Kelly Park and Rock Springs Run are among the most beloved natural attractions in Central Florida. Located in Apopka, this Orange County park is famous for its crystal-clear spring water, lush forest scenery, and one of the most relaxing natural lazy rivers in Florida. On warm days, families and visitors float down the gentle current of Rock Springs Run on inner tubes, enjoying a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.

For many locals, Kelly Park is more than just a park — it’s a summer tradition. Generations of Apopka residents have spent weekends tubing the spring, picnicking under the oak trees, and cooling off in the clear water that flows year-round at about 68–72°F.

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What Makes Kelly Park Special

The heart of the park is Rock Springs Run, a natural spring run that flows from Rock Springs through a shaded forest. Unlike many Florida springs, the current is strong enough to create a natural lazy river, which is why tubing has become the park’s signature activity.

Highlights include:

Crystal-clear spring water
A natural tubing run through shaded forest
Swimming areas with shallow sandy bottoms
Large picnic areas and pavilions
Grills and family gathering spaces
Walking trails and wildlife viewing

The water originates from the Florida aquifer and flows continuously through the spring, keeping it clean, cool, and incredibly clear.

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Tubing Rock Springs Run

Tubing is the most popular activity at Kelly Park.

Visitors bring or rent inner tubes and float downstream through the beautiful spring run. The tubing route is about ¼ mile long and typically takes 20–30 minutes depending on the flow.

After reaching the end of the run, most visitors walk back to the starting area and float again.

Tips for tubing:

• Bring sturdy inner tubes designed for river use

• Water shoes help with walking on sandy and rocky areas

• Expect a gentle current, not rapids

• Hold onto your group so you don’t drift apart
  
  

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Swimming Areas

Near the head spring, the water widens into shallow swimming areas where families often gather.

These areas are perfect for:

• young swimmers

• relaxing in the cool spring water

• wading and floating

Because the water is spring-fed, it remains cool even during the hottest Florida summers.

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Wildlife & Natural Beauty

Kelly Park sits within a lush natural environment filled with Florida wildlife.

Visitors often spot:

• turtles

• fish

• birds

• squirrels

• deer

• occasionally river otters

The surrounding forest canopy provides shade and creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels surprisingly remote despite being just minutes from downtown Apopka.

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Picnicking and Family Gatherings

Kelly Park is well known for its spacious picnic areas.

Facilities include:

• picnic tables

• barbecue grills

• pavilions for rent

• open grassy spaces

• playground areas for kids

Many families spend the entire day here, alternating between tubing, swimming, and relaxing under the trees.

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Important:
The Park Often Reaches Capacity

Because Kelly Park is so popular, especially in spring and summer, the park frequently reaches vehicle capacity early in the day.

Once capacity is reached, the entrance temporarily closes until enough vehicles leave.

This can surprise visitors who arrive late in the morning.

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The Local Secret for Getting In

Many Apopka locals know a helpful trick.

If you arrive early in the morning, you can get a park entry ticket for your vehicle when the park opens.

After receiving the ticket, you are guaranteed entry later, even if the park reaches capacity.

What locals often do:

1. One person drives to the park early in the morning.

2. They obtain the vehicle entry ticket.

3. Everyone goes home or enjoys the morning elsewhere.

4. The group returns later in the day when crowds thin out.

Because the ticket reserves your vehicle entry, you can avoid waiting in long lines during peak hours and still enjoy the park.

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When to Visit

The park is beautiful year-round, but the experience changes by season.

Best times:

Spring and Summer

• tubing is most popular

• water feels especially refreshing

• busiest time of year

Fall

• fewer crowds

• comfortable weather

Winter

• peaceful atmosphere

• fewer swimmers but still beautiful

Arriving early is always recommended during warm months.

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Location

Kelly Park is located just north of downtown Apopka and is easily accessible from Orlando and surrounding areas.

Address:

400 E Kelly Park Road
Apopka, Florida

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Nearby Apopka Stops

Many visitors combine a Kelly Park trip with stops around Apopka, such as:

• local coffee shops before heading to the park

• restaurants for lunch after tubing

• nearby parks and nature trails

Exploring Apopka before or after your spring adventure is part of what makes a day at Kelly Park so memorable.

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Why Kelly Park Is One of Apopka’s Treasures

Kelly Park and Rock Springs Run represent one of the most beautiful natural spring experiences in Central Florida. The combination of clear water, shady forest, and relaxed tubing makes it a place people return to year after year.

Whether you’re floating down the spring with friends, swimming in the cool water, or simply enjoying a picnic under the trees, a day at Kelly Park captures the laid-back outdoor spirit that makes Apopka special.