Frequently Asked Questions

No. The gate is automatically controlled by the City of Orlando. It opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. Violators may be trespassed.

Admission and parking are free, but donations are accepted. Parking may be limited during peak seasons (winter & spring).

Restroom facilities are only located at the front entrance of the facility.

No. Pets are not permitted at the wetlands leashed or unleashed. There are hundreds of alligators as well as birds of prey present.

No. Motorized vehicles are prohibited except for staff.

• Recreational electric & gas-powered vehicles (bikes, Segways, hoverboards, etc.): These are not permitted.

• Mobility assistance devices (wheelchairs, pedal-assist bikes, handicap scooters, etc.): These are permitted so long as you’re not a danger to pedestrians and speeds are kept low.

Most facilities are. The parking lot has reserved spaces. The Education Center and Cypress Boardwalk are accessible as are some picnic tables. Berm roads throughout the park are predominantly compacted sand-shell that is wheelchair accessible in good weather conditions.

Yes you can.

The Orlando Wetlands is 1650 acres and over 18 miles of berm road trails. Please pick up a map at the front entrance or access it on our website. The average visit is about two to four hours. There are over 18 miles of berms. 

The boardwalk is for pedestrians only, but you may walk your bike. The wooded trails are for hiking only; no bicycles. Horses are not permitted on the boardwalk or on wooded trails except for the designated equestrian trail.

We recommend you bring your own water bottle. The facility has a public drinking fountain located on the east side of the restrooms. There is also a water bottle filling station. Soft drinks and bottled water are available for purchase only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays* when there is an attendant in the Education Center.

*Sundays: September – April only.

There is no nearby restaurant, but there is soft drinks and water available in the Education Center which is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays* only. Many visitors bring drinks and a picnic lunch.

*Sundays: September – April only.

In 2015 it was estimated that there are over 1700 alligators. Please supervise your children at all times and stay on top of the berm roads.

Absolutely not! This creates a danger for yourself and other visitors. Alligators and other potentially dangerous animals that lose their fear of humans will need to be euthanized.

Do not touch or attempt to "rescue" the animal in any way. Contact the facility if it is a Threatened or Endangered species. Animals live and die in the wetlands every day. Human interference would only disrupt the natural cycle of life and would put you in danger. Remember: an injured animal is still a wild animal.

The Orlando Wetlands is a facility of the City of Orlando, Public Works Department, Wastewater Division.

Biennially, the facility sponsors the Orlando Wetlands Festival. Other special events such as classes and guided hikes may also occur during the year.

Proper dress is important. The berms are very open and so exposure to sun and wind are always possible. A wide brimmed hat is recommended as are comfortable, closed-toed shoes to help avoid fire ants, sand spurs, etc.

Yes. If you have already left the facility for the day and realized you lost an item, you may call 407.568.1706 to inquire.