Orlando: Rock Springs Tubing & Apopka Wildlife Trail Tour

Experience Florida’s lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife on the Orlando: Rock Springs Tubing & Apopka Wildlife Trail Tour. Priced at a competitive price (not specified) and lasting 8 hours, this tour offers a perfect day out for those eager to connect with nature. Led by Gray Line of Orlando – Gator Tours, rated 4.6, the tour combines a scenic wildlife drive with a gentle tubing adventure through crystal-clear Rock Springs.

This experience is ideal for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife observation, and relaxing in natural settings. With hotel pickups, a small group of up to 13 people, and all necessary tubes provided, it balances comfort with adventure. However, it’s important to note that non-swimmers are not able to participate in the tubing, and electric wheelchairs are not permitted.

Key Points

• 8-hour tour exploring Florida’s natural springs and wildlife
• Includes hotel pickup from selected Orlando resorts and hotels
• Scenic drive through the Apopka North Shore Wildlife Drive for wildlife viewing
• Tubing down the crystal-clear Rock Springs run with provided tubes
• Stop at Kelly Park with a reserved covered pavilion for picnics and rest
• Halfway swimming area with a sandy shoreline to relax or cool off

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Drive Through Apopka North Shore Wildlife Drive

The tour begins with a gentle drive through the Apopka North Shore Wildlife Drive, where native birds, turtles, and Florida alligators are often visible from the vehicle. This scenic route winds through wetlands and lush landscapes, providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation without any strenuous effort.

Travelers appreciate how the guide explains the local ecosystem, enhancing the experience with insightful commentary. The drive sets a tranquil tone for the day, allowing everyone to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty from the comfort of a vehicle.

Relaxing Visit to Kelly Park with Picnic Facilities

Before heading to the springs, the tour makes a stop at Kelly Park for lunch, snacks, or beverages. A reserved covered pavilion offers a shady spot to relax, eat, and prepare for the tubing adventure.

This park stop is particularly valued for giving guests a comfortable base to unwind and gather their energy. The availability of food and drinks for purchase means no need to carry extra snacks, making the experience more convenient.

Tubing Down the Crystal-Clear Rock Springs Run

The centerpiece of this experience is the 30-minute float down the crystal-clear Rock Springs run. The gentle, scenic waterway takes floaters through lush tropical foliage and provides a serene, calming experience.

Tubes and river floats are provided, so participants only need to grab their gear and enjoy. The short walk from the top of Rock Springs offers the chance to repeat the float multiple times at a relaxed pace, making it suitable for those who want to spend the afternoon floating or simply soaking up the scenery.

Midway Sandy Beach and Swimming Area

Halfway along the tubing route, an expansive swimming area with a sandy shoreline invites visitors to cool off or bask in the sun. This spot is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking photos of Floridian nature.

The spacious area provides plenty of room for families or groups to spread out and enjoy a peaceful break from the tubing. It’s a highlight for anyone seeking a freeform, leisurely experience in a beautiful setting.

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Logistics: Pickup, Group Size, and Equipment

The tour includes hotel and resort pickups from select Orlando locations. Participants are advised to wait outside the main lobby of their accommodation, and Gray Line Orlando staff arrive in a distinctive vehicle and uniform.

Group size is capped at 13 people, fostering a more intimate experience. Tubes and river floats are supplied, and the entire day is guided in English by an experienced guide. The 8-hour duration offers a relaxed pace, balancing travel, observation, and leisure.

Important Preparations and Restrictions

Travelers should bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen for the tubing and swimming segments. Since no alcohol or drugs are allowed, the focus remains on safety and enjoyment.

Participants need to complete a liability waiver before tubing. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers and electric wheelchairs are not permitted on the tubing run. The flexible reserve-and-pay-later booking option offers convenience, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Physical Demand and Accessibility

This experience requires swimming ability for the tubing section, so non-swimmers cannot participate in the water float. The tour involves walking to the top of the springs and around Kelly Park, but no strenuous activities are involved.

People with mobility limitations should consider these requirements, as electric wheelchairs are not allowed on the tubing run for safety reasons.

How This Tour Differentiates Itself

This tour’s combination of wildlife viewing and tubing makes it stand out among Florida outdoor experiences. The scenic drive enhances the connection to nature, while the crystal-clear springs provide a peaceful float.

Compared to other experiences, this tour offers a relaxed pace with many opportunities to pause, swim, and enjoy nature at your own speed. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the reserved pavilion adds a level of comfort not always found in outdoor adventures.

Suitable Audience and Final Advice

The Orlando Rock Springs Tubing & Wildlife Trail Tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups wanting a calm, nature-focused day. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife observation, and gentle water activities.

Visitors should be prepared for warm Florida weather and bring sunscreen, towels, and snacks. Since the tour involves water and walking, a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with water activities are recommended.

While the experience is family-friendly, it is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility restrictions that prevent walking or swimming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes hotel and resort pickups from select locations in Orlando.

What should I bring on the day of the tour?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and snacks or drinks for the day.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, non-swimmers cannot participate in the tubing segment for safety reasons.

Are electric wheelchairs allowed?
No, electric wheelchairs are not permitted on the tubing run.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates with a small group size of up to 13 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of a scenic wildlife drive with peaceful tubing on crystal-clear springs offers a relaxed and nature-filled day that’s hard to match.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby