Osceola County: Disney Wilderness Preserve

At The Disney Wilderness Preserve, you can hike, bird-watch and enjoy old Florida’s natural beauty. There is no fee, although donations are appreciated.
What to See: Animals

Birds include the bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, wood stork, sandhill crane, Northern harrier and crested caracara. The preserve is also home to the Southeastern big-eared bat, Sherman’s fox squirrel, Eastern indigo snake and gopher tortoise. The Florida panther has even been documented crossing the site!
What to See: Plants

The Disney Wilderness Preserve features cypress swamp, freshwater marsh, scrub, flatwoods and oak hammocks. A rejuvenated longleaf pine forest—replete with a lush understory of native grasses, saw palmetto and other shrubs—is one result of the use of prescribed fire to the land. Key flowers include the fall-flowering ixia, Catesby’s lily and terrestrial orchids.

Hikers: Please register at the Information Center prior to setting out and allow at least two hours to hike the trail (not including stops.) For your safety and comfort, bring drinking water, hats, sun protection, bug repellent and use appropriate footwear. Always be aware of changing weather conditions. Water levels fluctuate based on rainfall and groundwater levels; trails may be wet at times.

Pets, smoking, weapons and alcohol are prohibited. Please stay on the trail and do not collect plants or animals.

The hiking trail includes a one-mile trip to Lake Russell. Those wishing a longer experience may continue along the 2.5-mile loop, which offers a closer look at the preserve’s natural communities.