Discover Florida’s natural paradise: Kelly Park and Rock Springs Run

Above: Kelly Park at Rock Springs.

Hidden just a short drive from the southern edge of Mount Dora, Kelly Park and the adjacent Rock Springs Run State Reserve offer a refreshing escape into Old Florida tranquility. These neighboring parks provide a blend of leisurely recreation and adventurous exploration, making them ideal destinations for families, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers alike.​

Kelly Park: A Natural Lazy River Experience
At the core of Kelly Park’s 325 acres sits the meandering Rock Springs, a crystal-clear spring that maintains a year-round temperature of 68 degrees. The spring releases approximately 26,000 gallons of water every minute, creating a gentle current that meanders through a lushly shaded and forested landscape.

Activities and Amenities
Water enthusiasts can leisurely tube along the three-quarters of a mile spring run.  Visitors can bring their own tubes and floats or rent from one of the vendors just outside the park's entrance.  Floats cannot exceed five feet.  
Beyond tubing, Kelly Park features a concession stand for nibbles, reserved picnic pavilions, a playground, and seven miles of natural hiking trails. The park also offers 26 hard-packed campsites equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, water, and electricity.

Visitor Information
During peak seasons, especially summer weekends, Kelly Park fills to its 280-car capacity quickly, so it’s best to arrive prior to opening to secure entry.  It’s open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the swimming area closing one hour prior to park closing. Admission fees are $3 per vehicle for one to two people and $5 per vehicle for three to eight people. 

Rock Springs Run State Reserve: Wilderness Exploration
Adjacent to Kelly Park and equally scenic, Rock Springs Run State Reserve encompasses over 14,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, swamps, and hardwood hammocks. This expansive reserve offers a more rugged outdoor experience than Kelly Park and is ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure.

Activities and Amenities
The reserve boasts 17 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Equestrian camping is available, with primitive sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter Florida black bears, scrub-jays, and gopher tortoises among the diverse fauna inhabiting the area. 
For paddlers, Rock Springs Run offers a scenic 9-mile journey starting from Kings Landing, winding through the reserve, and eventually merging with the Wekiva River. While the reserve itself does not have a canoe or kayak launch, nearby facilities provide access to the waterway and kayak rentals with a reservation.

Visitor Information
Rock Springs Run State Reserve is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.  The terrain and elements can be challenging and signage limited, so visitors should carry water, maps, and a compass when exploring the trails. During hunting season, from October through January, certain areas of the reserve may be closed and should be clearly posted.​

Plan Your Visit
When planning a trip to Kelly Park and Rock Springs Run State Reserve, it's essential to consider the distinct experiences each offers. Kelly Park provides a family-friendly environment with amenities suited for a relaxing day by the water, while Rock Springs Run caters to those seeking a more immersive nature experience.​
For the most up-to-date information on park conditions, closures, and reservations, visitors should contact the respective park offices or visit their official websites.

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