Despite the harsh, snowy weather that's been battering the Middle Atlantic states this winter, spring can't be too far off. Why else would Houchins Ferry in Mammoth Cave National Park resume service this coming weekend?

The ferry will resume operations on Sunday, February 28, and on Monday, March 1, the Maple Springs Group campground. Other park campgrounds and the picnic area remained open through the winter months.

Maple Springs campsites are designed for groups of up to 24 people, and four of the sites accommodate campers with horses. The reservation period for Maple Springs is March through November.

Sites at the Mammoth Cave campground, near the visitor center, are available by reservation May 15 through September 15, and on first-come, first-served basis the rest of the year. Houchin Ferry Campground is open year round.

Cave tour ticket prices will remain at the same rate this year, excepting a $1 increase for youth tickets for the Grand Avenue tour and the Snowball tour.

To make campground, picnic shelter, or cave tour reservations, call 877-444-6777, or go online at www.recreation.gov.

Houchin Ferry, near Brownsville, is a car ferry across Green River. It operates daily from 10:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., March through November.