Wilderness Lodge brings the majesty of America’s national parks to the heart of Walt Disney World. Tucked away in the Magic Kingdom resort area, this deluxe hotel features towering pine trees, rustic woodwork, and a soaring lobby anchored by a stone fireplace.
It’s warm, cozy, and full of character, offering a peaceful retreat that still keeps you close to the magic. If you love the feel of a secluded mountain lodge but don’t want to miss out on fireworks or boat rides, Wilderness Lodge might be the perfect match.
Where Is Wilderness Lodge?
Wilderness Lodge is located in the Magic Kingdom resort area, nestled on the edge of Bay Lake. It sits near the Contemporary Resort and Fort Wilderness, with boat and bus transportation to Magic Kingdom. Despite its tucked-away setting, you’re only minutes from the park.
How Much Is Wilderness Lodge?
Room rates at Wilderness Lodge typically range from $450 to $700 per night, depending on the season. Concierge-level rooms and suites cost more. Disney Vacation Club villas in the Boulder Ridge and Copper Creek areas are priced separately, either through points or cash bookings.
Wilderness Lodge Rooms
Standard rooms at Wilderness Lodge sleep up to four guests, with two queen beds or one king. Rooms feature rustic furnishings, warm tones, and nature-inspired decor, without feeling outdated. Many rooms offer views of the courtyard, pool, or Bay Lake. Recent updates introduced subtle touches from Bambi and the Pacific Northwest.
Wilderness Lodge Club Level
Club Level rooms offer access to the Old Faithful Club, which includes concierge service, complimentary snacks, evening appetizers, and desserts. The lounge overlooks the lobby from the seventh floor, offering a peaceful place to relax with drinks and light bites throughout the day.
Wilderness Lodge Pool
There are two pools at Wilderness Lodge:
- The Copper Creek Springs Pool is the resort’s feature pool, with a waterslide built into a rock formation, a hot tub, and a splash play area.
- The Boulder Ridge Cove Pool is quieter, more secluded, and features zero-entry access with a relaxing atmosphere. It’s ideal if you want a break from the busy main pool.
Are Wilderness Lodge Pools Heated?
Yes, Disney heats all resort pools year-round. Both Wilderness Lodge pools stay warm and comfortable, even in cooler weather.
Dining at Wilderness Lodge
Dining here matches the rustic theme without sacrificing quality. Guests can enjoy:
- Whispering Canyon Café: Known for hearty breakfasts, BBQ-style platters, and humorous cast member antics.
- Story Book Dining at Artist Point: Signature character dinner featuring Snow White, the Evil Queen, and the Seven Dwarfs with themed menu items.
- Roaring Fork: Quick-service spot offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with convenient mobile ordering.
- Geyser Point Bar & Grill: Outdoor lounge and grill overlooking the lake—great for burgers, cocktails, and relaxing views.
There’s also a small coffee bar and poolside refreshments available near both pool areas.
What to Do at Wilderness Lodge?
- Rent bikes, boats, or fishing gear from the marina
- Relax by the fire in the grand lobby
- Explore the walking trails and hidden nooks throughout the property
- Watch geyser eruptions at Fire Rock Geyser (periodic throughout the day)
- Enjoy evening movies and marshmallow roasting near the pool
Wilderness Lodge Transportation
| Wilderness Lodge to Magic Kingdom | Boat |
| Wilderness Lodge to Epcot | Bus |
| Wilderness Lodge to Hollywood Studios | Bus |
| Wilderness Lodge to Animal Kingdom | Bus |
| Wilderness Lodge to Disney Springs | Bus |
| Wilderness Lodge to Blizzard Beach | Bus |
| Wilderness Lodge to Typhoon Lagoon | Bus |
How to Get to Wilderness Lodge?
You can get to Wilderness Lodge by:
- Boat from Magic Kingdom (a scenic option)
- Bus from all parks and Disney Springs
- Walking from Fort Wilderness (see below)
- Driving or ride-share from any location on property
Unless you drive or take an Uber, the easiest way to get to the Wilderness Lodge is by taking resort transportation directly from one of the parks. I usually go to Magic Kingdom and take the boat over, but you can also hop on a bus from any other park and head straight to the Lodge.
Can I walk From Wilderness Lodge to Fort Wilderness?
Yes, there’s a walking trail between Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness that winds through the forest. It takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on your pace. It’s shaded and scenic but may close during inclement weather or construction. Reflections, a new deluxe resort is under construction between the two resorts, which is causing some impact. Boats sometimes stop at both resorts as well.
Can I walk From Wilderness Lodge to the Contemporary?
No, there is no walking path between Wilderness Lodge and the Contemporary Resort. To travel between them, you’ll need to take a boat across Bay Lake or drive.
Wilderness Lodge Comparisons
Wilderness Lodge Vs. Fort Wilderness
Fort Wilderness is a campground and cabin resort with more outdoor activities and RV sites. Wilderness Lodge is more refined, with traditional hotel rooms and deluxe amenities.
Wilderness Lodge Vs. Beach Club
Beach Club is better for EPCOT access and has Disney’s best pool (Stormalong Bay). Wilderness Lodge is quieter, cozier, and closer to Magic Kingdom.
Wilderness Lodge Vs. Contemporary
Contemporary is sleeker and more modern, with walkable access to Magic Kingdom. Wilderness Lodge offers more immersive theming and a warmer ambiance.
Wilderness Lodge Vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge wins on exotic views (safari animals). Wilderness Lodge wins on proximity to Magic Kingdom and has a more intimate, wooded setting.
Wilderness Lodge Vs Grand Floridian
Grand Floridian is formal and elegant; Wilderness Lodge is rustic and relaxed. Both are deluxe resorts with strong dining options and great locations.
Wilderness Lodge Vs. Polynesian
Polynesian has tropical theming and monorail access. Wilderness Lodge offers forest charm, boat transportation, and quieter vibes.
Wilderness Lodge Maps
An interactive resort map is available on Disney’s website or My Disney Experience app. It shows room locations, dining, pool areas, and walking paths between Boulder Ridge, Copper Creek, and the main lodge.
FAQs
When Does Wilderness Lodge Decorate for Christmas?
Holiday decorations typically go up in mid-November. The grand lobby features one of Disney’s tallest Christmas trees, plus rustic garlands, wreaths, and cozy winter lighting. It’s one of the resort’s best seasons to visit.
Are Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness the Same?
No, Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness are separate resorts with very different styles. Wilderness Lodge is a deluxe hotel with indoor hallways and standard rooms. Fort Wilderness is a sprawling campground with cabins, RV sites, and more outdoorsy activities.
Can I Visit Wilderness Lodge Without Staying There?
Guests are welcome to explore the resort, enjoy meals at any of the restaurants, grab a drink at the lounge, or stroll the grounds. If you’re driving, you may need a dining reservation to park. Otherwise, you can arrive by boat or bus from Magic Kingdom.
Is Wilderness Lodge on the Monorail?
Wilderness Lodge is not on the monorail loop. The closest monorail station is at the Contemporary Resort, which you can reach via boat.
Is Wilderness Lodge DVC?
Wilderness Lodge includes two Disney Vacation Club sections:
- Boulder Ridge Villas: Located in a separate building near the quiet pool.
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins: Integrated into the main lodge and along the lake, with luxurious waterfront cabins that feature hot tubs and full kitchens.
