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    Dinky Dock

    4.7 (24 reviews)

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    Canals connected to lake where Dinky Dock is located @fourjollypets
    Megan J.

    This was my first time visiting Dinky Dock and I loved it! We got there early at 8am and I was able to find parking. I was already warned beforehand, that parking fills up fast and there's not a ton of parking to begin with, so I was very fortunate to find a spot! There are tours that launch out of this dock so there are a lot of people who visit. Great area, it's nice and shady to get my inflatable sup ready for the water. My dog had a great time paddle boarding with me, loved that it's dog friendly. The lake and the canals were breathtaking. For paddle boarding or kayaking you don't have to pay for anything, with boats I heard you do have to pay to launch. There was a lot of activity when I went on the water so we did have to move over for the boats passing by when we were in the canals. I didn't see any gators or any animals while out!

    Ariel W.

    Dinky Dock is the cute name given to the 1.5 acre park located on Lake Virginia in Winter Park. You might think the park was named for a small (dinky) dock but the name actually has a connection to the the railroad. In 1889 the Orlando-Winter Park Railway made it's debut. A Rollins College student called the train dinky and the name stuck. Soon everyone was calling it the dinky railroad until it's demise in 1967. The line ended where the park now sits and that is how Dinky Dock got it's name. Dinky dock is open year round from 8 AM to dusk. The park contains restrooms, a boat ramp, grills, benches, picnic tables, and a fishing pier. Boat permits are needed and can be obtained at the library and finance department. If you don't have your own kayak, Peace of Mind Kayak Tours rents for Dinky Dock and chain of lake tours. You can swim from the park although I believe the lake still contains alligators although I have never seen them. I have also seen swimming closed and different times depending on the bacteria level. I have always wanted to visit this park since passing it a few times on the Winter Park scenic boat ride. It is very small and seems to be used primarily by boaters and Rollins College students. The park offers a nice view of Lake Virginia and I saw students taking advantage of the dock for sunbathing.

    Laura G.

    Dinky Dock Park is a little over 1.5 acres. It has a fishing pier, boat ramp and swimming area. Big beautiful trees line up near the water's edge that give out lots of shade and blocks you from the brutal sun. The park is open 8am to sunset. There are a few benches, grills and picnic tables available to whoever gets there first. Bathrooms are available. It's a natural area with no lifeguards so alligator signs are posted and should be adhered to.

    Lilly pads
    Mandi S.

    Prefect little area to safely launch your water craft of choice. We took our new kayak out here for its maiden voyage and this was perfect for our needs. The parking lot is small so grab the first spot you can get because there probably isn't another available. There is a clean public bathroom nearby with soap and air hand dryer. The rest of this review is more about the lakes than the dock itself: There are canals connecting 4 lakes together. We managed to kayak all four. The wind was a bit tough in some of the areas the day we were out even though it didn't feel windy on land, so just be prepared if it's your first time out on your own. That said, the canals are super chill and it's required to go slow through them so if you are tired head to a canal and enjoy the break from the wind and enjoy the gorgeous foliage. Don't stop! You have to keep moving in the canals but it's a gentle glide out of the wind and your arms will thank you for it, haha. There is a tour boat company that operates through these lakes, they have big white boats. There were 6 of them the day we were out, so listen for them and prepare to move around them as they tend to all travel together. All of the operators were neighborly when we inevitably crossed paths in one of the canals. We were fortunate to be a spot where we could pull over and let them go by. But even if there wasn't I felt safe. They were mindful of those around them and they were genuinely appreciative when we let them go around us. We ran into paddle borders, boaters, kayakers and Canoers. There were even some jet skiers pulling tubers ! Waters are clear a beautiful. We felt very safe, and we can see why people swim in this series of lakes. We didn't see a single gator but we weren't looking that hard. Lots of fish and freshwater clams look like shiny silver glistening in the water between the flowing green underwater grass.

    Beautiful trees
    Sheeka B.

    Spent the better part of Tuesday at this beautiful lake just wandering the shore, watching folks kayak and paddle board, and just sitting on the edge of the docks enjoying the scenery. I love that it has a roped off area for swimming, several docks for accessing the water by boat, and an actual park with picnic tables and BBQ areas. Surround by all sorts of plants including wildflowers and tall trees, I could've gotten lost walking along the sandy beach while tiny waves lapped at my feet. The sunset here was amazing as well and there is ample parking for your car or Boat as well as a dock for walking your boat in and a ramp for hauling your water vessel away. I think this will become a daily visit.

    Missy M.

    Good place to hang out. A little small so better for smaller groups, boating and jet skiing is common. Keep an eye on your kids tho, the water can get choppy. Love the view by the docs. Not a-lot of parking. Is good for instagram pics.

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    10 months ago

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    10 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    9 months ago

    We just moved back to Winter Park and have been fishing a different spot every day. Dinky Dock was our first spot and didn't disappoint!

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    1 year ago

    Great kayak launch. Parking is a but on the tight side, but never had a issue, as there is always a spot for trailers here.

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    5 years ago

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    4 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Pretty lake and easy access parking. There are benches to sit and it's pretty peaceful.

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    5 years ago

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    3 years ago

    Clean and fantastic little spot!!! Looking forward to more paddle board adventures here

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    3 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    12 years ago

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    6 years ago

    Great place to launch kayaks! Be sure to get there early because parking is limited!

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    Review Highlights - Dinky Dock

    For paddle boarding or kayaking you don't have to pay for anything, with boats I heard you do have to pay to launch.

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    Lake Lorna Doone Park

    Lake Lorna Doone Park

    4.8(8 reviews)
    4.9 miJohn Young, Horizons West / West Orlando

    What a fantastic park! Located just outside of Camping World Stadium, I recently learned that Lake…read moreLorna Doone Park is one of the oldest parks in Orlando. It underwent a major renovation in 2021 where they added lots of amenities and made everything brand new. Even now, 5 years later, everything has been so well maintained and still feels like new. They have a free miniature golf putting course, an awesome splash pad, shaded playgrounds, basketball courts, and a nice nature walking path. You'll also find shaded picnic pavilions and a community garden. My son absolutely loves coming here. The parking lot can be a little tricky to find because my GPS using Google Maps never takes me to the right place. Don't let the location detour you from visiting. It's such a nice park and feels very safe.

    Lake Lorna Doone Park is one of the oldest parks in Orlando. It is just north of Camping World…read moreStadium. The neighborhood and the park is named after one of the earliest property owner's daughter's favorite novel, Lorna Doone, written by English author, Richard Doddridge Blackmore, published in 1869. Lake Lorna Doone was the site of the South's first integrated Little League Baseball game on August 9, 1955. The 1955 little league season was the first after US Supreme Court rulings had eliminated "separate but equal" conditions in the nation's schools and public parks. The Pensacola Jaycees were declared winners of their local district by Little League headquarters in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. When local officials would not allow them to play against the all-white teams they instead advanced to the Florida State Tournament which was held at Lake Lorna Doone Park. They ended up losing to host Orlando in the second round, 5-0 but they were welcomed by the hometown crowd and given encouragement. In 2021, 12 acre Lake Lorna Doone Park underwent an $8 million renovation. Added to the park was the nine hole Arnold Palmer Putting Experience, fitness stations, a playground, football fields, basketball courts, a splash pad and the Winnie Palmer Nature Trail. I especially liked the nature trail where I got to see native plants and wildlife. With the upgrades, this park now has all of the amenities needed to inspire a healthy, active lifestyle for the West Lakes families who live in this neighborhood and all who visit.

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    Lake Lorna Doone Park - Playground

    Playground

    Lake Lorna Doone Park
    Lake Lorna Doone Park

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    Phelps Park

    Phelps Park

    4.8(32 reviews)
    1.4 mi

    This lovely neighborhood park was named in honor of Wilson Phelps, a Chicago businessman who toured…read morethe area in 1874 and purchased land east of Lake Osceola for a citrus business. In addition to growing citrus, Phelps sold lots to fellow Chicagoans and mentored Loring Chase and Oliver Chapman into turning this largely unsettled area into an upscale winter resort. Phelps, acting as a one-man chamber of commerce, provided the basis of the promotional materials used by Chase and Chapman who marketed Winter Park to wealthy northerners. This nearly six acre park, in Winter Park, provides both natural beauty and recreational opportunities. One of the nicest features of this park is the playground that was rebuilt in 2021 by Kompan Design with input from area residents. This playground was designed to improve physical, cognitive, creative, and social development while fostering imaginative play and friendships. Other park amenities include basketball courts, tennis courts, pavilions available for rental, restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor fitness equipment. There are also two hardcourts for pickleball. This park is fully fenced for safety and is beautifully landscaped and it is close to downtown Winter Park where you can find shopping and dining options. This park is the perfect place for a morning stroll, a birthday party, play, or a picnic. Phelps Park appeals to all ages. Community Parks don't come much nicer than this one.

    Cute park hidden in the neighborhood. Fairly quiet for all the people there. Didn't notice any dogs…read moreso not sure if it's pet friendly.

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    Phelps Park
    Phelps Park
    Phelps Park

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    H. H. Dickson Azalea Park

    H. H. Dickson Azalea Park

    4.7(47 reviews)
    3.5 miLawsona / Fern Creek

    5 Star update for a park that is beautiful for stolling during Azalea blooming season, as well as…read morefor events and weddings. This is one of my favorite parks ever. As the name implies, this park is at its peak during azalea season, but don't be discouraged if these colorful blooms are till hidden- there is so much more to discover in this park. Take a walk along the path that meanders under the bridges and around the creek. You'll find tons of special spots where you'll want to pause, take a picture, and enjoy a moment of peace (just thinking about it is putting me in a zen mood!). The park also has a nice stage area which is small, but can be used as a wedding location (I've been a bridesmaid here!). I wouldn't recommend going to the park at night, as it doesn't have lights and can get a bit creepy, but during the day make sure to get your pup on a leash, pack a light lunch, and get ready for the best picnic ever!

    What a sweet little park to enjoy a short walk, a picnic or to partake in bird watching. There are…read morebenches here and there to sit on. Would be a nice spot with the right eye to take photos. The oaks are old and hold so much wisdom. The hard part is finding where to park. The only spot is on the side of the road. I saw people walking dogs through the park too. It's shaded and if you want sun, there are parts that the sun shines through. Enjoy!

    Photos
    H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Great flowers at the ends of bridges

    Great flowers at the ends of bridges

    H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Great flowers at the ends of bridges

    Great flowers at the ends of bridges

    H. H. Dickson Azalea Park

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    Blue Jacket Park - Near the parking lot

    Blue Jacket Park

    4.6(62 reviews)
    1.2 miBaldwin Park

    This is one of the biggest and coolest parks that I enjoy going to. I've visited this park for…read moresoccer practice, grass, volleyball games, and kickball practice as well. If you're looking to get some steps in, running, and still feel secured in the neighborhood, this Park is a place to do it. It is also in close proximity to the shopping center in Baldwin Park. I really love all of the homes that surround this park is. Each is unique and beautiful in its own way. The park is well maintained for all types of activities such as baseball, volleyball, soccer like football and other outdoor activities. After a workout you can easily walk to the shopping center area and get a cup of coffee, glass of wine or some of the best sushi in Orlando.

    We came to the park as part of a local escape room but this is one of the nicest parks in Florida I…read morehave been to. Such a scenic little park that seems very well maintained and super walkable. With the fountains, sports fields and courts, open plots for pets and green space, this park really has it all. We were walking around this park for about an hour just taking it all in while we were doing puzzles and I have to say that the park was better than the escape room. If me and my friend had just come to the park without the escape room, we would've liked it just as much. It was great to check this park out and next time I am in town, I will definitely hang out here again.

    Photos
    Blue Jacket Park - Https://page.fundeasy.com/7764430. - I appreciate your support with this great cause. Thank you

    Https://page.fundeasy.com/7764430. - I appreciate your support with this great cause. Thank you

    Blue Jacket Park - MLK chasing dream Event @Park

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    Blue Jacket Park - Getting ready for the race to MLK Chase the Dream

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    Lake Baldwin Park

    Lake Baldwin Park

    4.5(229 reviews)
    1.6 mi

    This is one of my favorite parks. I've been visiting for over a decade. It used to have a different…read morename. It's a great dog park. I really miss the giant tree by the dog wash area. The stump remains. There used to be an incredible piece of art carved into the tree. There are still other great trees remaining though. Lots of trees. One time I went there on a cool autumn morning and I thought I had passed into dog HEAVEN!!! The fancy dog rescue groups met up and there were tons of incredible dog breeds, especially the ones that look like big fluffy mops. I've been here numerous times, & this park means a lot to me. I have incredible memories. *Beware of the lake, there might be alligators. (I used to enjoy watching the sailboat lessons.) *Best if you wear boots. Last time I ended up with a bunch of dirt in my shoes. *I've only seen 2 dog fights. Stay close to your dog. *Once, I saw what appeared to be coyote fur on a fence, there might be one around there sometimes. The walking trails in the woods/forest part is really fun. A guy used to play his guitar in a center area. I like walking my dogs through the woods there. Sad when I see my dogs years later unable to walk like they previously could, or disoriented, lost in there. We sure did enjoy that park extensively. Bring dog shampoo & a towel if you want, the dog shower bench is free.

    This is the park and lake area at the end of the town center…read more We love just walking around the lake area, but the park is well maintained and pretty nice! The lake area is a bit unkempt compared to the rest of the area, but it's still nice to Walk around. The sidewalk area is in good condition too.

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    Lake Baldwin Park - Small dogs area is available through a gate.

    Small dogs area is available through a gate.

    Lake Baldwin Park - 1st time at this great dog park!

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    1st time at this great dog park!

    Dinky Dock - parks - Updated May 2026

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