The Maple Springs Picnic Area at Mammoth Cave National Park is located on the north side of the Green River. To get there requires either crossing the river via the Green River Ferry, which is often not running due to low water, or driving an hour on highways all the way around to the north side of the park and then taking winding park roads back to the river. You’d be better off just swimming across, as the picnic area is within walking distance of the ferry. So needless to say, if the ferry isn’t operating, the Maple Springs Picnic Area is very inconvenient for anyone not already on the north side of the river for other purposes.
There are six concrete picnic tables—no grills—in an open field. Two tables are connected to the parking lot via a paved walkway, thus making them the first choice for those with mobility problems.

Tables at the Maple Springs Picnic Area for visitors with mobility problems, Mammoth Cave National Park
All tables are taken on a first come, first served basis, so combined with the lack of grills and the ferry situation, the Maple Springs Picnic Area is a less-than-desirable spot to hold a large event. If that’s what you have in mind, there are two pavilions—one open sided and one an enclosed building—available for rent at the Mammoth Cave Picnic Area near the Visitor Center.
There is a fancy outhouse at the picnic area, which is what Jed Clampett would call a portable toilet in a permanent building.
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Last updated on October 4, 2024




