Dr. Howard A. Kelly Park, often called Kelly Park, is a protected area which is owned by Orange County, Florida. It was created after Howard Atwood Kelly, one of the founders of Johns Hopkins University, donated the land to the county.
History
Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Timucua.[1] The area around Rock Springs was gifted to William S. Delk in 1855 by Florida.[2] The land would be used for lumbering while the river would power mills and cotton gins.[2] In 1927, Howard Atwood Kelly donated the land to Orange County on the condition that it would be used as a public park.[2] Kelly initially bought the land to prevent it being used as a limestone quarry.[3]
In 2016, the park was given a state historic marker, which was attended by the grandson of Kelly.[3]
Geography
Kelly Park spans 355 acres (144 ha).[1] Within Kelly Park is Rock Springs and Rock Springs Run.[1]
Hydrology
The water of the park is consistently 68 °F (20 °C).[1]
References
- "Kelly Park: A timeless natural treasure in the heart of Orange County". The Apopka Voice. 2025-07-22. Retrieved 2026-05-25.
- Romero, Chris (2025-07-22). "Spotlight on Kelly Park: An Apopka Landmark and Natural Treasure". OCFL Newsroom. Retrieved 2026-05-25.
- "Orange County Parks at 100". Orange County Regional History Center. 2025-04-29. Retrieved 2026-05-25.
28°45′40″N 81°30′11″W / 28.761°N 81.503°W / 28.761; -81.503