WL is my whole family's fav WDWR. In fact we are headed back in September and we just got an upgrade to the concierge level!!! Can't wait!

The pool is awesome! Great for all ages. We love the quiet dinners at Artist Point and then the whole crew loved loved loved the Whispering Canyons Cafe. Even my shy DD got into the whole atmosphere of the meal time activities. (Watch what happens when you ask for some ketchup) Roaring Forks was great when you needed a quick bite, but I think the Concierge level will kind of replace that?
The themeing is tasteful and exquisite. We love to watch the Fire Rock Geyser erupt and the Sturdy Branches Health Club was nice to have available (if you just didn't get enough of a work out at the parks). It's the best of both worlds because you can take advantage of the activities at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground as well. I just didn't feel like I was at a hotel at all.
The best thing about the Wilderness lodge is surroundings give off a good vibe of serenity along with the fun! We have stayed at CSR, CBR, POR, Dixie Landings (prior to becoming Port Orleans Riverside), and of course WL. I did a sneak peak at a few of the All Stars but never stayed there. The one thing that I found with WL is that the noise level and out of control screaming children doesnt seem to be a really big factor. I wouldn't come to WDW if I didn't love children and being a big kid myself vacation is supposed to be fun and I wouldn't have it any other way. I guess we really have lucked out at WL because I don't see a lot of kids running up and down the halls screaming and I do see a lot of people being considerate of other guests.
It's WDW so all the resorts to me are awesome in there own rite, but when I ask the crew where we are staying at WDW I can guarantee the answer will be WL!!
Enjoy your stay wherever it may be!!!!
PD*PD*PD*PD