Best Parks, Gardens & Springs near me in Apopka, FL

Looking for the best parks, gardens and springs in Apopka? This list covers the clear springs and lakeshore parks that make northwest Orange County a favorite outdoor escape. Wekiwa Springs State Park and Kelly Park's Rock Springs lead for swimming, while Lake Apopka's wildlife drive, loop trail and Magnolia Park cover birding and biking.

5 picks · Updated October 2026

1
Wekiwa Springs State Park

Park, $
The closest classic spring to Orlando, holding about 72 degrees year-round, with a swimming area, canoe and kayak rentals, and trails. Entry is $6 per vehicle, and day visits need a reservation.
- Outdoor
- Nature
- Water
- Family
Call Wekiwa Springs State Park Website for Wekiwa Springs State Park (opens in a new tab)Directions to Wekiwa Springs State Park (opens maps)
2
Kelly Park / Rock Springs

Park, $
Floating a tube down the cool, clear Rock Springs run is the signature Apopka experience. The park also has camping, trails, picnic pavilions and a playground.
- Outdoor
- Nature
- Water
- Family
Call Kelly Park / Rock Springs Website for Kelly Park / Rock Springs (opens in a new tab)Directions to Kelly Park / Rock Springs (opens maps)
3
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

Park
An 11-mile, one-way drive through the Lake Apopka marshes, open Friday through Sunday and federal holidays. Bring binoculars and allow up to three hours.
- Free
- Outdoor
- Nature
- Family
Website for Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (opens in a new tab)Directions to Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (opens maps)
4
Magnolia Park

Park
A Lake Apopka shoreline park with camping, a boat ramp and picnic areas, and the trailhead for the Loop Trail. Leashed pets are allowed.
- Outdoor
- Nature
- Water
- Family
Call Magnolia Park Website for Magnolia Park (opens in a new tab)Directions to Magnolia Park (opens maps)
5
Lake Apopka Loop Trail

Park
About 15 miles along the edge of Lake Apopka, popular with cyclists and birders. Start at Magnolia Park, and bring water since shade is limited.
- Free
- Outdoor
- Nature
- Dog friendly
Call Lake Apopka Loop Trail Website for Lake Apopka Loop Trail (opens in a new tab)Directions to Lake Apopka Loop Trail (opens maps)

Choosing a park or spring in Apopka

For swimming, the two springs are the main draw. Wekiwa Springs State Park has a swimming area, paddling and longer trails, with entry at $6 per vehicle and day-use reservations required. Kelly Park's Rock Springs is best for tubing; tickets are online only and capped daily, and pets are not allowed.

For quieter nature, Lake Apopka is the focus. The wildlife drive suits birders and families who prefer to stay in the car, the loop trail suits cyclists, and Magnolia Park has a butterfly garden, inclusive playground and camping. Leashed dogs are welcome at Magnolia Park, the loop trail and the wildlife drive.

Spring parks fill fast on summer weekends and holidays, so arrive early or visit on a weekday when you can.

Bring water shoes, sunscreen and a cooler for a picnic. Kelly Park, Wekiwa Springs and Magnolia Park all have camping, so you can stay overnight and beat the morning crowds.

About this list

Every place here is a locally run business in Orange County with its own website, which we checked for hours, menus and contact details. We leave national chains off our best-of lists and favor places with a clear specialty.

This page covers 5 parks and springs in Apopka.

What comes up again and again on their menus and websites: Wildlife viewing and Tent and RV camping.

About Apopka

Apopka, the Indoor Foliage Capital of the World, is in northwest Orange County near Lake Apopka and Wekiwa Springs. It is home to many contractors and home service companies that work across the north side of the county.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best spring in Apopka?

Wekiwa Springs State Park is the best all-around choice, with swimming in water that stays about 72 degrees, canoe and kayak rentals and trails. Kelly Park's Rock Springs is the best spot for tubing down a clear, cool run. Both cap daily visitors, so plan ahead.

Are dogs allowed at Apopka parks and springs?

Pets are not allowed at Kelly Park. Leashed dogs are allowed at Magnolia Park, on the Lake Apopka Loop Trail and on the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. Check current rules at Wekiwa Springs State Park before bringing a pet, since swimming areas usually have restrictions.

How much does it cost to visit Wekiwa Springs?

Entry to Wekiwa Springs State Park is $6 per vehicle, and day-use visits require a reservation. Canoe and kayak rentals cost extra. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, the Loop Trail and Magnolia Park are free alternatives if you want to spend a day outdoors for less.