A Weekend Camping Trip to Beautiful Kelly Park
We spent the weekend camping at beautiful Kelly Park, near Apopka, Florida, just relaxing and exploring. This is the perfect time to visit the park if you want to avoid the summer crowds and have the springs practically to yourself. The chilly weather may have kept the crowds away, but not the amazing scenery.
Kelly Park
Kelly Park is located just outside the city of Apopka, Florida. Making it an easy trip if you are traveling from the Orlando area. Whether you plan on visiting the park for a day trip of tubing Rock Springs Run, a weekend of camping or both, you are sure to enjoy the adventure.
The park was generously donated Dr. Howard A. Kelly in 1927 to be used a public park and wildlife preserve. Rock Springs starts at this park and is well known as a natural lazy river. In the summer it is packed with people tubing the spring to escape the heat. You may find it difficult to get into Kelly Park as it gets hotter outside. The park does limit the number of people allowed in and will close when it hits capacity. There is a small fee to get into the park for a day trip.
The spring is a consistent temperature of 68 degrees all year around, making this the perfect park to visit no matter the season.
Visit their website Kelly Park/Rock Springs here for entrance fees and more information.
Camping
We spent the weekend at campsite number 8. It was a level site with plenty of room for our camper and fairly easy for my husband to back into. Water and electric are available at each site. A large picnic table and fire ring are also provided. Bath houses are nearby and were well maintained. There is a dump station located in the park as well.
We found the campsites to be very well taken care of. The campground itself was peaceful and set in a woodsy environment surrounded by wildlife. Be sure not to leave any food out overnight. It might not be there in the morning. Bear proof trash cans are located throughout the campground.
Unfortunately pets are not allowed at Kelly Park. Our German Shepherd had to stay home this trip.
Camping rates are $23 a night for non-Orange County residents. Check their camping reservation website for current rates and more information here.
Tubing Rocky Springs Run
My youngest braved the cold air to tube Rocky Springs Run. He had it all to himself and had a fantastic time. He said the water was warm and couldn’t believe no one else was getting in the spring.
Tubing Rocky Springs Run in the summer may be a better choice, but if you wish to avoid the crowds, try it on a chilly winter day.
We brought our own tube to use at the spring, but rentals are available outside the park. Tube rental are not provided in the park. I have read that rentals can range from $5-$7, so depending on where you are coming from, how many days or how many are in your party it might be cheaper to bring your own.
The spring run is about 3/4 of a mile and can take 30 minutes to float down. Plan on carrying that tube back to the start of the spring.
Other Amenities
Enjoy many other activities at Kelly Park during your stay. There is a huge playground for the kids to burn off some energy. It is located near the main parking lots. Take advantage of the hiking trails around the park to view the surrounding nature. Volleyball nets are and horseshoe pits are also located in the park for your enjoyment. Swimming is also an option. There is plenty of shade and picnic tables available.
I can’t believe we waited so long to camp at Kelly Park. It is close to our house and it absolutely worth the short trip. Be sure to check out this Orange County park. It is a gem! For more Florida parks to explore be sure to visit my other posts here. Happy Camping!
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