If you're looking for a natural Florida getaway that combines crystal-clear springs, family fun, and a dash of adventure, then Kelly Park—specifically Rock Springs—is your ultimate destination. Located at 400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712, this gem is just about 30 minutes from Orlando but feels like a world away from the bustling theme parks and city life. Whether you’re tubing down the cool waters of Rock Springs, hiking the scenic trails, or picnicking under the shade of old oak trees, Kelly Park offers an unforgettable day out for both locals and visitors alike.

Let’s dive into why Rock Springs is such a big deal. Imagine floating down a lazy river of crystal-clear, 68-degree water that bubbles up from underground limestone formations. Yep, that’s Rock Springs! The natural spring is perfect for tubing, and if you didn’t bring your own, don’t worry—there are vendors right outside the park where you can rent a tube for the day. The float down Rock Springs is about 3/4 of a mile long, and it takes about 25 minutes to drift along with the current. The water is shallow in many spots, making it family-friendly, but still exciting enough to keep the adventure lovers entertained. You can even snorkel or swim along the way, exploring the underwater landscape. But, heads up—since the park is so popular, especially on weekends and holidays, make sure to get there early because it often hits capacity pretty fast.

Now, Kelly Park isn’t just about the springs, although they’re definitely the star of the show. The park itself is a lush, green oasis, covering over 250 acres with plenty of spots for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife watching. There are several scenic trails in the park, like Rock Springs Run Trail, which takes you through the gorgeous Florida landscape of pine trees, wetlands, and saw palmetto. It’s a great way to work up an appetite before enjoying a picnic lunch. And speaking of picnics, Kelly Park has some pretty sweet picnic spots—tables, pavilions, and grills are available on a first-come, first-served basis. So whether you want to fire up a BBQ or just lay out a blanket and chill, the park's got you covered.

And if you’re the type who likes to camp under the stars, Kelly Park also has a campground that’s pretty affordable and well-maintained. You can reserve a spot and make it a weekend-long adventure. Just imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, grabbing your morning coffee, and then jumping right back into those crystal-clear springs. Heaven, right? But wait, there’s more! Just a short drive from Kelly Park, you’ll find plenty of other cool spots to explore. Wekiwa Springs State Park is nearby, and it offers even more opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. The charming town of Apopka is also worth a visit. Apopka has some great local eats—stop by The Catfish Place for some good ol’ Florida seafood or swing by Propagate Social House for a cool, plant-filled café experience with amazing coffee.

And if you want to dive into a bit of history while you're here, check out the Museum of the Apopkans, where you can learn all about the town's past and the people who have called it home. For those looking for more outdoor fun, Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive offers a scenic route through one of the largest lakes in Florida. It’s perfect for birdwatching or just taking in the beautiful landscapes, and it’s only about 15 minutes from Kelly Park.

Kelly Park (Rock Springs) isn’t just a place you visit once—it’s a place you’ll want to come back to time and time again. Whether you're floating down the springs, hiking through lush trails, or enjoying a family picnic, this park offers the perfect escape from the daily grind. So, the next time you're in Florida, skip the theme parks for a day and head to Kelly Park for a nature-filled adventure you'll never forget. Oh, and speaking of adventures, if you're planning to visit Kelly Park and explore all the beautiful spots around Apopka, make sure you’ve got the right wheels! Book a car with SunShine Car Rental Orlando to make your trip stress-free and comfortable. Click here or give them a call at +1 407-606-5669 to secure your rental today. Happy exploring!