Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground has long been a favorite destination for nature lovers who want to experience the outdoors while enjoying all the amenities of Disney. However, the pioneer-style log cabins that have been a staple of the resort for the past 25 years are now being phased out in favor of more modern shed-style structures. The old log cabins, with their dark brown exteriors, have been criticized for looking dated and out of touch with the desires of 21st-century travelers.
The new cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort feature a more colorful palette, with tones of blue, tan, green, or orange-red that make them stand out against the backdrop of the woods. These shed-style cabins have clerestory windows on three sides, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows in the central living and dining area, allowing for plenty of natural light to enter the space. The cabins also include modern amenities such as a full kitchen with a stove and oven, a full-size refrigerator, a built-in microwave, a dishwasher, and a coffeemaker. The cabins are spacious, with a living and dining area, a bathroom, a bedroom with a queen bed, and two bunk beds, making them suitable for families of four or five.
Themed Decor and Hidden References
The decor of the new cabins is themed to the wilderness, as interpreted by Disney, with deep references hidden throughout the design. For example, there is a Chip ‘n’ Dale mural with a Nov. 19 calendar page, marking the date in 1971 when Fort Wilderness opened. The cabins have a modern condo feel with Western touches and quality upholstery, making them both comfortable and stylish. In addition, there are thoughtful touches such as a second vanity sink outside the bathroom, a tuck-away booster step in the bathroom for children, and a device for scraping mud from boots and shoes on the deck.
The cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort are located in seven loops near the resort entrance, making them convenient to the stables, the bus depot that connects to the other Disney parks, and the main dining hall, tavern, and convenience store. While the cabins are farther from the beach area and boat shuttles to the Magic Kingdom, they are close to the pool, laundry room, and other amenities. Guests can enjoy activities such as carriage rides, fishing excursions, and the frontier-themed “Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue” dinner and show. However, the cabins are priced at a premium, ranging from $543 to $986 per night during the holiday season.
Overall, the new cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort offer a more modern and comfortable lodging option for guests who want to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing the amenities and convenience of a Disney resort. The colorful palette, modern upgrades, and thoughtful design touches make these cabins a welcome addition to the resort. While the price may be steep for some, the quality of the accommodations and the range of activities and amenities available make it a worthwhile investment for families looking to create magical memories at Walt Disney World.