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Friday, February 24, 2023

Kelly Park/Rock Springs - Ocala, Florida




Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, but did you know, it has more than 700 springs with many just as stunning as it’s beaches?!


Kelly Park/Rock Springs is one of my favorites. It is about 30 minutes northwest of Orlando, and its spring is breathtakingly beautiful! 


The main attraction at Rocks Springs is a gorgeous natural lazy river spring. The spring head sits at the entrance of a cave and runs about ¾ mile through the park. 


The water is 68 – 72 degrees year around. It actually feels warm if the outside temp is below 68 degrees, making it possible to swim in the winter months.


The run opens up to a shallow pool that is perfect for swimming. It is surrounded by a white sand beach and green lawn. Both perfect for lounging.



 Thing to Know:

Arrive early. The park opens at 8am and there is a long line by then. Once it reaches capacity, no more will be admitted (This happens within an hour of opening) If you get turned away, ask for an afternoon voucher. They will allow 50 more to enter at 1pm.

Bring your own tubes and snorkel equipment. They do not rent inside the park. Tubes can be rented outside of the park. No tubes wider than 5 feet

Noodles are a good way to float without a tube.

Tubbing, snorkeling, and swimming are all allowed

The lazy river is shallow and wide, making it perfect for the whole family

One of the only springs with lifeguards

The park has camping, picknick tables, bathrooms, and concessions in the warm months

The park is crowded in the warm months


Address:

400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712

 

Hours:

8am -8pm daily

 

Admission:

1 - 2 people is $3, 3 - 8 people is $5. Busses are $10 for the bus plus $1 per person.



Happy Travels!

       Sherri




Wednesday, February 22, 2023

A Peaceful Paradise in Miami, Florida


Can you believe there is a serene paradise located in Miami Florida? A place where all you hear and see is nature! We stumbled upon this hidden gem on a trip to Homestead, Florida.




Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, located in the Redland area of Miami, is a 20-acre nature preserve in Miami-Dade County. This special place encloses 11 acres of protected hardwood hammock forest, pine rock-land, tropical gardens, and historic structures.





The paths throughout this tranquil garden will take you past a butterfly pavilion, koi ponds, meditation spaces, a Buddha Garden, Balinese statues and structures, and waterfalls.




Address:

21900 SW 157th Avenue

Miami, FL 33170






Hours:

Open to the public Wednesday - Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.





Admission:

Adults: $20

Children 12 and under: $10

 

Guided tours are by appointment only. Tours are $35 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

In addition to tours, the Sanctuary hosts special events throughout the year.



Happy Travels! 

            Sherri