How to Camp at Fort Wilderness

Make a reservation. Camping at Disney's Fort Wilderness is a popular way of cutting the costs for many families visiting Disney World. If you arrive without a reservation, especially with an RV, you might not find a vacancy.

Try to save a little more money by looking for special bargains. In 2009, Fort Wilderness had two value seasons with discounted rates: January 1 to February 12 and August 9 to November 18.

Remember the facilities of the campground when planning what to bring. RV sites include full hook-ups and even cable TV and Internet connections. Tents sites have running water, electrical outlets and Internet connections.

Bring your pets if you are renting an RV site. Most of these allow you to keep your pets with you. Tent sites require dogs to be checked at the Fort Wilderness kennel, so the pets are better left at home if that is possible.

Remember that Fort Wilderness has a swimming pool and volleyball, tetherball, and basketball courts for entertainment, in addition to its proximity to Disney World.

Plan on having to pay for admission to Disney World and its associated parks separately. Admission is not included in your campsite fees.

Look into buying or renting a portable refrigerator if you do not already have one. Either do that or bring a very large cooler. With the local dining options starting at $15 for a meal, you will save a lot of money if you cook in camp as often as possible.

Remember that Fort Wilderness is in Florida. If you are visiting between May and September, average temperatures and humidities will be high (91 F average high in July and August). Weather through the winter is relatively mild, and the average low is in the upper 40s. Bring clothes and sleeping bags to match the conditions, especially if you will not have an air-conditioned RV.

Bring insect repellent. Flies and mosquitoes are a persistent nuisance in the wooded areas of Florida, and even Fort Wilderness will prove to be no exception.