Maple Springs Campground in Mammoth Cave National Park offers specialized equestrian camping on the north side of Green River. The area requires crossing Green River Ferry or driving around the park for access with larger rigs. Direct trail access connects riders to the larger trail system throughout the 52,830-acre national park where elevation ranges from 420 to 900 feet above sea level. The climate features warm, humid summers and mild winters with annual rainfall averaging 52 inches.
What to do
Trail riding with direct access: At Maple Springs Campground, riders can access numerous trails from their campsite. One reviewer notes, "Nice large camping areas, secluded and quiet, easy access to the trails. Well maintained full hookup for RVs and plenty of room for your horse too."
Kayaking on nearby rivers: Green River Lake State Park offers excellent water exploration opportunities. A visitor explains, "The river itself was wonderful to explore via kayak, and we ended up barely hiking."
Cave tours at different difficulty levels: While camping in the area, cave tours are the main attraction. According to one camper at Mammoth Cave Campground, "Reserve the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience. Make sure your boots have enough tread or you won't be allowed to do the tour!"
Dispersed backcountry camping: Several areas throughout the park permit dispersed camping. "There are also several primitive spots you can backpack into, check in with the staff before beginning your adventure," advises a visitor.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Campers enjoy the natural habitat around Mammoth Cave. A reviewer at Mammoth Cave Campground shares, "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!"
Ferry crossing experience: Taking the Green River Ferry adds a unique element to the camping trip. "We first entered the park via the 'secret' entrance, byway of a narrow road at the very north of the park, in which we had to take a single car automated ferry across the green river, which was enjoyed by all."
Natural soundscape: The peaceful environment creates a natural soundscape. A camper at Nolin Lake State Park describes, "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade."
Evening activities: Some campgrounds offer special evening programs. "If you're in a RV note that you can't go across the ferry with your rig!!! You have to go around the park to access this campground," cautions one visitor about reaching Maple Springs.
What you should know
Tick prevention critical: The area has significant tick populations. A camper cautions, "The only downside to the entire trip is that the park is infested with seed ticks and deer ticks. I was pulling ticks off of every inch of me even though I was coated in several layers of hardcore bug spray."
Campsite spacing varies: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy. At Mammoth Cave Horse Camp, "Not huge and not to small, you can easily bring a small group of friends here for a private horsing around retreat."
Seasonal store hours: Plan your supply runs carefully. "Only downside is maybe the camp store closes really early. I think maybe 5? By the time we got there our first day it was closed."
Ferry limitations: The Green River Ferry has strict size limitations. "If you are in a vehicle, you do not need to call. When you arrive, most likely, Dave or Rocky (the owners) will greet you with a big smile and a howdy!"
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs for kids: Children enjoy the educational programs available. At Double J Stables and Campground, "Check their website for weekend events like Derby, ladies getaways, kids day camps and more!"
Playground access: Some campgrounds have dedicated play areas. "There is a playground for younger kids to play on. While we were there the owners were fundraising so they could improve it further."
Beach swimming: Multiple lakes in the area offer swimming opportunities. A visitor to Nolin Lake State Park mentions, "There is a swimming beach and boat ramp on Nolin Lake nearby."
Shorter cave tours: Choose age-appropriate cave experiences. "Our normally restless kids were so taken by the 2 hr cave tour that they remained in near total silence and awe as we tunneled through this slow moving guided cave walk."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup challenges: RV campers should be prepared for varying water connections. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, "The water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me. Made it very hard to connect the hose and pressure regulator. Used all of my 25 foot hose to reach my connection."
Limited shower facilities: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds have limited shower options. "The showers are newer, air conditioned and clean. Showers are spacious with seating and wall hooks. Luke warm water, which definitely makes for quick showers!"
Parking limitations: Some campgrounds have strict vehicle policies. "I called and asked if two vehicles were acceptable as it is at most campsites. The owner said yes. However when the second person arrived, he had to buy a second site."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your shade preferences. "The middle sites have pretty much no shade and we sweltered our middays, chasing the limited shade."
