Kelly Park in Apopka, Florida, is renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, particularly its famed Rock Springs. This crystal-clear, free-flowing natural spring maintains a refreshing 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it an ideal destination for tubing, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors. This guide will provide you with essential information for planning your visit to Rock Springs At Kelly Park.
Planning Your Visit to Rock Springs
Before heading to Kelly Park, it’s crucial to understand the park’s rules, fees, and potential capacity limitations. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Park Admission and Hours
- Entrance Fees: $3 per vehicle (1-2 people), $5 per vehicle (3-8 people), $1 for each additional person, walk-ins, motorcycles, and bicycles. Buses are $10 per bus plus $1 per person. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover are accepted.
- Hours: Park hours vary seasonally. From March to early November, the park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From November to March, the park is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The swimming area closes one hour before park closing.
Capacity Limits and Re-Entry
Kelly Park often reaches capacity, especially during summer and holidays. 280 vehicles are allowed in each morning, with an additional 50 permitted after 1 p.m. with an afternoon parking pass. Obtaining a pass in the morning is essential for afternoon re-entry. Check the park’s website or call the information line at 407-254-1906 for capacity updates. Re-entry is generally not allowed when the park is full.
Tubing at Rock Springs
- Tube Rentals: Kelly Park does not rent tubes. Rentals are available from vendors outside the park.
- Personal Floats: You can bring your own pool noodles or floats, but they must be smaller than five feet in length and width. Water wings are not permitted as they are not Coast Guard approved. Life jackets and puddle jumpers are allowed.
- Swimming Area Closure: The swimming area closes one hour before park closing and may be closed due to inclement weather, especially lightning.
Other Activities and Amenities at Kelly Park
Rock Springs tubing is the main attraction, but Kelly Park offers other activities and amenities:
Camping
Tent and RV camping is available. Reservations for individual campsites can be made online. Group campsites and the Camp Joy dormitory require reservation requests via email to [email protected].
Kayak/Canoe/Paddle Board Launch
A launch is available at Camp Joy for a fee. Launching hours are 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., with return required by 5 p.m. Commercial activity is prohibited at the launch.
Picnics and Pavilions
Picnic pavilions can be reserved by calling 407-254-1902 or emailing [email protected]. Grills are permitted in picnic areas but not near the water. Pop-up tents (10×10 feet maximum) are allowed in picnic areas, but not at the waterfront. Full visibility through the tent is required. Camping-style tents are only permitted in designated campgrounds.
Additional Amenities
- Playground
- Concession stand (seasonal)
- Lockers (limited availability)
- Restrooms
Important Reminders
- No Pets: Only ADA service animals are allowed.
- No Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
- Wildlife: Alligators and snakes may be present in the water. Alert staff if you see an alligator.
Enjoy Rock Springs at Kelly Park!
Rock Springs at Kelly Park offers a refreshing natural escape. By understanding the park’s rules and planning your visit accordingly, you can ensure a memorable experience tubing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of this Florida gem. Remember to arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid capacity limitations.
