Disney's Wilderness Preserve

Disney Wilderness Preserve | DISNEY THIS DAY | April 23, 1993

On this day in 1993, the Disney Wilderness Preserve was officially dedicated. Formerly known as Walker Ranch, the 11,500 acres of wetlands is located about 15 minutes south of Walt Disney World. It is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals, including two endangered species—the bald eagle and the wood stork. Disney agreed to protect this area in exchange for being allowed to develop what would become the community of Celebration.