Maple Springs Group Campground

maple springs group campground

For Kentuckians yearning for a true escape into the heart of nature, where tranquility reigns and vast wilderness beckons, Maple Springs Group Campground within Mammoth Cave National Park presents a unique opportunity. Tucked away in what some affectionately call the "backwoods" of this renowned national park, this campground offers a distinctly remote and peaceful camping experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking solitude, spacious sites for larger groups or horse trailers, and direct access to expansive trail systems. While its secluded nature requires a bit of planning for access to certain park amenities, its beauty and quiet charm consistently draw back those who appreciate a more traditional, less crowded camping adventure in our beautiful Bluegrass State.

Maple Springs Group Campground is located on Maple Springs Loop, within the expansive Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 42259, USA. Its placement in the "backwoods" of the park means a greater sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, which is a major draw for many campers. However, this also implies that accessibility to the main visitor center and cave tours requires careful consideration.

From the campground, reaching the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center, where most cave tours originate, can be a journey. If the Green River Ferry is operational, it's approximately a 20-minute ride, offering a unique and scenic shortcut. However, as noted by visitors, the ferry often closes due to low water levels or other reasons. When the ferry is closed, the drive to the main entrance area can extend to "about a 45-50 minute drive around the park." This necessitates planning for day trips to the caves.

Despite this, the campground's location provides direct access to numerous "well-groomed hiking trails" right from your campsite, perfect for immediate exploration. For resupply needs, there are "a couple country stores nearby for supplies (cash is still king)" and a "Dollar General Market not far away if something more substantial is needed," ensuring that basic necessities are within reach. For Kentucky locals, understanding this dynamic is key: Maple Springs offers deep immersion in the natural park environment, with main cave attractions requiring a planned drive or ferry ride.

Maple Springs Group Campground, while offering a more rustic feel compared to some commercial campgrounds, provides essential services to ensure a comfortable stay, particularly for groups and RVers.

• Spacious Group Sites: The campground offers a limited number of "large and spacious" sites, designed to accommodate "large families or horses." Each of the seven sites can accommodate up to 24 people, making it ideal for group camping.
• Water and Electric Hookups: A significant advantage for RVers, all sites at Maple Springs have "electric (20 / 30 / 50 amp) and water hookups," alleviating concerns about power and water supply.
• Level Pads: RV pads are described as "level left to right," minimizing the effort needed for camper setup, though front-to-back leveling might still be required.
• Vault Toilets: "Vault toilets" (outhouses) are available within a short walk of the campsites. While some older reviews mention rough conditions, a recent review noted them as "nice and handicap accessible." It's important to set expectations for these types of facilities in a national park setting.
• Dump Station Access: While there is "no dump station" directly at Maple Springs, a dump station is available "at the main entrance" (Mammoth Cave Campground), which is accessible to anyone camping in the park. This requires planning, especially when the ferry is closed.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes "picnic tables and fire rings," essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Equestrian Sites: Four of the seven sites are specifically designated as "Equestrian sites with hitching posts & trailer parking," providing excellent facilities for those bringing horses.
• Potable Water: Fresh water spigots are available for drinking water.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted, but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under physical restraint at all times, and should not be left unattended.

Maple Springs Group Campground truly excels in offering features and highlights that cater to a specific type of camper, valuing nature, space, and a degree of self-sufficiency.

• Secluded and Peaceful Environment: The most consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's serene and "remote and secluded" nature. Campers often experience significant quiet, with one reviewer noting they "literally had the entire site to ourselves" in late September. This provides a genuine "get away from it all" feeling.
• Abundant Hiking Trails: The campground offers "numerous well-groomed hiking trails to explore" directly from the campsites. This is a major draw for hikers of all levels, providing immediate access to the park's extensive backcountry.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting increases the chances of wildlife sightings. One delightful review mentioned "Wild turkeys visited us one morning," adding to the immersive nature experience. Other wildlife, including deer, are commonly seen.
• Ideal for Groups and Horse Owners: The "large and spacious" campsites, coupled with specific equestrian facilities, make it perfect for larger family groups or those traveling with horses who want direct trail access.
• Rustic Charm with Essential Comforts: While offering a rustic national park experience, the availability of electric and water hookups ensures that RVers and tent campers can enjoy some modern conveniences without sacrificing the natural ambiance.
• "Simplistic" but Enjoyable Camping: Despite fears of a "truly rustic campsite" with young children, one family found the reality "merely simplistic" and had an "enjoyable time," indicating that it provides a good balance for those comfortable with a less developed setting.
• Proximity to Green River Ferry: When operational, the ferry offers a unique and convenient shortcut to the main visitor center area, adding an element of adventure to the travel.

It's important to manage expectations regarding amenities like showers and flush toilets, which are located at the main Mammoth Cave Campground, not directly at Maple Springs. Also, cell service can be limited.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Maple Springs Group Campground, you can use the following contact information:

Address: Maple Springs Loop, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA

Phone: (270) 758-2180

Mobile Phone: +1 270-758-2180

Reservations for Maple Springs Group Campground are typically made through the Recreation.gov website, as it is part of Mammoth Cave National Park. It is highly recommended to check their official website or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on availability, booking windows, fees, and any alerts regarding ferry closures or park conditions.

For Kentucky locals, Maple Springs Group Campground is an ideal destination for those truly seeking to unplug and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Mammoth Cave National Park. Its suitability for residents lies in its ability to deliver a genuine, peaceful camping experience that feels far removed from everyday life. The spacious sites are perfect for larger family gatherings or for equestrians, offering a rare opportunity for group camping with direct trail access. While the distance from the main visitor center and the reliance on the Green River Ferry require a bit of planning, this also contributes to its secluded charm, often resulting in fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with nature. With essential water and electric hookups, campers can enjoy the convenience of their RVs or tents while being surrounded by the park's extensive hiking trails and abundant wildlife. If you're a Kentuckian who values quiet solitude, outdoor exploration, and a simplistic yet comfortable camping adventure over resort-style amenities, Maple Springs Group Campground provides an unparalleled setting for creating cherished memories in the heart of our state's most iconic national park.

Maple Springs Group Campground

Maple Springs Loop, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA