Fort Wilderness Fact Sheet

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground opened in November 1971. The resort has 784 mostly shaded campsites and 409 air-conditioned Wilderness Cabins residing on more than 700 acres of lush vegetation and surrounded by pine and cypress trees. It is not unusual to see wildlife such as rabbits, deer, armadillos, ducks, geese, and peacocks roaming the grounds.

Below are the more frequently asked questions concerning this fabulous resort.

How do I get to Fort Wilderness (FW)?

Take exit 64B from I-4 to World Drive. Follow the signs to the MK main entrance/toll booth and get in the right guest lane. Tell the attendant you are staying at FW and/or show them your reservation. They will wave you through. Following the FW signs, you will take the first right turn onto Vista Blvd. The FW resort entrance will be on the left.

Here is Disney's color map of Fort Wilderness Campground and Resort (187K jpg image).

What are Fort Wilderness rates?

2008 CAMPSITE RATES

(Resort Tax Not Included)

Room Type	Value 1/1-2/13 8/3 - 11/20	Regular 3/30-8/2	Pre-Holiday 11/21 - 12/18	Peak 2/14-3/29	Holiday 12/19 - 12/31

Partial Hookup	$ 42/wkday	$ 60/wkday	$46/wkday	$70/wkday	$81/wkday
	$ 42/wkend	$ 62/wkend	$48/wkend	$72/wkend	$83/wkend
				$73/PresDay*
	$ 44/holiday*	$ 63/holiday*	$48/holiday	$72/Easter*

Full Hookup	$ 47/wkday	$71/wkday	$52/wkday	$82/wkday	$94/wkday
	$ 47/wkend	$73/wkend	$54/wkend	$84/wkend	$96/wkend
				$85/PresDay*
	$ 49/holiday*	$74/holiday*	$54/holiday*	$84/Easter*

Preferred Campsite	$ 56/wkday	$77/wkday	$60/wkday	$88/wkday	$99/wkday
	$ 56/wkend	$79/wkend	$62/wkend	$90/wkend	$101/wkend
				$91/PresDay*
	$ 58/holiday*	$80/holiday*	$62/holiday*	$90/Easter*

Premium Campsite	$ 66/wkday	$87/wkday	$70/wkday	$98/wkday	$109/wkday
	$ 66/wkend	$89/wkend	$72/wkend	$100/wkend	$111/wkend
				$101/PresDay*
	$ 68/holiday*	$90/holiday*	$72/holiday*	$100/Easter*

2008 WILDERNESS CABINS RATES

(Resort Tax Not Included)

Room Type	Value 1/1-2/13 7/20-10/1 11/30-12/18	Regular 3/30-7/19 10/2- 11/29	Peak 2/14-3/29	Holiday 12/19 - 12/31

Wilderness Cabin	$255/wkday	$299/wkday	$340/wkday	$380/wkday
	$255/wkend	$314/wkend	$355/wkend	$395/wkend
		$319/July 4*	$360/PresDay*
	$270/holiday*	$314/Thksgivg	$355/Easter*

*Holidays in 2008 are:
-- Martin Luther King Weekend January 18-20 (MLK)
-- Presidents Day Weekend February 15-17
-- Easter Week March 16-27
-- Independence Day Weekend July 4-5
-- Thanksgiving November 26-29

Rates do not include room tax. There is a $2/day per adult charge for more than two adults on campsites and $5/day per adult for more than 2 adults in a Cabin.

There is a $5/night charge for each cot.
There is a $30/night rental fee for a tent.

AAA Special Rates - During the least busy times of the year (typically during Value Season), AAA members can get 20% off campsites. Make reservations by calling (407) W-DISNEY.

Annual passholders are eligible for significant discounts on Cabins and campsites throughout the year. Availability varies and many times rates aren't announced until three or four months in advance so keep an eye out in your Mickey Monitor or call the Annual passholder line at (407)560-7277.

Other Discount Rates -- Disney keeps close track of room bookings and when those bookings fall below projections they react by offering resort discounts.

What can I expect at check-in?

Check-in at FW is essentially the same as at other Disney resorts. If you're staying in a Wilderness Cabin, park at the Reception Outpost and check in at the front desk. If you're checking in early, you may store your baggage in the secure storage area behind the front desk. Here you will receive a copy of the FW Gazette, your resort IDs, and a portfolio containing park maps, an information sheet with park hours, and any brochures for special events. If you would like charging privileges on your resort IDs and/or you would like to use express checkout, you can do so by providing the Cast Member (CM) a credit card at this time.

The FW Gazette contains lots of information about the campground, including a map, transportation information, and internal phone numbers for various recreational activities and services. If you are driving your own vehicle or rental, you will then be given directions to your Cabin. If you do not have a vehicle, you will be driven to your Cabin via an electric cart.

Guests in recreational vehicles and those planning to tent camp remain in their vehicles and register at one of several drive-through windows at the Reception Outpost. Here you will receive a detailed description of the campground, a copy of the FW Gazette and your resort IDs. Again, if you would like charging privileges on your resort IDs and/or would like to use express checkout, you can do so by providing the CM with your credit card at this time. Be aware that if you are arriving late in the evening, the drive-through lanes could be closed and you will check-in at the Reception Outpost.

If you are checking into a campsite and your site is not ready, you will be asked to park in the lot by the Fort Wilderness kennel. You'll be given a phone number to call to find out when your site is ready. You can either stay there with your vehicle or you can go enjoy the parks and move into your site when you return.

What are the Fort Wilderness Cabins like?

The 407 Wilderness Cabins (WC) are about 12' x 42'. There is a wood deck outside, with a picnic table and a charcoal grill. Inside, the cabins are laid out as follows: starting at one end: bedroom with with double bed, bunk beds, a nightstand, a chest of drawers, separate vanity with wall-mounted hairdryer, closet space; full bathroom with tub/shower; hall closet; full kitchen with amenities listed below; living area with color television and a VCR, a dining table that seats six, sofa, kids table and two chairs, pull-down Murphy bed, window seats, telephone, locked cabinet (safe).

Kitchen includes:
full-size refrigerator with icemaker
electric stove
microwave
dishwasher
1 4-cup coffee maker (with 1 filter-pack of coffee)
1 10 cup coffee maker (stored in cupboard)
toaster
tea kettle
flatware for 6: forks, salad forks, teaspoons, soups spoons, knives and steak knives
dinnerware for 6: mugs, cereal bowls, dinner plates, dessert plates
6 handled mason jar glasses
1 serving spoon
1 glass measuring cup
1 2 qt. pitcher
1 2 qt. casserole with lid
1 glass baking dish
1 oval platter
manual can opener
bottle opener
corkscrew
cutting board
bread knife
ladle
spatula
1 12" skillet
1 1 qt. saucepan with lid
1 2 qt. saucepan with lid
Dutch oven with lid
metal colander
spoon rest
2 potholders
2 sponges
4 cloth dish towels
fire extinguisher (under sink)
packets of dishwasher soap
liquid dish soap
paper towels (under sink)
trash bags (under sink)

NOT INCLUDED are salt, pepper, sugar (or sweetener), coffee, coffee filters, or small drinking glasses for the bathroom.

Bedroom Features:
wall-mounted hair dryer
vacuum cleaner
iron
ironing board
2 extra pillows
extra blanket

Hall Closet:
portable crib with sheet
broom
dustpan
sponge mop

The Cabins also have "enhanced wilderness theming," which includes furniture that appears to be roughhewn from branches and a log cabin-like veneer exterior. Also, all Cabins come equipped with bunk beds in the bedroom, in addition to the double bed, and therefore, will all sleep 6 persons. There are 13 Wilderness Cabins that are set up to be handicapped-accessible, all located on Loop 2800. Interior and exterior photos of the Cabins are located in the FW Photo Gallery.

The number of Cabins in each loop is as follows:

2100 loop - 44 cabins; 2200 loop - 44 cabins; 2300 loop - 30 cabins; 2400 loop - 49 cabins; 2500 loop - 33 cabins; 2600 loop - 65 cabins; 2700 loop - 72 cabins; 2800 loop - 70 cabins. Additionally, there are two cabins located on campsites 118 and 120 in the 100 loop that are used exclusively by Disney management and other corporate types. Finally, there is an unfurnished single cabin near the 2300 loop that is used by Housekeeping.

What are the campsites like?

There are 788 conventional campsites at FW located in 20 loops (100 through 2000). Most sites are fairly secluded from one another by a generous growth of brush and trees between sites. All campsites are back-ins and are a combination of paved driveway, which range in length from 25 to 60 feet, and sandy pad. Each site is approximately 25 feet wide and comes with a picnic table and charcoal grill. All sites have electricity (20/30/50 amps) and city water. There are 695 full hookup sites that also provide sewer. The 90 partial hookup sites, primarily used by tent campers and those with tent trailers, are located on loops 1500 and 2000.

It is very important to specify the RV's length, if it has slideouts or awnings, and any other details about its size when making a reservation so the right sized campsite is assigned.

The number of campsites in each loop is as follows:

100 loop - 25; 200 loop - 37; 300 loop - 63; 400 loop - 33; 500 loop - 56; 600 loop - 22; 700 loop - 35; 800 loop - 74; 900 loop - 32; 1000 loop - 23; 1100 loop - 24; 1200 loop - 22; 1300 loop - 34; 1400 loop - 61; 1500 loop - 21; 1600 loop - 46; 1700 loop - 41; 1800 loop - 32; 1900 loop - 38; 2000 loop - 69.

There are three categories of campsites at FW, premium, preferred and non-preferred.

The Premium Site is billed as "big-rig" friendly. They accomodate RVs larger than 45 feet in length and those that have multiple slide outs. The sites are wider (up to 24 ft), and deeper (up to 60 ft). They also feature all of the amenities - water, power, sewer and access to the high speed Internet (Internet is an additional daily fee), plus upgraded picnic tables and grills as well as prime locations.

Construction to build the new Premium Sites begins in July, 2008 and finishes in April, 2009. The refurbishment schedule is (all dates are subject to change without notice):

Loop 900: closed 7/08 to 7/25 – reopens 7/26/08
Loop 1000: closed 7/27 to 8/08 – reopens 8/09/08
Loop 1100: closed 8/10 to 8/22 – reopens 8/23/08
Loop 500: closed 8/24 to 9/21 – reopens 9/22/08
Loop 800: closed 9/22 to 11/01 – reopens 11/02/08
Loop 400: closed 11/03 to 11/21 – reopens 11/22/08
Loop 600: closed 11/30 to 12/19 – reopens 12/20/08
Loop 1300: closed 1/4 to 1/23 – reopens 1/24/09
Loop 1200: closed 1/25 to 2/06 – reopens 2/07/09
Loop 1400: closed 2/08 to 2/13 – reopens 2/14/09
Loop 700: closed 3/15 to 4/03 – reopens 4/04/09

Tent campers can use premium sites, but since they have a full pad with no sand area at all, unlike the preferred and non-preferred, it can be impossible to find a place to put in tent stakes. The actual size and shape of each site "will depend on Mother Nature", as Disney likes to say.

To Disney, preferred sites means those that are located near the Settlement Trading Post, Pioneer Hall, Meadows and marina areas (meaning the preferred/in demand areas). Preferred Campsites include: water, power, sewer and the ability to access the Internet (Internet access is an additional daily fee). Campsite sizes vary in length and width and some can accommodate equipment up to 10' X 60'.

Sites in loops 1600, 1700, 1800, and 1900 are being equipped with cable and Internet so they can be reclassified with Preferred status. Changing over the sites won't cause the loops to close, unlike construction on the premium sites.The refurbishment schedule is (all dates are subject to change without notice):

Loop 100 – Already completed
Loop 200 – Already completed
Loop 300 – Already completed
Loop 1900 – completed by 7/04/08
Loop 1800 – completed by 7/25/08
Loop 1700 – completed by 9/19/08
Loop 1600 – completed by 10/31/08

Non-preferred sites are located farther from the Pioneer Hall/marina area. A Full Hookup site in a Preferred area will include cable, but you can have a non-cable (Partial Hookup) site in a Preferred loop.

Loops 1500 and 2000 will remain as partial hook-up sites for campers using tents, pop-up campers and van campers. As now, RV will not be allowed on these sites. All sites will soon include cable TV and offer high-speed Internet access for an addition daily fee. Picnic tables and grills will remain as they are now. As now, there are no pet loops in this category.

Fort Wilderness also has an area called Creekside Meadow: it is a primitive campsite area and will remain unchanged for use by scout troops, schools and other group campers.

Here is an easy guide to what loops have what kind of sites (once the premium site construction is complete). Pet Friendly loops are also noted.

Loop 100 - Preferred
Loop 200 - Preferred
Loop 300 - Preferred (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 400 - Premium
Loop 500 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 600 - Premium
Loop 700 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 800 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 900 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 1000 - Premium
Loop 1100 - Premium
Loop 1200 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 1300 - Premium (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 1400 - Premium
Loop 1500 - Partial
Loop 1600 - Preferred (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 1700 - Preferred
Loop 1800 - Preferred (Pet friendly loop)
Loop 1900 - Preferred
Loop 2000 - Partial

There is room to park one vehicle per site (in addition to the camping vehicle) and each site is limited to 10 people. Additional parking is available at the main parking lot. Check-in time for the campsites is 1 p.m., check-out is at 11 a.m. Multiple tents or combinations of campers and tents can occupy a site; however, there is a $2 charge per adult when there are more than two adults per campsite. Weekly and monthly discounts are available in the off season.

What things should I remember to bring?

For Cabins and Campers: Flashlight or lantern, insect repellent, charcoal and matches.

Specifically For Campers: Extension cord, rope or clothesline cord, toolbox, fire extinguisher, hatchet/ax, broom and dustpan, trash bags, outdoor rug/door mat, portable heater, water pressure regulator, drinking water hose, gray water hose and holding container, wheel chocks, leveling blocks, roll of quarters for laundry, laundry detergent, trailer hitch latch pin and trailer lock, cable (if you are planning to use a cable hookup), and last but certainly not least, the keys to your trailer and any locks.

Are there plenty of comfort stations and are they clean?

There are 15 comfort stations strategically located through the campground. Many loops have their own comfort station; however, some of the smaller loops share a single, centrally located station. The comfort stations are all air conditioned and include private showers, restrooms, laundry rooms, pay and house phone and ice machines ($2 per 7 lb. bag). They are open 24 hours a day, with the exception of the laundry. The comfort station doors have card key security locks that are activated from midnight to 6 a.m. The comfort stations are generally clean and are cleaned at least once a day. If you experience any problems, you can use the comfort station's phone to call the front desk.

Are there smoking and nonsmoking rooms?

As of June 1, 2007, all Disney resorts and guest rooms are now smoke free. There are designated outdoor smoking areas. Check the resort map or with a Cast Member for locations.

Which are the best loops?

Best is a subjective term. Generally, campers want to be near the Settlement Trading Post on the north end of FW, which would allow them to be close to the FW marina and beach, Pioneer Hall, and guest services. Loops in this area are 100 through 500 and 700. Others may want to be more near the center of FW near the Meadow Trading Post, the campfire program, the main swimming pool, tennis courts and Bike Barn. Loops in this area are 600, 800 through 1600. For those campers who want to be a little farther away from the action and are looking for quieter surroundings, loops 1700 through 2000 are best. Guests in Cabins are located in loops 2100 through 2800. 2100 is the closest to the center of the resort. Loops 2200 through 2800 get increasingly farther away as the loop number increases with 2800 being the closest to the south end of the resort near the entrance.

Is there security at the campground?

Yes. There is a gated entry to the resort that requires a valid FW resort ID to open. Additionally, security personnel patrol the resort. There are safes in the Wilderness Cabins and safe storage for valuables is also available at the Front Desk. There are security locks on the comfort stations that require a valid resort ID to open. The locks are activated from midnight to 6 a.m.

How does the FW transportation system work?

Disney implemented a color-coded bus system within the resort April 1, 2002. There are three internal buses running - Purple, Orange and Yellow -- which run between the Outpost Depot near the resort's entrance to the Settlement Depot, near the resort's marina. Guests use these buses to travel to points within the resort. Buses announce each stop through the sound system as well as on the LED sign.

The Purple route travels between the two main depots through the Wilderness Cabins loops.

The Orange route travels straight through the middle of the resort along the Fort Wilderness Trail, past campsites and the Meadow Trading Post.

The Yellow route passes the 300, and 1400-1900 campsite loops, on the eastern side of the resort.

See the Fort Wilderness Destinations Map HERE.

To get to the Magic Kingdom: Take a bus to the Settlement Depot, and walk to the marina to catch a launch (with the green flag) to the Magic Kingdom.

To get to Disney's Hollywood Studios: Take a bus to the Outpost Depot, then transfer to a bus to Disney's Hollywood Studios.

To get to Epcot, Animal Kingdom/Blizzard Beach, or Typhoon Lagoon/Downtown Disney: Take a bus to the Outpost Depot, then catch a bus to Epcot, Animal Kingdom/Blizzard Beach, or Typhoon Lagoon/Downtown Disney.

To get to the Contemporary or Wilderness Lodge Resorts: Take a bus to the Settlement Depot, and walk to the marina to catch a launch (blue flag).

To get to the Polynesian or the Grand Floridian Resorts: Take a bus to the Settlement Depot, walk to the marina to catch a launch to the MK or the Contemporary, and then take the monorail.

To get to Epcot Area Resorts:Take a bus to the Outpost Depot, then catch a bus to Epcot and either take a Friendship or walk; or take the bus to Downtown Disney and transfer. Alternatively, take a bus to the Settlement Depot, then transfer to a bus to Disney's Hollywood Studios. From there take a Friendship or walk to the Epcot Resort area.

To get to All Other Resorts: Take a bus to the Outpost Depot, then catch a bus to Typhoon Lagoon/Downtown Disney, Epcot, or Animal Kingdom/Blizzard Beach (if the parks are open). Transfer to a bus for the final destination. An alternative, take a bus to the Settlement, and take the Magic Kingdom launch at the marina (if the park is open). Transfer to a bus for the final destination.

To get anywhere quickly, if you don't have a car, take a Yellow Cab (407) 699-9999. It will pick you up at the Reception Outpost.

Inside FW, automobiles are prohibited except when entering or leaving the resort; therefore, you can walk, ride bikes or golf carts, or use the bus system. Be sure to look at the Bus Routes posted at each bus stop, to determine where you are and where you want to go. There are numerous covered bus stops throughout FW. You may request to be near a bus stop when they make their reservations. Waits for buses are usually no more than 10-15 minutes but can be more, especially at night after a Hoop-Dee-Doo show lets out.

Do I need a golf cart to get around inside Fort Wilderness and how much are they?

Fort Wilderness is a large resort area. The Fort Wilderness map says the campground is "one mile as the crow flies" long but some say it's more like 1.5 miles long, one-half mile wide. There are internal buses running within the campground to get you to the marina, the Trading Posts, pools, etc., but bus waits can be up to 20 minutes. It is very much of an advantage time-wise to either have bicycles or to have the electric golf carts. Carts can be rented for $47/day plus tax (or $12/hour) at the Bike Barn (407-824-2742); however, the supply is limited so call ahead to reserve a cart. Fort Wilderness carts may be reserved up to one year in advance.

NOTE: There is a 10 percent discount if you rent the cart for the week.

Where can you eat in FW?

Crockett's Tavern, located in Pioneer Hall, features beverages and snacks such as pizza, quesadillas, etc. Pizza may also be ordered from the Trail's End Restaurant next door from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and eaten outside the Tavern. A 16 inch cheese pizza is $11.95. Toppings are $1.00 each.

Trail's End Restaurant, also located in Pioneer Hall, provides an all you can eat buffet featuring:

Breakfast (served 7:30-11 a.m.): Scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, sausage gravy with biscuits, French toast, fresh fruit, and donuts; coffee, tea, beverage included. Adult $10.99, Child (3 - 9) $6.99. Continental Breakfast: $5.50. A pastry case is also available for take out items.

Lunch (served noon-2:30 p.m.): Fried chicken, assorted sandwiches, chili, soup, salad, and fruit cobbler for dessert. Beverages included. Adult $10.99, Child (3 - 9) $6.99. Soup and Salad Bar only: $6.50.

Dinner (Sunday through Thursday - 4:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday - 4:30-10 p.m.): Chicken, BBQ pork ribs, peel-and-eat shrimp and a specialty carved item. Beverages include soft drinks, hot beverages, milk, juices, smoothies, and milkshakes. Full service bar also available. $16.99 Adult; $7.99 Child (3 - 9). Soup & Salad Bar only: $11.50

Carryout (4:30-10 p.m.) -- No Delivery.

Thin-crust pizza - 16” Cheese - $13.99
Additional toppings - $1.00
Other items available for carryout include fried chicken, BBQ pork ribs, salads, baked goods and cookies. Beverages available at an additional cost include soft drinks, hot beverages, milk, juices, smoothies, and milk shakes. Full service bar also available.

Mickey's Backyard BBQ, an all-you-can-eat buffet with a live country band, line-dance instructor, and appearances by Disney Characters, is held on certain evenings at the Fort Wilderness Pavilion.

The Hoop Dee Musical Revue, an all-you-can-eat dinner show, is held nightly at Pioneer Hall.

Are groceries available at Fort Wilderness?

Yes. Basic groceries (milk, bread, juice, cereal, sandwich meats, bacon, sausage, eggs, canned vegetables, frozen dinners, pizza, stuff for spaghetti, chips, hot dogs, etc.) limited camping supplies, and souvenirs are available at both the Meadow and Settlement Trading Posts. Expect to pay somewhat higher prices though for the convenience. Refillable mugs are available at the Trail's End Restaurant for $11.99, which includes free refills for coffee and tea (not soft drinks). The mugs may also be refilled at the Meadow Trading Post (self serve) and at the Meadow pool snack bar (self serve). Groceries may also be purchased at Goodings, which is located in the Crossroads area. The Trading Posts are essentially the same except the Meadow Trading Post has a slightly better selection and includes a soft serve ice cream machine. The Meadow Trading Post is also easier to navigate in if you are using a wheelchair or electric conveyance vehicle.

Can you rent camping gear at FW?

Yes. The official policy for Fort Wilderness is that rental tents and cots are only available to groups of 20 or more using Creekside Meadow, the primitive camping area. However, official policy and practice seem to differ. Individuals have rented equipment before and I've called FW myself and been told they do rent equipment to individuals if they have it available and a group hasn't already made arrangements to rent it. Tents are $30 per night, cots are $4 per night, so it's not cheap. Also, if you do stay in Creekside Meadow, the cost is $10 per person (20 person minimum). For group reservations, call (407) 939-7807 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Where do I rent bikes, golf carts, tennis equipment, etc.?

The Bike Barn (open 8 a.m.-6 p.m.) is located behind the Meadow Trading Post and rents bicycles, canoes, pedal boats, kayaks, golf carts and equipment for fishing and tennis. Life vests (provided) must be worn by all guests while in the boats. Gear for shuffleboard is complimentary to guests with valid FW resort IDs. The phone number is (407) 824-2742. Note: Surrey bikes may be rented at the Fort Wilderness marina.

Does FW allow pets?

Yes. In fact, Fort Wilderness is the only pet friendly resort on Disney World property. Request a pet site when making reservations. Pets are allowed at campsites in loops 1600 through 1900, 300, 700 and 800, but must be kept in those areas. Depending on the season and demand, Fort Wilderness might also temporarily designate certain loops as pet loops. There is an additional charge of $5 per day.

Fort Wilderness also has the fenced-in, leash free Waggin' Trails Dog Park: 'Where dogs on vacation can "Lose the Leash"'! The park is located next to the playground at loop 300, but all the pet loops have access to it by way of the designated paths. Currently, Disney doesn't have these on their maps, but they will hopefuly include them soon. All the paths are marked with signs, so you can easily find your way to Waggin' Trails. It is open from dawn to dusk, and has several watering stations where the bowls are self filling. (Note: if they haven't been used, the water in them gets very warm, so you will want to get it to fill again with cool water.) There's also a picnic table where you can relax while your dog plays. Dogs must be accompanied by guests age 12 and over at the park; no unaccompanied dogs, puppies under 4 months, or dogs in heat are allowed. Use of the dog park is limited to FW guests staying in one of the designated pet loops. (See the photo section for a sign with all the Waggin' Trails Dog Park rules.)

Owners are expected to clean up after their pets in all areas. There is a receptacle to deposit pet waste, as well as collection bags with which to pick up the waste, located at each of the entrance/exit of the pet loops. Collection bags are also located between sites #1632 and #1634 beside the path to the comfort station, at the entrance to the pet walk in loop 300, and in the dog walk area next to the kennel.

Pets may also be boarded at the kennel near the FW entrance. Note there are kennels elsewhere on Disney property if you can't get your pet in the Fort Wilderness kennel. The day fee for dogs is $15 for all guests; cats and other small animals are $10. The overnight fee (including dry food) for WDW resort guests is $18 for dogs, $13 for cats and small animals. Guests not staying on property pay $20 for dogs and $15 for cats and other small animals. (Disney has turned over the kennels to the Best Friends Pet Care corporation. The rates are expected to increase again when the takeover is finished.) Guests are encouraged to walk their pets at least twice per day as they are not otherwise let out of their cages. Proof that the animal has had all of its shots is also required. Hours for the kennel are 7:30 am to 8 pm. More information on Disney Kennels HERE.

Fort Wilderness also has pet walks, in addition to walking dogs around the loops themselves. One is along the canal at loop 300, a second along the creek at loop 800, and the third behind loop 1900, servicing the four pet loops around it (1600 - 1900).

Are there laundry facilities at the campground?

Yes. There are washers and dryers located in each comfort station. The washers are $2, the dryers $2 per 30 minutes. Vending machines for laundry detergent, fabric softener and bleach ($1) are also provided. There is a laundry located at the Wilderness Cabin swimming pool as well. For those who don't want to do their own laundry, bags are left in the closet of each Cabin that will be picked up by Housekeeping. Campers may contact Housekeeping as well for laundry bags and service. Laundry picked up by 8:30 a.m. is returned by 7 p.m., except on Sundays and holidays.

When does the campfire program begin and what is it like?

The campfire program has no admission fee and is open to all WDW resort guests. It generally begins around 7 p.m. during the fall/winter season and 8 p.m. after the time changes in April through the summer. It is held near the Meadow Trading Post in the campfire area. The program begins with a sing-along led by a Disney CM and a marshmallow roast around two campfire rings. You may bring your own marshmallows or buy them at the Chuckwagon (roasting sticks and marshmallows are $2). You may also buy pizza, hot dogs, candy, nachos, juice, popcorn, sodas, coffee, beer and other refreshments at the Chuckwagon. While this is going on, Chip and Dale make an appearance to visit with guests and sign autographs. The sing-along lasts about 40 minutes. Next, one or two Disney animated features, depending upon the season, are shown on a large outdoor screen. Seating is available in bleachers or on benches. There is also plenty of room to lay out a quilt or blanket. The movie schedule is posted at all comfort stations. In the event of rain, the sing-along is still held on the porch of the Meadow Trading Post.

What is the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue and how do I get there?

The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is the most popular and longest-running dinner shows offered at WDW. For comments on the show click here. The show is held at 5:00, 7:15 and 9:30 p.m. nightly at Pioneer Hall. Reservations are a must and can be made up to two years in advance. To get there, FW guests may take a bus to the Settlement Depot. Non-FW guests may get to Pioneer Hall by driving to FW and parking in the visitor lot then catching a bus at the Outpost Depot. One can also drive to the Contemporary or Wilderness Lodge and take the boat launch to the FW marina. Another way, depending on the hours at the Magic Kingdom, are to take a resort bus to the MK and then take a boat from the MK to the Fort Wilderness marina. Pioneer Hall is a very short walk from the marina. The menu for the dinner portion of the Revue is: Fresh baked bread, tossed green salad with vinaigrette dressing, country fried chicken, smoked BBQ pork ribs, corn, baked beans, strawberry shortcake, coffee, soft drinks, hot and iced tea, unlimited beer and wine. Read more about the show HERE.

Are there pools and where are they located?

There are two heated outdoor swimming pools available for FW resort guests only. The main pool is located near the Meadow Trading Post in the center of the campground and the second smaller pool is located with the Wilderness Cabins, between loops 2500 and 2700, which is more near the resort entrance. Lounge chairs and tables are provided. There is a shallow kiddie pool at the main pool. Also, child-sized life vests are available at the pools free of charge. The pools are open 24 hours, but the lifeguard hours vary seasonally.

The main pool at the Meadow Trading Post is being enhanced with a themed water slide, hot tub, and children’s play area. No exact refurbishment dates have been released as of now.

Do they offer horseback rides at Fort Wilderness?

Guided horseback rides are offered 6 times daily (8:30, 10, 11:30 a.m., 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m.) at the Tri-Circle D Livery at Fort Wilderness. The rides, which cost $42 per person, last approximately 45 minutes. Riders must be at least 9 years old and 48 inches tall and can weigh no more than 250 pounds. The horses are tame and walk pretty much single file during the ride. If you're an experienced rider, this ride may be too dull for you. If you've not had an opportunity to ride a horse before or have done so rarely, this ride may be just what you're looking for. To make reservations, call (407) 824-2832 -- reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance. It is strongly suggested that you wear long pants and that you do not wear open-toed or heeled shoes. To get to the Tri-Circle D Livery, you can drive to and park in the Fort Wilderness Visitor parking lot and walk; board the bus at the TTC and take it to the Outpost Depot bus stop; take the Fort Wilderness boat from the marina at the Magic Kingdom to the Fort Wilderness marina and then walk to the Settlement Depot bus stop where you'd then board the bus to the Outpost Depot.

Is Fort Wilderness handicapped accessible?

For the most part yes.

What other recreational activities are available at FW?

There are so many fun things to do at FW that some campers never leave the resort. Activities/facilities include:

Two lighted tennis courts - complimentary equipment available for resort guests at the Bike Barn. Open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Nightly wagon rides at Pioneer Hall at 7 and 9:30 p.m.- Cost $8 adults, $5 children. Depending on Magic Kingdom hours, there are sometimes special "Fireworks" wagon rides scheduled.

Private carriage rides - Cost $35/half-hour. Call (407) 824-2832 to reserve (reservations suggested, not required). Depart from Crockett's Tavern at Pioneer Hall between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. nightly. See Carriage Rides HERE for more info.

Pony rides from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for children 2-8 years old, weighing no more than 80 pounds - Cost $4

Bicycle rental: $7.54 plus tax/1/2 hour, $20.75 plus tax/day. Surrey Bike (2-seater): $16.90 per 1/2 hour. (Prices are estimates, call the Bike Barn at (407) 824-2742 for current pricing.)

Fishing in canals (free) or chartered largemouth bass fishing excursions on Bay Lake, which include a professional guide, refreshments (soft drinks, coffee, hot chocolate & water), fishing gear and a dozen shiners. See our Fishing Excursions page HERE.

Sand volleyball court near Meadow Trading Post

Horseshoes and shuffleboard

Basketball and tetherball courts throughout the resort

Two arcades - Davy Crockett Arcade at Pioneer Hall (near Settlement Depot) is open 7 a.m. to midnight. Daniel Boone Arcade (near Meadow Trading Post) is open 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Two heated outdoor swimming pools

White sand beach

Rental watercraft at Fort Wilderness Marina (open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily) including: 21' Suntracker pontoons ($34.74/half hr), must be 18 to drive; Mercury Water Mice ($21.59/half hour; $27.23/45 minutes; $30.05/one hour), must be 12 and 5 feet tall to drive. Parent or guardian signature required for all drivers 12-18 years old. At the Bike Barn: canoes, kayaks and paddle boats ($6.13 plus tax/1/2 hour; $10.38 plus tax/hour) (Prices are estimates, call the Bike Barn at (407) 824-2742 for current pricing.)

Water skiing, wakeboarding - starting at $140/hour with a 5-guest maximum

Parasailing: See our Parasailing page HERE.

Tri-Circle D Ranch - home of the draft horses used to pull the trolleys down Main Street USA, featuring a blacksmith shop

Swamp Trail - 3/4 mile loop along the shore of Bay Lake

FW Exercise Trail - 2.3 mile paved and sand path

Electrical Water Pageant - nightly at 9:45 p.m. at the FW beach and marina

Was there ever a train running inside Fort Wilderness?

Yes, old time steam trains began running in Fort Wilderness back in 1973. The steam trains served as transportation for guests around the campground up until 1977, when they were decommissioned. Two of the cars were repainted and made into ticket booths at Pleasure Island. The trains sat around for years rusting in the Florida humidity but I'm happy to report they have been rescued by the Carolwood Pacific Historical Society. For more information about the CPHS, Walt Disney's railroad interests, or possibly how to become a restoration crew member, visit CPHS's wonderful website. I've been asked not to provide too many details but was given permission to include this photo of one of the salvaged trains. Remnants of the track can still be see at various places throughout Fort Wilderness. (First three photos from "The Walt Disney Railroad Story" by Michael Broggie. The salvaged train photo is courtesy of Michael Campbell.)

What is this I hear about a real cabin at Fort Wilderness?

There was a single real cabin on site 1205 that was available for guest booking. Unfortunately, it has been dismantled and moved to another location within the campground where it serves as an interpretive center -- it is no longer available for guest reservation. It was a small cabin, I estimate maybe 12 by 15 feet, which contained two sets of bunk beds. One set was a twin over a full size bed, the second was a twin over twin; therefore, the cabin slept 5. There was electricity and a fan but no heat or air-conditioning. There was no sink or toilet in the cabin. Guests had to use the comfort station. There was no maid service and guests had to bring their own linens. The rate for the cabin was $15 over the going rate for a partial hookup site. Guests that stayed there all seemed to like it but I guess Disney didn't consider the test a success.

Is it true Fort Wilderness has a Segway tour?