. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food services are limited. Consider a site further from the scenic drive for a quieter experience for younger children.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and cooking supplies to save money on dining out. Take advantage of the free museum and tours in Hot Springs. The campground provides a cost-effective way to experience the Hot Springs National Park area without breaking the bank.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
The proximity to nature means you can enjoy the sounds of the creek and the forest right from your campsite. Pack your best hiking boots and prepare for an immersive outdoor experience. Remember to bring water and snacks for your adventures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures from Gulpha Gorge
When planning your hikes, consider the terrain and your fitness level. Trails like the Gulpha Gorge Trail offer scenic views of the creek and lush forest. For those seeking panoramic vistas, trails that ascend the mountains provide rewarding overlooks of the park and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. Always wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and be aware of trail markers.
Many visitors rave about the convenience of having these trails right at their doorstep. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and experience the park's diverse landscapes without needing to drive to trailheads. Remember to check the park's official website for trail maps and any current conditions or closures before you set out.
Camping Experience at Gulpha Gorge
Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, noting the hot water availability. However, the campground's proximity to a busy scenic drive means that noise from passing vehicles can be a factor, particularly for sites closer to the road. Weekday nights tend to be quieter than weekends.
While the sites are described as close together, the overall atmosphere is generally pleasant and well-kept. The campground's location makes it easy to access both the natural beauty of the park and the attractions of downtown Hot Springs, offering a balanced experience for campers.
Exploring Nearby Hot Springs
Beyond the historical sites, the city provides a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more established restaurants, catering to various tastes. Grocery stores are readily available for stocking up on supplies for your camping trip. The proximity allows for a seamless transition from a nature-focused camping experience to exploring the cultural and historical offerings of Hot Springs.
For those interested in a broader exploration of the area, consider visiting Devil's Den State Park or the Watchtower for more scenic views and outdoor activities. The combination of natural beauty at the campground and the rich history and amenities of Hot Springs makes for a well-rounded visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit