Camping at Kelly Park in Orlando

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.

Adventure Guide To Camping at Kelly Park

1. Camping Facilities:
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.

Local Insights

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.

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).

Adventure Map

Reviews

Tatyana Clark11 months ago

Very pretty and relaxing place. We are lucky to live only five minutes away, but we don’t come nearly that often as in the spring and summer time getting in is very difficult. People come way in advance of its opening hours and the parking gets full very fast which means Park does not admit anymore guests after the park hits its capacity. We just went in January and despite slightly chilled weather, the water was very refreshing, although on the colder side. Nice place to get out and bring the family. Getting in is pretty cheap, $3 for 2 people and $5 for 3-8 people.

Su Lim4 months ago

I don’t know why people leave such bad reviews. We came in on a Friday mid morning, late September, we had no problem of getting in. This place is gorgeous. The history of becoming a county park is amazing. People are very nice, friendly and courteous, food was reasonably priced and excellent. If we had decided not to come because of the bad reviews, we would have missed a terrific, nature loving, affordable family outing among all those fu-fu, money sucking outfits in Orlando. A huge shame!

Noah Von Daubera month ago

It is one of the most beautiful places in the state! I've never seen a spring this beautiful in all of my 11 years of living in central Florida. I had the whole park to myself, and admission was only $3. While it was too cold to swim, the spring was very tranquil, and there are plenty of trails. There is also a ton of wildlife, I encountered a herd of deer, several storks, and tons of colorful fish while I was there.

Toni Cardamonein the last week

We love Kelly Park! Stayed on Site 7. Long and decently wide. Fire ring was a little too close to the trailer so no teasing fire. But still enjoyed a nice campfire. Site was level and close to bath house. Bathrooms are spacious and clean. Campground has swings and pavilions.

Maria Soto6 months ago

Great place for families with young kids. Very affordable. Tube rental is outside the park. We took pool noodles and were fine. Have to come early before they close the park due to capacity.