Adventure Collective
Wildlife Walking & Riding Tours at Carson Springs Wildlife Gainesville - Gainesville

Wildlife Walking & Riding Tours at Carson Springs Wildlife Gainesville

Gainesvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all levels; no special fitness required.

Overview

Discover the wonders of Florida’s native wildlife on a guided walking or riding tour at Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation. Perfect for families and wildlife lovers, these 2-hour adventures highlight animal feeding demonstrations and conservation stories. Read on for details about this unique Gainesville attraction.

Gainesville, Florida

Group Morning Walk or Ride Tour

All Ages • 2 Hours • Outdoor Fun For Everyone!

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience an unforgettable 2-hour guided tour led by professional zoologists, where you can witness thrilling big cat feeding demonstrations and get up close to incredible wildlife. Choose to walk or ride on unique motorized devices, making it accessible for everyone. Book in advance for this exciting family adventure!

Book in advance here! No general walk-through or admission allowed.

Duration

2 hours

About

Walk or ride the tour. Great, outdoor fun for the whole family, guided by professional zoologists. Witness big cat feeding demonstrations. Tour allows you to get very close to the animals. STROLLERS advised for young children

Ride The Tour In place of walking, ride, and ride along the tour path with our fun, wildlife-themed, motorized devices that you straddle/ ride like a mini horse. See photo. The devices are suitable for our older folks who do not feel like walking, adults age 12+ with a younger passenger under 11, for groups of students, friends, and couples. Limited availability for each tour - Book quickly! NOTE WEIGHT LIMIT< TOTAL 280 LBS> Golf cart usually available / 1 or 2 people $50, book by email not here.

What's included:

  • Guided by professional zoologists
  • Big cat feeding demonstrations.

Animal interactions can be booked for an extra charge if available. Lemur interaction when available. Book on arrival, $35 per person, $25 each additional. Giraffe feeding $10, $5 additional family members.

What to bring/wear:

  • Tour is on hard-packed grass. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes
  • Strollers are strongly advised for small children
  • Wheelchairs with outdoor wheels and electric wheelchairs can navigate without difficulty
  • If there is a chance of rain, please bring umbrellas
  • Light layers depending on the weather of the day

What to know:

  • WEIGHT LIMIT TOTAL 280 LBS PER VEHICLE for ride on device. Golf cart usually available 1-2 people $50. Reserve by email, pay on arrival.

  • You will be very close to dangerous animals. Children must be carefully watched

  • Please respect that you are a guest in the animals' home

  • Stay back from enclosures, do not lean on barriers or touch the fence

  • Cats can spray urine up to 8 feet

  • Dogs are prohibited from this activity

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

Sturdy footwear will help you enjoy the walking tours comfortably, especially on uneven terrain.

Book in advance

Tours fill quickly, so reserving your spot ahead of time guarantees your place and smooths your visit.

Bring sun protection

Florida sun can be strong; hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Consider mobility needs

Opt for the riding tour if walking is challenging or if you want a more relaxed experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Ospreys
  • Florida panthers

History

Founded in the early 2000s, Carson Springs has grown into a key conservation site working actively to protect Florida’s endangered species.

Conservation

The foundation emphasizes sustainable practices and habitat preservation, ensuring wildlife has a safe space to thrive.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Gainesville

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin during sunny Florida days.

summer|null specific

Hat and sunglasses

Essential

Provides shade and reduces glare during outdoor activities.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supports your feet on uneven terrain and ensures a comfortable tour.

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your outdoor adventure.

summer|spring|fall|winter specific