In Orange County, Florida you don’t find many native Floridians. We are a hospitality hot spot, which means people are transplanted here from, literally, all over the world. People hear “Orange County” or “Orlando” and they think of major theme parks and tourist traps. But there’s a lot more to Central Florida. Out of my immediate friend group only one is a native Floridian, like me. And we like to call these beautiful gems “Old Florida.” Old Florida is the natural beauty that this state has to offer. It’s peaceful and calming. And in a lot of ways, awe-inspiring. It’s the kind of beauty that makes you pause for a minute and take in your surroundings…and say aloud that it doesn’t even LOOK like Florida!
Yesterday I had the chance to catch up with my friend, Laurie, in one of these Old Florida gems, right in the middle of Orange County…Kelly Park did not disappoint!
We took a two mile hike on paved and unpaved trails. Kelly Park was perfectly shaded on the trails; this is not always the case in Florida parks. The water looked refreshing, but it’s a constant 68-72 degrees year round, and we laughed that the visitors floating in the river were most definitely not Floridians…it was too cold for us! But that didn’t stop other visitors from jumping in and getting carried by the current! I’ll save that for a warmer day in the summer!
Kelly Park has a pavilion to rent, bathroom facilities, and you can rent tubes just outside of the park (or bring your own, as long as it’s under 5 feet in length). There’s ample space for picnicking on the grass and even a little sandy area for kids to play. If you’re looking for an activity that is a bit more strenuous, they do have canoe and kayak rentals.
Laurie has visited 106 Florida State Parks! I was fortunate enough to have her as a tour guide. I love nature and being in a natural, peaceful environment, but I’m more “outsidey” than “outdoorsy.” It was great to have Laurie share some of her knowledge of the Wekiva River, Kelly Park, and Rock Springs. I’m looking forward to exploring more of our county and state parks with her. And I’m building up a bucket list of “Old Florida Gems” to visit with my girls this summer!
Central Florida has so much to offer visitors. I love a great Disney day, but being in nature is good for the soul. Even though I had to return to my normal routine when I left (carpools, dinner, swim practice), the day was exponentially better because I spent time outside with my friend. It was a great reminder to put myself back on “the list!”
Important Information:
- There is a $3-$5 entrance fee, depending on the size of your vehicle. Fee is assessed per person in your vehicle.
- The park fills up quickly! We arrived around 10:30 and entered without a problem. However, by the time we left (12:30ish?) there was a HUGE line waiting to enter. On a Tuesday. Prepare to arrive early if you want to make sure you can get in! Check the website for additional information about re-entry and how they monitor the number of visitors.
- You can bring your own tube or pool noodle, as long as it’s under 5 feet in length. But there’s a small vendor just outside the park where you can rent a great tube for just a few dollars!
- Bring a reusable water bottle! I saw several stations to refill while we were there. Less trash means we get to keep these beautiful parks in pristine condition!
- The park hours adjust based on the season. And the trails and swimming areas close one hour prior to park closing. Be prepared!
- It’s a nature preserve! You’re going to come in contact with wildlife. Stay alert and be respectful of the animals!
