Kelly Rock Springs, nestled within Kelly Park, offers a refreshing natural escape with its crystal-clear spring waters and lush landscapes. A constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, the spring provides a perfect spot for swimming, tubing, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a camping trip, or a relaxing day in nature, Kelly Rock Springs has something for everyone. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to plan your visit, ensuring a memorable experience at this natural gem.
Planning Your Visit to Kelly Rock Springs
To make the most of your trip to Kelly Rock Springs, careful planning is key. Understanding the park’s operating hours, admission fees, and reservation policies will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Location and Directions
Kelly Park is conveniently located in Apopka, Florida, making it easily accessible from Orlando and surrounding areas. For precise directions, it’s recommended to use a GPS navigation system or online maps, searching for “Kelly Park, Apopka, FL.” The park’s address is readily available on most map applications.
Admission Fees and Hours
Entrance to Kelly Park requires an admission fee, which helps maintain the park’s facilities and natural beauty. The fee structure is as follows:
- $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people
- $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people
- $1 per additional person/walk-ins/motorcycles/bikes
Payment can be made in cash, or via Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit card with a valid photo ID. It’s important to note that no pets are allowed in Kelly Park, with the exception of ADA service animals, and alcohol is prohibited.
Park hours vary seasonally. From March to early November, Kelly Park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. During the rest of the year, from November to March, the hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Keep in mind that the swimming area and trails close one hour before the park’s official closing time to allow for safe exit for all visitors.
Reservations for Pavilions and Camping
If you’re planning a group event or desire a guaranteed spot, pavilion reservations are available. To reserve a pavilion, it’s necessary to contact the park directly. You can call 407-254-1902 or email [email protected]. When making your reservation request, be sure to include:
- Your name
- The date you wish to reserve the pavilion
- Your phone number
- The estimated number of attendees
For camping enthusiasts, Kelly Park offers both tent and RV camping options. Individual campsite reservations can be made online through the Orange County Parks and Recreation website. For group campsites and dormitory reservations at Camp Joy, email [email protected] with your name, phone number, and desired dates. Reservations for both campsites and pavilions are on a first-come, first-served basis, and full payment is required to secure your booking.
Park Rules and Regulations
To ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect the natural environment, Kelly Park has a few key rules:
- No Pets: Except for ADA service animals, pets are not permitted within Kelly Park.
- No Alcohol: Alcohol is strictly prohibited on park grounds.
- Capacity Limits: Kelly Park is a popular destination and often reaches capacity, especially during peak seasons and weekends. To manage visitor volume and preserve the park’s quality, entry is limited to 280 vehicles each morning, with an additional 50 vehicles allowed after 1 p.m. with an afternoon parking pass. It’s highly recommended to arrive early, especially during summer months and holidays.
Activities at Kelly Rock Springs
Kelly Rock Springs is renowned for its diverse range of outdoor activities centered around its beautiful natural spring and surrounding park.
Tubing on Rock Springs Run
The most popular activity at Kelly Rock Springs is undoubtedly tubing down Rock Springs Run. The naturally flowing spring offers a gentle and refreshing float experience. The water temperature remains a consistent 68 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, making it a comfortable activity even on warmer days.
Tube rentals are conveniently available from vendors located just outside the park entrance. Guests are also welcome to bring their own pool noodles or floats, provided they are less than five feet in length or width. The float down the spring run typically takes around 25 minutes and ends with a short, paved walk back to the main park area. Remember, the swimming area closes one hour before the park closes.
Alt text: Families and friends laugh and splash while tubing down the clear waters of Rock Springs Run at Kelly Park.
During summer months, inclement weather can sometimes affect park operations. For visitor safety, the swim area will be temporarily closed if lightning is detected in the vicinity.
Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboarding
For those who prefer to explore the waterways at their own pace, Kelly Park offers a kayak, canoe, and paddleboard launch at Camp Joy, its adjacent sister site. Launching fees are the same as park admission fees:
- $3 for 1-2 people
- $5 for 3-8 people
- $1 for each additional person
Launching hours are between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. and all guests must return by 5 p.m. It’s important to note that Kelly Park and Camp Joy do not offer rentals for kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards, nor do they provide shuttle services. If you need to rent equipment, consider nearby options like Wekiwa Springs State Park, Kings Landing, or Wekiva Island.
Commercial activity is strictly prohibited from the launch at Camp Joy. This includes activities such as passenger pick-up or drop-off for commercial purposes, soliciting business, or using the boat ramp address as a business address.
Swimming and Recreation
Besides tubing, the spring area at Kelly Rock Springs is perfect for general swimming and splashing around in the cool, clear water. The park provides a designated swimming area within the spring run. Life jackets and puddle jumpers are permitted for children; however, water wings are not allowed as they are not Coast Guard-approved flotation devices.
While lifeguards are not always on duty year-round, especially outside of peak season, it is always advisable for parents and guardians to closely supervise children in the water to ensure their safety.
Picnic and Playground Facilities
Kelly Park is well-equipped with picnic areas and a playground, making it ideal for family outings and group gatherings. Picnic pavilions can be reserved in advance for a guaranteed space for your event. The park provides picnic tables and encourages visitors to bring their own grills for cooking, as long as they are used in designated picnic areas and away from the waterfront. Pop-up tents no larger than 10×10 feet are allowed in the picnic areas but not at the waterfront.
Alt text: A multi-generational family smiles as they share a meal at a picnic table in the shaded picnic area of Kelly Park.
The playground offers a fun area for children to play and expend energy after swimming or tubing. Combined with the natural beauty and refreshing spring water, these facilities make Kelly Rock Springs a comprehensive destination for a day of outdoor recreation.
Camping at Kelly Park
For those wishing to extend their stay and immerse themselves further in the natural surroundings, Kelly Park offers camping facilities.
Tent and RV Camping Details
Kelly Park provides designated campsites for both tent and RV camping. It’s important to note that outside of park operating hours, common areas and the waterfront are closed, and campers must remain within the campground.
Individual campsite reservations can be made online via the Orange County Parks and Recreation website, offering a convenient way to secure your spot. Detailed information about camping fees and regulations can be found in the camping brochure available on the County webpage.
Group Camping at Camp Joy
For larger groups, Camp Joy, adjacent to Kelly Park, offers group campsites and dormitory-style accommodations. Reservations for group camping at Camp Joy can be made by emailing [email protected]. Be sure to include your group’s details, desired dates, and contact information in your email request. Dormitory accommodations at Camp Joy have minimum group size requirements, so it’s best to inquire directly about availability and rates.
Helpful Information: FAQs
To further assist in planning your visit, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Kelly Rock Springs:
Q: How much does it cost to enter the park?
A: Admission fees are structured per vehicle: $3 for 1-2 people, $5 for 3-8 people, and $1 for each additional person, walk-ins, motorcycles, and bikes. Buses are $10 plus $1 per person. Payment can be made in cash or by Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit card with a valid photo ID.
Q: Can I use credit cards for payment?
A: Yes, Kelly Park accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover credit cards, provided you have a valid photo ID.
Q: How can I check if the park is full?
A: Kelly Park’s website is updated when the park reaches capacity. Additionally, you can call the information line at 407-254-1906 for real-time updates on park capacity.
Q: If the park is full, when does it reopen?
A: Kelly Park has a limited daily capacity. Each morning, 280 vehicles are allowed entry, and an additional 50 vehicles are admitted after 1 p.m. with an afternoon parking pass. To get an afternoon pass, you must obtain a voucher in the morning once the park reaches initial capacity. Vouchers are given on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 50 cars in line.
Q: Are re-entry passes available?
A: Generally, re-entry is not allowed when the park is at capacity. If the park is not full, your entry receipt can be used for re-entry on the same day.
Q: Where can I rent tubes?
A: Tube rentals are available from independent vendors located outside of Kelly Park’s entrance. The park itself does not offer tube rentals. You are also welcome to bring your own tubes or pool noodles as long as they are within the size restrictions (under five feet in length or width).
Q: Is there an air pump available for inflating tubes?
A: No, Kelly Park does not provide an air pump service. Visitors should bring their own portable air pumps to inflate tubes and floats.
Q: Are alcoholic beverages allowed in the park?
A: No, alcohol is strictly prohibited within Kelly Park, as per Orange County ordinances. Violations may result in expulsion from the park.
Q: Are pets permitted at Kelly Park?
A: No, pets are not allowed in Kelly Park or the campground, with the exception of ADA service animals.
Q: Is the water safe for children?
A: Yes, the spring water is safe for children. Life jackets and puddle jumpers are permitted for children. However, constant adult supervision is essential, especially as lifeguards are not always on duty year-round.
Q: Are lockers available?
A: A limited number of lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Locks can be rented from the concession stand within the park.
Q: Is there a concession stand?
A: Yes, a concession stand operates daily from spring break until early October. It sells a variety of food items, drinks, and essential supplies such as charcoal, condiments, and bug spray. Availability of items may vary.
Q: Can drones be flown in Kelly Park?
A: Drones are permitted under specific conditions. They can be flown if they take off and land in the designated area, which is the main picnic area adjacent to the drop-off zone. Low flyovers of the water are prohibited for safety reasons.
Conclusion
Kelly Rock Springs at Kelly Park offers a unique and refreshing natural experience for individuals, families, and groups. From the invigorating tubing run down Rock Springs Run to swimming in the clear spring water, and enjoying picnics amidst beautiful scenery, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. By planning your visit in advance, understanding the park’s guidelines, and taking advantage of the various activities and amenities, you’re sure to create lasting memories at Kelly Rock Springs. Remember to arrive early, especially during peak times, to secure your entry and make the most of your day at this natural Florida treasure. Plan your visit to Kelly Rock Springs today and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature!
