Maple Springs
3.8763 reviewsP.O. Box 7, Mammoth Cave, KY, 42259, USA
Maple Springs
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$50.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for group standard electric, equestrian, and non-electric sites are uniformly $50 per night during peak season (March 1 to November 29). Specific discounts or taxes are not reflected in this base pricing.
About this campground
Nestled within the heart of Mammoth Cave National Park, Maple Springs Group Campground offers a tranquil retreat where the sounds of nature replace the noise of everyday life. This intimate campground welcomes families and equestrian enthusiasts with thoughtfully equipped group sites featuring both water and electric hookups. From your basecamp at Maple Springs, adventure beckons in every direction – whether you're eager to explore the park's extensive backcountry trail network, embark on a memorable cave tour, or simply gather around the campfire with loved ones under Kentucky's star-filled skies.
Maple Springs Campground offers group camping with options for equestrian sites, tent camping, and RVs. The campground is small, with only seven designated sites.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Maple Springs places you at the doorstep of one of humanity's most remarkable natural treasures. Mammoth Cave, designated as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, holds stories that stretch back millennia. Ancient peoples first ventured into these mysterious passages over 2,000 years ago, leaving behind artifacts that speak to their courage and curiosity. When European explorers rediscovered the cave system in the 19th century, they unknowingly stumbled upon what would become one of Kentucky's most celebrated wonders, forever changing our understanding of the underground world.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens Maple Springs with perfect camping weather, as wildflowers dot the landscape and temperatures hover in that sweet spot between cool mornings and warm afternoons. Fall transforms the surrounding hills into a tapestry of gold and crimson, with crisp air and low humidity creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Summer brings the full glory of Kentucky's green season, though savvy campers come prepared for the region's characteristic humidity. The campground rests peacefully under winter's blanket from late fall through early spring, when occasional dustings of snow and morning frost paint the landscape in silvery hues.
ElevationPerched among Kentucky's signature rolling hills, Maple Springs offers the gentle terrain that makes this region so beloved by campers and outdoor enthusiasts. The campground's position within these iconic hillsides provides both shelter from prevailing winds and stunning vantage points for sunrise and sunset viewing.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle rustling of leaves and the morning songs of native birds at Maple Springs, where Kentucky's natural beauty unfolds in every direction. White-tailed deer often graze in the early morning mist, while wild turkeys strut through the underbrush and the occasional coyote's call echoes across the hills at dusk. The campground serves as your gateway to the park's crown jewel – the vast Mammoth Cave system – and the scenic Green River Valley, where limestone cliffs and verdant forests create a photographer's paradise. This peaceful sanctuary offers the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying modern camping comforts.
Geological RegionMaple Springs sits atop one of Earth's most fascinating geological wonders. Beneath Kentucky's gently rolling hillsides lies Mammoth Cave, the planet's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of surveyed passages – and counting. The campground's location within this karst landscape tells a story written in limestone over millions of years, where ancient seas, patient water, and time itself carved out underground cathedrals of stunning beauty. Above ground, the Green River Valley showcases the surface expression of this remarkable geology, with dramatic bluffs, sinkholes, and springs that hint at the hidden world below.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeThe sites are large and can accommodate multiple tents/trailers, with descriptions of spacious and level areas.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, providing privacy and a quiet camping experience.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian sites (1-4) feature hitching posts. For non-equestrian groups, sites 5-7 offer spacious areas.
Best CampsitesSites 1-5 are recommended for their spacing and connection to utilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM CST
Check-out
11:00 AM CST
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
~24 guests per group campsite.
Groups
Group sites can host up to 24 people and are spacious, accommodating multiple tents or trailers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe 7 sites are grouped around Maple Springs Loop, featuring large areas and paved sections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from March 1 to November 29 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via Recreation.gov, which offers booking through online platforms, the contact center, and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit details are provided about walk-up availability. The campground is primarily reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night’s fee if cancellation occurs within 14 days of the reservation date. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations or no-shows.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Maple Springs can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the Mammoth Cave system to hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing. Wildlife viewing is popular, with frequent sightings of deer, coyotes, and turkeys.
Hiking
The campground provides access to lush backcountry trails suitable for hiking. Specific trail details, such as difficulty or length, are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is available near the campground, with trails described as enjoyable for riders.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, turkeys, and coyotes. The remote and quiet setting enhances opportunities for viewing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits only. Fireworks are strictly prohibited.
- Quiet hours are No explicit mention of quiet hours; however, the campground’s natural isolation ensures minimal disruptions.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks, wildlife encounters (like coyotes), and structural risks due to uneven terrain or outdated campsite infrastructure.
Active alertsGreen River Ferry closures significantly affect accessibility. Call for operational updates.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 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 contact details are not explicitly provided, but rangers at Mammoth Cave Visitor Center might assist in case of emergencies. Closest major hospital and police services are likely in nearby towns like Brownsville.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 29.
Trash and recyclingRecycling is available on-site, but trash facilities are not detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe Green River is nearby, providing scenic views and ferry access when operational.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include ferry closures, overgrown grass, electricity issues, and lack of dump stations or showers.
HostNo permanent host or ranger presence was noted, but park rangers may be accessible at Mammoth Cave Visitor Center.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 7, Mammoth Cave, KY, 42259, USA
Driving directionsDirections from both the North and South are provided with options to avoid ferry issues. From the North: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 53 (Cave City Exit), and follow KY-70/255 turning left on Green River Ferry Road and crossing the ferry (ensure vehicle meets ferry weight and length restrictions). Alternate route bypassing ferry involves KY-70 to Brownsville, HWY 259, HWY 728 turning to HWY 1827, then HWY 1352, leading to Maple Springs Loop. South route: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 48 (Park City Exit), turning left on KY-255 which transitions to Park City Road leading to Mammoth Cave Parkway. Alternate route bypasses ferry through HWY 70, Brownsville, HWY 259 and HWY 728.
The campground is accessible via Green River Ferry, which fits up to two cars but is limited to vehicles under 8 tons and 16 feet in length. If the ferry is unavailable, access requires a 45-minute detour via alternate driving routes.Nearby places
Mammoth Cave Visitor Center: ~6 miles (via ferry) or ~45-minute detour
Brownsville: ~15 miles (~25 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center offers nearby food, water, and essentials. For larger camping supplies or groceries, Brownsville (15 miles) is accessible.
Camper Reviews
3.9
63 reviews
Maple Springs has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the quiet, remote nature of the campground, its spacious sites, and proximity to trails. However, complaints included lack of maintenance, ferry issues, and insufficient amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites, privacy, quiet surroundings, access to trails, scenic beauty, and wildlife sightings were commonly praised.
Based on 63 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback focused on ferry closures, lack of dump stations, outdated facilities, and maintenance issues such as uncut grass and trash.
Based on 63 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest confirming ferry operations before arrival, bringing extra lighting due to the campground's darkness at night, and being prepared for the lack of on-site amenities like showers and...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall were noted as ideal seasons for camping due to mild weather and blooming wildflowers. The summer can be challenging due to ferry closures and high insect activity.
Based on 63 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The sites have plenty of space. Backing in is a challenge, but the drive is paved for the wrong direction." "Campground was beautiful. Bathrooms clean. Pet friendly." "Quiet and perfectly located to...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site G001 was praised for its cleanliness and pet-friendliness. Site G003 was noted for its spacious layout and proximity to trails. Site G007 was described as beautiful but highlighted ferry-related...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressed accessibility features.
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several users noted that the campground is pet-friendly, with dogs observed to be well-behaved and kept on leashes.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025