Maple Springs

Summary

Maple Springs is a primitive campground surrounded by lush backcountry trails, perfect for horseback riding and hiking. It is situated within Mammoth Cave National Park, with access from the Visitor Center offering tours up to 10 miles of the cave system. The campground is a peaceful, quiet getaway with beautiful scenery and plentiful wildlife to observe. The ferry is six miles from the Visitor Center, and offers a few minutes ride for free for those wanting to explore this amazing national park.

Overview

At Maple Springs, visitors can enjoy the serenity of the campground and surrounding backcountry trails, or spend their days exploring Mammoth Cave. Campers can explore up to ten miles of the cave through a variety of tours available at the Visitor Center. With more than 400 miles (644 km) of mapped passageways, Mammoth Cave ranks as the world's longest known cave system. Mammoth Cave is named for its grand size and scale. Visit the Rotunda for an idea of just how large this underground world is. The World Heritage Site was explored by Native Americans more than 2,000 years ago, and Europeans discovered its existence at the turn of the 19th century.

Recreation

Avid horseback riders head to Maple Springs to explore the lush backcountry trails. Hikers will also find these trails enjoyable.

Facilities

Access to the primitive campground is best by ferry. The ferry is six miles from the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center and fits three cars. Ferry rides are free and take only a few minutes. It is closer to take the ferry to the campground. If the ferry is down, you will drive around which takes about 45 minutes. Call (270) 758-2166 for information, ferry schedules and standards for trailers.

Horse ties are behind the campsites. A small amphitheater is on site and a large fire pit is available for groups on a first come, first served basis. 

Natural Features

This campground is part of Mammoth Cave National Park, a 52,800-acre park that includes the Green River Valley, rolling Kentucky hillsides, and the expansive Mammoth Cave with grand-scale chambers and long, winding passageways. This remote campsite is quiet, peaceful and ideal for those who want to be immersed in nature. Wildlife includes deer, turkey, and coyotes.

Nearby Attractions

Take a tour of Mammoth Cave and see landmark cave areas like the Cathedral Domes and Mammoth's famous formation, Frozen Niagara. Or hike above the caverns to explore sinkholes like Cedar Sink.

Charges & Cancellations

For rules and reservation policies please follow the link below:

https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies