Imagine a sprawling Disney resort rising from the ashes of a beloved, long-abandoned water park, its A-frame cabins and nature-inspired design promising a magical escape. But here's where it gets controversial: will this new addition to Walt Disney World truly capture the charm of its predecessor, or is it just another commercial venture disguised as nostalgia? Aerial photographer @bioreconstruct (https://x.com/bioreconstruct) has been capturing the transformation of the former River Country site into Disney Lakeshore Lodge, and the progress is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Situated next to Fort Wilderness (https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/campsites-at-fort-wilderness-resort/) and across the water from the eerie, abandoned Discovery Island, this resort is slated to open in 2027, blending modern luxury with a nature-centric theme.
From the air, the sheer scale of the project becomes apparent. All three wings and the central courtyard are taking shape, with the Porte Cochere entrance nearing completion. The A-frame cabins, a standout feature lining the shore, are rapidly progressing—some now clad in roofing tar, while others sport plywood sheathing over metal beams. And this is the part most people miss: while crews focus on cabins near the main building, those closer to Clementine Beach remain in the framing stage, a mix of wood and steel awaiting further development. A crane perched on a Floatmaster in the lake hints at a dock under construction, though currently, it’s little more than supports jutting from the water.
Near the lakeshore, a structure believed to be a bar or restaurant now boasts roofing and steel frameworks, possibly for covered outdoor seating. Initially marketed as a Princess and the Frog-inspired standalone restaurant (https://wdwnt.com/2019/08/breaking-reflections-a-disney-lakeside-lodge-to-feature-princess-and-the-frog-lakeside-restaurant/), the plans seem to have evolved, leaving fans wondering if the original vision will come to fruition. Meanwhile, concrete and utility work continue on the lazy river and main pool, with the river forming a nearly complete oval behind the resort’s entrance. Smaller 'quiet pools' are also under construction in the courtyard, and blue sheathing now adorns many roofline overhangs, signaling the final stages of completion.
Disney Lakeshore Lodge, a Disney Vacation Club (https://wdwnt.com/2024/11/disney-lakeshore-lodge-replacing-reflections/) property, promises to be 'inspired by the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists.' But here’s the question: will it live up to the hype, or is it just another resort in a sea of Disney properties? If you’re considering joining the DVC, the experts at the DVC Resale Market (https://www.dvcresalemarket.com/?utmsource=partner&utmcampaign=wdwnt) can help you save 40% or more on your membership. Check out available contracts (https://www.dvcresalemarket.com/listings/?utmsource=partner&utmcampaign=wdwnt) or learn more about buying resale today (https://www.dvcresalemarket.com/buying/?utmsource=partner&utmcampaign=wdwnt). For the latest updates on this and other Disney Parks news, follow WDW News Today (https://wdwnt.com/) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wdwnt), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WDWNewsToday/), and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wdwnt/).
Controversial Thought: As Disney continues to expand, are these new resorts truly enhancing the magic, or are they diluting the unique charm that once defined the parks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think Lakeshore Lodge will be a hit, or is it just another overhyped addition?
