Discovery Island, a forgotten gem in Disney World's Bay Lake, lies abandoned and overgrown. Once a vibrant zoological park, it closed in 1999, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful hidden landscape. Explore urban legends surrounding its closure, and ponder the reasons for its abandonment, offering a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of Disney's past.
River Country, once a vibrant and beloved water park nestled on the shores of Bay Lake at Walt Disney World, now sits eerily abandoned, a ghostly reminder of a bygone era. While millions flock to the meticulously maintained theme parks and resorts each year, few realize that a piece of Disney history is slowly decaying just a stone's throw away. This abandoned island, visible from several locations around the Magic Kingdom area, holds a strange allure for urban explorers and Disney enthusiasts alike.
A Nostalgic Splash: The Rise of River Country
River Country opened on June 20, 1976, as Disney's first water park. It was designed to evoke a rustic, "old swimming hole" feel, quite different from the high-tech water parks we see today. The park's design incorporated Bay Lake's natural landscape, with a clever system that filtered lake water into the main swimming areas. Attractions included:
Bay Cove: A large swimming area with a sandy bottom and various water activities.
Whoop 'n' Holler Hollow: Two thrilling water slides that plunged guests into Bay Cove.
Slippery Slide Falls: A series of smaller slides perfect for younger children.
Fort Wilderness Railroad: A miniature train that transported guests around the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, with a stop at River Country.
The park quickly gained popularity, offering a unique and refreshing escape from the Florida heat. It was a charming and somewhat quirky addition to the Disney World experience, attracting families seeking a more laid-back and natural setting.
The Mystery of the Closure: Why River Country Closed Its Doors
River Country operated for 25 years, but in November 2001, Disney announced that the park would not reopen for the 2002 season. The official reason given was that the park was undergoing renovations. However, the renovations never happened, and River Country remained closed, eventually becoming the abandoned site it is today.
Several factors likely contributed to the park's demise. The rise of newer, more elaborate water parks like Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, with their advanced technology and theming, presented stiff competition. Furthermore, concerns about the water quality in Bay Lake, despite the filtration system, may have played a role. Tragically, there were also reports of a child contracting a deadly amoebic infection from the lake water in 1980. While this occurred before significant improvements to the filtration system, the incident likely cast a shadow over the park's reputation.
Here's a breakdown of some key factors that contributed to the closure:
Factor |
Description |
|---|
Competition |
Newer, more technologically advanced water parks like Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon offered a more exciting experience. |
Water Quality Concerns |
While Disney maintained the water was filtered, concerns about Bay Lake's natural environment persisted. |
Amoebic Meningitis Incident |
A tragic incident in 1980 involving a child contracting amoebic meningitis in Bay Lake likely contributed to negative perceptions. |
Operating Costs |
Maintaining an older water park with a unique filtration system could have become increasingly expensive. |
The Abandoned Island Today: A Glimpse into a Forgotten Past
Today, River Country stands as a silent testament to a bygone era of Disney history. The water slides are rusted and overgrown with vegetation. The swimming areas are filled with murky water and debris. The buildings are dilapidated and covered in graffiti. It is a haunting and fascinating sight, a stark contrast to the pristine image that Disney usually projects.
Access to River Country is strictly prohibited, and security patrols the area to prevent trespassers. However, glimpses of the abandoned park can be seen from various locations around Fort Wilderness and Bay Lake. Several aerial photos and videos have also surfaced online, offering a glimpse into the park's current state.
The future of River Country remains uncertain. While there have been rumors of redevelopment over the years, Disney has yet to announce any concrete plans. For now, it remains an abandoned island, a hidden gem (or perhaps a hidden sorrow) for those who know where to look. It serves as a reminder that even in the "Most Magical Place on Earth," time and nature eventually take their toll.
Why is River Country so fascinating?
The allure of River Country lies in its juxtaposition with the meticulously crafted and controlled environment that defines the rest of Walt Disney World. It's a raw, unfiltered glimpse behind the curtain, showcasing the impermanence of even the most carefully planned creations. The abandoned park evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, a time before massive water parks with towering slides and simulated blizzards. It's also a reminder of the power of nature, as the environment reclaims what was once a bustling hub of activity. The mystery surrounding its closure, coupled with the limited access and the eerie silence, further fuels the fascination with this forgotten corner of Disney World.
