Camping at Kelly Park in Orlando
Adventure Destination

Camping at Kelly Park in Orlando

Camping at Kelly Park, located 25 miles from Orlando, FL, offers a serene experience with activities like tubing, swimming, and hiking. Enjoy the natural springs and diverse wildlife. Ideal in spring and fall for a relaxing family getaway.

Camping7.8/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Camping

Typical Duration

Overnight

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Kelly Park, located in Apopka, Florida, just 25 miles northwest of Orlando, offers a serene camping experience fused with natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Renowned for its pristine Rock Springs Run—a crystal-clear, free-flowing spring—and lush landscapes, this park serves as a unique destination for campers seeking an escape from city life. Camping at Kelly Park is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Florida’s stunning ecosystems while enjoying various recreational activities, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in the Orlando area.

Editorial Assessment

Kelly Park in Orlando offers a pleasant outdoor adventure experience with its natural springs and lush surroundings, ideal for camping and hiking. While it provides a beautiful setting and enjoyable activities, it does not possess the unique geological or ecological features needed to rank among the world's most iconic natural landmarks.

Camping at Kelly Park in Orlando

Adventure Guide to Camping at Kelly Park in Orlando

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1. Camping Facilities:

  • Overview: Kelly Park features a well-maintained campground with 26 spacious sites suitable for both tents and RVs (up to 35 feet). Each campsite offers water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and grills. The campgrounds are shaded by oak and pine trees, providing relief from Florida’s sun and adding to the peaceful ambiance. A modern restroom facility with hot showers is also available for visitor convenience. **2. Rock Springs Run:** One of the main attractions for campers is access to Rock Springs Run, a naturally-fed spring with consistently cool 68°F waters. Campers can enjoy tubing down the spring, swimming in crystal-clear pools, or snorkeling to observe the aquatic life below. Tubes are not available for rent at the park but can be purchased from nearby vendors. **3. Nature Trails & Wildlife:** For those who love hiking, the park offers trails that meander through the woods, providing opportunities to explore Florida’s flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife like otters, turtles, cranes, and even gopher tortoises that call this park home.
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Local Insights

  • Overview: Kelly Park was gifted to Orange County by the Kelly family in 1927, and much of its charm comes from how it preserves Florida’s natural environment. The springhead of Rock Springs flows at an impressive rate of 26,000 gallons per minute, making it a significant hydrological feature in the area.
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Visitor Tips

  • Best Times to Visit: Reserve campsites early, particularly in spring and fall when the weather is milder.
  • What to Bring: Bring tubes for the springs, sunscreen, insect repellent, and firewood (not sold onsite).
  • Directions: From Orlando, take FL-429 N to Kelly Park Road (approx. 35-minute drive).

Reviews

J
Jason Jin the last week

The river was really refreshing in the florida heat, there were such cool otters, and none of the rivers were deeper than 4 feet!

A
Antonia Fuentesin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

R
R Hin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

H
Henry Montanoin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

V
valentina rodriguezin the last week

10/10 experience, i would recommend getting like a strap to carry your paddle board easier since it is a very long walk if your launching from campjoy! overall had such a great time definitely can’t wait to return!

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Swimming at Rock Springs at Kelly Park in Apopka7.20.00 miEasy
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Swimming at Rock Springs at Kelly Park in Apopka

Enjoy swimming at Rock Springs in Kelly Park, Apopka, FL. With its easy access, this natural swimming area features crystal-clear water at a consistent 68 degrees. Families can indulge in swimming and tubing year-round, but expect crowds on summer weekends.

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Snorkeling in the Crystal-Clear Rock Springs Run and Orlando7.80.16 miEasy
Tubing Kelly Park

Snorkeling in the Crystal-Clear Rock Springs Run and Orlando

Explore the crystal-clear waters of Rock Springs Run at Kelly Park near Apopka, Florida. This easy-access site offers year-round snorkeling in spring-fed waters. Family-friendly and scenic, it's popular during summer. Expect to see fish and turtles while swimming.

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Hiking the Springs Trail Loop in Orlando7.51.19 miModerate
Orlando

Hiking the Springs Trail Loop in Orlando

Explore the 5.3-mile Springs Trail Loop near Orlando, Florida. With moderate difficulty, this hike offers views of Wekiwa Springs and chances to spot deer and gopher tortoises. Enjoy birdwatching and natural swimming areas along the way.

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