If we can’t stop change, maybe we can at least prepare for it. Starting this month (May 2019), we will provide a brief lowdown of the most recent verified and likely modifications at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, some more consequential than others. The source of these include official Disney news, other news sources, observation, and discussions from a variety of community boards.
Beach Bungalows
New permits revealed plans for bungalows to be built on Clementine Beach, the beach area viewable from Crockett’s Tavern. The bungalows would be part of the new DVC resort, Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge. WDW News Today was among those who shared the information on May 6, causing a collective gasp amongst Fort fans across the internet.
the beach is back
The old 1970s-1990s beach is making some waves, with a return to the east side of the Fort Wilderness marina. Previously, this had been closed and taken over by Mother Nature herself. It was cleared this month, and it appears that it will serve Fort Wilderness guests. On a particularly happy note, the view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the east beach is superior to that of the west side (Clementine’s Beach).
Bye-bye BBQ
There is nothing left of Mickey’s Backyard BBQ, as the pavilion was torn down on May 8. It exists only in our memories, although many hope that it will return in a new location at the Fort.
Land clearings for Relocated Barn
The barn still stands tall in its normal location, but land has been cleared just across from where the current one sits (behind Loop 800). This means that the relocated barn will still be in the Settlement Area (yay!).
My Little Pony
The pony rides have temporarily been moved to the Outpost Area, and will return to the Settlement Area once the barn has been moved (likely early this Fall).
you can’t get there from here
Reports came out suggesting that only guests of the Fort are now able to park in the Fort Wilderness parking lot. This will include those staying there, or with reservations for dining (Trail’s End) or activities (Segway Tour, horseback riding, etc.). WDW transportation is available for day guests who just want to visit the barn, shop, or snoop around. This is not exactly a new policy – rather it seems that enforcement may be increasing during busy times or in preparation for the new resort.
Howdy Ranger
Many campers have observed that a security presence appears to have markedly increased in Fort Wilderness in the past few weeks. Renewed enforcement of rules is leading to a more pleasant experience for all – except for a few Wildlings and other outlaws.
no hocus-pocus necessary
There are still PLENTY of campsites available for summer and fall. New ones often show up on My Disney Experience in the mornings, perhaps due to cancellations and updates being processed overnight.
