Officials with Orange County Parks & Recreation have temporarily closed the swimming area and nearby waterfront trails at Kelly Park following confirmed alligator activity in the water.
According to county representatives, a gator exceeding four feet in length was spotted near the park’s spring-fed swimming area on Thursday, prompting immediate action to ensure visitor safety. While the water access areas are closed, the remainder of Kelly Park remains open to the public, including its popular campgrounds, pavilions, boat launch, and playground.
Kelly Park–Rock Springs, located within the Wekiwa Springs ecosystem, is a well-known destination for both locals and tourists, drawing visitors for its natural spring waters and outdoor recreation offerings. Officials have not provided a timeline for when the swimming area might reopen, stating only that the closure will remain in effect “until further notice.”
This announcement comes days after a fatal alligator encounter was reported in a separate incident in Osceola County. On Tuesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a deadly attack on Lake Kissimmee, where a woman identified as Cynthia Diekema of Davenport lost her life after falling from a canoe onto an alligator. The 11-foot, 4-inch reptile pulled her underwater, and her body was later recovered. The FWC confirmed the details during a Wednesday morning press conference.
While the Osceola County incident occurred in a different region, it has heightened awareness about alligator safety across Central Florida. Wildlife officials continue to remind residents and visitors to remain cautious around freshwater bodies, especially during warmer months when alligator activity tends to increase.
Orange County Parks & Recreation advises visitors to check its official website or social media for updates regarding park access and conditions.