Our Stay at the Newly Renovated Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort
Written by Tyler Braun
When my family and I packed up for a stay at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort, we knew we were in for a treat. But the newly renovated cabins at this iconic Disney destination exceeded even our highest expectations. If you're considering a unique, relaxing Disney experience that blends the magic of the parks with the tranquility of nature, let me be the first to say: these cabins are a game-changer.
A Few Things to Know
First, let’s clear up a common misconception: you don’t have to be a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member to stay here. These cabins are available to everyone, offering a one-of-a-kind escape that combines rustic charm with Disney-level amenities.
Image from disneyvacationclub.com
One piece of advice? Rent a golf cart. Fort Wilderness is enormous, and while there are internal buses, nothing beats zipping around the resort on your own. It’s incredibly convenient, especially when heading to the campfire singalong, the pool, or the ferry to Magic Kingdom. Bonus: the cabin parking pads are spacious enough to fit both a car and a golf cart.
Speaking of the campfire singalong—don’t miss it. It’s one of Disney’s best-kept secrets. Not only is it free, but it’s also a delightful evening filled with s’mores, songs, and an appearance by Chip and Dale.
Another pro tip: you can order groceries to your cabin. This is a game-changer for families who want to avoid the constant shuffle of dining out. With a fully equipped kitchen (more on that later), cooking at “home” has never been easier. Plus, some of the cabins are dog-friendly, so your furry family member doesn’t have to miss out on the fun.
Fun fact: Some people love these cabins so much they’ve reportedly purchased them to live in. Imagine calling Fort Wilderness home year-round!
A Cabin Tour
The updated cabins are brighter, sleeker, and more functional, offering a perfect balance between modern luxury and rustic charm. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Design:
The most noticeable change is the abundance of natural light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. Even on the rainiest day, the cabin feels airy and welcoming. For privacy, every window (yes, even the skylights) has blackout shades you can pull down. My one “wish list” item here would be some sheer curtains for the daytime. That way the natural light still pours in, but you would have a little more privacy. The cabins are arranged and angled in such a way that you still have a decent amount of privacy, but that would make things a bit more private.
Patio/Deck:
The outdoor area is just as magical as the inside. Complete with a grill, a sturdy dining table, and adorable Mickey-shaped details on the chairs, it’s an ideal spot for family dinners or morning coffee. And yes, there’s even a boot brush—a practical touch for when you return from exploring the resort’s trails.
Kitchen:
This is where the cabins truly shine for families. The kitchen is fully outfitted with a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, oven, microwave, sink with a garbage disposal, and a coffee maker. With all these appliances, cooking is a breeze. The full dining table comfortably seats a family, making meals feel like an event, not an afterthought.
Living Room:
The living space is both functional and cozy. A 65-inch TV takes center stage for movie nights, while the pull-down bed provides an extra sleeping spot. Unlike the old sofa beds, this pull-down bed is genuinely comfortable, which is a rare feat in vacation accommodations. A clever stool doubles as storage, holding extra blankets and pillows.
Bedroom:
The main bedroom offers a queen-sized bed and bunk beds, making it perfect for families with kids. There’s ample storage with a dresser, an open closet, and—you guessed it—another TV. It’s the perfect retreat after a long day at the parks.
Bathroom:
The bathroom setup is thoughtful and family-friendly. There are two sink areas—one outside the main bathroom—so multiple people can get ready at once. (There’s a slow-poke in every family). Our cabin even had a tub, which is great for younger kids. And Disney thought of the little details, like a pull-out stool for kids to reach the sink.
Comparing the Old vs. New Cabins
If you’ve stayed in the old Fort Wilderness cabins, you’ll notice some big changes.
What We Love About the New Cabins:
The updated cabins are brighter and more open, creating a space that feels inviting and modern.
The separate vanity area outside the bathroom is a game-changer, especially for families getting ready simultaneously.
The pull-down bed in the living room is a major upgrade from the old sofa bed—it’s comfortable and easy to use.
The full stove and oven are a welcome addition (the old cabins only had burners), making meal prep more versatile.
The updated patio furniture is a step up, turning the outdoor space into a destination in itself.
What We Miss About the Old Cabins:
The new cabins have a more modern feel, but they lack some of the “true cabin” vibe that made the old ones so nostalgic.
I actually miss the quirky bench seating at the table—it was practical and tucked out of the way.
And of course, there’s a nostalgia factor. The old cabins had their quirks, but they held a lot of memories for many families, including ours.
Final Thoughts
The newly renovated cabins at Fort Wilderness offer a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. While they’ve lost a bit of the “classic cabin” charm, the upgrades are thoughtful and family-friendly, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to combine Disney magic with the great outdoors.
Whether you’re toasting marshmallows at the campfire singalong, cruising the resort in a golf cart, or unwinding on the Mickey-adorned patio, the cabins offer an experience that’s uniquely Disney.
If you’re ready to book your next unforgettable Disney getaway, let us help you plan every detail with People Mover Travel. Your dream vacation is closer than you think!
Listen to our podcast (The Disneyville Podcast) episode here, for more of our thoughts on our stay!