Two of Walt Disney World’s properties are currently undergoing significant construction projects. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, home to both Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins is in the midst of a scheduled refurbishment. Also, the highly anticipated Lakeshore Lodge is taking shape across Bay Lake.
In this article, we’ll explore the latest updates on these projects and what they mean for future guests.
Wilderness Lodge Refurbishment
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, a fan-favorite resort known for its rustic charm, has been undergoing exterior construction since August 2024. The refurbishment is part of a routine maintenance schedule and is expected to continue through 2025.
While the construction does not alter the resort’s iconic design, it has introduced some temporary changes for guests.
Key Updates:
- Construction Areas: Work is being completed in small sections, with minimal noise during daylight hours.
- Dining Impacts: The outdoor seating area for Roaring Fork, the resort’s quick-service dining location, is currently closed. This has also led to a slightly obstructed walkway between the boat dock, pool area, and main lobby.
- Dining Views: Fortunately, the construction has little impact on the views from Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White, a popular character dining experience.
Guests planning to stay at Wilderness Lodge should be aware of these temporary changes but can still enjoy the resort’s unique atmosphere and amenities.
Lakeshore Lodge Construction
Across Bay Lake, visible progress is being made on Lakeshore Lodge, the newest addition to the Disney Vacation Club portfolio. Located on the former site of River Country water park, this resort was initially announced in 2018 as Reflections: A Lakeside Lodge but was rebranded as Lakeshore Lodge earlier in 2025. The resort is expected to open in 2027.
Design and Features:
- Architectural Style: Lakeshore Lodge is being designed by the same team behind Disney’s Riviera Resort and the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.
- A-Frame Cabins: The resort will feature A-frame cabins with stunning water views and partial views of Magic Kingdom fireworks, similar to the Cabins at Copper Creek and the Bungalows at the Polynesian.
- Proximity to Fort Wilderness: The resort’s location near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground has sparked mixed reactions, as it alters the view from Pioneer Hall and Tri-Circle D Ranch.
While details about shared amenities remain unclear, Lakeshore Lodge is poised to offer a blend of modern luxury and natural beauty.
What These Updates Mean for Guests
The construction projects at Wilderness Lodge and Lakeshore Lodge reflect Disney’s commitment to maintaining and expanding its resort offerings. For current guests at Wilderness Lodge, the refurbishment may introduce minor inconveniences, but the resort’s core experiences remain intact. Meanwhile, the development of Lakeshore Lodge signals exciting new opportunities for future DVC members and guests.
Tips for Guests:
- Wilderness Lodge Visitors: Be prepared for some construction-related adjustments and plan dining reservations accordingly.
- Future Lakeshore Lodge Guests: Keep an eye on updates as the resort’s opening date approaches to learn more about its features and amenities.
Conclusion
The ongoing construction at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Lakeshore Lodge highlights the constant evolution of Disney Vacation Club resorts. While Wilderness Lodge continues to welcome guests during its refurbishment, Lakeshore Lodge promises to bring a fresh perspective to Disney’s resort lineup.
As always, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog for all the latest developments for Disney theme parks and all the information you could ever need about the Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Experience These Resorts For Yourself!
If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent at Boulder Ridge or confirmed reservations for rent at Copper Creek, you can experience Disney’s Deluxe resorts for less, even without being a DVC member! If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current Boulder Ridge resale listings or Copper Creek resale listings.
Boulder Ridge
Copper Creek
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
