Large Families May Have To Make Two Disney Hotel Reservations Under 2026 Rule

A new occupancy policy at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will force some families to rethink their Walt Disney World Resort vacation planning strategies. Starting next year, parties of nine or ten will no longer fit within a single campsite reservation, potentially doubling the number of accommodation bookings for affected guests.

Eight-Guest Cap Affects Most Fort Wilderness Campsite Types

Come 2026, the maximum occupancy for campsite bookings at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will be eight guests. The previous allowance for nine or ten people per site ends when the new year begins.

This occupancy reduction affects nearly every camping option available at the resort, including Premium Campsites, Premium Meadow Campsites, Full Hook-Up Campsites, Tent or Pop-Up Campsites, and Preferred Campsites. The updated limit essentially covers the entire campground operation at the Walt Disney World Resort hotel.

Cabin rentals at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort are exempt from the policy change. These accommodations already operated with a six-guest maximum, and that number remains unchanged heading into 2026.

Walt Disney World Resort has offered no official explanation regarding the decision to reduce campsite capacity.

Budget Options Still Available Despite Changes

Even with the modified occupancy rules, Fort Wilderness camping remains among the more economical choices for Walt Disney World Resort stays. Tent, pop-up, and full-hookup sites continue to offer the best value when compared to other on-property accommodations—even for groups now requiring two separate reservations.

Traditional Disney Resort hotel rooms and suites typically accommodate no more than six people. Larger capacity options are available through select Villas and bungalows that sleep nine to twelve, but availability is limited, and nightly rates can easily reach into the thousands.

Existing December Bookings Remain Valid

Families holding Disney’s Fort Wilderness reservations for December 2025 with nine or ten guests do not need to worry. Walt Disney World Resort will honor these bookings under the previous capacity guidelines. The eight-guest limitation only applies to stays scheduled from January 2026 forward.

Check back with Disney Dining for ongoing coverage of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort policies and other news from across Walt Disney World Resort.