With more than 220 bird species and 63 butterfly species the Orlando Wetlands Park is a “must visit” for birders and wildlife viewers. The Orlando Wetlands is home to over 30 species of wildlife listed on the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Threatened and Endangered Wildlife list.
This wetlands treatment facility uses aquatic plants to polish treated wastewater before discharging it into the St. Johns River. Across more than 1,600 acres, this experiment in natural water treatment has become a world-class birding destination.
Open sunrise to sunset. Trail maps and a water bottle filling station are by the restrooms. The park features over 18 miles of raised berms for hiking.
Parking is located at the entrance to the Park and is free of charge. Motorized vehicles are not permitted inside the Park.
Bicycles and equestrians are welcome. Cyclists are not allowed to ride the natural footpaths in the park (North Woods Branch and South Woods Branch Trails) but otherwise have miles to roam.
Pets are not permitted, for their safety and yours. There are more than 1,500 alligators in the park as well as many birds of prey.
Be cautious of alligators on the trails. The sunny expanses attract them to the warm surfaces (most of the trails are lime rock). If you make a lot of noise, they should slip away into the nearest body of water. If they don’t, alter your route.