DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Think you’ve seen and done it all at Walt Disney World? Maybe it’s time to go camping on property! Yes, you heard that right – Disney offers a campground at Fort Wilderness for guests interested in a rustic stay at the most magical place on earth. Whether you have an RV, a camper, or just a tent, there’s a campsite for you! Camping at Walt Disney World offers its own special challenges – and its own rewards! Here are some things you should know if you’re planning on camping at Walt Disney World.
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1. Campsites
It’s important to think about what kind of camping you want to do at Walt Disney World, so you’re able to choose the correct campsite from the different levels available at Fort Wilderness. Regardless of the level you pick, you’ll have a tap for fresh water, electrical outlets, a charcoal grill and picnic table, and a hookup for cable tv – just make sure you pack a tv and cable! Internet comes at an extra cost, or you can just use the complimentary Wi-Fi in the resort’s common areas.
2. Cabins
If bringing a tent or camper is a little too close to nature for you, Fort Wilderness also offers log cabins that can provide a more luxurious camping experience. Sleeping up to six people, the cabins have their own kitchenettes, and you can even order groceries in advance, to be delivered to your cabin during your stay. The cabins are beautifully rustic, and perfect for families or large groups.
3. Surprise Guests
Keep in mind that even though you’re at Walt Disney World, you’re still camping, and Disney has no control over the natural wildlife in the area, which you’re bound to encounter. And Fort Wilderness sure lives up to its name! Critters you may run into include armadillos, otters, raccoons, squirrels, snakes, lizards and deer. While wildlife encounters are part of the camping experience, remember to take the same precautions you’d take if you were camping outside of WDW. Don’t leave any food behind in your tent, or you may find yourself a little closer to Orlando’s wildlife than you’d like!
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4. Activities
You won’t have a hard time finding things to do while camping at Fort Wilderness! Activities include hiking, volleyball, tetherball, tennis, campfires, and marshmallow roasting. You can rent canoes and boats, take a fishing trip, go horseback riding, take archery lessons, or enjoy a wagon or carriage ride. Campers have access to both of the resort’s pools, and the associated daily activities. There’s more than enough to keep your whole family busy without even setting foot in the parks (not that we’re recommending that, of course)!
5. Transportation
Campers at Fort Wilderness can park in the lot near the resort’s entrance, or in the driveway at each campsite. But, to preserve the wilderness atmosphere of the resort, cars aren’t allowed anywhere else. But you can always rent or bring golf carts to get around (bikes and skates are also a great idea). Guests can also rely on the complimentary bus system that goes to all of the resort’s common areas. To get to the parks, you can either rely on the buses, or take the boat to the Magic Kingdom.
6. Comfort Stations
When you camp at one of Walt Disney World’s campsites, you’ll share restrooms and showers with other camp guests. These shared facilities are called “comfort stations”, and they’re conveniently located close to each campsite. They’re kept clean by Disney cast members, and accessible showers are available. There’s also a laundry room with washers and dryers. It’s a good idea to prepare a restroom kit with all of the supplies you need to get ready each morning.
7. Dining
There are a variety of dining options for campers at Walt Disney World. You can stop by Fort Wilderness Trading Post for supplies, or try the take-out service at Trails End – they offer delicious fast food options to go (there’s also a breakfast buffet, a la carte lunch, and dinner buffet). If you prefer some entertainment with your meal, opt for the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue, where you’ll enjoy delicious comfort food with song and dance. Of course, you can always pack your own snacks and food, for an authentic camping experience – you’ll also save some money this way!
8. Other Tips
Be prepared for Florida’s frequent wet weather when planning a camping trip to Walt Disney World. A ground cloth is a good idea underneath your tent, and don’t forget the umbrellas and raincoats. You can bring a clothesline to dry out your clothes, or just use the dryers provided at the comfort station. You can also bring a privacy screen if you’re used to seclusion when camping; there can be quite a lot of people wandering through the area. Finally, make sure you leave some extra time when heading for the buses, as it can take a bit of time to get to the transportation hub shared by all the campsites.
