Kelly Park, Apopka

Located in Apopka, Florida, just northwest of Orlando, Kelly Park is one of Central Florida’s best-known natural swimming and tubing destinations. The Orange County park is closely associated with Rock Springs Run, a clear, spring-fed stream that stays cool year-round at about 68 degrees. Visitors come here to float, swim, picnic, camp, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by trees, wildlife, and classic Florida scenery. Because the park is especially popular in warm weather, hours, admission availability, and capacity can vary by date.

Top Things to Do at Kelly Park

Tubing in Rock Springs Run
The signature experience at Kelly Park is floating a spring-fed section of Rock Springs Run:
- Enjoy a relaxing float of roughly three-quarters of a mile through clear water, shaded forest, and limestone-lined scenery.
- Visitors often bring their own tubes, and tube rentals may be available from businesses near the park entrance.
- Water conditions, posted rules, and crowd levels can affect tubing access, so it is smart to check current guidance before you go.
- The float route returns visitors toward the main swim and day-use area, making it easy to spend several hours in the water.
Swimming and Wading in the Spring
Kelly Park’s spring area is a favorite place to cool off on hot Florida days:
- The water remains refreshingly cool year-round, which is part of the park’s appeal in every season.
- Families often enjoy wading and relaxing in the clear water, though natural conditions, depth, and footing can vary.
- Masks or goggles can help visitors better see fish and underwater features in the spring-fed water.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Kelly Park offers a scenic natural setting for a casual walk between water activities:
- Explore park paths and wooded areas with views of pine, hardwoods, and the spring run.
- Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, deer, and other wildlife that regularly appear in and around the park.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially after rain or in sandy areas.
Picnicking and Outdoor Gatherings
Kelly Park is a great place to spend an easygoing day outdoors:
- Picnic tables, grills, and shaded areas make it easy to plan a family outing.
- Pavilions may be available for reservations through Orange County, depending on the season and park policies.
- The large day-use areas make the park a popular choice for birthdays, reunions, and casual weekend get-togethers.
Wildlife Watching
The park’s spring-fed ecosystem supports a wide range of native wildlife:
- Visitors commonly spot turtles, fish, wading birds, and other animals near the water and along the edges of the park.
- Birdwatchers may see herons, egrets, hawks, ospreys, and seasonal species in the surrounding trees and open sky.
- Observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding animals.
Camping at Kelly Park
Overnight stays can turn a day trip into a longer spring getaway:
- The park campground offers sites for tent campers and many RV travelers, with nearby restrooms and showers.
- Camping is a convenient way to enjoy the park early and late in the day, when the setting feels especially peaceful.
- Reservations are typically recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, and warmer months.

Additional Activities

Paddling Nearby Waterways
Experienced paddlers often pair a Kelly Park visit with a longer outing in the Rock Springs Run and Wekiva area:
- Nearby outfitters and launch points may offer kayak, canoe, or shuttle options outside the day-use spring area.
- Always confirm current launch access, route conditions, and any posted requirements before planning a paddle trip.
Photography
The park’s natural beauty makes it an excellent place for photos:
- Photograph the clear water, shady trees, limestone edges, and classic Florida spring scenery.
- Wildlife, family portraits, and peaceful landscape shots are all popular here, especially in softer morning light.

Amenities & Facilities

Swimming Area: Spring-fed water access for swimming, wading, and relaxing.
Tubing Access: Entry and exit areas for the popular Rock Springs float.
Picnic Areas: Tables, grills, open lawn, and shaded spaces for day-use visitors.
Pavilions: Group picnic shelters may be available for advance reservation.
Playground: A family-friendly play area for younger visitors.
Walking Paths and Natural Areas: Space to stroll, explore, and enjoy the wooded setting.
Camping: Campground accommodations for overnight stays, with support facilities nearby.
Restrooms and Showers: Facilities for day guests and campers.
Parking: On-site parking is available, but the park often fills early on busy days.
Nearby Services: Tube rentals, snacks, and convenience items may be available from businesses near the entrance rather than inside the park itself.

Accessibility

Accessibility features and route conditions can change in outdoor settings, so it is best to confirm current details before your visit.

Accessible Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces are generally available near key visitor areas.
Restrooms and Day-Use Areas: Main visitor facilities typically offer the most accessible amenities in the park.
Natural Terrain Notice: Sand, grass, uneven ground, and water-entry areas may be challenging for some visitors.
Before You Go: Contact Orange County Parks for the latest information about accessible routes, facilities, and campground accommodations.

Tips for Visiting Kelly Park

Arrive Early: Kelly Park regularly reaches capacity on weekends, holidays, and hot-weather days.
Check Official Updates: Review current hours, admission details, tubing guidance, and campground availability before leaving home.
Bring Water-Friendly Gear: Towels, water shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and reusable water bottles make the visit more comfortable.
Plan Ahead for Tubes: If you want to float the run, confirm current tube policies and nearby rental options in advance.
Use Caution in Natural Water: Spring bottoms can be slippery or uneven, and children should be closely supervised.
Respect Wildlife and the Park: Follow posted rules, do not feed animals, and help keep the spring clean by packing out trash.

Vicinity of Kelly Park

Nearby Attractions

Wekiwa Springs State Park: Another popular Central Florida spring park for swimming, paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve: A scenic natural area known for paddling routes, trails, and a quieter backcountry feel.
Downtown Apopka: A convenient stop for local dining, coffee, and small-town Central Florida atmosphere.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive: A favorite destination for birding, photography, and spotting alligators and other native wildlife.

Why Visit Kelly Park?

Kelly Park in Apopka, Florida, combines one of the region’s most enjoyable spring swims with easy family recreation, shady picnic areas, and the memorable tubing experience of Rock Springs Run. It is a great choice for visitors who want to enjoy Florida’s natural side without straying far from Orlando. Whether you are planning a relaxed swim, a tubing day with friends, a campground stay, or a simple picnic in the trees, Kelly Park remains one of the standout outdoor escapes in Central Florida.

For official hours, admission details, camping information, and current alerts, visit Orange County Parks & Recreation: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/Parks.aspx