A Sudden Change in Frontierland
If you’re planning a trip to the Rivers of America at Disneyland Park this week, you’ll need to keep your compass handy for a detour. In a move that surprised many guests, Disneyland Resort updated its operational calendar on April 27, 2026, to show that Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island has officially closed for refurbishment. This iconic piece of Walt Disney’s original vision for the park didn’t receive a long-term heads-up, leaving travelers to find the raft docks quiet on Monday morning.
According to the latest schedule updates from Disneyland, the attraction is currently listed as closed through May 7, with a potential reopening on May 8. However, it’s worth noting that Disney hasn’t put out a formal press release or a permanent reopening date yet. Instead, the park is encouraging guests to keep an eye on the official website and the Disneyland app for any further shifts in the project timeline. This kind of immediate refurbishment often suggests routine maintenance or minor cosmetic updates, but in the world of Imagineering, plans can always evolve.
The Last Island Standing
This closure is particularly noteworthy because the version of the island at Disneyland Resort is now the only operating Tom Sawyer Island in the United States. Fans will remember that Walt Disney World Resort in Florida closed its version of the island, along with the Liberty Square Riverboat and the surrounding Rivers of America, in the summer of 2025. That area at Magic Kingdom Park is currently being transformed into Piston Peak National Park, a new land inspired by the Cars franchise.
While the Florida version is making way for off-road racing and family adventures, the California version remains a tribute to the classic storytelling of 1956, albeit with the 2007 “Pirate’s Lair” overlay. Because the entire island is included in this refurbishment, guests won’t be able to ride the transportation rafts or explore the caves and forts until the work is finished.
Planning Your Frontierland Visit
Don’t let a temporary closure dampen your spirits. Frontierland is still packed with plenty of adventure while the island is undergoing its refresh. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time in this corner of the park:
- Check the App Frequently: Since the reopening date is currently tied to the operational calendar rather than a formal announcement, checking the Disneyland app each morning of your trip is the best way to see if the rafts have started running again early.
- Focus on the Classics: Use the time you would have spent on the island to grab a shorter wait for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or enjoy the atmosphere of the Golden Horseshoe.
- Visit the Neighbors: While the island is down, you can still catch a ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat or the Sailing Ship Columbia to enjoy the sights of the river from the water.
Refurbishments are a natural part of keeping the magic alive, especially for an attraction that has been part of the park for seven decades. We’ll be watching the docks closely to see when the pirates return to their lair.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.