Camping near natural hot springs is the perfect way to combine the thrill of the outdoors with the relaxation of a soothing soak. Whether you’re an RV camper seeking full hookups or a tent camper craving a primitive experience, there’s a great campground out there waiting for you.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best campgrounds in the U.S. that offer easy access to natural hot springs! Look no further when you’re trying to find the best camping locations.
These destinations provide a fantastic place to unwind, explore hiking trails, and immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes. Let’s dive into the top picks to help you plan your next adventure!
All of these locatons are near or have hot springs or mineral baths nearby that can be accessed for a fee.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas: Gulpha Gorge Campground
Nestled in the heart of Hot Springs National Park, Gulpha Gorge Campground is a great campground for campers looking to experience the therapeutic waters of natural hot springs while staying close to the historic Bathhouse Row.
Located just a short drive from downtown Hot Springs, this campground offers a central location with 40 RV campsites, all equipped with full hookups (30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer). Fire pits are not available at individual sites.
While the campground lacks showers, modern restrooms with flush toilets ensure a clean bathroom experience.
For a relaxing soak, visit the Buckstaff or Quapaw Bathhouses on historic Bathhouse Row, where you can immerse yourself in mineral water for a small fee. The campground is open year-round, making it a great spot for winter months or early summer visits. Reservations are recommended.
Why It’s Great: Close proximity to Hot Springs National Park’s thermal springs, a great place for hiking, and a perfect campground for RV campers seeking full hookups.
Nearby Activities: Explore the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views, enjoy a meal at local eateries near Bathhouse Row, or visit the Superior Bathhouse Brewery—the only brewery in a national park.
Olympic National Park, Washington: Sol Duc Hot Springs RV & Campground
Tucked within Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs RV & Campground is a fantastic place for campers seeking a blend of natural hot springs and lush forest landscapes. Located near Port Angeles, this campground offers RV sites and tent sites with to three mineral hot spring pools and a freshwater swimming pool at the nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
The RV sites include partial hookups (electric and water), picnic tables, and fire pits, creating a perfect place for a cozy campfire after a day of soaking.
The campground is an excellent spot for exploring top trails, which winds through old-growth forests to a stunning waterfall. The hot spring pools are open to campers for a small fee, offering a relaxing soak in natural hot spring water.
Why It’s Great: Combines the rugged beauty of Olympic National Park with the comfort of hot springs and modern amenities.
Nearby Activities: Hike the scenic trails or take a scenic drive along the park’s breathtaking routes.
Hot Springs, North Carolina: Hot Springs Campground
For campers seeking a family-friendly campground with natural hot springs, Hot Springs Campground in North Carolina is a great choice. Located along the French Broad River and near the Blue Ridge Parkway, this campground offers RV campsites with full hookups, primitive tent sites, and cabins.
Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit, with modern amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, and laundry facilities ensuring a comfortable stay. The adjacent Hot Springs Resort & Spa provides private hot tubs filled with natural mineral water, perfect for a relaxing soak after hiking the nearby Appalachian Trail.
This campground is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to hiking trails, tubing, and kayaking on the river. The small town of Hot Springs is within walking distance, offering local dining and a coffee shop for a great experience. The campground is pet-friendly.
Why It’s Great: A central location near the Blue Ridge Parkway, with hot spring hot tubs and a variety of recreational opportunities.
Nearby Activities: Hike the Appalachian Trail, tube along the French Broad River, or explore the charming town of Hot Springs for local culture.
Treasure Isle RV Park, Arkansas: Lakefront Luxury
For RV campers seeking a luxurious experience near Hot Springs National Park, Treasure Isle RV Park on Lake Hamilton is a top choice. This RV resort offers 65 full hookup RV sites with 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer, each equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. Modern amenities include clean bathrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, a dog park, and a playground, making it a family-friendly campground.
Its location on beautiful Lake Hamilton provides stunning views and recreational opportunities like fishing and boating, with a boat launch available on-site.
A short drive from the heart of Hot Springs, campers can visit the natural hot springs at Bathhouse Row or explore the Ouachita National Forest’s hiking trails. The park’s convenience store stocks essentials, and its proximity to Oaklawn Racing and Casino adds a fun twist for those seeking entertainment.
Why It’s Great: Combines lakefront camping with modern comforts and easy access to Hot Springs’ attractions.
Nearby Activities: Soak in the thermal waters at Quapaw Baths, hike in the Ouachita National Forest, or enjoy a round at nearby golf courses.
Tips for Planning Your Hot Springs Camping Trip
- Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in early summer and fall. Use campground websites for reservations.
- Pack for Soaking: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes for hot springs, as some pools may have rocky surfaces.
- Check Amenities: Confirm the availability of full hookups, hot showers, or dump stations if you’re RV camping.
- Explore Nearby: Each location offers unique activities so be sure to check them out.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles, especially on public lands and forest service land, to preserve these natural landscapes.
These campgrounds offer the perfect blend of natural hot springs, modern amenities, and access to stunning hiking trails, making them ideal for a memorable camping trip.
Pack your gear, grab some ice cream at a local shop, and hit the road for an idyllic retreat in one of these fantastic places!
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