Springs Fever: A Field & Recreation Guide to 500 Florida Springs.

Rock Springs

Orange County

Summary of Features

  • Scale -2nd magnitude
  • Scenery -Excellent
  • How Pristine? -path/boardwalk near spring, in county park
  • Swimming -more wading than swimming at spring, fine swimming downstream;fine tubing and snorkeling
  • Protection -excellent
  • Crowds -heavy on warm weekends
  • Access -excellent
  • Facilities -fine
  • Safety -excellent
  • Scuba -no
  • Cost -$3 per vehicle with 1-2 people; $5 for vehicle with 3-8 people


Directions

Address and phone: 400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712, 407-254-1902

From Apopka, at intersection of U.S. 441 and State Road 435, drive north on SR 435 about 6 miles. Bear right onto Kelly Park Road and drive less than a mile to the county park, following signs for the park. Follow sidewalk and boardwalk to the spring from the main park drive. From Interstate 4, take State Road 436 west until it merges with U.S. 441.  Continue west on U.S. 441 to Park Avenue.  Go north on Park Avenue for 6 miles, and then turn right onto Kelly Park Road and follow signs to the park and spring.

Google Maps link

Spring Description

Water flows strongly from a grotto/half-submerged cave entrance to form the spring and Rock Creek. The grotto has exposed limestone and creates an overhang/bluff/cave mouth more than 15 feet high. The rock overhang is luxuriantly covered in vegetation. Water flowing from the cavern opening is clear and forms a powerful flow. There is another vent in the creek bottom about 10 feet downstream of the cave; this vent also produces a prominent boil. The creek bottom is rocky, with some sand and vegetation in the run. There are also rocky outcrops and shelves near the spring. The run is 15-25 feet wide, shallow, and winds SE 8 miles before joining the Wekiva River, itself a spring run from Wekiwa Spring. About 100 yards below the spring is a widened swim area created by diverting water from the spring run into an area with concrete retaining walls and a wier to maintain water depth. The spring and run are in an area of lush subtropical vegetation.

Use/Access

Personal Impressions

With its striking cave mouth, lush flora, powerful flow, and crystal-clearwater--and all protected in a well-maintained park setting--Rock Creek is one of the most attractive and appealing springs in Florida. Its boardwalk also makes it accessible. Unlike most springs, which are silent, Rock Springs creates a very audible and pleasant rush of water at its headwaters. It is best to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, which can be rowdy.

Nearby Springs

Other Nearby Natural Features