A New Resort Rises on Bay Lake
Disney Vacation Club Lakeshore Lodge marks the newest addition to Walt Disney World Resort. Disney is building the resort along Bay Lake on the former site of Disney’s River Country.
Many longtime fans remember River Country as one of Orlando’s original water parks. Now, Disney is transforming that historic shoreline into a nature-inspired Deluxe resort.
Even better, the location sits next to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. As a result, guests will enjoy quick access to Magic Kingdom while staying immersed in a peaceful, wooded setting.
Construction Update: February 2026
Construction has moved quickly.
As of writing this article, crews have topped off the main buildings at nearly 10 stories. Steel framing and concrete walls now define the skyline. At the same time, teams continue adding exterior details across multiple sections of the property.
Along the shoreline, A-frame cabin villas are clearly visible. Meanwhile, workers are building out what could become one of the resort’s biggest highlights — the pool complex.
Plans show:
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A lazy river
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A zero-entry pool
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Hot tubs
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Splash areas
In addition, crews are installing roofing over the porte cochere and other architectural features. They are also completing boat docks and parking areas. Inside the buildings, construction teams have already started interior work.
Overall, the project appears to be moving at a steady and confident pace.
Expected Opening Timeline
Disney plans to open Lakeshore Lodge in 2027. Many industry observers expect a first-half launch. If that happens, Disney could welcome guests before the busy spring season of 2027.
Before that, Disney Vacation Club sales may begin in late 2026. Of course, Disney has not announced official sales dates yet. However, current progress suggests the timeline remains on track.
Originally, Disney introduced the concept in 2018 as “Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge.” Although the project paused during the pandemic, Disney has since restarted construction with clear momentum.
Resort Size and Layout
Lakeshore Lodge will operate as a Deluxe-level Disney Vacation Club resort. It will combine traditional hotel rooms with DVC villas.
Current estimates suggest more than 900 rooms and villas. That would make it larger than Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in total room count. However, it will likely remain smaller than Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
Because of its size, the resort should offer strong availability and a wide range of accommodations.
Theming and Design Inspiration
Disney designed Lakeshore Lodge to celebrate nature and its influence on Disney artists. The resort will draw inspiration from classic films such as:
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Bambi
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Brother Bear
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The Fox and the Hound
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Pocahontas
Rather than heavy character overlays, expect subtle artwork and warm, natural design elements. In this way, Disney can blend storytelling with an upscale atmosphere.
Amenities That Could Set It Apart
Amenities will play a major role in the resort’s appeal.
Most notably, the lazy river would make Lakeshore Lodge one of the few Disney resorts to offer that feature. In addition, the zero-entry pool and splash zones will likely attract families.
The resort may also include:
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A waterfront restaurant, possibly inspired by The Princess and the Frog
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A-frame cabins along the shoreline
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Treehouse-style villas
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Boat transportation to Magic Kingdom
Because of its waterfront setting, the resort should feel both secluded and connected.
Long-Term Ownership Outlook
Lakeshore Lodge will become the 19th Disney Vacation Club resort. Contracts are expected to run through approximately 2078, though Disney has not released final details.
If confirmed, that expiration date would provide 50 years of ownership from initial sales.
At the same time, buyers will watch several factors closely:
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Initial price per point
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Annual dues
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Resale restrictions
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Long-term demand for Magic Kingdom area resorts
Disney Vacation Club Lakeshore Lodge represents a major expansion along Bay Lake. More importantly, it brings new energy to a site that sat vacant for years.
With a strong location, large scale, and unique amenities, the resort has the potential to become one of Walt Disney World’s most distinctive properties.
As more details emerge, Lakeshore Lodge will move from an exciting concept to an attractive opportunity for Disney Vacation Club buyers.
Written By:
Scot has been a senior member of The Timeshare Store, Inc.® (DVCstore.com) for nearly two decades, bringing a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to our team. In addition to his expertise in the world of Disney Vacation Club, Scot is also an amazing cook —always ready to swap a great recipe. Most importantly, he’s a devoted family man who lights up when talking about his kids. His warmth, humor, and heart are just a few of the reasons he’s such a valued part of our team.