Gulpha Gorge Campground
4.10138 reviews305 Gulpha Gorge Rd, Hot Springs, AR, 71901
Gulpha Gorge Campground
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$34.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The peak season rate for a standard electric site is $34 per night. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to Gulpha Gorge, where towering trees create a natural cathedral along the babbling waters of Gulpha Creek. This hidden gem offers the perfect balance of wilderness and convenience, sitting just minutes from the vibrant downtown Hot Springs National Park and the iconic Bathhouse Row. Whether you're arriving with an RV or pitching a tent beneath the forest canopy, you'll find fully equipped sites with all the modern amenities. Adventure beckons from your doorstep with direct trail access, while the gentle sounds of the creek provide the perfect soundtrack for your outdoor retreat.
Gulpha Gorge Campground accommodates a mix of RV and tent camping, with more emphasis on RV setups due to full hookups and paved sites. While group camping and cabins are not explicitly mentioned, the site layout includes options close to natural features like the creek.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadow of Hot Springs Mountain, a sacred place where Native American tribes once gathered for worship and healing ceremonies. The nearby Bathhouse Row stands as a testament to America's golden age of spa culture, where visitors have sought the therapeutic waters for over a century. Your stay at Gulpha Gorge connects you to thousands of years of human history, from ancient spiritual practices to the elegant Victorian-era pursuit of health and wellness that shaped this unique national park.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of camping when nature puts on its finest show. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect hiking weather, while autumn transforms the gorge into a tapestry of golden hues. With pleasantly cool temperatures and comfortable humidity levels throughout these peak seasons, you'll find ideal conditions for both daytime adventures and cozy evenings around the campfire. The moderate climate makes this an excellent destination for those seeking outdoor comfort without extreme weather challenges.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data awaits documentation, the campground's valley location offers a comfortable base camp for exploring the varying elevations of Hot Springs National Park's diverse terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a woodland sanctuary where massive trees form a living green ceiling overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Gulpha Creek winds through the campground, its crystal-clear waters creating peaceful pools and gentle cascades. When you're ready to expand your horizons, well-maintained trails lead upward to spectacular mountain-top vistas that reveal the full beauty of the Ouachita Mountains. This rare combination of creek-side serenity and mountain majesty creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty throughout your stay.
Geological RegionGulpha Gorge showcases the dramatic geology of Hot Springs National Park, where ancient thermal springs have shaped the landscape for millennia. The campground rests in a verdant gorge carved by Gulpha Creek, surrounded by the rolling peaks of the Ouachita Mountains. This unique geological setting creates a microclimate of lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems. The connected trail system offers intimate encounters with the area's fascinating rock formations and provides access to panoramic viewpoints where you can appreciate the full scope of this remarkable geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo ADA-accessible campsites, Sites 4 and 17, are available. These sites are located on concrete pads and feature accessible picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and hookups. They are reservable one week in advance.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, but many are reported to be small and tightly spaced, which may limit privacy and flexibility for larger setups. Some sites require significant leveling efforts.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are generally low due to the close proximity of campsites. User reviews highlight this as a drawback.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers are advised to choose sites near the creek for more space and shade. Avoid sites near the highway due to noise.
Best CampsitesSites near Gulpha Creek, such as Site #22 and Site #44, are highly praised for the views and ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground, and up to 30 nights total within each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is limited to 8 people and two vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are closely spaced with varying amenities. ADA-accessible sites include paved paths and accessible features.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by contacting the facility directly.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability mentioned specifically. Reservable via Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities at Gulpha Gorge Campground include hiking, creek activities, and proximity to Hot Springs National Park's attractions like Bathhouse Row. The campground has a trailhead leading to Hot Springs Mountain and other trails, and the adjacent creek offers wading and cooling off in warm weather.
Hiking
Hot Springs National Park offers 26 miles of trails accessible from the campground. Several reviewers highlight the Gulpha Gorge Trail as a direct route to Bathhouse Row. Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views that enhance the hiking experience.Swimming
The adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek offers opportunities for wading and cooling off during warm months. However, it is not explicitly designated as a swimming area.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported seeing deer and other wildlife within the campground, adding to the natural appeal of the area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Some sites reportedly lack fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to highways leads to traffic noise. Some sites are unlevel, and thefts have been reported according to user reviews.
Active alertsSome reviews mention ongoing renovations affecting restroom availability.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services near Hot Springs National Park include local hospitals and police stations. User reviews indicate no staff present at certain times, which may affect immediate assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details such as locations or pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek, perfect for wading and cooling off.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include unlevel sites, missing fire pits, and road noise. Renovations have closed some restrooms, and theft has been reported.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Hosts like 'Ken' enhance the experience with stories and music.
Campground Map
305 Gulpha Gorge Rd, Hot Springs, AR, 71901
Driving directionsGulpha Gorge Campground is off US Hwy 70B on the east side of Hot Springs. For GPS directions, the physical address is 305 Gorge Road, Hot Springs AR 71901. (There is no mail delivery at this address.)
Roads are paved leading to the campground, but user reviews indicate heavy road noise due to proximity to major highways. Seasonal closures are not specified.Nearby places
Hot Springs is approximately 2 miles away, accessible by car or a 2-mile hike.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Hot Springs, which is minutes away by car.
Camper Reviews
4.1
138 reviews
Gulpha Gorge Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Gulpha Gorge Campground are mixed, with many praising the campground's natural setting, proximity to trails and Hot Springs attractions, and full hookups. Common complaints include the small and crowded campsites, road noise, and the lack of functioning fire pits or showers. Additionally, maintenance issues with restrooms and missing campground hosts were frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 138 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the campground's location next to Gulpha Gorge Creek, its proximity to hiking trails and Hot Springs attractions, and its full hookup amenities. Many appreciated the shade...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative reviews highlight the lack of privacy, small campsite sizes, and issues with leveling. Noise from the nearby road and the absence of showers are consistent complaints. Maintenance issues...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future campers are advised to book sites closer to the creek for a quieter experience and to ensure the site has the desired amenities, such as fire pits. Tent campers should be prepared to set up on...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is noted for its tranquility and less crowded conditions, while summer reviews often mention the creek as a relief from the heat but also highlight the lack of showers. Spring and fall...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The trails are in your backyard with access to Bathhouse Row." "The campground is beautiful, clean & well maintained." "Road noise not so great." "Camp host was very accommodating."
Based on 138 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews suggest that sites near the creek are highly desirable for their views and ambient sounds. Specific complaints include Site 19 being small and exposed, Site 7 being extremely uneven, and Site...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
ADA-accessible sites (e.g., Sites 4 and 17) are mentioned positively for their features. However, some reviews indicate general accessibility could be improved, such as better restroom availability.
Based on 138 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground, but specific reviews discussing pet experiences or policies are limited.
Based on 138 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025