Kelly Park Rock Springs

Kelly Park – Rock Springs: Tubing, Trails, and Tranquility

In the heart of Central Florida, Kelly Park – Rock Springs offers visitors a refreshing retreat into the lush, natural beauty that the Sunshine State is known for. Located in Apopka, just a short drive from Orlando, this park is a hidden spot that perfectly combines outdoor recreation, family fun, and serene relaxation. Famous for its crystal-clear springs and winding waterways, Kelly Park – Rock Springs provides the perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Whether you’re looking to float lazily down a spring run, hike through scenic trails, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by towering oak trees, Kelly Park – Rock Springs has something for everyone.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs is the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy Florida’s natural beauty, with crystal-clear spring water and a relaxing tube ride through lush surroundings.

At the heart of Kelly Park lies Rock Springs, a natural spring that pumps out an astonishing 26,000 gallons of water per minute. The water, a steady 68–72°F year-round, is wonderfully refreshing, especially during Florida’s famously warm weather. The spring’s clarity is mesmerizing—so pristine that you can easily spot fish, turtles, and even the sandy bottom as you glide through the water.

The most popular activity here is tubing down the Rock Springs Run, a gentle 0.75-mile stretch that meanders through tropical foliage and offers moments of both excitement and calm. Bring your own tube or rent one from nearby vendors outside Kelly Park – Rock Springs entrance; the ride is a mix of slow-floating relaxation and mild currents that provide just enough of a thrill. Along the way, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature, with cypress trees, ferns, and colorful wildflowers lining the banks. Keep an eye out for small fish darting around your feet and birds like great blue herons gliding overhead.

The tubing adventure is perfect for families with children, as the water is shallow in many areas and the currents are not too strong. However, life vests are recommended for younger swimmers or anyone who might feel nervous in open water. For those who prefer not to tube, swimming in the designated areas near the spring head is equally delightful, as the water is calm and ideal for wading.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day outdoors. Kelly Park – Rock Springs boasts several picnic areas complete with shaded tables, grills, and pavilions that can be reserved for larger gatherings. These spaces are perfect for a family barbecue or a relaxing lunch after a morning of tubing or hiking.

One of the standout features of Kelly Park – Rock Springs is its large, grassy lawn that overlooks the spring area. Visitors often set up hammocks, blankets, or chairs here to soak up the sun or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. Kids will love the playground, and there’s also a volleyball court for those who want to get active on land.

If you’re planning to stay overnight, Kelly Park – Rock Springs offers a small campground with 26 sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs. The sites are equipped with water and electric hookups, and the campground has clean restrooms and showers. Spending the night here allows you to experience Kelly Park – Rock Springs’s tranquility after the day crowds have gone—perhaps catching a glimpse of fireflies or listening to the gentle sounds of nocturnal wildlife.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs is a showcase of Central Florida’s native ecosystems. Along the trails and waterways, you’ll encounter a variety of plant life, from the towering cypress trees and Spanish moss-draped oaks to the vibrant blooms of hibiscus and swamp lilies. Kelly Park – Rock Springs’s natural springs are bordered by lush greenery, creating a tropical paradise that feels a world away from the urban bustle.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the diversity of animals that call Kelly Park – Rock Springs home. In addition to deer and armadillos, you might spot river otters frolicking in the water or raccoons foraging near the picnic areas. Birdwatchers will find plenty to admire, including osprey, ibis, and even the occasional bald eagle. The waters of Rock Springs are also teeming with fish, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a turtle basking on a rock or a garfish swimming beneath the surface.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs is an invitation to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Florida. Whether you’re gliding down the spring run, hiking through the woods, or simply enjoying a picnic under the shade of ancient oaks, this park offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a place where families can bond, friends can laugh, and individuals can find a moment of peace.

So pack your swimsuits, grab your tubes, and head to Kelly Park – Rock Springs for a day (or weekend) you won’t forget. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the Orlando area, this park is a must-see destination that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and already planning your next visit.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs Trails

Kelly Park – Rock Springs isn’t just about the water—it’s also a great spot for hikers and nature lovers. The park features a handful of well-maintained trails that showcase the region’s stunning biodiversity. The Kelly Park Rock Springs Loop, which is approximately 0.9 miles long, is a great choice for a leisurely stroll or a light hike. This trail winds through a landscape of towering oaks, pines, and palmettos, providing shade and a chance to spot native wildlife. Deer, armadillos, and even wild turkeys are known to roam the area, so keep your camera handy!

What’s Nearby Kelly Park – Rock Springs

If you’re exploring Central Florida and looking to expand your itinerary beyond Kelly Park – Rock Springs, several incredible destinations are within driving distance. Blue Spring State Park, located in Orange City, is a great spot for manatee lovers, especially during the winter months when these gentle giants gather in the warm spring waters. The park also offers swimming, snorkeling, and scenic nature trails. For a serene escape closer to the Orlando area, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve features picturesque hiking trails that wind through pine flatwoods and wetlands, with abundant birdwatching opportunities.

Further south, the Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area showcases Florida’s conservation efforts, with miles of trails leading through oak hammocks and prairies—perfect for spotting deer and gopher tortoises. Space enthusiasts will be thrilled by a visit to the Kennedy Space Center, located on Merritt Island, where you can delve into the history of space exploration, see real rockets, and even meet astronauts. If you’re up for a longer drive, Hillsborough River State Park near Tampa offers a unique combination of rapids, lush riverfront trails, and a touch of history with a preserved 1930s suspension bridge and remnants of a Second Seminole War fort. Each of these destinations offers something unique, making them perfect additions to your Central Florida adventure.

Kelly Park – Rock Springs Parking Information

Kelly Park – Rock Springs is conveniently located at 400 East Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712, just about 30 minutes northwest of downtown Orlando. Parking is ample, but it’s worth noting that the park often reaches capacity early, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving when the park opens is your best bet to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded experience.