Rock Springs, Florida, nestled within the stunning Kelly Park, offers an idyllic natural escape for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Renowned for its crystal-clear spring waters and lush landscapes, Rock Springs is a year-round destination promising refreshing experiences and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning a tranquil day trip or an extended camping adventure, this guide provides everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Rock Springs, Florida.
Experience the Refreshing Waters of Rock Springs
The centerpiece of Kelly Park is undoubtedly Rock Springs, a natural spring maintaining a consistent 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius) temperature throughout the year. This makes it a perfect destination for swimming and tubing, even on the hottest Florida days.
Tubing at Rock Springs Run
One of the most popular activities at Rock Springs is tubing down the Rock Springs Run. Visitors can bring their own tubes or rent from nearby vendors outside the park. For safety and enjoyment, personal floats must be less than five feet in length or width. Imagine gently drifting along the clear, cool water, surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida’s flora and fauna – a truly relaxing and invigorating experience. Remember, the swimming area closes one hour before the park’s official closing time, so plan your tubing adventure accordingly.
Swimming and Water Activities
Besides tubing, the pristine waters of Rock Springs are perfect for swimming. The clarity of the spring allows for excellent visibility, making it a joy for swimmers of all ages. While lifeguards may not be present year-round, especially outside peak season, life jackets and puddle jumpers are permitted for children’s safety. Do note that water wings are not allowed as they are not Coast Guard approved flotation devices.
Plan Your Visit to Rock Springs: Admission and Park Information
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Rock Springs, understanding the park’s admission fees and operational guidelines is essential.
Kelly Park Admission Fees
Entry to Kelly Park is affordable, with fees structured per vehicle to accommodate different group sizes:
- $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people
- $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people
- $1 per additional person/walk-ins/motorcycles/bikes
- Buses: $10 for the bus plus $1 per person
Payment can be made in cash or via Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit cards with a valid photo ID.
Park Hours and Capacity
Kelly Park’s operating hours vary seasonally:
- March to early November: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- November to March: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The waterfront and trails close one hour prior to the park’s closing time to ensure visitor safety and park maintenance.
Due to its popularity, especially during summer and holidays, Kelly Park often reaches capacity quickly. To manage visitation and preserve the park’s natural environment, a daily maximum visitation limit is in place. The park allows:
- 280 vehicles for morning entry
- Additional 50 vehicles after 1 p.m. with an afternoon parking pass
To secure entry, especially during peak times, arriving early is highly recommended. On typical summer days, the park can fill within an hour of opening. For those who don’t make the initial entry, 50 vouchers are distributed to the first 50 cars in line, granting access from 1 p.m. onwards. It’s advisable for families to arrive together as entry for individuals joining later, even if family members are already inside, cannot be guaranteed once capacity is reached.
To check if the park is currently at capacity, visitors can refer to the park’s website or call the information line at 407-254-1906. This information is updated regularly to reflect park status.
Important Park Rules
To maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors and protect the natural beauty of Rock Springs, Kelly Park enforces certain rules:
- No pets allowed: With the exception of ADA service animals, pets are not permitted in Kelly Park or the campground.
- No alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on park property.
- Commercial activity prohibited at Camp Joy launch: The kayak/canoe/paddleboard launch at Camp Joy is not for commercial use.
Camping and Pavilion Reservations at Rock Springs
For those wishing to extend their stay and immerse themselves further in the Rock Springs experience, Kelly Park offers camping facilities and pavilion rentals.
Tent and RV Camping
Kelly Park provides both individual and group camping options.
- Individual campsites: Reservations for individual campsites can be made online through the Orange County Parks and Recreation website.
- Group campsites and Camp Joy dormitory: Group camping and dormitory reservations at Camp Joy can be arranged by emailing [email protected]. Include your name, phone number, and desired dates in your email.
Remember that campsites are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, and full payment is required upon reservation. Outside of park operating hours, common areas and the waterfront are closed, and campers must remain within the campground area.
Pavilion Reservations
Pavilions at Kelly Park are perfect for picnics, gatherings, and events. To reserve a pavilion, contact the park directly at 407-254-1902 or email [email protected]. Provide your name, requested date, phone number, and estimated number of attendees when making your reservation inquiry.
Kayak, Canoe, and Paddle Board Launch at Camp Joy
Adjacent to Kelly Park, Camp Joy offers a primitive launch for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards on Rock Springs Run. The launch fee is:
- $3 for 1-2 people
- $5 for 3-8 people
- $1 for each additional person
Launching hours are from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and all guests must return by 5 p.m. Note that Kelly Park and Camp Joy do not offer rentals or shuttle services for kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards. Visitors needing rentals can explore options at nearby Wekiwa Springs State Park, Kings Landing, or Wekiva Island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Rock Springs, Florida
To further assist in planning your trip, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Rock Springs and Kelly Park:
Q: How cold is the water at Rock Springs?
A: The water temperature remains consistently between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius) year-round.
Q: Where can I rent tubes for tubing at Rock Springs?
A: Tube rentals are available from vendors located outside Kelly Park. The park itself does not offer tube rentals. You are also welcome to bring your own pool noodles or floats, provided they are under five feet in length or width.
Q: Is there a concession stand at Kelly Park?
A: Yes, a concession stand operates daily from spring break to early October, offering a variety of food, drinks, and essential items like charcoal, condiments, and bug spray. Availability may vary.
Q: Are grills allowed at Kelly Park?
A: Yes, grills are permitted in picnic areas, but not near the water. Propane grills are welcome, and charcoal grills are allowed if you ensure hot coals are not dumped on the ground.
Q: Can we bring a pop-up tent to Rock Springs?
A: Pop-up tents no larger than 10×10 feet are allowed in the picnic areas, but not at the waterfront. Camping tents are restricted to the campground area. All tents must offer full visibility through the tent.
Q: What should we do if it rains while we are at Rock Springs?
A: Kelly Park utilizes a Thorguard lightning prediction system. Park staff may also close the swimming area if conditions warrant it, such as reduced water clarity during heavy rain. Lifeguards, when present, may close the water if they cannot see the river bottom.
Q: Are there alligators or snakes in Rock Springs?
A: While not common, wildlife like alligators and snakes can occasionally be seen. If you spot an alligator, please notify park staff immediately.
Q: Can we fly drones at Kelly Park?
A: Drone use is permitted if take-off and landing occur 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.
Q: Is there a map of Kelly Park available?
A: Yes, a map of Kelly Park is available online, providing details on park layout and facilities. Kelly Park map
Conclusion: Discover the Magic of Rock Springs, Florida
Rock Springs in Florida’s Kelly Park is a natural treasure offering a multitude of outdoor activities and serene landscapes. From the invigorating spring waters perfect for tubing and swimming to camping and picnicking facilities, Rock Springs is an ideal destination for creating lasting memories. Plan your visit today and experience the refreshing beauty of Rock Springs, Florida!
