Kelly Park Rock Springs: Natural Spring Basin & Shaded Woodland Boardwalk

About this adventure

Kelly Park in Apopka is home to Rock Springs, one of Central Florida's most celebrated natural freshwater springs. Bubbling from the base of a partially submerged limestone cliff, Rock Springs discharges 26,000 gallons of crystalline 68°F (20°C) water every minute into a winding natural river run. While summer crowds flock here for tubing, winter transforms the park into a tranquil woodland paradise perfect for family nature exploration without the heat or lines. Families can follow the 3/4-mile Rock Springs Trail and elevated wooden boardwalk through lush hydric hammocks where barred owls, white-tailed deer, and river otters are frequently spotted. On warm winter afternoons, hardy toddlers and kids can splash in the shallow, rock-bottomed swimming basin. The park features multiple children's playgrounds with swings and climbing towers, dozens of shaded picnic pavilions with grills, modern heated restrooms with hot showers and changing areas, and scenic primitive campsites.