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Fort Wilderness – Extensive Guide on Staying and Playing (28 Fun Activities)

Fort Wilderness has the MOST amount of things to do compared to any other Walt Disney World Resort. In this blog post, we are providing an extensive guide on EVERYTHING there is to do here, as well all the information you need on how to stay here. Along with some Disney secrets from a local.

Disclaimer: There are some links in this article that are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission. This is never an extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness

Disney’s Fort Wilderness is a favorite of mine! Which is ironic, since I’m a city girl through and through. And I’ve never actually been camping. Unless you consider sleeping in a tent in the middle of a high school track for an overnight cancer run during college, camping. In fact, my thoughts on camping are spot on to Jim Gaffigan’s stand-up comedy routine about the same. [Jim Gaffigan - King Baby - Camping - YouTube]. So, why is Fort Wilderness my favorite? Even though, we are in the wilderness, you are still on Disney property. Near all that Walt Disney World has to offer yet tucked away in your own oasis. At Fort Wilderness alone, there are more things to do than at any other Disney resort. And we are going through all of them here in this blog post!

Fort Wilderness Resort

There are two main Fort Wilderness locations which can sometimes be confusing: Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites and Wilderness Lodge. With Wilderness Lodge, you have the main hotel as well as Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas and Cabins. Fort Wilderness Resort has its own cabins as well as multiple types of campsites. This blog post is all about Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites and its many amenities.

Fort Wilderness Map

fort wilderness map

Secret: How to Experience Fort Wilderness Resort amenities without an overnight stay!

We’ve been in Florida since the late 1980’s and lived most of that time near Disney. So, accommodations are not something we routinely needed. So, here’s how we were able to experience the resort amenities without an overnight stay. Firstly, reservations. If you have a reservation of any kind for Fort Wilderness, you can drive onto the property. Such as, dinner or excursion reservations. Disney has a strict cancellation policy, so don’t try to cancel once you are on property, because you may still get charged. Secondly, Disney transportation. You can park in places like Disney Springs that is open to the public then take the bus to Fort Wilderness. Be prepared with time for this option due to bus times and additional stops. Thirdly, if you know anyone that is staying at Fort Wilderness you can visit them just provide their reservation name at the gate. Fourthly, just ask. If you are wanting to do something that doesn’t require a reservation like the campfire, you can ask. This is a hit or miss option though because you can get turned down depending on the busyness of the season or special events. So, have an alternate plan ready.

Disclaimer:

Make sure to obey all signage and follow Disney policy. There are certain areas of the resort property that are designated for hotel guests only like the pools and splash pads which often require special bands. Keep that in mind and do not trespass where you aren’t supposed to be. Otherwise, for all the other areas that are open for everyone. Enjoy! As I said before for those who are local to Florida, you do not need accommodations to enjoy most of these activities. Yet, you most definitely can and should stay at these resorts if you have the opportunity. Although, I’ve always been local to Disney, I’ve still stayed in at least 10 (if not more) of the different Walt Disney World Resorts and many of those on multiple occasions. So, don’t miss out.

Disney Transportation

Walt Disney World and its resorts have all different types of transportation at the ready. Such as, the Skyliner, bus, monorail, or boat. But not all are available at every Disney resort. At Fort Wilderness Resort, you have the Disney bus as well as boat. You can also bring your own personal vehicle (self-parking is an additional cost) or call for a taxi or cab. If you do take Disney transportation like the boat or bus, from there you can get to any of the Walt Disney World properties directly or with a simple transfer. Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites also has a Disney bus that runs throughout the property as some of the recreational areas can be far from one another. There is also a bus that takes you from Fort Wilderness to Wilderness Lodge. You can also walk a path to there as well through the wooded areas.

fort wilderness disney transportation bus

Secret: How to see an abandoned Disney park!

The boat shuttle from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort takes you over Bay Lake to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. On the way, you pass Discovery Island a former wildlife park that closed permanently around 1999. On the opposite side tucked into the trees between Fort Wilderness Resort and Wilderness Lodge, is River Country, Disney’s first water park. I remember going to River Country water park as a teen. It’s strange to see it abandoned after its closure in 2001. Remnants of River Country are soon to disappear as it makes way for another Disney hotel, Reflections.

Fort Wilderness Cabins

For those of you who may want to experience all of Fort Wilderness Resort without having to camp outside overnight then the Fort Wilderness Cabins are just for you. These cabins have all the enjoyments of home like living room with a TV, eat-in kitchen area, bathroom, and plenty of bed space for the whole family. They even have a large deck with barbeque for a party or celebration. These cabins can sleep up to 6 people with a queen bed, bunk bed, and couch that opens to a double bed. Rustic in decor and attention to detail (as is Disney fashion), these cabins are such a fun option. As I mentioned in my Montreal blog post, I love an eat-in kitchen especially with my food allergies. It helps to be able to make my own gluten free and dairy free meals or keep my leftovers to enjoy. The Fort Wilderness Cabin includes:

  • Toaster
  • Dishwasher and 2 countertop burners
  • Hairdryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Coffee Maker
  • Telephone with Voicemail
  • In-Room Safe
  • Iron and Ironing Board

Fort Wilderness Cabins Price

Fort Wilderness Cabins are on average $450 per night not including tax. Prices can range anywhere from $350 to $750 per night. Prices per night can fluctuate depending on many factors such as length of stay, days of the week booked, time of the year booked, and if booking with any promotional deals. Book your stay here.

Fort Wilderness Campground

If you aren’t staying on property and you are just coming for some of the activities, then walking past the campsites in the evening during the holidays is another fun experience. For those people who stay at Fort Wilderness campground for an extended amount of time, it’s common practice to decorate for the holidays. And Christmastime is when the holiday décor is at its best.

fort wilderness campgrounds
fort wilderness campgrounds

Fort Wilderness Campground Rates

All campground sites come with picnic table, Wi-Fi, grill, TV and electric hook ups, cold water tap, and privacy landscaping. You can stay for as little as 1 night and up to a maximum of 30 nights. Each of these is listed by cheapest to expensive options. As the price goes up so does the size and amenities offered. All have a dirt area either for a tent or the picnic table along with a concrete slab of varying sizes. See below for details. Book your stay here.

  • Tent or Pop-Up Campsite

Cost $65 to $165. This campsite has a dirt area for a tent as well as a concrete slab of 10x25 feet. This is the least expensive campsite option.

  • Preferred Campsite

$109 to $230. Concrete slab of 10x45 feet. This campsite also has a sewage hook up and is close to the marina which is where most of the restaurants on property are located.

  • Full Hook Up Campsites

$98 to $205. Concrete slab of 10x50 feet. This campsite also has a sewage hook up.

  • Premium Campsite

$115 to $235. Concrete slab of 18x60 feet. This campsite also has a sewage hook up and is designed for the larger RV’s.

  • Premium Meadow Campsite

$124 to $237. Concrete slab of 18x60 feet. This campsite also has a sewage hook up which can accommodate large RV’s. The main difference between this and the premium campsite is location. The meadow campsite is located close to Meadow Trading Post, the recreation area which has the pool, basketball courts, as well as the campfire area for movie nights.

Things to do at Fort Wilderness

Now we get to the best part of this blog post! And talk about all the fun things to do at Fort Wilderness! There really is so much to do here and in my opinion Fort Wilderness Resort offers more to do than any other Walt Disney World Resort.

Disclaimer:

Due to COVID, not all amenities, recreation, activities, dining, or accommodations may be open. Please reference the Walt Disney World website to find out more before you come. Thank you.

1. Disney Playgrounds

I know what you are thinking. The Walt Disney World parks are the playground. But for those toddlers or young kids in your family that are not tall enough to ride the rides, then this is the fun part. The playground has no crowds and no lines. It’s an opportunity for the kids to just run around, swing, slide, climb, and have lots of fun. Believe it or not, not all Disney resorts have a playground, but Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites does. In fact, there are 4 playgrounds at Fort Wilderness, and they are located all over the property. So, no matter where you are staying there is always a fun place for the kids. If you want to check out all four of the playgrounds, they are all conveniently located near a bus stop. First one is located near the Hoop Dee Doo Revue and overlooks the boat launch on Bay Lake. Second one is located near the Meadow Trading Post, Meadow swimming pool, and campfire. The other two are located throughout the campsite areas.

fort wilderness disney playground
fort wilderness disney playground

2. Fort Wilderness Pool

No Florida vacation is complete without time in the pool cooling off from the Florida heat. And Fort Wilderness does pool time right. There are 2 pool areas on property. Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool is a large pool great for all ages and has an attached bubbly hot tub area for adults. Meadow Swimmin’ Pool is my favorite though. It has a water park worthy water slide that sends you around and around before dumping you in the pool. Not limited to just kids, but fun for all ages. Right next to it is the kids only splash pad and water play area. They will never get tired of all the trips down their very own water slide and getting drenched with sprays and buckets of water. While many Walt Disney World resorts have a towel area and towel return area, Fort Wilderness Resort does not. So, make sure to bring your own towels with you from your cabin or pack your own Disney towels for camping. Other great pool must haves are water shoes (yes, the ground does get that hot in the summer) for mom, dad, and the kids. Don’t forget sunscreen and sun protection.

fort wilderness pool
fort wilderness pool
fort wilderness pool

3. Segway Tour

The Wilderness Back Trail Adventure is the Segway tour offered at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites. It’s a 2-hour guided tour taking you through the woods of the Fort Wilderness Resort property with a stop at the Wilderness Lodge too. You learn some Disney history, hear some funny stories, test your Disney knowledge with some trivia, and stop for some beautiful photos along the way. Michael and I did the Segway tour while we were dating, and it was so much fun. I would definitely go again. Here’s some helpful info for you to know before you go. Don’t forget bug spray. Much of all the fun things to do in Fort Wilderness are outside in wooded areas, so this is a must.

  • Cost: $90 per person (without tax)
  • Weight limit: 100-250 pounds.
  • Age: 16 and older with driver’s license.
  • Be in overall good health, able to stand, must wear a helmet, closed-toe shoes, and weather appropriate clothing.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early. There will be a 30-minute training period prior which will include a small training course to make sure you are ready for the tour.
fort wilderness segway tour

4. Tri-Circle-D Ranch

Tri-Circle-D Ranch just recently moved. It used to be by the settlement bus stop when you first enter Fort Wilderness Resort property, but now it has a much larger home tucked away towards the back of the property near the bus stop for the Hoop Dee Doo Revue. Only open till mid-day, this ranch is free to come in and roam. There are a few beautiful different breeds of horses to see. Including Cinderella’s horses, the horses of Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, and the Dragon Calliope which is the musical instrument wagon from the 1950’s Disneyland Mickey Mouse Club Circus Parade. There is also a small museum area dedicated to Walt Disney’s love for horses as well as the incorporation of horses to the park. This is also the location for the pony rides. The older Tri-Circle-D Ranch location is still open and is the starting point for the horseback trail rides.

fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch

5. Pony Rides

Located at the new Tri-Circle-D Ranch, pony rides are another perfect activity for those little ones in your family. Just walk up, since there is no reservation needed. Only available for those aged 2 years or older, but still under 80 pounds and under 48 inches. Kids have to be able to hold on to the reins by themselves and wear a helmet. They made a new course, and it isn’t just your ordinary circle. It’s more of a windy path, that takes you past the shaded barn stalls to see some of the other horses. We as parents get to be part of the fun too and walk the ponies around the loop. We took the kids, and they had a blast! Cost is $8 for one time around and $12 for two times around.

fort wilderness pony rides
fort wilderness pony rides
fort wilderness pony rides

6. Horseback Riding | Trail Riding

Located at the older location of Tri-Circle-D Ranch at the main entrance to Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites is the starting point for the horseback trail rides. For those of us that are a little taller and larger than the limits of the pony rides, there is horseback riding. Enjoy a 45-minute leisurely ride through the woods of Fort Wilderness seeing all the beautiful wildlife that live on the property and see just how much land there is in Fort Wilderness. You can also read about our horseback riding over the rice fields in our Charleston, South Carolina blog post.

  • Cost: $55 per person (without tax)
  • Age: 9 and older
  • Height: over 48 inches
  • Weight: under 250 pounds
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch
fort wilderness tri circle d ranch horse

7. Wagon Rides 

Wagon rides are typically offered year-round and run daily in the evenings between 6pm to 8:30pm. Come feel like you are in the wild west or on the Oregon trail in a large Conestoga wagon riding through the Disney trails of Fort Wilderness. Fun for the whole family to participate in. You can read about my other old time wagon ride through the tundra of Alaska.

  • 25-minute ride
  • Starts at Pioneer Hall
  • Cost: $12 for Age 10+, $8 for Age 3-9, Free for Age 2 and Under (without tax)
  • No reservations needed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
  • Reservations recommended on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
  • Large group reservations are available in advance

8. Horse Drawn Carriage Rides

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides are typically offered year-round. Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites is one of only two Walt Disney World Resort locations that you can even take a carriage ride. You can feel like Cinderella being chauffeured around in your own private carriage all over the beautiful woods of Fort Wilderness Resort.

  • 25-minute ride
  • Starts at Crockett’s Tavern
  • Carriage fits up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 3 children
  • Each horse drawn carriage ride is $55 (without tax)
  • Reservations recommended

9. Holiday Sleigh Rides

Holiday Sleigh Rides are only offered during the month of December. As I mentioned above, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites are often all out decorated for Christmas by those staying on property, but nothing beats Disney Christmas decoration. During your sleigh ride, you’ll get to experience all the Disney Christmas decorated Fort Wilderness property.

  • 25-minute ride
  • Starts at Meadow Trading Post
  • Sleigh fits up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 3 children
  • Each Sleigh ride is $84 (without tax)
  • Reservations recommended
fort wilderness campgrounds

10. Archery Lessons

Feel like Merida from Brave with some archery lessons at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites. I’ve done archery at the Central Florida Scottish Highland Games and it is much harder than I thought. Just automatically assumed I would be Legolas from Lord of the Rings with a bow and arrow. Not so much. Lol. Definitely could’ve used some archery guidance from the experts here at Disney. With the smaller class sizes offered, you’ll get the focused attention you need to be proficient for your target practice at the end of the class.

  • Cost: $45 per person (without tax)
  • Age: 7+
  • 90-minute session
  • Starts at Bike Barn. Arrive 15 minutes early.
  • No reservations needed but recommended.
central florida scottish highland games

11. Campfire Sing a Long

Chip ‘N’ Dale’s Campfire Sing a Long is one of the most fun and funniest evening activities for the little ones in your family. At the beginning of the night of festivities, there are fun games for the little kids like bowling or throwing a ball. The best part is that Chip and Dale are there to play those games with them. Roman had a blast holding Dale’s hand while waiting in line and then having Dale help him throw the ball. Afterwards, Chip and Dale head to the back for picture taking. During this time, the country singer comes out for some fun interactive songs with the audience. It is so fun and so silly and a great time to be had by all ages. Chip and Dale come back out on stage at the end to participate too. The 2 fire pits on either side of the movie screen get lit and the marshmallow roasting and s'mores eating begins. There are bleachers along the back for seating or benches in the front area for those with wheelchairs or strollers.

  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: All 😊
  • Times: 7pm to 8pm
  • S'mores items available for purchase. These are not gluten free or dairy free friendly, so if you have food allergies like me, then bring your own ingredients for s'mores like my favorite graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. You can purchase the long sticks for roasting marshmallows on premises if you don’t want to purchase those prior and then have to carry them around.
fort wilderness campfire sing a long
fort wilderness campfire sing a long
fort wilderness campfire sing a long
fort wilderness movie under the stars
fort wilderness campfire sing a long

12. Movie Under the Stars

Once the campfires have been lit and the singing has finished, it’s usually been enough time for the sun to set and the area to get relatively dark enough for the movie to start. Usually, the movie schedule is set at least one month in advance so you can plan accordingly. If you are staying on property, you can also call in-advance to find out. Roman absolutely loves “seeing a movie at night at Mickey’s house” as he calls it! Usually, the movies are themed to the month, so we had movies like The Santa Clause in December and Hocus Pocus in October. Movie under the stars is available at Fort Wilderness Resort, as well as many other Walt Disney World hotels and resorts. You can call or check out the Walt Disney World website to find out which hotels are participating and which movies they are playing and when.

  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: All 😊
  • Times: 8:30pm
fort wilderness movie under the stars
fort wilderness movie under the stars

13. Fort Wilderness Golf Cart Rentals

As you may have guessed from all the different things to do at Fort Wilderness Resort, that this is an extremely large piece of Disney property. If you are staying here with no rental car or plan on staying here for a while, then a great way to get around is on a golf cart. Florida is known for its golf cart lifestyle and many people own them here to get around locally depending on the type of neighborhood they live in. Fort Wilderness is no different. And just like the campsites, those that rent golf carts for long periods of time often deck them out with decorations.

  • Cost: $67 per day
  • Age: 18+ with driver’s license
  • Pickup at 1pm Drop back off 11am
  • Location: Outpost (Main Entrance)
  • Reservations are recommended, but not required and can be done up to a year in advance.
fort wilderness golf cart rental

14. Boat Rentals

We rented one of these motorized boats for a family get together on a couple of occasions and they are so much fun. Not only that, but it feels a little behind the scenes, because you are getting to see a part of Disney property that can really only be seen and experienced on one of these special boats. Only a handful of the Walt Disney World Resorts even offer these rentals. Of course, with Fort Wilderness Resort truly having all the amenities it is one of the few. They are available at both The Cabins and The Campsites of Fort Wilderness Resort. There are 3 different types to choose from as seen below. Important things to remember, no smoking is permitted, lifejackets must be worn the entire time, and you can only rent them if you are 18 years old and up. Reservations are not needed but are always welcome.

Mini Speedboat

  • Seats up to 2 people
  • Cost: $32 per 30 minutes
  • Driver has to be 12+ years old and be at least 5 feet tall
  • Drivers 12-18 years old will require a parent signature
  • Maximum weight: 320 pounds

Center Console Boats

  • Seats up to 6 people
  • Cost: $45 per 30 minutes
  • Driver has to be 18+ years old
  • Maximum weight: 1,650 pounds
  • Restricted to the waterway where rented

Pontoon Boat

  • Seats up to 10 people
  • Cost: $45 per 30 minutes
  • Driver has to be 18+ years old
  • Maximum weight: 1,900 pounds
fort wilderness boat rental
fort wilderness boat rental

15. Specialty Cruises

If you would rather skip driving the boat yourself and want to get whisked away, then Fort Wilderness has an option you by taking a specialty cruise. With options for private dining as well, you can cruise along the scenic and peaceful Bay Lake with a driver. Sit back and enjoy the time spent with family or your spouse or friends without any other worries.

  • Cost: for up to 8 guests $299+ or up to 10 guests $349+ (both include the driver)
  • Private dining available if requested
  • Reservations required by calling 407-WDW-PLAY

16. Canoe Rentals 

17. Kayak Rentals

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites really should be your accommodation of choice especially if you like outdoor adventures. There really is no shortage of outdoor activities available here and there is something that will suit any age. Canoe and kayak right in the waterways within Fort Wilderness checking out all the Florida wildlife.

  • Cost: $13 per hour (without tax) or $8.50 for 30 minutes
  • Age: 18+
  • Hours: 9am to 5pm daily
  • Location: The Bike Barn (Meadow Recreation Area)
  • No smoking. Lifejacket required
  • Reservations not required
fort wilderness canoe rentals

18. Fishing Boat Trip

Did you know that you can have a guided fishing tour with Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites? Again, Fort Wilderness is one of the few Walt Disney World resorts to offer this. You can choose from two different boat sizes to accommodate up to 2 people or up to 5 people. With 2-hour or 4-hour excursions available along with possibly an extra hour added. Or if you are wanting to go by yourself, you can always get a lower rate during one of the afternoon excursions. Included in the cost is rod, reel, tackle, bait, and non-alcoholic beverages.

  • Cost: $270 (2-hour trip – 7am or 10am) $235 (2-hour trip – afternoon) $455 (4-hour trip – 7am or 10am) up to 5 guests are included in these prices. If you are going solo, it costs ~$200
  • Reservation required and only by calling the 407-WDW-BASS line

19. Fishing

Fishing requires patience and understanding if you don’t catch anything, which isn’t really my forte. Lol. I went fishing once in Alaska and I’m thankful to have caught something even if it was pretty small. But for those of you that find peace in the waiting and enjoyment in the activity then fishing at Fort Wilderness is a great way to do it.

  • Cost: Fishing Gear: $10 for 30 minutes or $16 for the day
  • Worms/Wigglers: $5 per package or Nightcrawlers: $6 per package
  • Hours: 9am to 5pm
  • Location: Bike Barn (Meadow Recreation Area)
fort wilderness canoe rentals

20. Bike Rentals

With Fort Wilderness Resort’s expansive property, another great way to get around and see all that there is to offer, is by bike. Bikes can be rented out on a first come first serve basis and are available to all ages. Helmets are included and are required by law for those cyclists under age 16. A child seat or training wheels can be requested as well and at no additional cost. There are trails for the seasoned rider and plenty of paved bike paths for the family. The bike paths take you past canals, lakes, all the cabins and campsite, all the amenities and restaurants and all the beautiful woodlands and its wildlife. While bike rentals are to remain on property, there is one path you can go on which connects Fort Wilderness Resort with Wilderness Lodge. *This is currently undergoing construction and is closed (as of June 2021).

  • Cost: $11 for 1 hour or $20 for the whole day
  • Age: All ages
  • Hours: 9am to 5pm
  • Location: Bike Barn (Meadow Recreation Area)

21. Gem Mining

It’s crazy to me that with the tons of times we’ve gone to Fort Wilderness, the one thing we hadn’t done is gem mining. We literally must have walked past the area at every visit and were totally oblivious that there was even gem mining at Fort Wilderness. I couldn’t very well have a blog post and not actually experience the fun ourselves, so we did some “research” this week and went gem mining. The kids had a great time and couldn’t believe all the rocks, gems, arrowheads, and other stones they found. There are different types of gem mining all over the United States. As a kid, I did gem mining in North Carolina. It was so cool to now experience it again with my own kids. We got to experience it again during our outing at the maze of corn too. Disney provides everything you need: the dirt, the sifters, bags for the gems, and a reference guide to explain what each gem is.

  • Cost: $9 Pay Dirt (Small Bag), $15 Emerald Strike (Medium Bag), $30 Mother Lode (Largest Bag). The number of gems and types of gems differ for each bag as well. They have examples hanging up at the bike barn, so see which one works best for you and your family.
  • All Ages
  • Hours: 9am to 5pm
  • Location: Bike Barn (Meadow Recreation Area)
fort wilderness gem mining
fort wilderness gem mining
fort wilderness gem mining

22. Electrical Water Pageant

Every evening get dazzled by a parade of lights floating on the water, reminiscent of the Main Street Electrical Parade that used to make its way through the Magic Kingdom Park. Listen to patriotic songs of the United States of America as it passes by. One place to view this spectacle is from the sandy shores of the Fort Wilderness Marina located just past Pioneer Hall. As this is an outdoor event, it is weather permitting. You can double check times and schedule at check in, or on the My Disney Experience App.

23. Magic Kingdom Fireworks

Given that Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds is located just off the Seven Seas Lagoon on Bay Lake, you can also typically see the Magic Kingdom fireworks nightly display. The music that is queued to the Magic Kingdom fireworks is typically piped into the beachy areas of the resorts located directly on the Seven Seas Lagoon, which are Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. While Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is not located directly on Seven Seas Lagoon to hear the music (as if you were in the park itself), you can still see the fireworks display from the sandy beach of the Fort Wilderness Marina. Or hop on the boat to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the closest of those locations to hear the music and view it from there. Find out fireworks times on the My Disney Experience App.

Fort Wilderness Activities

24. Basketball

Basketball courts are located in various areas throughout Fort Wilderness Resort. Basketballs are kept at each court in a special box. If one of the boxes happens to be empty, if you call housekeeping from one of the comfort station phones, a basketball will be delivered to you right on the court. Now, how is that for service?

25. Volleyball

While Walt Disney World isn’t very close to the sunny beaches of Florida, one way to get your fill is by sticking your toes in the sand during a fun game of volleyball. Resort ID is required to use the courts which are located in various areas throughout Fort Wilderness Resort. Balls can be checked out at the bike barn near the Meadow Recreation Area for a small fee or free to those DVC members (Disney Vacation Club).

26. Jogging Trail

If biking isn’t your thing, and you prefer to feel the ground under your feet, then make sure to check out Fort Wilderness Resort’s jogging trail. An over 3-mile path awaits to take you through the back woods of Walt Disney World to explore the beautiful woodlands that make up Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Maps are available at the check in desk.

fort wilderness wildlife

27. Arcades

For those rainy days, take the kids to the arcade for games and fun. Fort Wilderness Resort has 2 arcades. There is Davy Crockett’s Wilderness Arcade located at Pioneer Hall and Daniel Boone’s Wilderness Arcade located at the Meadow Recreation Area. Game cards are required for playing and can be paid for by cash or credit card using the kiosk inside the arcade. Game cards are rechargeable and can be used at any other arcade on Disney property. Arcades are open daily, and hours are usually posted on the door.

28. Bike Barn Crafts

On Sundays through Fridays there are different craft opportunities at the Bike Barn. These do require reservations and usually are a small fee, but this is another fun thing to do at Fort Wilderness while you are here. They have something similar at many of the other Disney Resorts like Old Key West Resort. On Saturdays, instead of crafts there are lawn games. Never a day missed for something fun here.

Fort Wilderness Restaurants

There are 6 different dining options for The Cabins and The Campsites at Fort Wilderness. A separate blog post will be coming out soon for that. In the meantime, thank you for reading along. Save this blog post to come back to it as your extensive guide for all the fun amazing experiences that you can have at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campsites. Comment below with your favorite Fort Wilderness experience or excursion.

Disclaimer: There are some links in this article that are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission. This is never an extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Fort Wilderness Pin 2
Fort Wilderness Pin

This Post Has 6 Comments

  1. Sage Scott

    Fort Wilderness sounds like the #1 spot to be when visiting Walt Disney World. Disney is so big and there are tons of options for housing and activities so there tends to be a lot to figure out, but your article really helps. You made the article so it was easy to understand and not too overwhelming.

    1. Rachel

      Thank you!

  2. Renata Green

    I obviously know about Disney, however, I’ve never heard of Fort Wilderness. I assume that for people who are into theme parks, this is a fun alternative. There certainly seems to be a lot to do.

    1. Rachel

      Disney has so much to offer beyond just theme parks and Fort Wilderness has the most to do out of any of the hotels on property. It’s a great spot. 🙂

  3. Michelle

    Very detailed article!! We stayed there right before the pandemic. I was excited about the electrical parade too, but the weather must not have been optimal because I waited…and waited…. but no lights.
    What about the Hoop de Doo? That was another reason we decided to stay at Fort Wilderness.

    1. Rachel

      That’s awesome that you got to stay there, but oh no, that the weather was bad to miss the electrical parade. I’ll be covering the Hoop De Doo Review in a different blog post about the restaurants, but definitely another must see of Fort Wilderness!

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