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
DesignationNature Conservancy Preserve
Total Wilderness Area11,500
Elevation / TerrainDiverse 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 60 miles.

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, Florida
⌖ 8.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Poinciana, Florida

Poinciana offers easy access to calm lakes, scenic bike trails, and peaceful parks perfect for kayaking, fishing, and nature strolls. It’s a relaxed spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking mild adventure in central Florida’s subtropical setting.

Fall through early Spring
Explore Town
St Cloud, Florida
⌖ 10.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St Cloud, Florida

St. Cloud, FL is a charming town offering delightful water adventures and vibrant natural landscapes. With its lakes and parks, it's an inviting spot for kayaking, bird watching, and more.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Kissimmee, Florida
⌖ 13.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kissimmee, Florida

Kissimmee is your launchpad to Florida's outdoor adventures. Between the tantalizing thrill of airboat tours and relaxing kayak trips in Shingle Creek, adventure-seekers will feel right at home.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Davenport, Florida
⌖ 15.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Davenport, Florida

Davenport, Florida is a friendly gateway town offering easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing in Central Florida’s subtropical landscape. Ideal from fall to spring, it serves as a comfortable base for exploring lakes, preserves, and outdoor activities.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Haines City, Florida
⌖ 16.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Haines City, Florida

Haines City offers outdoor lovers tranquil parks, lakeside paddling, and gentle hiking trails set within Central Florida’s mild climate, making it a great spot for relaxed adventure and nature exploration year-round.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Lake Wales, Florida
⌖ 20.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Wales, Florida

Lake Wales offers a peaceful outdoor escape with quiet hiking trails, paddling lakes, and birdwatching spots. Known for Bok Tower Gardens and its rolling hills, it’s a great base for exploring Central Florida’s natural side.

Fall through Spring
Explore 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.

Jororo Village Walkthrough Show
ADVEXPEDITION
Kissimmee, Florida
City TourADV Bookable

Jororo Village Walkthrough Show

Discover the authentic culture and stunning landscapes of Jororo through a captivating village walkthrough. Engage with locals, explore natural wonders, and learn about centuries-old traditions.

City Tour1 Hour • All Ages Welcome • 2 Person MinimunCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
"Evolution of the Weapon"!
ADVEXPEDITION
Auburndale, Florida
History TourADV Bookable

"Evolution of the Weapon"!

Step back tens of thousands of years with GoNativeNow in Auburndale, Florida, as you handle ancient hunting tools and trace the evolution from stabbing spears to bows and arrows. This hands-on adventure reveals the technological progression of early peoples adapted to the region’s unique environment.

History Tour"Evolution of the Weapon"!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
One Hour Airboat Ride
ADVEXPEDITION
St. Cloud, Florida
Boat TourADV Bookable

One Hour Airboat Ride

Discover the thrill of an airboat tour through Florida’s Everglades near St. Cloud. Spot alligators, bald eagles, and more on this scenic one-hour ride across a unique wetland ecosystem.

Boat TourStarting at $48 | All ages!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Full Day Paddlesport Rental
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Wales, Florida
SUPADV Bookable

Full Day Paddlesport Rental

Spend a full day paddling through Zipprer Canal, Tiger Cove, and Lake Kissimmee with kayak or canoe rentals at Lake Kissimmee State Park. Discover diverse wildlife and untouched waters over an 8-hour journey.

SUPStarting at $55 | Canoe/Kayak Rentals | 8 hoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Group - Adventure Park Packages
ADVEXPEDITION
Kissimmee, Florida
AttractionADV Bookable

Group - Adventure Park Packages

Tackle towering zip lines and swinging bridges at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park's group packages. Perfect for families and teams, this pine forest course delivers hands-on thrills and shared outdoor fun.

AttractionGroups of 10+ • School/Church Groups, Birthday Parties, Reunions, Team BuildingCertified Outfitter
From$30
Book Trip
1 Hour Airboat Tour • Private Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Kissimmee, Florida
AirboatADV Bookable

1 Hour Airboat Tour • Private Tour

Skip the crowds and glide through Florida’s lush swamps with Spirit of the Swamp’s private airboat tours. Comfortable boats, expert captains, and real-time headset communication make this one-hour trip a top pick for immersive wildlife viewing.

AirboatMost Popular! For private groups of 4-6Certified Outfitter
From$50
Book Trip
Disney Spectacular Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Kissimmee, Florida
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Disney Spectacular Tour

Soar above Orlando on a private helicopter tour featuring Disney's top theme parks. Discover the magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and more from a stunning aerial perspective.

Air ActivitiesUp to Four Passengers • 15 Miles • Private & Public Tours Available!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip