Fort Wilderness Activities Worth Adding to Your Disney Trip
If you are looking for a Disney day that feels slower, quieter, and a little more outdoorsy, Fort Wilderness is one of the best places to spend it. This resort is packed with activities that feel very different from a typical park day and many of them are easy to add onto an existing trip.
If horseback riding and pony rides caught your eye, make sure to read my full guide to Tri-Circle-D Ranch for all of the horse related experiences. You’ll find info on horseback riding, pony rides, wagon rides and more. But Fort Wilderness has a lot more going on beyond the stables.
Here are some of the best non-horse activities to check out while you are there.
Chip and Dale’s Campfire Sing A Long
This is one of the most classic and low key Disney experiences you can find.
In the evenings, families gather around a campfire for a casual sing along hosted by Chip and Dale. You can roast marshmallows, listen to music, and let kids burn off energy while adults actually sit down for a bit.
There is no pressure here. You do not need to be staying at Fort Wilderness to attend. You can show up, grab a spot, make some smores and enjoy a very old school Disney moment that feels more backyard than theme park.
You can bring your own marshmallow roasting tools or purchase a kit at the campfire.
Fort Wilderness Archery Experience
This is a surprisingly fun option for kids, teens, and adults who want to try something new.
Guests ages 7 and up can participate in a 75 minute archery session at the Bike Barn. You start with a short training lesson and then spend most of the time practicing on range targets using a compound bow.
Class sizes are limited to 10 guests, so you get personalized instruction and tips from the Archery Guides. It feels approachable even if you have never tried archery before.
Details to know:
$49 per person plus tax
Advance reservations are highly recommended
24 hour cancellation policy
Arrive 15 minutes early to check in at the Bike Barn
Friends and family can watch from a designated viewing area
Fishing at Fort Wilderness
If you want something calm and outdoorsy, fishing is a great option here.
Guided Fishing Excursions
These are catch and release bass fishing trips led by an experienced guide. They are great for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
You can choose between:
Pontoon boats that hold up to 5 guests
Tournament style bass boats that hold up to 3 guests
Both 2 hour and 4 hour excursions are available, and all equipment is included. That means rods, reels, bait, tackle, and drinks are covered.
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. Alcohol is allowed for guests 21 and up with valid ID.
Life jackets are provided and required for kids 12 and under.
Dockside Fishing
If you want something simpler, dockside fishing is available at Fort Wilderness as well.
Fishing gear can be rented at the Bike Barn, and it is a good option for kids or anyone who wants to fish without committing to a full excursion.
Fishing at Disney is catch and release only.
Bike Rentals
Renting bikes is one of the easiest ways to explore Fort Wilderness.
You can rent bikes from the Bike Barn and ride through pine forests, along lake paths, and around the resort. It is peaceful, scenic, and a nice break from the busier parts of Disney World.
Bike rentals range from $9 to $20 plus tax. Helmets are required for riders under 16, and you must stay within the Fort Wilderness resort area.
Canoe and Kayak Rentals
If you like being on the water but want to move at your own pace, canoe and kayak rentals are available daily.
Both are rented from the Bike Barn at the Meadow Recreation Area.
Details:
$10 per 30 minutes plus tax
First come, first served
No reservations required
Complimentary life jackets must be worn
Guests must be 18 to rent, or a parent can sign for minors 12 and up
This is a quiet way to spend time on the water and feels very removed from the theme parks.
Wilderness Back Trail Adventure (Segway Tour)
This is one of the more unique tours at Walt Disney World.
Guests 16 and up can take a 2 hour guided Segway tour through Fort Wilderness and nearby areas. You will ride on paved paths and woodland trails, with stops near Bay Lake and the stables at Tri-Circle-D Ranch.
Even if you have never been on a Segway before, there is a full training session before the tour begins. Helmets and headsets are provided, and your guide shares trivia and information along the way.
Important details:
$90 to $99 per person plus tax
Guests must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds
Valid photo ID required
Closed toe shoes are required
24 hour cancellation policy
Check in at the Bike Barn 15 minutes early
Construction or weather can affect the route, but this tour is a great option if you want something active and different.
Why Fort Wilderness Is Worth the Time
Fort Wilderness feels like a pause button on a Disney vacation. It is quieter, more spread out, and filled with activities that do not involve lines or screens. Whether you are riding bikes, roasting marshmallows, fishing, or trying archery for the first time, this resort offers a side of Disney that a lot of people miss.
If you want help adding any of these experiences to your trip, or if you want to explore the horse options at Tri-Circle-D Ranch, I am happy to help you plan it. Just let your Travel Grown Planner know!
