Top Ten Things You Need to Know About Fort Wilderness Resort

Top Ten Things You Need to Know About Fort Wilderness Resort

It is easy to get confused by Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Is it a campground or is it a resort? The answer is that is can be either one of those things and a whole lot more. If you’re looking to feel at one with nature while still being surrounded by all things Disney, Fort Wilderness Resort might be the perfect place for you to stay during your vacation.

10) Bring Your Dog!

There are 788 campsites at Fort Wilderness. They are divided between tent camping and RV camping. Some of the RV sites allow you to keep your pet with you, which you aren’t allowed to do anywhere else on Disney property. Up to ten guests are allowed at each site, and many offer full hookups for your recreational vehicle. The best part of all about the campsites is the price. It is by far the cheapest accommodation that you’ll find at Walt Disney World.

9) Modern Conveniences

Want to rough it but still enjoy all the modern conveniences that you’re used to? Consider booking a cabin at Fort Wilderness. The cabins look rustic but they have kitchens and, more importantly, comfortable beds. You’ll even have your own grill. Each cabin sleeps up to six people. Pets are not allowed in the Cabin’s at Fort Wilderness Resort.

8) Stay in Shape

If you’re a jogger, walker, or love to ride a bike you’ll want to check out the trails at Fort Wilderness Resort. They are arguably the best on Walt Disney World property. There is a 2.5 mile jogging trail and a 3/4 mile shaded fitness trail. Want to ride the trails but you didn’t bring your bike with you? Not a problem, you can rent one at the Bike Barn. If hitting the trails isn’t your thing, you can stay in shape by going for a swim. There are themed pools available to those staying at the resort.

7) Wilderness Back Trail Adventure

Who says that Walt Disney World is just for young children? Those 16 and older can learn how to ride a Segway and then take a two hour tour on one. Don’t worry if you have never ridden one before, the staff at the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure will make sure that you’re ready. You’ll watch a video, learn about safety, and then practice before the group hits the trail. It will be two hours that you and your party will never forget.

6) Unique Recreation Opportunities

There is so much to do at Fort Wilderness that you won’t have a chance to get bored. You can rent a kayak or a canoe. You can also take a spin in a motorized boat. You might want to try your hand at archery. Try your skills at some arcade games. There are basketball courts, volleyball courts, and playgrounds for the kids. With all that there is to do at Fort Wilderness, you might forget about the theme parks!

5) Tri-Circle-D Ranch

One of the best reasons to stay at Fort Wilderness is Tri-Circle-D Ranch. Take a stroll around and look at the horses and ponies. If you’re adventurous (and nine or older), you can sign up for a horseback ride. Wagon rides and carriage rides are also available. In the winter you can even enjoy a Holiday Sleigh Ride, without having to dash through any snow.

4) Electrical Water Pageant

Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is the final stop for the nightly Electrical Water Pageant. It can be seen around 9:45 each night, weather permitting. It’s a fun show that you have to see to believe. It’s a mystical, patriotic parade that takes place on the water. Where else can you see lights that make up a sea monster and an American flag in the same show? The musical score makes the presentation even more special. It’s a Disney gem that many people do not know about.

3) Disney Benefits

Anyone staying at Fort Wilderness receives all of the Disney on-site benefits, even if they pitch a tent. You can take advantage of things like Extra Magic Hours, Disney’s Magical Express, the Disney Dining Plan, and advanced FastPass+ reservations. The benefits that make staying on property so attractive are available to all.

2) Musical Meals

Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is home to not one, but two different dinner theaters. Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review is a salute to the Wild West. Mickey’s Backyard BBQ is seasonal and features Mickey and a few of his friends. Both shows are all you can eat and include beer and wine for those of age. No matter which show you reserve, you’re going to have a blast.

If you’re not in the mood for a musical meal you might want to check out Trail’s End Restaurant. There are also snack bars and lounges, you won’t go hungry.

1) Chip ’N Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-Long

Campfires are fairly common at the Walt Disney World resorts. What is special about the nightly campfire at Fort Wilderness is that Chip ‘n’ Dale are there! You’ll sing all of your favorite campfire songs, toast some marshmallows, and have a chance to hang out two classic Disney characters. Chip ’N Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-long is the perfect way to end an incredible day at Walt Disney World.

(Photo Credit to Disney Parks.)