Cory:
What a choice! But in my opinion, it depends on the time of year you're visiting.
As most visitors to the panel know, I am a big fan of
Fort Wilderness. The relaxing venue gives you a respite from the hustle of the parks. The expanse of the cabins lends itself to entertaining with friends either outside on the deck or inside its large living area: something you won't be able to do easily at Beach Club unless you pay for a villa. Keep in mind that it's only a 10-minute ferry ride from the Contemporary, home of
Chef Mickey's, and a much better Character Dining Experience than Cape May Cafe at Beach Club. If you visit during a holiday, campers decorate their sites and at Halloween and Christmas, even the cabins get in on the fun.
I loved my stay at
Beach Club and actually prefer the resorts in the Boardwalk area, having stayed in them six times. If you have older children and plan to visit Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, proximity to these parks is a far cry from the bus rides from the fort to three of the theme parks. You are spot-on that its pool complex is spectacular with sand bottoms in its pools and a long slide and small lazy river for all to enjoy.
It comes down to the time of year in my book. If you are visiting in cooler weather, choose Fort Wilderness. If you're vacation takes you during warm weather, go with Beach Club. Since we'll call it for Fort Wilderness on dining and entertaining, and give it to Beach Club for proximity and pool, it comes down to the best weather for the campfire or the pool.
Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
Whitney