Kelly Park Rock Springs – Apopka, Florida

Set on 355 acres in Apopka, Florida, Rock Springs is a natural pool area within Kelly Park. Numerous swimming holes in the area boast crystal-clear water, which is continuously refilled from rivers below the Earth at a rate of 26,000 gallons per minute.

Natural Warm Springs

The water temperature is a consistent 68-72℉, so during the summer months, this is an exceptionally crowded place to go and cool off. There’s a hard cap on capacity limits at the springs, as they let 280 cars inside in the morning and an additional 50 at 1 pm. Some people arrive as early as 4:30 am to secure a place in the first-come, first-served line.

Most visitors come to the pools for day-use purposes, and a small entry fee is charged. There are miles of hiking trails, picnicking spots, and a large playground for children in the park.

Kelly Park’s hours are from 8 am to 6 pm in winter and 8 pm in summer, with the waterfront and trails closing an hour before the park. There aren’t any kayak or canoe rentals in the area, but visitors can launch their vessels themselves from Camp Joy.

Know Before You Go

Here are a few essential things to remember when planning a trip to Rock Springs.

• Snakes and alligators in this area are rare, but an encounter can happen. Notify a member of the staff if one of these is spotted.
• Pets are not allowed at the spring pools. The only exception is ADA service animals.
• Lifeguards are only working during certain seasons and times. Swim at your own risk.
• Life jackets for kids can be provided; just ask a staff member for one.
• A few lockers are offered on-site.

Activities

Water activities are allowed in designated areas. Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, and tubing are some of the top things to do in the summertime. There isn’t a shuttle service for boaters, so all paths are out and back.

Some tube rentals are located just outside the park. Visitors can also bring noodles or other floatation devices as long as they are five feet or less in width.

Camping

There are a few places to camp near Rock Springs. A total of 26 campsites are available to reserve on a first-come, first-served basis up to 45 days in advance. These sites are suitable for both RV and tent camping, and they do take last-minute bookings, but it’s usually busy in the summer and on weekends.

Amenities include a fire ring, water and electricity, a picnic table, and space for up to two vehicles and six people.

Group camping and events can be hosted at Camp Joy, the dormitory-style lodging in the park. The best way to secure a reservation for many people is to email KellyCamping@ocfl.net and submit a request.

Details

Address: 400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, Florida 32712

Phone: 407-254-1902

Season: Year-round

Website: ocfl.net/cultureparks/parks.aspx?m=dtlvw&d=22#.Y0ohotLMK3B