Maple Springs Campground

Overview

Tucked on the park’s north side, Maple Springs Group Campground is the quiet, woodsy basecamp for riders, group campers, and anyone who wants a low-key stay away from the main hub. It’s small, serene, and surrounded by forest—exactly what you come here for.

Campsites and Amenities

There are seven paved, level group sites with water and electric hookups at each. Sites 1–4 are set up for equestrians with tie-up rails; if you’re not bringing horses, look first at 5–7. Pads accommodate RVs up to about 40 feet (trailers up to 26 feet). Expect picnic tables and fire rings at sites, plus a large communal fire pit and a small amphitheater available first-come.

Facilities are simple: vault toilets only, no showers, and no sewer hookups. There’s no dump station here—plan to use the one by the visitor center on the south side of the river.

Getting There (Read This Before You Drive)

The quickest route is the free Green River Ferry, but it’s small: generally two cars at a time, with 16-foot length and 8-ton limits. RVs and most trailers can’t use it. The ferry also closes at times (flooding, maintenance). When that happens—or if your rig can’t board—expect a roughly 45-minute drive around via Brownsville. Build that into your dump-station and tour plans.

What It’s Best For

Trail lovers and riders. You can roll straight from camp onto more than 70 miles of backcountry routes for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. If your priority is cave tours and visitor-center amenities, know it’s a drive from here; book tours in advance and stack a few activities for the day you head south of the river.

Wildlife and Setting

Morning turkey sightings are common, and deer are frequent neighbors; coyotes roam the area too. This is true forest camping—quiet nights, dark skies, and a real sense of being tucked away. In warm months, ticks can be active; protect yourself and pets accordingly.

Fires and Firewood

Open-fire restrictions sometimes kick in during dry periods. Don’t bring outside firewood—use downed wood you find in the park or buy locally to protect the forest from pests.

Reservations and Timing

Reservations are recommended. Typical check-in is noon (CST) and check-out is 11 a.m. If you need showers, plan to use the coin-operated ones near the park hotel/visitor center across the river.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall offer mild temps, fewer bugs, and great trail conditions. Arrive on weekdays to have an even quieter experience. If you plan photography or long trail days, aim for early morning starts—parking and ferry waits (when operating) are easiest then.