Visitors at Hot Springs National Park can make the most of their trip with a reservation at Gulpha Gorge Campground.
What makes this spot so unique? We’re glad you asked!
Today, we’re discussing this destination’s perks to help you start planning your next adventure.
Let’s dive in!
Why is Gulpha Gorge Campground Worth a Visit?
Gulpha Gorge Campground is the ultimate location for summer fun and winter relaxation. This year-round spot is the perfect base camp for exploring Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas.
Each of the 40 RV sites has water, sewer, and full-spectrum electrical hookups. Restrooms with flush toilets are available, but they don’t have showers. It does have trash service and a dump station on-site. Spots vary in length, but some can accommodate up to 60 feet of rig and tow vehicle, which is uncommon in national parks.
Every site has a pedestal grill and a picnic table where you can enjoy your meals al fresco. Reservations are required, and we suggest making them well in advance. If you’re lucky, you can score a spot perched above Gulpha Creek. The sounds of the babbling brook will ensure you sleep like a baby.
This campground is incredibly popular, so the park limits stays to 14 days at a time with a maximum annual limit of 30 nights. If you plan to spend a good bit of time here, you’ll need to schedule seven days somewhere between two-week jaunts at Gulpha Gorge.
Where Is Gulpha Gorge Campground?
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is why Gulpha Gorge is so famous. Over two million visitors head to the park every year to bask in the springs and enjoy the surrounding natural resources. So, it stands to reason that they want to stay as close to the action as possible.
While the thermal springs are the park’s highlight, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this 5,400-acre paradise. Many hiking trails serve as a gateway to the mixed forest. Due to the unique geographic and hydrological features, you’ll encounter many unique plant species as you explore the landscape.
Biking, fishing, and paddling are also popular. You can also take advantage of many scenic drives through the area.
This is an urban park, and you’ll be within walking distance of downtown via the Gulpha Gorge Trail. But the 1.2-mile loop is pretty steep, so be prepared for a challenge! Once you make it downtown, you can admire the eclectic architecture of Bathhouse Row, peruse the many boutiques, and taste a wide range of cuisines at local restaurants.
What is the Dark History of Hot Springs, Arkansas?
While the land’s history dates back an untold number of years, its more recent past includes a colorful cast of characters. Starting in the late 1800s, Hot Springs was a hotbed of criminal activity. Mobsters like Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, Bugs Moran, and Frank Costello used it as a hideout.
At the center of the town was a thriving underground gambling scene involving police, judges, and the mayor, among other city officials.
This dynamic flourished until the 1960s, when the federal government cracked down on organized crime in the area. Today, the city is home to The Gangster Museum of America.
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Fun Things To Do Near Gulpha Gorge Campground
When you’re not exploring Hot Springs National Park, you’ll find plenty of other activities to keep you busy. Here are some of the top attractions near Gulpha Gorge Campground.
Explore the Ouachita River
If you haven’t had enough water-based fun during your stay at Gulpha Gorge Campground, the Ouachita River awaits!
This waterway is highly popular for boating and paddling. Anglers can reel in largemouth-, smallmouth-, spotted-, and shadow bass, as well as crappie, sunfish, flathead, and channel catfish. Some areas even have honey holes for rainbow trout.
Small rapids make for an exciting adventure in some spots in the right craft.
The Ouachita River is reinforced by many manufactured dams constructed since the early 1900s. You’ll find plenty of boat ramps near Hot Springs where you can access the water to get a close-up look at these fascinating structures.
Looking for more inspiration? Here are the Best Things To Do in Hot Springs!
Relax Along Bathhouse Row
Despite the name, you can’t actually soak in the mineral-rich waters within Hot Springs National Park. Instead, you’ll need to head to the historic Bathhouse Row.
Two facilities are still functioning spas today. The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been in continuous operation since 1912. Here, you can lounge in private baths and enjoy a range of treatments, such as facials and massages.
Quapaw Bathhouse offers public pools, private tubs, and many luxury treatments. There’s even a natural steam cave where you can sweat out toxins. If you’re looking for a high-end experience, this is the place for you!
But there’s more to do along Bathhouse Row than soak. The Fordyce Bathhouse is now home to a visitor center and museum. It’s a great place to learn more about the area’s rich history. Nearby, Lamar Bathhouse features the official store of Hot Springs National Park. Other spots along the way include a range of breweries and shops.
Stroll Through Garvan Woodland Gardens
Back on land, Garvan Woodland Gardens provides a calm, quiet refuge from the bustling downtown. This property is dedicated to preserving the unique natural environment.
Depending on when you visit, you might see swaths of blossoming tulips, warm fall colors, or festive holiday lights. You can enjoy interesting architectural features like Anthony Chapel and the Bob and Sunny Evans Treehouse year-round. During certain times of the year, you can even grab a bite to eat at the Chipmunk Cafe on-site.
Grab your Arkansas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!
Is a Road Trip to Gulpha Gorge Campground Worth It?
Hot Springs National Park is a sight to behold, and the best way to take it all in is to book a site at Gulpha Gorge Campground. This spot will ensure easy access to the best park amenities and all the excitement of downtown.
Be sure to make your reservations in advance to score a coveted waterfront site!
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