Gatorland
RV and reptile lovers can take great delight in a visit to Orlando, Florida, for there’s no better vacationing spot than Gatorland! Visit year-round.
Event information
No matter the time of year, Gatorland, in Orlando, Florida, proves itself as a standout attraction for the animal lovers in your family. Whether you need to dust off your own motorhome for a well-deserved vacation, or you plan to rent an RV in Florida, there’s every reason to put Gatorland at the top of your list.
Gatorland has been a must-visit attraction since the 1940s and continues to amaze with thousands of alligators, a petting zoo, aviary, miniature railroad, shows, and educational experiences. Even the breeding marsh, zip lines, and off-road swamp vehicle tour bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the theme park and wildlife preserve every year.
Explore over 110 acres of land, jump aboard the Gatorland Express, or release your inner adventure-seeker by zip-lining 1,200 feet over a pool of alligators.
Gatorland offers something for everyone, be it a reptile lover who’s keen to see rare leucistic alligators and crocodiles, or someone who is eager to try something new.
While in Orlando, RV-goers who’ve collected a motorhome rental in Florida may like to add a few other attractions to their list. Pay a visit to SeaWorld Orlando, go swimming at Lake Louisa State Park, or add Universal Studios Florida to your list of things to do.
Whether you’re on a summer vacation or you’re taking a well-deserved break in fall or spring, you’ll never be short of fun things to do while in the Orange County City of Orlando, Florida.
Tickets
While planning an RV road trip to Orlando, Florida, it’s worth thinking about the best ticketing options for a visit to Gatorland. Families can buy single-day passes for adults and children from $15 to $40, or annual passes for more than one visit. Fancy going on the Gatorland Express or Zip Line? Then have a few extra dollars spare for these attractions, too. Purchase tickets in advance to enjoy potential savings.
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Transportation
Driving
RV-goers traveling from the direction of Jacksonville, Tampa, or Miami will likely be blown away by how scenic the journey can be. From I-95, I-4, or US routes, the journey is bound to be packed full of fun things to see and do along the way.
Even on the outskirts of Orlando, thrill-seekers can go hiking and horseback riding at Charles H. Bronson State Forest, or fishing and boating at Seminole State Forest. By making use of a traffic aid like Florida 511, visitors can also know how much time they have to spare before they need to be at their RV campground near Gatorland, and what toll roads may require cash on hand.
Upon arriving in Orlando, travelers will be pleased to know that Gatorland is within a half-hour drive of Walt Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando.
Parking areas
Parking for tow vehicles and campervans is free and conveniently located at the entrance to Gatorland. However, spaces are limited, and RVs and Class A vehicles may not be able to park onsite. Consider public transportation as an option for convenience. It also helps to arrive early in the day to improve the chance of securing a parking space.
Public Transportation
For travelers who prefer to leave their motorhome at an RV campground near Gatorland, public transportation can prove quite convenient. A bus service runs regular routes along South Orange Blossom Trail, Gatorland’s location, and around the city center. Alongside buses, travelers may also see the value in rideshare services and taxis to get from Orlando RV parks to Gatorland.
Where to stay
Onsite
Camping with crocs would be very few people’s idea of a relaxing holiday, which is why Orlando offers no shortage of RV campgrounds nearby instead. Travelers can take great delight in having an abundance of options to suit their needs, including Orlando RV resorts with service hookups and primitive RV camping for those who have caught the adventure bug.
Nearby
For campers who desire luxury and comfort during an RV road trip to Orlando, Florida, Orlando SE / Lake Whippoorwill KOA will deliver. Located within a short 14-mile distance of Gatorland, it’s well-positioned for navigation in the heart of Orlando. Orlando / Kissimmee KOA is another worthwhile option, with a short eight-mile drive from Gatorland to the campsite. Campers may strike toll roads along the way.
For the outdoors enthusiast, Moss Park offers campsites for RVs and is within 16 miles of Gatorland. Travelers may also like to go walking, fishing, and camping at the Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area in nearby Christmas, Florida.
Getting around
Getting around Gatorland can be an exciting experience for any visitor. Zipline your way across the croc ponds, or take the mini train to see as much of the wildlife reserve as possible. Wheelchairs and strollers are also available for hire, but bikes, scooters, and similar are best to be left in your motorhome. Bring a comfortable pair of footwear and take your time exploring the vast grounds.
What to pack
Clothing
Gatorland is open year-round, which means that clothing choices are specific to the season in which you’re visiting. Fortunately, the humid subtropical climate sees plenty of sunshine, but there’s also no shortage of rainfall. Pack a range of clothing items to suit all seasons and activities, including adventures into the great outdoors, like hiking at Rock Springs Run State Reserve in Sorrento, Florida.
Gear
Lock camping, cooking, and other equipment up tight before parking your motorhome and leaving it unattended. Leave coolers, picnic baskets, food, and large bags in your motorhome before entering Gatorland, too. Visitors can bring cash and payment cards for purchases, as well as small bags, but traveling light can often allow for a more comfortable experience.
Health & Safety
Being surrounded by thousands of crocodiles and alligators can mean that health and safety need to be a visitor’s top priority! Always be aware of your surroundings, and pack as many essentials into your motorhome as possible, including drinking water, a first-aid kit, and toiletries.
Sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and bug spray can also be convenient for trips to Gatorland and nearby attractions like Lake Marion Creek Wildlife Management Area in Haines City, Florida.
Where to eat
Cooking
When the time comes to leave Gatorland and set up camp for the evening, it’s worth thinking about what to cook for everyone. RV kitchen appliances, propane grills, and even fire pits can all prove convenient for preparing the evening meal. Check with your host before using barbeques and outdoor fires.
Supplies for delicious options like stews, chowders, and hot dogs can be purchased from a grocery store within seven miles of Gatorland in Kissimmee.
Restaurants
Orlando has a vibrant and colorful culinary landscape, and travelers can hardly take an RV road trip to Florida without trying some of the city’s most exquisite dishes. From hot chicken and meaty ribs to seafood and bakery goods, Orlando has it all. Many outstanding eateries are also within a short trek of Gatorland, which can be the perfect excuse to take a night off cooking.
Vendors
After watching crocs and alligators devouring delicious delicacies, why not pick up a bite to eat for yourself? Gatorland offers many different food options to get rid of those hunger pangs. Stop in at the snack bar, or satisfy that sweet tooth at the Fudge Kitchen. There are even a coffee shop and a general store for light snacks. Bring both cash and payment cards and take a well-deserved break during your visit.
Safety
Security
Bags, strollers, backpacks, and even clutch purses can all be subject to a search at the entry to Gatorland. Friendly security officials at the gates will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have, and there is even the option to leave bags with the admission clerks if you aren’t able to leave them in your motorhome. For any security concerns outside of Gatorland, visitors to the area can make their way to the nearest police station under five miles from Gatorland.
Weather
Orlando experiences two basic seasons: hot and warm. May until September is often hot and rainy, while October until April is often warm and dry. At any time of the year that RV-goers wish to visit Gatorland, it’s worth checking a weather app. You can then establish whether you’ll need to turn on your heaters or air conditioning for a trip to Florida.
Medical
It can seem unnerving to have a first-aid area at a park that’s home to thousands of alligators and crocs, but there’s one that’s easily accessible should a traveler require it. Locate a Gatorland staff member to lead the way or phone 911 in an emergency. Travelers can also pick up medical supplies at a pharmacy within five miles of Gatorland, or access medical care at the nearest hospital within the same distance.
