10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

If there is one place at Walt Disney World that feels like “home” for us, it’s Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Over the years, we’ve stayed here over twenty times and have enjoyed multiple staycations with extended family. The resort is a 750-acre wonderland for lovers of camping and nature. Whether you’re staying at the campground, at one of the new Disney Vacation Club cabins, or just visiting for the afternoon and evening, there are so many fantastic and unique recreation and dining options you don’t want to miss. Keep reading for the ten things you don’t want to miss at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground!

10 – Rent a Golf Cart

Fort Wilderness is a big place! While Disney does provide bus transportation for guests to move around the resort, a really great fun way to explore the resort is with a golf cart rental! Electric golf carts can be rented by guests 18 years of age and up with a valid driver’s license. Drivers must be 16 years of age and up with a valid driver’s license, and all drivers must have their license on them when operating the cart. Advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to one year prior to your visit by calling (407) 824-2742. Unreserved carts may be available for rental on a first-come, first-served basis.

Golf cart parking is available at popular locations, including the front near the bus stop, Meadow Trading Post, Meadow Swimming Pool/Bike Barn/Outdoor Theater area, Pioneer Hall, and by the Marina. If you are staying at a campsite, there is room for parking your golf cart as well.

9 – Horsin’ Around

There’s just something about horses. Walt Disney knew that, and they are featured prominently on stage in many Disney World attractions. But if you want to get up close and personal with them in their off-stage home, then head over to Tri-Circle-D Ranch, which offers a variety of horse-loving activities (pony rides, trail rides, etc.) for all ages! We’ve got all the details on how to “horse around” at Fort Wilderness – click here for the article.

8 – Explore the Campground Loops and Sites During the Halloween and Holiday Season

During the Halloween and Holiday seasons, you’ll want to spend some time driving through the different loops to check out the displays that campers enjoy putting out. In the past, we’ve seen some pretty impressive displays, including inflatables, lights, and more. The displays are excellent and well worth your time!

7 – Canoe, Kayak, and Bike Rentals

Looking for a relaxing and inexpensive activity that gets your family enjoying nature in the water? Then, head to the Bike Barn near the Meadow Trading Post in the middle of the resort. You can rent either canoes or kayaks from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm there. Rentals are $15 per hour. We’ve rented canoes on multiple occasions and have enjoyed it so much. The area you explore is beautiful and quintessentially Florida!

Another great way to explore the resort is on a bike! The Bike Barn also offers bike rentals. Adult and children’s bikes, even with training wheels, are available. You’ll be able to explore the loops and the entire campground while getting some light exercise.

7 – Fort Wilderness Archery Experience (age seven and up)

Do you have a budding Katniss Everdeen in the family? At the Bike Barn, archery guides teach guests ages seven and up to use a compound bow and arrow. Then there is plenty of time for practice! This 75-minute experience is mostly focused on firing at range targets. The class size is limited to 10 guests. With that small class size, you’ll receive personalized advice from the guides to help improve your archery skills. The experience costs $49. Reservations are highly recommended. Call (407) WDW-PLAY to make reservations.

6 – Guided Fishing Excursions and Dockside Fishing

At the Fort Wilderness Marina, you can enjoy a guided fishing excursion that lets you experience bass fishing. There are two options: a 21-foot Sun Tracker pontoon boat that accommodates up to five guests and a tournament-style NITRO bass fishing boat that accommodates up to three guests. You can also choose between two and four-hour excursions.

All Walt Disney World Resort fishing excursions include:

• An experienced guide
• Rod and reel
• Tackle
• Artificial and/or live bait (NITRO boats will not offer live bait.)

Call (407) 939-FISH or (407) 939-3474 to make a reservation. Advance reservations are highly recommended.

If you enjoy fishing with a casting rod, then you’ll love fishing in the well-stocked waters at Fort Wilderness. Fishing gear can be rented from the Bike Barn on a walk-up basis. Note that all fishing at Walt Disney World is catch-and-release only.

4 – Enjoy at Drinks and Bites at Crockett’s Tavern

With Trails End restaurant transformed into a quick-service dining location, Crockett’s Tavern has been able to offer guests a great option for those looking to sit and relax and enjoy small bites and drinks in the expanded indoor seating area. We recently enjoyed a great meal at the Tavern and were surprised at how much we liked the food! There is a great selection of lounge fare items that range from appetizer-type foods to entrees and desserts. There is, of course, a great selection of cocktails. Those looking for just drinks can order at the To-Go Window! We’ll definitely be stopping by again during our next visit to Fort Wilderness!

3 – Movies Under the Stars

Complimentary movie screenings are available to guests of Disney resorts. While most Disney resorts host their Movies Under the Stars poolside, the movie at Fort Wilderness is screened at the fantastic outdoor theater in the Meadow Recreation area. Stadium-type seating, a large movie screen, and a snack bar filled with ice cream and popcorn treats all make this an unforgettable evening for the whole family. Tip: you may want to bring a cushion for the seats as they are either metal or hardwood. Be sure to arrive early for …

2 – Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long

One of our family’s favorite night activities is going to Chip & Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long in the Meadow Recreation Area at Fort Wilderness. You’ll be treated to favorite Western tunes from a real cowboy! Chip ‘n’ Dale join in on the fun, singing, and dancing. A campfire is also lit for roasting marshmallows. Don’t worry if you don’t have the supplies. Disney sells all the necessary s’mores items, including chocolate, marshmallows, and even roasting sticks! Times and movies vary each month.

1 – Watch the Magic Kingdom Fireworks on the Beach

Fireworks are a great ending to any evening, and Magic Kingdom fireworks are the best. Many guests of Disney World are unaware that you can get a fantastic view of Magic Kingdom’s fireworks at the beach at Fort Wilderness. Not only do you have a great view, but Disney also completes the experience by playing music for the guests. This is a great option for guests who cannot make it into Magic Kingdom for whatever reason. You get to experience the fireworks without the admission costs! Limited beach chairs are available, but you’ll need to get there early to ensure seating. We usually just bring a blanket or towels to sit on. I highly recommend viewing the fireworks on a special event night, such as the holiday event fireworks. You get the special fireworks display for free!

Whether you’re looking for an out-of-the-ordinary Disney World experience or just need a midweek break from the hustle and bustle of the parks, an afternoon at Fort Wilderness won’t disappoint.

Editor’s Note: Disney Vacation Club hosted us for a day at The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort with guided tours of the new cabins and the Tri-Circle-D Ranch. We were also provided with two meals, a golf cart rental, and a fishing excursion. However, as always, the thoughts and opinions contained in this article are entirely our own.