RV Newbies STEER CLEAR of Disney's Fort Wilderness

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  • čas přidán 22. 02. 2023
  • If you're a first-time RVer, steer clear of Disney's Fort Wilderness! This park is notorious for being one of the most difficult RV parks to navigate.
    In this video we show you some of the relatable stressors for RV travel. We also share the jaw dropping cost to stay one week at Disney's Fort Wilderness. Is it worth the cost? We'll let you decide.
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Komentáře • 539

  • @HappilyEverHanks
    @HappilyEverHanks  Před rokem +20

    👕Merch Store is FINALLY Here!
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    • @LilRoseHaulk
      @LilRoseHaulk Před rokem

      Dunkin’ tanks with the hanks now that sounds catchy as well I love y’all’s vlogs

    • @jeffbollet3544
      @jeffbollet3544 Před 11 měsíci

      its tight but every time we went we squoze our 40' Diesel Pusher. The extra few minutes it takes to park should NEVER stop you from staying in the best campground in America

  • @c8linbrennan
    @c8linbrennan Před rokem +30

    I was the girl that took Renee’s 11 PM call mentioned at 13:20 ! I live in an fifth wheel full time and work at Disney’s resort call center. When I was on the phone I had to pull up your profile to figure out what was going on with the truck issue and my jaw DROPPED when I realized it was y’all 😭 I didn’t say anything because it seemed like there was enough going on for you guys that night. Your videos got me through some stressful RV issues so thanks for all the amazing content! I never thought in a million years I’d cross paths with you guys but somehow out of like 25 cast members in my department the one RV lifer in the building took the call! 😂

  • @geezerglide54
    @geezerglide54 Před rokem +12

    A few years ago we took our 4 year old (at the time) grandson to Fort Wilderness. It was a great place to stay without going to any of the theme parks. He enjoyed going on the boat ride to the Contemporary Hotel and the Monorail to the Magic Kingdom. There is a great pool area in the campground with a separate area for small children. There is also the Chip and Dale outdoor movie and campfire every evening. We couldn't see paying theme park admission for all of us and try to deal with a child his age, we felt he could enjoy it much more when he was a bit older. He had a great time with the activities in the campground.

  • @user-vq8ws7nb9p
    @user-vq8ws7nb9p Před rokem +4

    Heck, it’s cheaper than stating at their resort! Plus, you can bring your pets and have them stay comfortably in familiar space. It’s doesn’t seem like a bad option as long as your rig isn’t on the larger side

  • @ginaplatt2668
    @ginaplatt2668 Před rokem +4

    Not all sites and loops are created equal. When we check in and they give us our assigned loop and site, we ask to look at the dimensions. We have a 43’ fifth wheel and a 20’ mid duty hauler truck (The Yeti), so we need a larger site. They are always more than kind enough to work with us to find one of the bigger sites we can fit in without issue. We enjoy being close to the boat dock (love hearing the boat horn, fireworks and the parade music) so we choose the 700 loop when available. When we had our smaller rig, 100 & 200 loops were our favorite. 300 is just tight no matter what. If when we get to the sight there is a bad pull-in angle, a tree or another vehicle blocking our back in, we call or go back up front to ask for another site. Again, they want your stay to be as enjoyable as possible and are always accommodating. THAT is one of the things that differentiates The Fort from just another campground. We used to drive cross country just to go there every year - so many good memories. Now that we’re full time, we go just to stay at The Fort whenever possible. We’re one of “those” campers. ❤ °O°

  • @dawnie3029
    @dawnie3029 Před rokem +12

    My husband and I are the ones that ran into by the boat dock. We were so excited to see this video. I’ve only ever heard people rave about the Fort and was so excited to stay there. While it was nice, I don’t understand the obsession. There is ZERO chance I would pay those prices just to camp there if I wasn’t doing Disney.

    • @janetswope5695
      @janetswope5695 Před rokem +1

      I totally agree. We enjoyed our stay in 2017 and were amazed at how ENORMOUS this campground was. We were in a loop pretty far away from the lake, but enjoyed being on Disney property and it’s benefits. Our site was HUGE and we had no trouble at all parking, so I guess which loop you are in makes a difference.

  • @lorihouston8538
    @lorihouston8538 Před rokem +39

    You were in loop 300 which is a preferred loop (100, 200 & 300). They are some of the first loops built and can be pretty tight. The premium loops have mostly been upgraded and widen to fit the bigger rigs. We would use those when we had our 42 foot fifth wheel. We love Fort Wilderness.

    • @steveyost5530
      @steveyost5530 Před rokem +6

      I was going to point out the same thing. Smaller sites and packed in a little tighter but we have always stayed in the 300's just because of the closeness to everything. I think it's the 400-600's loops that have redone to fit larger rigs. There are some huge ones with the occasional Scamp parked among the giants in there too. LOL!

    • @donaldbailey5576
      @donaldbailey5576 Před rokem +3

      I think the Meadow loop is the best for large RVs.

    • @kevinburroughs6583
      @kevinburroughs6583 Před rokem +4

      We just went to the fort this summer if you have a large rig, paying more for the premium loop is worth it. Way easier to back into those sights. Besides people parking over the line the golf cart traffic is annoying/insane

    • @nstack06
      @nstack06 Před rokem +3

      Going to say the same thing. Premium sites are expanded for the newer bigger rigs. Spend the month of November at the fort every year with car and golf cart on site and still not parked on the edge of site.

    • @alistadventures
      @alistadventures Před rokem +2

      We were just in the 1000 loop (premium meadow) and it was fine with our big rig! I mean, unless you count the time we ran over someone’s Christmas lights (the kind laying all over the ground) while trying to leave. Lol Don’t worry, the campers were outside at the time and all was well. But seriously, the Christmas decorations make things even more tight than they should be!!

  • @ssgramireztim
    @ssgramireztim Před rokem +6

    Hey guys! We love Fort Wilderness! We were just there Jan 26th through the 8th of Feb.
    We have an Alliance Valor 40V13 that measures 45 feet.
    You are absolutely right some loops are tight but we always stay in a premium meadow spot totally worth it! The spots are larger and accommodate us very well.
    Hopefully you guys will go back we love it there and thank you for all of your reviews and information!
    Lisa and Tim!

  • @geraldhettel3824
    @geraldhettel3824 Před rokem +10

    My family has spent a lot of time at Fort Wilderness. We live about 230 miles away and most time we never leave the campgrounds. We love it especially at Holiday times with all of the decorations in the campground. Our kids grew up playing there and we never worried about them.

  • @lisaschap
    @lisaschap Před rokem +7

    We love camping at The Fort! That was our 1st trip when we bought our RV. I’m happy to hear that they are actually calling people out for not parking properly. For a couple years there it seemed that not much was being monitored any longer and people parked all over the place and not on their paved space. Our last couple trips the mosquitoes were terrible. Hopefully they’re taking care of them better now too.

  • @campnut6076
    @campnut6076 Před rokem +4

    Great review of Fort Wilderness. Considering it is Disney, the price was not bad relative that Yogi Bear Campgrounds are not much cheaper right now. Hope you guys didn't get AWOKEn while you were there. I won't be taking that chance. Safe travels.

  • @ariverstonesthrowaway
    @ariverstonesthrowaway Před rokem +3

    We have been coming to Disney FT Wilderness for.. more times than I can remember! We pull our 45' and YES it is incredibly difficult in some areas - but now they do have wider/larger sites "premium" that give you a bit more room. We loved it with the kids, having the Chip & Dale campfire sing-a-long, the Water parade, renting boats from the launch and years ago you could swim in the lake (although we never did). Now since we purchased a house 10 mins away - we don't come to the Fort any more - but do still enjoy the parks when we are in Florida.

  • @mikecasselman4169
    @mikecasselman4169 Před rokem +4

    AMEN!!! About parking trucks hanging out in the street!! your comment about parking their rig to "accommodate their situation" was so spot on! No consideration for anyone else in the entire campground trying to get by on the narrow one way road, or even worse is trying to back in the site across from them. This situation is getting worse every year with the popularity of huge toy haulers. their rig is 35, 40 foot PLUS they need 10-15 more feet to drop their backdoor, then they book a 35 foot site and just take up half the road. After all "THEY" need to get their ATV or Golf Cart out to cruise the campground, so the heck with anyone else trying to get by. HAHAHA! Rant over, can you tell this drives me crazy and I run into it a lot here at state parks in the Midwest.

  • @IP_AfterDark
    @IP_AfterDark Před rokem +11

    Literally did everything you said not to do in this video: first time out with our brand new 40’ travel trailer was to Fort Wilderness; we arrived after dark, in the rain, in the hottest part of the summer, and on empty stomachs. Needless to say we ended up not having a good first-time experience. We also found out the roof was leaking, but that’s a story for another time. Luckily our second trip went a lot better.

  • @jimblair2692
    @jimblair2692 Před rokem +2

    You’re spot on with the title! We were there the beginning of December and glad we had our 24’ Imagine TT and not our 36’ Reflection 5th wheel, I have 40 yrs towing/backing experience and it was tight with our TT. At Christmas you had add all the decorations people have out in front of their sites to the mix. I said the same things you said. One night we were coming back from EPCOT and saw a 45’ Momentum pulling in, in the dark. I couldn’t imagine his/her stress because you forgot to mention there are no lights in the site circles. We have reservations for this December so yes we will go back. You should go to the Orlando City Park at Turkey Cove $25 a night full hook ups, 4 miles from Universal Studios Park, 14 miles from Disney. We stayed there 4 nights while going to Universal and Sea World before moving to Fort Wilderness. It’s a great city park/rv park!!

  • @paintingartsncrafts
    @paintingartsncrafts Před rokem +2

    Great video! You got a fantastic price, in high season it runs $186 to $265 a night … definitely not worth the cost. Especially if you aren’t planning to go to the parks. Small sites in most loops can’t accommodate big 5th wheels, not enough room to park your truck in most too. If you try to rent a golf cart it’s going to cost you a lot. Best bet is to rent from an outside Company & they’ll bring it to you near the entrance for almost half the price. On the plus side you can book & ask to be assigned to other RVrs, “aka: travel with”… which can make for a great group vacation. Just very expensive when you can get a great campground for well under $100 a nite nearby with the same or similar amenities, even in high season. Some even offer transportation to the park so you won’t have to pay to park too. Some things to consider as inflation continues to impact so many.

  • @MyLogHomeLife
    @MyLogHomeLife Před rokem +1

    When we camped at Disney in 1972 we camped in a tent and there was only one or two loops. Loop 300 is my favorite.

  • @kalenclark
    @kalenclark Před rokem +10

    Kyle... I notice how often you talk about having kids in videos. I hope that no matter how they become yours, y'all have some babies. You are both wonderful people and the world needs more happy, well-adjusted kids with fun and caring parents.
    Before my husband and I had kids we were *sure* it'd be so restrictive and really limit our adventures. We had no idea that it'd be our biggest adventures yet. I think you'll both find the same when the time is right. And actually, the time is never really right, so go for it, anyway! :)

  • @lancecrowe2565
    @lancecrowe2565 Před rokem +2

    The older part of the park is tighter. We did it with a borrowed 37 travel trailer, but I have a good bit of trailer experience. We enjoyed Fort Wilderness and plan on going back. I chill at the campground, while my wife and kid go to Disney.

  • @stacytad7162
    @stacytad7162 Před rokem +1

    Glad you are looking out for the new to RV life friends! It is always heartbreaking to see somebody so excited about their new RV, only to be frightened and frustrated when they find themselves in positions they just are not ready for. And the opposite, when things go smoothly, you build confidence (and competence). You are most definitely our Thursday night friends! Love you, Stacy and Tad

  • @beverlywetzel-me3nq
    @beverlywetzel-me3nq Před rokem +2

    We camped there in the 70's. Yes, 1976. Ok I'm old. Rvs were small...lol

  • @SouthFloridaSound
    @SouthFloridaSound Před rokem +6

    As mentioned previously, the premium loops are larger. I go several times a year (Florida resident) and have a 45' super C that I have had no issues with. Several of your Disney clips were actually Universal Studios.

  • @loriw2661
    @loriw2661 Před rokem +2

    Fort Wilderness is my favorite place to camp. It depends on your outlook and how much you like Disney stuff. Be prepared to spend money but that’s not a surprise, everyone knows that. Once you get there, you never have to get in your vehicle again. Transportation on site is amazing.

  • @a.m.palmer1788
    @a.m.palmer1788 Před rokem +2

    Hello, Hanks!
    I wrote to you a couple of years ago. Anyway, I retired from my career as a park ranger in San Diego, put my stuff in storage, and bought an RV. Now, I’m full time, exploring Arizona and planning to visit Oregon and Montana. Thanks for the inspiration!

  • @carlwilliams1570
    @carlwilliams1570 Před rokem +1

    When Disney first opened Fort Wilderness in 73 my parents rented a class A Winabago and we spent a week there!

  • @waltaldridge2315
    @waltaldridge2315 Před rokem +1

    Another popular place that is tight is Pigeon Forge KOA! The new riverfront sites is on a loop that is impossible to loop around with a long rig.

  • @andrewmoro-tw5xx
    @andrewmoro-tw5xx Před rokem +12

    Live full time and have encountered lots of campgrounds like Fort Wilderness, which were built for 30’ rigs and not our 42’. Definitely makes for some challenges. More importantly is Kyle’s comment about Orlando stress driving. We just left Orlando area after spending several weeks there and in Tampa. Just driving around town in our truck was stressful, and every time we moved our rig, I had to have my head on a swivel. Worst city to drive in and you need a vacation after driving there.

    • @TrackerRoo
      @TrackerRoo Před 11 měsíci

      Florida drivers are the worst based on police incident reports and insurance filings. Everyone loves to say people where they are from are bad. But based on actual numbers, Florida is the worst.

  • @teresaworthley2368
    @teresaworthley2368 Před rokem +2

    We have to travel I-4 East from Tampa to Orlando when we visit “The Fort”. We have a 41’ 5th wheel and LOVE the fort. Yes, it is tight, but “I got this”. It has trained us for our future cross country adventures!!

  • @dreamages9838
    @dreamages9838 Před rokem +1

    My favorite thing is you can have up to 10 people in a spot , and you can take a boat to world!!! I love this place

  • @julieslocum-cohen4536
    @julieslocum-cohen4536 Před rokem +3

    I just found you guys and I've got to say: I LOVE YOUR STYLE!! Your posts are entertaining, informational, down to earth, educational, and realistic. I love your PSAs (Public Service Announcements) especially about reacting to emergency vehicles!! Keep on keeping it real! 💚

  • @chantalc6444
    @chantalc6444 Před rokem +4

    Great video! During our first snowbirding season in 2016-17, we wanted to experience Disney (it was a bucket list of mine). Would probably not go back, but we sure enjoyed our 5 nights there! We took advantages of all the amenities, tennis court and pools, visited all the parks. We splurged and loved it! Beautiful campground and facilities.

  • @deborahjansson
    @deborahjansson Před rokem +1

    As always, thank you for the deet’s! And thank you for the entertainment! Haven’t met you yet, but we love you both!! And Dexter too!! ❤️💕❤️

  • @rvrunner8362
    @rvrunner8362 Před rokem

    We took several trips to Fort Wilderness when we were RVing. You are spot on that the campground was built with the original part of the WDW resort so opened in 1971 when RVs were much smaller. We did trips there in a 32’ travel trailer and a 41’ fifth wheel with no issues (I am an experienced RVer and a tow away driver delivering travel trailers and fifth wheels). You are correct that the sites are a challenge. Lots of trees, trash cans, site marker posts, parked vehicles, etc. to avoid. We had success by riding around on our first stay to scope out loops/sites to request for future reservations. Definitely wise to proceed cautiously if someone is new to towing a rig. The last time we stayed there I ended up helping another couple (new Big Horn fifth wheel) I observed clobbering a tree limb in the 900 loop. I flagged him down to help him adjust to reduce any tree limb damage. He phoned the desk and they reassigned him to a site in the 600 loop and I followed him over to help him get parked. As for it being the best RV park it is only a contender because it is part of WDW and you get all the same benefits as any other resort guest. Good video.

  • @mariobouchard2807
    @mariobouchard2807 Před rokem +1

    Awesome job backing in! I drove truck 20 years. You did good! Thanks for the video. God willing, I’ll be able to partake in things you’re living. You two are a breath of fresh air. You’re awesome! I’m jealous!

  • @philhoneycutt9153
    @philhoneycutt9153 Před rokem +1

    I forgot today was Thursday. Thanks Hanks for reminding me! I love Spending Thursday with the Hanks!

  • @starlight9716
    @starlight9716 Před rokem

    I just can't tell you how much this old lady and her husband enjoy watching you two!! Any time we need a good chuckle, you're there!!!

  • @dougvr
    @dougvr Před rokem +1

    Being that our very 1st RV venture was as OG's at your 1st Rally, we were already concerned about backing into the (now we realize) very spacious spots at Canopy Oaks. We came in early just to not face the lawn chair/popcorn-eating/scorecard-ready judges we had anticipated.
    And that was a good thing. I drove all over the spots near/across from us just to back in since it was my 1st time.
    We later drove through FW and I thought the exact same thing...Holy Moly! No way I can negotiate all that with our 42' GD 375RES. Miss you guys!

  • @josephmuszik9375
    @josephmuszik9375 Před rokem +1

    I enjoyed this video because the film editing was top notch as usual, informative and unbiased.
    Thanks Hanks. 😎
    Safe travels to AZ. 🙏

  • @PeteFolksinger
    @PeteFolksinger Před rokem +1

    Great video! We stayed Fort Wilderness several times. Always had a good time. First time tented it with friends (pre-kids), and a few times with 2, 3 or 4 kids in a 16' camping trailer!
    The perks really make it worth it. We hardly even used our tow vehicle (Ford Club Wagon). We would ride the monorail in to the park, had breakfast with the characters, and also got into the park 30 minutes before they opened the gates for parking lot people!
    Another disney hack we would use is to hop on the monorail at suppertime (when every gedunk in the park was mobbed); and ride to the Contemporary, have a sit down meal, and recharge for the evening events. No mixed feelings about staying till the end cuz no traffic to worry about.

  • @dennycappetta2035
    @dennycappetta2035 Před rokem +1

    Heading there in about four weeks with the kids and grandkids. Our Class A shouldn't be a problem as we made it through Cooper Rock State Park in Pennslyvannia last year, which is very tight as well. Thanks so much for sharing.

  • @joshhodges5688
    @joshhodges5688 Před rokem +1

    Stayed there last summer was the best camping experience I have had. Want to go back.

  • @kevinplunkett6393
    @kevinplunkett6393 Před rokem +1

    We stayed there last summer and really enjoyed it. Having our golfcart made it even better. We stayed in a premium site that has the extra width so parking our 43 ft toyhauler wasn't too bad with the extra width. We'd definitely go back.

  • @erinbarrett3363
    @erinbarrett3363 Před rokem +1

    Great video guys!! We have never been there but always hear about it. Those sites are super tight! But, if you are there for Disney you are there more than your site anyway. And the perk of being able to get shuttled there by land and sea is awesome!

  • @HelloWorldRobnLisa
    @HelloWorldRobnLisa Před rokem +2

    Many, many great memories of time spent at Ft Wilderness when our kids were younger. And I'm glad you guys enjoyed the boat ride over to Magic Kingdom. Honestly, that is one of my favorite things about staying at the campground. Used to enjoy the slow ride over in the mornings with my coffee. That and the light show parade would do a private showing just off the beach at night as well. Hoop dee do Music Revue was also a fun night away from the parks and the swimming pool area's were always better then the ones at the hotels on property. Next time Bonecrusher and I go to Disney, we will definitely be staying in Ft Wilderness.

  • @brettelizabethspore
    @brettelizabethspore Před rokem

    Great video explaining the pluses and minuses of that campground. See ya next week!

  • @ATLJonathanH
    @ATLJonathanH Před rokem +3

    We spent a week at Fort Wilderness in our 42 foot Grand Design Solitude 5th wheel around the Holiday. Navigating the turns was difficult with trees everywhere. Rented a golf cart and drove all of the loops every night looking at the decorations. Super expensive, everything adds up in the end. If we did Disney again, we’d probably do the same thing.

  • @craigmonaghan4399
    @craigmonaghan4399 Před rokem +1

    Great video. Couple tips. Looks like you were in cypress knee circle one of the original loops.They definately didn't envision todays rigs. Anyway one trick you can do, because they don't preassign sites, If you see a better site after you check in, that is empty, you can run to a comfort station call the wilderness outpost and change sites. Have done this many times.

  • @missevepominville1063
    @missevepominville1063 Před rokem +1

    We love the show tonight!!!!!!! We're heading down to Elgin family Campsite in Florida next month and we're super excited. ❤️

  • @alainlacroix3428
    @alainlacroix3428 Před rokem +1

    Heading there March 1st. I’m glad I didn’t take my 41’ FW for the first year as a snowbird and only have a 32’7”. The only place we got in our traveling this season with plenty of space was Camp Margaritaville last week of January while you had your rally.

  • @debistoudenmier3070
    @debistoudenmier3070 Před rokem +2

    Now you tell me!! We went on our first RV trip to Fort Wilderness. We had a really hard time parking our 42'.

  • @libbyblackmon885
    @libbyblackmon885 Před rokem +1

    Hi guys! I just discovered your channel and I have been binge watching all of your videos. I love your sense of humor and the way you just seem to jive with each other. Love Dexter! I have subscribed to your channel and I’m looking forward to more of your awesome content. Thanks and stay safe!

  • @bassfishga
    @bassfishga Před rokem +1

    We went to Fort Wilderness a few years ago. It took me 5 tries to back into our spot. It was awful. 34 foot bumper pull with the same truck you have. 53 feet long with truck and trailer. Our spot was on the inside of a turn, cars were parked in the way. It was extremely tight. We haven’t had that issue at any other campground and go camping 8 times a year. We won’t be going back.

  • @BestNCBBQ
    @BestNCBBQ Před rokem +1

    Thanks for the review and recommendations but I have no desire to get anywhere near Disney World and I hate tight roads and close spacing sites! I’m only approximately 37 feet but I like lots of room to maneuver and camp. Stay safe, healthy and happy! God bless ✝️

  • @debbiejamison3883
    @debbiejamison3883 Před rokem +1

    Gotta love Thursdays and watching the Hanks

  • @reeffisherman
    @reeffisherman Před rokem +2

    I just want to say thank you for pointing out the vehicles that park in the roadway! I hope Disney and others who watch this learn how hard I makes it for people trying to park in the spots when they leave not only vehicles but decorations at the edge or in the road.

    • @shanedenmark5536
      @shanedenmark5536 Před rokem

      It’s actually against the posted rules on the website. You’re allowed one vehicle per site, and it can’t be in the road.

  • @Irjdunn1
    @Irjdunn1 Před rokem +1

    First (second)…. Zach and I say hi! And we need to check out Fort Wilderness. The rainy weather is perhaps the best time ever to go to Disney, overcast clouds, that’s what we hope for almost every trip now. So much more comfortable! Looks like a great time.

  • @janetswope5695
    @janetswope5695 Před rokem +1

    We went in 2017 for vacation. We were in a loop quite a ways back from the lake. Couldn’t figure out why they had so many golf carts for rent up by the main check in…until we became familiar with the park. IT’S HUGE!!!!! The biggest and most expensive campground we’ve ever been to. Our site was huge and we had no trouble parking, but apparently that’s not true for the entire park. We wanted to stay on Disney property to receive all the perks that go along with that. Loved the boat ride to the Magic Kingdom. We would go back again…maybe…but Disney in general has gotten so so expensive.

  • @patriciamckean4186
    @patriciamckean4186 Před rokem +1

    I appreciate your honest reviews of camping sites.

  • @dandaigle4546
    @dandaigle4546 Před rokem +1

    I just love the relationship you two have, stay safe and keep the videos rolling

  • @michaeldivirgilio504
    @michaeldivirgilio504 Před rokem +1

    Love you guys!! Not sure what loop you were staying in...but when we stayed there, we had a huge site that accommodated our 34' trailer and truck....and very private! We love the campground. You're right, we treat our visit there as a vacation.

  • @LuisandMasi
    @LuisandMasi Před rokem

    WE LOVE YOU GUYS! You motivated us to hit the road on our travel trailer and we can’t stop watching your videos!

  • @CookingwithCatLover0330
    @CookingwithCatLover0330 Před 10 měsíci

    I camped at Fort Wilderness in the 90s. It was me and my collage roomie for our graduation gift to each other. So much fun. We flew there from Boston with a tent and all our gear. It was very clean! Lots of fun and we even cooked frozen pizza on the grill! Our state park check out is 3pm. Need I say more, Hanks. :)

  • @Freightmeister
    @Freightmeister Před rokem +1

    Great review of pros & cons of the campground.

  • @kyramerritt5165
    @kyramerritt5165 Před rokem

    So Colt Creek 20 minutes from our house. Disney?! OMG I retired at 58 16 months ago. 42 years of service. Camped there one time in our pop-up years ago. Kids loved it. I actually worked in the merchandise warehouse right down the road from there. Glad you guys enjoyed. Can’t wait for videos on your trip out west.

  • @emmymae8553
    @emmymae8553 Před 10 měsíci +1

    The 100/200/300 loops are the old ones. The newer loops 400/600/700 are made for large RVs. We have a 33ft TT and we had no problems backing into a 100 loop site. But the next time we went we stayed in a 400 loop site and it was soooo much easier and bigger. DFW is still my favorite campground

  • @cowboyjeff1911
    @cowboyjeff1911 Před rokem +1

    The Hanks Dumpin' Tanks 🤣

  • @thomaswinslow1542
    @thomaswinslow1542 Před 2 měsíci

    Great video. Loved the use of the word cattywampus. My wife thought I made the word up and the only person that even knew the word was my dad and he said his dad was the only person he ever heard say it. So I had to rewind the video just so my wife could hear it. Her mouth fell open when I played that section of the video for her. Made my night.

  • @scrappersdream
    @scrappersdream Před rokem +8

    Being a Florida native I grew up camping in Fort Wilderness and it hasn’t changed a bit besides adding more loops. As an adult I first came with my 30’ class C. At that time I drove my golf cart around and wrote down my favorite, larger easier to get into spots and ask for one of those every time I go back. Glad I did because now I have a 40’ Super C. I don’t think I would stay there without going into Disney.

  • @deetorres424
    @deetorres424 Před rokem +1

    Oh my goodness, did anyone ever notice that he talks like Ernest T, LOL got a love it…..

  • @karriburger85
    @karriburger85 Před rokem +2

    We love camping at Fort Wilderness!!

  • @PamW2009
    @PamW2009 Před rokem +1

    Wooot! First time I caught your post the second you posted it! Felt like I won a scratch ticket. Looks like it was an OK campsite and you two gave such good insight. Sad you're heading west before we do in May so the likelihood of running into you somewhere is low. Bummah! Wish our Maximus (Max) was a lap kitty like Dexter. But Max is a British Shorthair and they just aren't your typical lap cat. Love you guys and your energy in this latest video 🙂

  • @jimtinkler4041
    @jimtinkler4041 Před rokem +1

    Great video. Good Info, we plan on going there in the next couple of years. Should have lot of practice backing in by then..lol

  • @angiet3224
    @angiet3224 Před rokem

    This was a really good video. I wouldn’t have known you could camp and they provide transportation to the park. Thanks 😊

  • @jeffwilliams2315
    @jeffwilliams2315 Před rokem +1

    We stayed there in our 45’ bus. It was super tight getting into our spot. We were honestly quite disappointed with the campground. I expected Disney clean and nice. Granted it was during pandemic, but after that experience, we are not planning a return visit.

  • @dawnfoster2873
    @dawnfoster2873 Před rokem

    We went to Fort Wilderness on our honeymoon in our van when it was brand new 45 years ago. We loved it back then!

  • @stephanievaughn6884
    @stephanievaughn6884 Před 3 dny

    If you get out to Groom, Texas…. Definitely check out The Creek RV camping… only 4 sites total in the middle of a huge farming area…. No one around. I was apprehensive but we actually enjoyed the peacefulness. You just call up the owner and he meets you at the property.

  • @thekenmorgan
    @thekenmorgan Před rokem +1

    You guys are great! We are dipping our big toes into the whole rvlife lifestyle. Still debating on fifth wheel or travel trailer or motorhome, but the decision will be made soon, hopefully one day we will see you out there on the road! By the way we are currently in Kissimmee near Old Town probably only about five miles from you guys.

  • @terribrearley6667
    @terribrearley6667 Před rokem +1

    Been there with the grand baby, loved it, can’t wait to go back! First trip with our 36ft Reflection and backed in no problem (but hubby can back a semi also).

  • @TodaysEscapade
    @TodaysEscapade Před rokem +2

    We are visiting the Fort in a few months but opted to stay in the premium sites even though we have a 28ft. Sites are bigger in that section. Safe travels!

  • @65Max
    @65Max Před rokem

    Private piloting is cool - you'll LOVE it. Take an introductory ride/lesson at a small airport and fly from the left seat of a Cessna, Piper, Cirrus, whatever. Far Part 61, baby!

  • @jeffsmith4525
    @jeffsmith4525 Před rokem

    Back in the day, we would go to Ft Wilderness and never go into any of the parks. Pike paths everywhere, transportation everywhere, food everywhere.. perfect relaxation with out the craziness of the parks

  • @dcrfire
    @dcrfire Před rokem

    I borrowed my parents 1986, 34 foot class A motor home and towed a Plymouth Horizon on a tow dolly and took my wife and two young children to Fort Wilderness from Ohio in 1989. Epcot had not been built yet. The campground was tight back then and pretty crowded. I had to unload the car and remove the trailer before we could back into our site. It was somewhat stressful but the week was especially fun for the kids. The boat transportation from the campground to the park was super convenient. Great video and advice.

  • @rickrichardson5329
    @rickrichardson5329 Před rokem +1

    Glad that ya'll enjoyed your time there and for the information that you provided. I don't believe I will be staying there because of how close everyone is and the cost. I liked the state park yall stayed in , it seemed more roomy. Love the videos and the information yall share

  • @matsulli2086
    @matsulli2086 Před rokem +1

    Disney and Camp Wilderness definitely wouldn't be my first choice of places to go, but everybody should experience it ONCE in a lifetime.
    Betting you two are at the Grand Design rally in the Q!?!. I hope you get out of Florida and see the West again!

  • @campdaan
    @campdaan Před rokem

    Carl… You got skilz, dude. Great job backing in on one shot. Props to your beautiful spotter too !

  • @johnnylightning1491
    @johnnylightning1491 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thanks for the head up Hanks. I'll be pulling in there in a little over a month. I'll make sure I watch for folks in the "yellow zone". Keep the good stuff coming.

    • @HappilyEverHanks
      @HappilyEverHanks  Před 4 měsíci

      Thank you so much, Johnny! It's always wonderful to hear from you 😃

  • @lisa62723
    @lisa62723 Před rokem +1

    Great info! I've heard the same about that place...not for me...maybe when there's grandkids in the future😎

  • @myront.miller6868
    @myront.miller6868 Před rokem +2

    DFW was one of our first season 1 trips from Michigan. Our first trip was from Detroit to St. Louis! When we first went, we were a family of 5 plus a pup and all our girls were 10, 8, and 6!
    We didn’t have much of a problem for me backing in, but we have a 32-34ft TT. We enjoy the amenities for our family of 6 plus the pup. What hotel/resort can we stay in for less?
    Planning on returning or going to a few state/city parks this year as well. Third season for us and we haven’t looked back yet! :)

  • @43Waylon
    @43Waylon Před rokem +1

    We have stayed in Fort Wilderness twice, actually wound up with the same site both times and I would say it’s an awesome campground.
    It is the only place I have ever seen people park their camper at the front of the site so they could hangout behind the camper. We are pretty well traveled but that is the only place I have ever seen people do that. I normally park as far back as I possibly can.

  • @justinhilliard6827
    @justinhilliard6827 Před rokem +1

    You guys hit on some of the major issues for sure. We've been to FW around 20 times and still love it more than any other resort on property. And it definitely makes a huge difference depending on what time of year you go.

  • @jeffersoncheney
    @jeffersoncheney Před rokem +1

    We like it, been many times but in a tent. Last time we went, two years ago for our anniversary, was the first time we took our grand design reflection 337rls. It was tight for sure. Not parked 100% straight but only there for 3 days. We had a blind-side back in.

  • @johnharper2016
    @johnharper2016 Před rokem

    Camped at Ft. Wilderness at least 20 weeks over past 5 years, one week at a time. Never a problem parking. 30' Airstream and 2013 Ford standard length van. However, when you travel with a huge quad cab truck and a huge (got to have all the comforts of home) 5th wheel, expect to have challenges parking. When Disney opened Ft. Wilderness (Dixie Landing) back in 71 folks travelled in REASONABLE sized rigs. Nowadays, lots of folks bring the entire house with them. What do you expect when your 70' long? Camped in several different loops. 2100 is favorite. Enjoy your home away from home.

  • @burtbennett
    @burtbennett Před rokem +1

    Last time we were there, there was absolutely no way to wiggle my 34' FW/8' Crew Cab truck into our assigned site. I had to call the front desk and get a different site. We do love it there though ... except for the price 😞

  • @westmotors100
    @westmotors100 Před rokem +1

    Another great episode guy's! My wife and I want to go there so bad but from the west coast of canada it is a long trip. Safe travels Hank's!

    • @chantalz
      @chantalz Před rokem

      We’ve done it many times from Victoria. BC. Long drive but nice. And fort wilderness is our happy place, along with Destin

  • @UnravelingMysteriesX
    @UnravelingMysteriesX Před rokem +1

    Fort Wilderness was our second trip ever. It wasn’t too bad. We never stay in preferred loops tho they’re much tighter spots. The most difficult part is navigating around other peoples stuff and vehicles.

  • @brandonspeed3142
    @brandonspeed3142 Před rokem

    We LOVE Fort Wilderness! Actually are heading that way in 13 days, woohoo!! We are only going to the parks for 2 or 3 days out of a 8 day stay. There is lots to do just by staying in the campground alone. We pull a 38’ 5th wheel with our F450, I’ve had no issues getting into sites every time we’ve gone. Although I’ve watched many have problems. Also, the cast members will help you if you ask them to. Just for future knowledge, holidays like Halloween and Christmas are some of the best times to go to Fort Wilderness as many many campers go all out decorating for the holidays. Good luck on your adventures out West, enjoy and be safe! Godspeed

  • @JasonParr
    @JasonParr Před rokem +1

    Thanks Hanks! Our family has been looking at making the trip from Colorado to Ft. Wilderness. My rig is 22’ but that still looks tight. Always good to know what you are getting into before venturing out! Appreciate all you do!

    • @nstack06
      @nstack06 Před rokem +1

      Look at the premium sites- they are much bigger than the sites in the preferred loops which is where they stayed. We travel in a 40 Ft RV with car and golf cart and have plenty of room…

    • @JasonParr
      @JasonParr Před rokem

      @@nstack06 nice tip! Thanks!

  • @robertcolpitts4534
    @robertcolpitts4534 Před rokem

    Interesting video! Your comment about the year the campground was built is appropriate. Older campgrounds from the '60s, '70s, and '80s were designed to accommodate much smaller trailers of the time. Slide-outs were rare to nonexistent. Now we have these ginormous trailers and 5th wheels with slides on both sides that can't fit into the sites. And don't get me started on the toy haulers with their patio decks. They need half an acre just to open everything up. We see this quite a bit traveling. Even our 25 ft travel trailer is pushing it in a number of them.
    Many parks can't expand or increase the size of the sites because it's very expensive and many were grandfathered in under the new environmental regulations. Re-doing the park would end that grandfather status, so only maintenance projects (electrical, plumbing, etc.) would be allowed.
    Say, is y'all's truck a 2500HD or a 3500HD? Just curious.
    Safe travels, y'all.
    Bob and Dottie

  • @RJS1966USMC
    @RJS1966USMC Před rokem

    We camped at Fort Wilderness in 1973! Dad planned our trip from Michigan to Disney Orlando in two modes: (A) driving in the car and staying at hotels OR (B) renting a motorhome ($$) and staying at Fort Wilderness (and rest areas in route). Calculating for gas, food, motels, etc, he totalled up two columns of expenses and they were $1 apart. We rented the motorhome! It was Mom, Dad and Grandma, plus us three kids (5, 4 and 2 1/2 years old) We left home on St. Patrick's Day 1973 in a BLIZZARD! The normal drive time from home to Cincinnati was 3 hours. It took us 8 hours in the snow.

  • @edgramza
    @edgramza Před rokem

    Looks like you guys were at Disney with Keith and Raini. That had to be fun! You had characters and Disney characters! Holy cow!