It’s no secret that we love a good Walt Disney World resort – the more theming, the better. But, everyone once in a while, we like brushing off the bells and whistles and escaping all that pixie dust for the simple pleasures of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Split between rustic cabins and campsites nestled amid pine forests, it’s a relaxing stay in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area.
So, how does Fort Wilderness Campground compare to other Walt Disney World Resorts? Who should try Fort Wilderness camping? Are the cabins or campsites better? Continue on, as we break down everything you need to know about the Disney Fort Wilderness Campground. (Updated August 17, 2023)
Overview
Unlike other Disney World resorts, the beauty of Fort Wilderness is that there is no theme. This is all about being out in nature, whether it’s sleeping in a tent beneath the stars, riding a horse through the stately pines and cypress trees, fishing on Bay Lake, or roasting marshmallows over the campfire.
Fort Wilderness Resort is also unique in that it is considered both a value and a moderate resort, with campsites fetching the lowest rates and the cabins the highest. Regardless of which option you choose, each enjoys up-close views of the area’s natural beauty and access to an astonishing number of resort amenities.
Overall, a stay at this Walt Disney World campground can truly be as big of an attraction as a visit to the theme parks. It can be an incredible value as long as you choose to stay on one of the campsites. Plus, it’s the perfect option for nature lovers and those who like a reprieve from all the Disney magic after a long day in the parks.
Staying at the Disney Fort Wilderness Cabins & Campground
When staying at a resort on Walt Disney World property, there are generally a few things you need to remember, such as how far the resort is from the parks, the resort’s amenities, if there is dining available for everyone in the family, and maybe even the resort’s theming. For families looking for a rustic escape from the over-the-top theming that’s still in the thick of the Disney action, the Campsites and Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground are a perfect choice.
Currently, the Disney Fort Wilderness campground has a 4.5 on TripAdvisor, landing it in the top 7 of specialty lodging in Orlando. If you decide to stay at the Disney campground, there are a few other things you’ll need to think about as well, like whether you’d rather stay in one of the Fort Wilderness cabins or plan on roughing it at one of the Walt Disney World campsites instead (and, if you do decide to camp, how much space you’ll need).
Keep in mind that, unless you opt for one of the cabins, you will be camping at Disney World, meaning you’ll need to bring your own tents, pop-up camper, or RV. Aside from lots of peace and quiet in the great outdoors, Walt Disney World camping has its fair share of perks.
Fort Wilderness is one of the only Disney World resorts that is dog friendly, so pets are allowed to join your family as long as you follow a few simple rules including staying on-leash, picking up your pet’s droppings, and making sure your furry friend isn’t disruptive. And for those wanting to move around the resort with ease, you can also rent golf carts at Fort Wilderness. Keep in mind that renting a golf cart at Fort Wilderness is incredibly popular, so reservations are highly recommended.
Part of the fun of staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground is being able to cook for yourself over an open fire. For those staying in one of the Fort Wilderness cabins, keep mealtime simple with groceries delivered directly to your refrigerator. Finally, if you so choose, you can even decorate your campsite or cabin. This is especially popular for those visiting during the holidays, especially at Christmas. Just be sure to follow the guidelines here.
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Whether you want to rough it in a tent under the stars or bask in glamping luxury from the comfort of your RV, the Disney Fort Wilderness Campground is sure to have a campsite that fits your needs.
Tent or Pop-Up Campsite
- Sleeps up to 10 adults
- Space for a camper van or a pop-up camper, plus up to 2 tents
- Concrete slab up to 10 feet by 25 feet
Full Hook-Up Campsite
- Sleeps up to 10 adults
- Space for an RV and a tent
- Concrete slab up to 10 feet by 50 feet
- Sewage hook-up included
Preferred Campsite
- Sleeps up to 10 adults
- Space for an RV and a small tent
- Concrete slab up to 10 feet by 45 feet
- Sewage hook-up included
- Near the marina
Premium Campsite
- Sleeps up to 10 adults
- Space for a larger RV
- Concrete slab up to 18 feet by 60 feet
- Sewage hook-up included
Premium Meadow Campsite
- Sleeps up to 10 adults
- Space for a larger RV
- Concrete slab up to 18 feet by 60 feet
- Sewage hook-up included
- Close to the Meadow Trading Post, Meadow Recreation Area, Bike Barn, and Campfire Area
In general, all of the Fort Wilderness campsites include: a picnic table, a charcoal grill, cold water tap, television and electrical hook-ups, free WiFi, privacy-enhancing landscaping, and views of the surrounding woods.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
For those who’d rather not have to tow a camper or pack a tent, or for those looking to experience the great outdoors without having to actually sleep in it, the Fort Wilderness cabins offer all the comforts of home surrounded by the secluded beauty of Mother Nature. And best of all, you can let housekeeping take care of the dishes!
Wilderness Cabin
- Sleeps up to 6 adults
- 1 queen bed and 1 bunk bed and 1 double-size sofa sleeper
- Views of woods
In general, all of the Fort Wilderness cabins include: a hairdryer, an iron & ironing board, a telephone with voicemail, free WiFi, and a kitchen (dishwasher, 2 cooktop burners, refrigerator, convection microwave oven, coffee maker, and toaster).
Disney Fort Wilderness Campground Rates
When making Fort Wilderness campground reservations, you will likely notice that rates can vary widely. That’s because while The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is considered one of the value hotels at Disney World, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is one of the Disney moderate hotels.
At the campsites specifically, rates also increase for campsites with larger concrete slabs, more provided hook-ups, and better locations. Fort Wilderness prices also vary depending on when you decide to travel, particularly if it’s during the high, low, or shoulder seasons and if it’s during a holiday.
Here’s what you can expect to pay to stay at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground & Cabins in 2023 (plan for slightly cheaper rates in 2022):
- Tent or Pop-Up Campsite: $96 to $199
- Full Hook-Up Campsite: $127 to $242
- Preferred Campsite: $135 to $270
- Premium Campsite: $147 to $280
- Premium Meadow Campsite: $159 to $320
- Wilderness Cabin: $448 to $872
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Amenities
Even though you’re just a boat ride across Bay Lake from Magic Kingdom, when you’re surrounded by towering pine and cypress trees, going camping at Walt Disney World Resort can make you feel like you’re worlds away. Best of all, the resort’s sprawling 750 acres are chock full of things to see, do, and eat. Let’s dig into everything this Disney RV park has to offer.
Fort Wilderness Restaurants
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort may not have the most restaurants of any resort on Disney property, but it does have some can’t-miss dining experiences. No matter if you’re looking for a moonshine-filled cocktail, a bottomless buffet of comforting breakfast and dinner favorites, a hootenanny of a dinner show, or a sandwich to go, there’s a Fort Wilderness dining option to fit your Disney day.
Crockett’s Tavern
Mosey on up to the bar at Crockett’s Tavern, the walk-up drink window next to Pioneer Hall, for bar bites with a Southern comfort food twist and drinks dripping with moonshine. With rocking chairs on a wraparound porch replacing the rowdy bar crowds or soft tinkling of glasses and hushed whispers, this isn’t like any of the other lounges you’ll find on Disney property.
Crockett’s Tavern has a delightfully extensive bar menu. While classics like the Rum Swizzle and Spicy Poblano Margarita, as well as wines and brews, are available, we suggest going for one of the specialty cocktails mixed with moonshine like the Blackberry Lightnin’ or the Gullywhumper. Top it all off with some Fried Green Tomatoes or the pulled pork-topped Smoke House Nachos.
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
Enjoy two hours filled with finger-lickin’ good food, rousing music, and laugh-out-loud entertainment at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Disney’s longest-running stage show. Advance reservations are required, and audience participation is encouraged at this Disney dinner show set in Pioneer Hall.
Here, guests dine on buckets full of bottomless downhome favorites like crispy Fried Chicken, smoky BBQ Pork Ribs, and sweet Strawberry Shortcake. Soft drinks are included, as are *unlimited* beer, wine, and sangria for all the Disney adults over 21 in attendance.
Meadow Snack Bar
Next to the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool, the Meadow Snack Bar is the perfect spot for guests looking for some All-American sustenance in between trips down the waterslide. This open-air pool bar serves up filling favorites like the Wilderness Dog piled with pulled pork, Meadow’s Loaded Chips, pizzas, and fresh salads. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including some of those moonshine-filled cocktails, are also available.
P & J’s Southern Takeout
Rustle up some hearty grub at P & J’s Southern Takeout. The current Trail’s End Restaurant’s attached counter service counterpart, P & J’s Southern Takeout is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with individual entrees, kids’ meals, and even family meals being available.
This is comfort food to-go. We’re talkin’ French Toast Sticks and Potato Barrels in the morning, Barbecued Pulled Pork in the afternoon, and a Half-Slab of Barbecued Ribs in the evening. You can even get a refreshing bowl of Strawberry Shortcake.
The Chuck Wagon
Need food extra fast? Track down The Chuck Wagon food truck, a classic camper serving up portable eats straight from your neighborhood cookout. Here, guests can grab handhelds like Hot Dogs, Corn Dog Nuggets, and Chicken Nuggets or the slightly-less-mobile Pioneer Berry Salad, as well as both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Keep in mind that this is a food truck, so The Chuck Wagon’s location is apt to change. And while you’re waiting for your food, take some time to appreciate all the little details, like retro Disney stickers and the old-school camping chairs hanging from the back, packed into this quirky food truck.
Trail’s End Restaurant
Newly reimagined into a quick-service eatery after spending many years as a hidden gem of a buffet restaurant, Trail’s End Restaurant is back to serving comfort Southern comfort food classics. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, resort guests can hearty dishes like Barbecued Ribs and Pulled Pork, Fried Chicken and Burgers, as well as cozy sides like Mac & Cheese and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy. Add in a dining room that feels decidedly un-Disney, the restaurant is a welcome respite from the craziness of the theme parks and the perfect place to fuel up before or after a long day of adventures.
Fort Wilderness Pools
Guests staying at this Disney campground have access to two different pools: the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and the Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool. The Meadow Swimmin’ Pool, part of the Meadow Recreation Area, is the resort’s feature pool. This sprawling water complex comes complete with a 67-foot corkscrew waterslide, a whirlpool spa, and a water playground themed to look like an old fort in the wild west. For a more relaxed swim, guests can also visit the more mellow Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool and hot tub.
Other Recreation at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
The only Disney World campground, Fort Wilderness is a massive resort with the most amenities of any other resort on property. As a result of its location and sheer size, there are tons of outdoor activities to be had here, making it one of our favorite hotels to do some resort hopping even if you aren’t spending the night.
Kids staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will love Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long, Movies Under the Stars, pony rides, playgrounds, and Daniel Boone’s and Davy Crockett’s Wilderness Arcades. Meanwhile, adults might enjoy getting in a workout on the jogging trail, showing their skills on the basketball or beach volleyball courts, or exploring the backwoods of Disney World by Segway on the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. The resort is filled with activities for the whole family like the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience, horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides, and fishing excursions. You can even rent a bike, kayak, canoe, or motorized boat to discover resort’s watery highways and earthly byways.
And whatever you do, you won’t want to miss the Tri-Circle-D Ranch. Not only is this where the horses of Fort Wilderness live, but it’s also where Cinderella’s Ponies and the trusty steeds of Main Street call home. In short, there’s no shortage of things to do at Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
Fort Wilderness Merchandise Locations
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground has two different shops available for guests. The Meadow Trading Post is located near the middle of this sprawling Disney World RV park. Whether your campsite is in the area or you’re planning to attend the nearby campfire and need to grab some stuff for s’mores, this is a convenient place to pick up some camping supplies or even rent a movie. Located back near Pioneer Hall and the resort’s Marina, the Settlement Trading Post is another place for guests to pick up a souvenir or stock up on that thing you forget from home.
Both shops also stock a variety of Disney merchandise, some even inspired by Fort Wilderness, as well as snacks and essentials. Due to the pandemic, operating hours may be reduced, so we recommend checking with a cast member once you’re at the resort.
Fort Wilderness FAQs
Want to know more about Disney Fort Wilderness Campground? Read on for answers to some commonly asked questions.
What can you do at Fort Wilderness?
Lots! Thanks to its abundant outdoor space, Fort Wilderness is blessed with tons of outdoor activities like fishing, archery, horseback riding, wagon and carriage rides, bike and boat rentals (including motorized boats, canoes, and kayaks), campfires with Chip and Dale, and so much more.
How long is the boat ride from Fort Wilderness to Magic Kingdom?
Although buses are also available, guests can take an approximately 10-minute boat ride from the back of Fort Wilderness to the main entrance of Magic Kingdom. In fact, if you time your trip accordingly, this is actually one of our favorite places to watch the Disney World fireworks outside the parks.
Can you see fireworks from Fort Wilderness?
Although you won’t get as good of a view as you would from some other Magic Kingdom area resorts – particularly the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and Polynesian – you can see both the Magic Kingdom fireworks and the Electric Water Pageant from the beach area along Bay Lake.
Can you walk from Fort Wilderness to Magic Kingdom?
Unfortunately not. While it is a Magic Kingdom area resort, Fort Wilderness is definitely not within walking distance from Magic Kingdom. However, both buses and boat rides across Bay Lake are available for guests traveling between the resort and the park.
What is the best loop at Fort Wilderness?
Unless you’re planning on spending all your time at the resort or visiting Magic Kingdom, we suggest you try for a loop near the center of the resort. This includes Premium Meadow Campsites as well as other loops nearby. This will help keep you close to both the main pool area and the various bus routes that crisscross through Fort Wilderness.
Can you pick your campsite at Fort Wilderness?
While it isn’t guaranteed, you are able to submit a request for your preferred site or loop during online check-in or upon your arrival at the front desk. Alternatively, you can also call the Disney Resort Hotels Reservations Line at (407) 939-1936.
What is the best cabin loop at Fort Wilderness?
In our opinion, the best cabins can be found on loop 100 – specifically cabin numbers 118 and 120. The only cabins found on the loop for preferred campsites, these are just a short 3-minute walk from the boat launch and Pioneer Hall.
Well, that wraps up our Disney Fort Wilderness review. Overall, we love this resort. With its rustic, away-from-it-all atmosphere and abundant outdoor amenities, it’s a welcome departure from the other Walt Disney World resorts whether you’re traveling as a family with young children or with a group of adults.
While you’re there, make the most out of your visit to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, or Hollywood Studios with one of our one-day plans. Or, if you’d prefer to make your dollar go farther, save some cash with our discounted Walt Disney World tickets.
Have you stayed at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground or tried out one of their restaurants? If you have, we want to know about it! Any tips or tricks we forgot? Let us know in the comments.
