Credit: DisneyDisney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground has always been one of the most peaceful spots at Walt Disney World. It has this calm, woodsy charm you don’t quite get anywhere else on property.
Families spread out under the trees, golf carts zip along quiet paths, and you’re never far from the sound of a boat cruising across Bay Lake. It’s a fan-favorite resort for a reason: things move slower, the atmosphere feels different, and the amenities perfectly match that relaxed, outdoorsy setting.
One of the most popular places for families to unwind has always been the pool areas, especially the lively Meadow Swimmin’ Pool. Whether you’re staying in a cabin, pitching a tent, or pulling up in an RV, the pool area becomes a natural gathering spot during warm afternoons. And now, that space is getting a major enhancement—with Disney officially confirming a large-scale expansion that will reshape the heart of the resort.
A Much Larger Pool Area Is Coming
Disney has announced that the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area is currently undergoing a full expansion that includes a brand-new zero-entry pool built right beside the existing one. This upgrade will essentially double the available space in the area, giving families far more room to swim, relax, and spread out.
A zero-entry pool is a big plus for guests of all ages. Little ones can ease into the water without steps, older guests don’t have to take steep entry points, and everyone gets a more modern, comfortable pool experience. It’s the kind of feature that newer Disney resorts already include, so bringing this update to Fort Wilderness helps modernize the resort without taking away its rustic feel.
The expansion also goes beyond the water. Disney is adding new recreation options including a tennis court and two pickleball courts. Pickleball has become wildly popular in recent years, so this addition gives guests another reason to enjoy downtime at the resort. For families who enjoy full resort days between park visits, these new courts will definitely be appreciated.
Construction Is Active—But Disney Has Set a Clear Timeline
Construction on the expansion has been visible since earlier this year, but Disney recently added something guests have been waiting for: a completion timeline. The project is officially expected to wrap up in mid-2026, meaning Fort Wilderness visitors will see construction in the area through next year.
Photos shared earlier in the process revealed just how large the project footprint is, with construction fencing and cleared areas stretching alongside the existing pool. It confirmed that this wasn’t just a light refurbishment—it’s a genuine transformation of the resort’s recreational core.
Even so, Disney has reassured guests that both the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and the quieter Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool will remain open during construction. This means pool time is still available, even if the surroundings will look a little different than usual.
Disney did note, however, that seating around the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool may be more limited than normal. Construction can impact deck space, so guests might need to arrive earlier in the day to claim a spot, especially during peak seasons.
Some guests may also see or hear construction from nearby zones while enjoying the pool. It’s a normal part of any resort refurbishment, but it’s good to set expectations so no one is surprised upon arrival.
What Guests Can Expect During the Expansion
Even with construction fencing and active work happening, Fort Wilderness is doing what it can to keep the guest experience intact. The resort has always been known for its open spaces and variety of recreational amenities, and keeping both pools open ensures guests still have plenty of options.
The Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool, which tends to be quieter, may become even more popular during the project. Guests who prefer a peaceful setting or who want to avoid construction noise may find that pool a great alternative during their stay.
Around the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool, the walking paths, snack areas, and general recreation should remain accessible, though guests may notice temporary reroutes depending on how construction shifts over the next year and a half.
Despite the temporary inconveniences, the end result will be worth it. The expanded pool area will offer more shade, more seating, more swimmer capacity, and updated amenities that fit comfortably with the resort’s laid-back personality.
Why This Expansion Matters for Fort Wilderness
Fort Wilderness is unlike any other Disney resort. Guests return year after year not just because of nostalgia, but because it truly feels like its own world. As Disney continues upgrading its resorts across property, this expansion stands out because it doesn’t try to replace the resort’s identity. Instead, it improves the parts guests already love most.
The Meadow Swimmin’ Pool has long been a hub for daytime fun. Kids love the splash zones, families gather there after long park days, and many guests spend entire afternoons lounging in the sun. By doubling the size of the pool area, Disney is simply matching the resort’s popularity with the space it needs.
The new sports courts also reinforce the resort’s emphasis on outdoor fun. Pickleball and tennis fit perfectly into the atmosphere of bike trails, fishing spots, playgrounds, and the beloved Tri-Circle-D Ranch. These additions give families more ways to enjoy time together without stepping foot in a theme park.
Looking Toward 2026
With mid-2026 set as the target for completion, guests won’t have to wait too long to enjoy the new and improved recreation area. Once finished, the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool space will feel bigger, brighter, and far more capable of handling the resort’s ever-growing demand.
Between the expanded deck space, the accessible zero-entry pool, and the additional outdoor amenities, the new area will elevate the experience for returning guests and first-timers alike. And while construction is never the most glamorous part of a vacation, knowing the end result will genuinely improve the resort makes the temporary inconvenience much easier to accept.
Fort Wilderness will always be a special part of Walt Disney World. This update simply ensures that it stays that way for years to come.