Propelled by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and deep learning, the essence and scope of cartography have significantly expanded. The rapid progress in neuroscience has raised high expectations for related disciplines, furnishing theoretical support for revealing and deepening the essence of maps. In this study, CiteSpace was used to examine the confluence of cartography and neural networks over the past decade (2013–2023), thus revealing the prevailing research trends and cutting-edge investigations in the field of machine learning and its application in mapping. In addition, this analysis included the systematic categorization of knowledge clusters arising from the fusion of cartography and neural networks, which was followed by the discernment of pivotal clusters in the field of knowledge mapping. Crucially, this study diligently identified the critical studies (milestones) that have made significant contributions to the development of these elucidated clusters. Timeline analysis was used to track these studies’ origins, evolution, and current status. Finally, we constructed collaborative networks among the contributing authors, journals, institutions, and countries. This mapping aids in identifying and visualizing the primary contributing factors of the evolution of knowledge mapping encompassing cartography and neural networks, thus facilitating interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research and investigations.