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Kevin Mims
I'm a freelance writer and videographer, and spend most of my days exploring Florida's natural wonders from a kayak, a bike or rambling down a hiking trail. A Florida native living in Citrus County, you'll often find me watching the boats go by on the Homosassa River. I'm always sharing stories, photos and videos, so follow along and together we'll discover Florida's natural treasures.
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Apopka's Kelly Park
November 05, 2008
Rock springs Credit: Amanda Mims
Looking for some great outdoors fun near Orlando? Visit Apopka's Kelly Park!
I was in the area checking out the Florida adventure racing scene at Pangea's SuperHero AR race, and a lot of the events were inside Kelly Park. Look for a great article coming soon on adventure racing, it will surely have you loading up your gear and brushing up on your skills!
OK, back to Kelly Park. The 355-acre property was donated by Dr. Howard A. Kelly in 1927 for use as a public park and wildlife preserve. It's home to Rock Springs, an amazing fast-flowing, crystal-clear spring. The spring starts out in a small cave in the side of a rock face, and gushes out more than 26,000 gallons of water per minute. The landscape is stunning. With a canopy of oaks and palms overhead and rock outcroppings that reach out into the swiftly moving stream, it's easy to see why this is such a popular location.
The park has a great swimming area, and if you bring your own tube you can enjoy a lazy 30-minute trip down the spring run. Afterward, fire up the charcoal, have a picnic and spend the rest of the day just taking it easy. The park also has family camping sites, so bring your tent or RV and make Kelly Park a multi-day destination.
Have fun at Kelly Park!Â
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Recent Comments
Most Recent Comment
10/04/2011
Yup, great place, from the tubie run saw turtles, fish, snakes, a young deer and a 5 ft alligator sunning....Disney eat your heart out!!
Flag This As Inappropriate07/07/2011
It's a terrific place, you'll have a blast!
Flag This As Inappropriate07/07/2011
I'm looking forward to visiting next year.
Flag This As Inappropriate03/18/2010
I love Kely Park aa Rocksprings!!! Me and my children go every summer!!! Fntastic Fun!
Flag This As Inappropriate03/05/2010
I am hosting a river clean up at Rock Springs and I used your photo of the spring to advertise the volunteer activity through facebook. I gave your blog a plug, saying the photo was taken by Kevin Mims' and linked your blog. I hope this is ok and I hope you can make it out next week. If this is not ok, I will contact park staff and immediately remove your photo from the event. Thanks for promoting this oasis and for caring about it's protection.
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