It’s no secret that Hot Springs (Garland County) is my favorite city in my native state, and one of my favorite places there is Gulpha Gorge Campground. This beautiful spot has long been special to my wife and me, a place where we’ve spent countless afternoons with our Boston terriers, Stonewall and Dixie, splashing in the cool waters of Gulpha Creek. This past Saturday, we returned once again—this time introducing our new Boston Terrier puppy, Tucker, to a place that has become part of our story.
The history of Gulpha Gorge stretches back more than two centuries. In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Dr. George Hunter and William Dunbar to explore the Hot Springs area, surveying the newly acquired territory and documenting its scientific significance. After a 25-day journey, the expedition reached the confluence of what is now known as Gulpha Creek. In his journal, Dunbar referred to the stream as “Fourche à Calfat.” Over time, “Calfat” evolved into “Gulpha,” giving the creek its modern name.
The campground itself came much later. In 1924, Colonel John Fordyce donated 16 acres of land to the federal government to establish a campground in Gulpha Gorge. The property included two rustic changing booths near a small swimming lake called Lake Lillian, named in honor of Fordyce’s wife. The small lake was created by a dam Fordyce had constructed on the creek, which was eventually removed, allowing the creek to flow freely. That gift laid the foundation for what would become one of Hot Springs National Park’s most beloved outdoor destinations.
Today, Gulpha Gorge Campground sits in the heart of Hot Springs National Park, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. Although it is the only developed campground within the park’s boundaries, it has managed to retain a peaceful, wooded atmosphere. The gentle sound of Gulpha Creek, shaded campsites, and nearby hiking trails give the area the feel of a quiet forest retreat, all while remaining close to the city.
The campground is relatively small, with around 40 campsites, but it is thoughtfully designed. Each site offers full hookups for RVs and trailers, including 30- and 50-amp electrical service, along with water and sewer connections. Picnic tables, grills, and fire rings make each campsite comfortable and inviting, while paved roads and RV pads simplify setup. Modern restrooms with flush toilets are available year-round, adding a level of comfort not always found in national park campgrounds.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, Gulpha Gorge Campground is an excellent starting point. The Gulpha Gorge Trail begins near the campground and climbs toward Hot Springs Mountain, offering scenic views and access to the park’s broader trail system, which spans more than 26 miles. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer trek, these trails highlight the forested landscapes and rolling foothills of the Ouachita Mountains.
There’s also plenty to enjoy without leaving the campground itself. During warmer months, wading in Gulpha Creek is a favorite activity for visitors of all ages. The shallow, clear water makes it especially inviting on hot summer days. Picnicking, birdwatching, and simply relaxing beneath the trees round out the experience, making Gulpha Gorge an ideal place to slow down and reconnect with nature.
That said, Gulpha Gorge does not offer complete seclusion. Its proximity to Highway 7 and the edge of the city means that traffic noise can occasionally break the tranquility, and the close spacing of campsites can limit privacy. Still, most campers find these minor drawbacks are more than balanced by the campground’s convenience and accessibility.
Reservations are required for all campsites and can be made through Recreation.gov. The campground is especially popular during peak seasons and holiday weekends, when sites tend to fill quickly. With a little planning, however, it’s possible to secure one of the coveted creekside sites, known for their peaceful views and soothing sounds of flowing water.
Staying at Gulpha Gorge also puts visitors just minutes from historic downtown Hot Springs. After a morning hike, you can head into town to soak in one of the city’s famous bathhouses, explore local shops and restaurants, or take a scenic drive up Hot Springs Mountain Road. That drive leads to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, a 216-foot steel observation tower that opened in 1983 and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
In a region of Arkansas known for its lakes and forests, Gulpha Gorge Campground stands out by offering the best of both worlds: the calm beauty of a shaded creekside retreat and the charm of a historic city built around water and wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or visiting for the first time, Gulpha Gorge invites you to slow down, explore more deeply, and discover why the Spa City has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors for generations.
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