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The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve wilderness guide
Nature Conservancy Preserve · FL

The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

The Disney Wilderness Preserve in Florida offers a unique glimpse into the state's natural beauty, showcasing restored wetlands and diverse ecosystems ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Conservancy Preserve11,5003+ Trails

Designation

Nature Conservancy Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

11,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

The Disney Wilderness Preserve in Florida offers a unique glimpse into the state's natural beauty, showcasing restored wetlands and diverse ecosystems ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Disney Wilderness Preserve, located near Kissimmee, Florida, is a sprawling expanse of over 11,500 acres of restored landscapes. What was once an area threatened by urban development has been transformed into a thriving ecological preserve through efforts led by The Nature Conservancy. This preserve is a stunning example of successful collaboration between conservationists and developers, offering lush wetlands, oak hammocks, and pine flatwoods. Visitors can appreciate an area that supports an array of wildlife, including threatened and endangered species. Recreation opportunities abound, with a network of trails perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. As the preserve is a key stopover for migratory birds, birdwatchers will find the site particularly rewarding. Additionally, the preserve serves as a natural laboratory for wetland restoration, attracting researchers and environmentalists from around the globe.

Field Guide · Nature Conservancy Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Fishing at Lake Tohopekaliga in Kissimmee★ 7.0⌖ 7 miBass Fishing
Lake Tohopekaliga

Fishing at Lake Tohopekaliga in Kissimmee

Lake Tohopekaliga in Kissimmee offers some of Florida's best bass fishing. Known for trophy-sized largemouth bass, the location provides easy drive-in access, guided charters, and scenic settings. Best fished October to April. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times.

Bass FishingView Details→
Paddling on Lake Tohopekaliga in Orlando★ 7.5⌖ 9 miPaddling
Orlando

Paddling on Lake Tohopekaliga in Orlando

Explore paddling on Lake Tohopekaliga near Orlando, Florida. Enjoy peaceful waters and abundant wildlife, including alligators and rare bird species. Ideal for adventure seekers, best visited in Spring and Fall.

Nature's Retreat: Huckleberry Island Trailhead★ 7.8⌖ 10 miHiking
Huckleberry Island Trailhead

Nature's Retreat: Huckleberry Island Trailhead

Explore Huckleberry Island Trailhead near Kissimmee, FL, featuring rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Great for hiking, bird watching, and photography, this spot offers a peaceful escape with diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Best visited in spring and suitable for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Kayaking at Shingle Creek in Orlando★ 7.2⌖ 14 miKayaking
Kissimmee

Kayaking at Shingle Creek in Orlando

Explore calm waters at Shingle Creek, a family-friendly kayaking route near Orlando, FL. Ideal for beginners, enjoy diverse wildlife and ancient cypress views. Open year-round with kayak rentals available.

Wandering the Wilds of Lake Lizzie★ 6.8⌖ 15 miHiking
Lake Lizzie Conservation Area North Trailhead

Wandering the Wilds of Lake Lizzie

Explore nearly 8 miles of trails at Lake Lizzie Conservation Area in St Cloud, FL. Enjoy diverse habitats and wildlife while hiking and birdwatching. Ideal for photographers. Year-round opportunity to experience Florida's natural beauty.

Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail in Orlando★ 7.0⌖ 19 miHiking
Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area

Hiking the Split Oak Forest Trail in Orlando

Experience the 7-mile Split Oak Forest Trail near Orlando, Florida. This easy hike offers wildlife viewing opportunities and showcases the iconic Split Oak Tree in a quiet setting. Best explored in the cooler months from October to April.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lake Russell: A pristine and scenic lake ideal for peaceful reflection.✦ Restored Wetlands: An ecological success story that supports a diverse array of wildlife.✦ Birdwatching Hotspot: Hosts numerous species and offers unparalleled birding opportunities.✦ Scrub Jay Loop: A trail offering close encounters with the rare Florida Scrub-Jay.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, but donations are encouraged.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Poinciana
⌖ 8.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Poinciana, Florida

A family-friendly suburban town with access to central Florida’s natural lakes, parks, and trail systems ideal for casual outdoor recreation and water-based adventures.

Fall through early SpringExplore Town
St Cloud
⌖ 10.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St Cloud, Florida

A quaint town with easy access to lakes and natural reserves, ideal for water-based adventures and wildlife exploration.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Kissimmee
⌖ 13.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kissimmee, Florida

A vibrant gateway to Florida's wild side, offering access to wetlands adventures and family-oriented theme park thrills.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Davenport
⌖ 15.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Davenport, Florida

A convenient gateway to Central Florida adventures offering easy access to diverse outdoor activities with a warm, sunny climate year-round.

Fall through SpringExplore Town
Haines City
⌖ 16.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Haines City, Florida

A warm and welcoming Central Florida town offering easy access to lakes, parks, and trails for diverse outdoor activities.

Fall through SpringExplore Town
Lake Wales
⌖ 20.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Wales, Florida

A quiet Central Florida town offering serene outdoor experiences with lakes, rolling hills, and access to natural reserves perfect for paddling, hiking, and cycling.

Fall through SpringExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Wildlife & Lakeside Views with The Living Water Boat Cruises in Winter HavenWinter Haven, Florida · 23.65 mi away
On the Water· The Living Water Boat Cruises

Wildlife & Lakeside Views with The Living Water Boat Cruises in Winter Haven

Discover the natural beauty of Winter Haven’s lakes on a one-hour wildlife and history cruise with The Living Water Boat Cruises. Perfect for families and busy travelers alike, this trip offers a close-up look at local wildlife and scenic lakeside views. Join a guided boat tour across multiple lakes, where abundant wildlife and fascinating local stories combine for an engaging outdoor escape. Whether you're interested in wildlife watching, relaxing with scenic vistas, or learning about the area's rich history, this cruise delivers it all in a compact, family-friendly package.

1 hour

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.