Credit: DisneyIf you’re planning a rustic retreat at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground anytime soon, there’s something important you need to know: a burn ban has officially taken effect in Central Florida, and yes—it’s impacting this beloved Magic Kingdom resort.
While safety always comes first at Walt Disney World, the timing of this ban has certainly stirred up some conversation among guests who treasure those nightly campfires and cookouts at “The Fort.”
Still, in true Disney fashion, not all the magic is going up in smoke.
Why There’s a Burn Ban in the First Place
This all stems from a serious weather development. Central Florida is experiencing unusually dry conditions combined with high temperatures and gusty winds—basically, the perfect storm for wildfire risk. In response, Orange County has enacted an automatic burn ban, which kicks in whenever the drought index crosses 500. As of April 16, that threshold has been met and surpassed.
The burn ban isn’t unique to Disney property—it affects the entire Orange County area, including both incorporated cities and unincorporated zones. And while some municipalities may request exclusion from the ban, Disney is clearly opting to prioritize safety by enforcing it at their resorts.
Red Flag Warnings have been issued by the National Weather Service, highlighting the elevated danger. These warnings point to the kind of conditions where even a tiny spark could lead to a major problem. Think dry grass, 30 mph winds, and a whole lot of flammable material. So, the idea is simple: prevent fires before they can start.
What This Means for Fort Wilderness
Out of all the Disney resorts, Fort Wilderness is definitely the most affected. This is a place where outdoor living isn’t just encouraged—it’s the whole theme. Guests come here to enjoy nature, roast marshmallows by their campsites, and soak in the simple joys of campfire evenings under the stars.
Now, due to the burn ban, wood-burning campfires at individual campsites are temporarily not allowed. Signs have been posted throughout the campground alerting guests to the restriction. That means no roasting hot dogs over the firepit, no evening storytelling with glowing embers, and no firewood crackling in the background as you unwind after a day in the parks.
It’s a blow to the usual Fort Wilderness experience, no doubt.
But here’s the twist: Disney’s still offering the nightly Campfire Sing-A-Long. That’s right—the beloved hosted experience that brings guests together for songs, laughs, and s’mores is still going strong. The key difference? Disney is using controlled, permitted flames—likely gas or electric setups that meet the county’s safety guidelines.
So while your personal campsite may be without a fire, you can still gather with Chip and Dale, sing some old favorites, and enjoy toasted treats courtesy of Disney’s fire-safe setup.
Additional Restrictions and Safety Precautions
The burn ban also stretches beyond Fort Wilderness. Across all Disney-owned resort properties, guests are being asked to avoid using charcoal grills and any kind of open flame. That includes grilling areas at Disney Vacation Club resorts and picnic zones. In some areas, gas grills may still be permitted, but guests are strongly encouraged to check with Cast Members before igniting anything.
Disney is also reminding guests to be mindful of other fire hazards. That means properly disposing of cigarettes and avoiding parking on dry grassy areas, where the heat from a vehicle can unintentionally trigger a blaze.
All of these efforts are part of a bigger strategy to keep both guests and the environment safe. Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns are no joke, and Disney has a long history of adjusting plans to put safety first—whether it’s delaying fireworks due to high winds or modifying entertainment during heat waves or rain.
So… How Long Will This Last?
That’s the question on everyone’s mind.
Technically, the Orange County burn ban will lift after the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days. But when that will happen is anyone’s guess. Florida’s weather is notoriously moody, and even a light shower doesn’t guarantee the end of a dry spell.
In the meantime, guests should plan accordingly. If you’re staying at Fort Wilderness or anywhere else that typically allows open flames, it’s best to assume the restrictions are staying in place for a little while. Bring alternatives for meal prep and look forward to Disney’s hosted events instead of personal campfire moments.
The good news is that Disney is doing everything it can to maintain the spirit of Fort Wilderness while still honoring the safety restrictions. The Campfire Sing-A-Long continues to offer a way for families to gather and make memories, even if it’s not in the usual way.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t the first time Central Florida has dealt with dry conditions and Red Flag Warnings, and it won’t be the last. But it’s comforting to know that even in the face of these changes, Disney is finding ways to preserve the magic.
Sure, the burn ban might throw a small wrench into your dream Fort Wilderness experience, but the heart of what makes this resort special—community, nature, and that hint of frontier charm—is still very much alive.
You may not get to light your own campfire this time, but you’ll still get a warm welcome, a musical evening under the stars, and probably a pretty good marshmallow toast thanks to Disney’s safe and creative workarounds.