Wildlife Refuge

About the Wildlife Refuge

“From small beginnings came great things” represents the creation of the Hardee County Wildlife Refuge. From a few rough cages located around the perimeter of Pioneer Park to a model Refuge, dreams became reality when we relocated to our new facility in 2001. Today the Refuge is home to native Florida wildlife and a few exotic species, each housed in natural-type habitats.

Coming from various walks of life, each animal has been placed in our care with their own unique story. However, they do have one thing in common – they needed a forever home and could not survive in the wild. Now they are thriving in their refuge home, which provides nutritional food, shelter, and large physical areas for enrichment activity. Guests are encouraged to visit the Refuge and take a stroll among the tree tops on the elevated boardwalk and become educated about the animals that make the Hardee County Wildlife Refuge their home.

Admission

Wildlife Refuge

Under 6 years of age – FREE – Daily (MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT)
Ages 7 – 13 – $3.00 + tax ($3.21) – Daily (MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT)
Ages 14 & up – $6.00 + tax ($6.42) – Daily
Yearly Pass – $25.00 + tax ($26.75) – Single
Yearly Pass – $40.00 + tax ($42.80) – Family

Combo Tickets

Under 6 years of age – FREE – Daily (MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT)
Age 7 to 13 – $3.00 + tax ($4.28) – Combo Ticket for the Wildlife Refuge and the Museum
Age 14 & Up – $5.00 + tax ($6.42) – Combo Ticket for the Wildlife Refuge and the Museum
Yearly Pass – $40.00 + tax ($42.80) – Single – Museum & Wildlife Refuge
Yearly Pass – $85.00 + tax ($90.95) – Single – Hardee Lakes, Museum, Wildlife Refuge

Tours

Hardee County Refuge is now offering scheduled tours by appointment only.

Please call 863-473-4892 and leave a message to schedule a guided tour.