Walt Disney World offers a variety of experiences outside the theme parks, with its resorts providing everything from fine dining to relaxing spa treatments and outdoor adventures.
One of the most unique places to stay is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, a rustic retreat with cabins, campsites, and a wide range of recreational activities.
Fort Wilderness is known for its peaceful, natural setting and offers activities like horseback riding, archery, and fishing. Guests can visit the Tri-Circle-D Ranch, home to the beautiful horses that appear in Disney parades, or take part in the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, a dinner show with comedy, music, and Southern-style comfort food.
Another popular experience is canoeing and kayaking, where guests can paddle through the resort’s scenic waterways and take in the beauty of the surrounding forest.
However, Disney has temporarily closed canoe and kayak rentals at Fort Wilderness due to increased alligator activity near guest areas. While spotting alligators in Florida is common, Disney closely monitors wildlife interactions and shuts down activities when necessary to protect both guests and animals.
Canoeing and kayaking have always been at guests’ own risk, with warning signs about alligators and snakes, but when safety concerns arise, Disney brings in specialists to relocate the animals before reopening the activity.
This type of closure is not new, as Disney frequently evaluates wildlife presence near guest areas. The company has prioritized guest safety, especially after an alligator attack at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in 2016. Since then, Disney has implemented stronger safety measures, including additional fencing and warning signs around bodies of water.
There is no set timeline for when canoe and kayak rentals will return, as alligator relocation efforts can take anywhere from hours to days. In the meantime, guests can still enjoy everything Fort Wilderness has to offer, from biking trails and fishing to roasting marshmallows at the Chip ‘n’ Dale Campfire Sing-A-Long. While it’s disappointing for guests hoping to explore the waterways, there are plenty of other ways to experience the resort’s outdoor charm.
Fort Wilderness remains one of the best places to unwind at Disney World, offering a break from the hustle of the parks. Even with the temporary closure, there is no shortage of activities for those who love nature and adventure.
