If you’re planning a splash-filled escape in Pennsylvania this year, you’re in luck. From indoor resorts perfect for rainy days to giant outdoor slides under the summer sun, the Keystone State offers some standout water parks. I’ve compiled my top ten picks — each one popular for good reason. I’ll walk you through what makes each special, what to expect, and some tips to maximise your visit.
Camelbeach is Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor waterpark, located in the Pocono Mountains. It spans over 40 acres with more than 37 rides, making it perfect for families, teens, and thrill-seekers.
Rival Racer: A multi-lane mat slide where you can race friends.
Wave Pool: Simulates ocean waves, great for lounging or light surfing.
Lazy River: A long, winding river for a relaxing float.
Family Slides: Smaller slides suitable for younger kids.
Thrill Slides: High-speed body slides like the Camelback Plummet.
Quick bites like pizza, burgers, and nachos.
Refreshing drinks and shaved ice stands.
Cabana service available for food delivery.
Buy tickets online in advance to skip lines.
Arrive early on weekends for prime seating.
Bring water shoes and sunscreen.
Camelback Lodge & Indoor Waterpark (for a full resort experience).
Several local hotels in Tannersville for budget-friendly stays.
- Website: Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark
2. Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark (Tannersville, PA)
Aquatopia is an indoor waterpark also part of Camelback Resort. Perfect for rainy days or off-season visits, it features over 13 slides and is maintained at a comfortable 84°F year-round.
Storm Chaser Coaster Slide: A thrilling indoor coaster-style slide.
FlowRider Surf Simulator: Try your hand at surfing safely indoors.
Kiddie Play Zones: Shallow areas with mini slides and splash pads for toddlers.
Lazy River & Wave Pool: Relaxing options for all ages.
Indoor cafes with pizza, sandwiches, and snacks.
Bar service for adults near pool areas.
Go on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
Check height restrictions for certain slides.
Camelback Lodge, which allows easy access to the waterpark.
3. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Poconos (Pocono Manor, PA)
Kalahari Poconos is one of the largest indoor waterparks in the U.S., spanning 220,000+ sq ft. It’s designed for families and thrill-seekers alike, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor water attractions.
Indoor Wave Pool & Lazy River: Perfect for both adults and kids.
High-Speed Slides: Includes tube slides and drop slides.
Interactive Kids’ Play Area: Slides, splash zones, and climbing structures.
Outdoor Waterpark: Seasonal access with larger slides and wave pools.
Multiple onsite restaurants and cafes.
Snack bars located near slides.
Consider an overnight stay to enjoy both indoor and outdoor sections.
Check for package deals online.
Kalahari Resorts offers full-service hotel accommodations.
- Website: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Poconos
4. Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort (Erie, PA)
Splash Lagoon is a Polynesian-themed indoor waterpark with 200,000+ sq ft of attractions. It’s family-friendly and ideal for year-round visits.
Wave Pool: One of the largest in the region.
Treehouse Play Structure: Slides, sprays, and climbing areas for younger kids.
Thrill Slides: High-speed slides for teens and adults.
Hot Tubs & Relaxation Areas: For parents to unwind while kids play.
Buffet-style dining for families.
Cafes and snack stands scattered throughout the park.
Check for special events or seasonal promotions.
Bring extra swimwear if visiting multiple days.
Onsite resort rooms for convenience.
Local Erie hotels if staying offsite.
- Website: Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort
5. Waldameer & Water World (Erie, PA)
Waldameer & Water World combines classic amusement rides with a waterpark experience, making it a full-day destination in Erie.
Over 100 Rides & Water Attractions: Including slides, wave pools, and kiddie zones.
Family Raft Rides: Fun for all ages.
Interactive Water Play Areas: Sprayers, tipping buckets, and small slides.
Multiple food stands offering fast food, snacks, and ice cream.
Picnic areas available for outside food.
Combine your waterpark visit with the amusement park for a full day of fun.
Arrive early to secure parking close to the entrances.
Hotels in Erie city center or near Lake Erie.
- Website: Waldameer & Water World
6. Hersheypark’s The Boardwalk at Hershey (Hershey, PA)
The Boardwalk is Hersheypark’s water‑park section, offering a mix of thrill slides, relaxing pools, and interactive water play. It’s perfect for families visiting Hershey for chocolate, amusement rides, and water fun.
Breakers Edge Water Coaster: Combines a roller coaster experience with water slides.
Lazy River: Gentle float for all ages.
Wave Pool: Large enough for fun splashing or relaxing swims.
Kiddie Slides & Spray Zones: Great for toddlers and young children.
Onsite food stands with burgers, fries, ice cream, and beverages.
Picnic areas outside the waterpark.
Arrive early during summer weekends to avoid long lines.
Buy combo tickets online for Hersheypark + The Boardwalk to save money.
Hershey Lodge and Hotel Hershey, both within walking distance.
7. Morey’s Piers Water Park – PA Offshoot (Wildwood, PA – Seasonal Pop-Ups)
While Morey’s Piers is more famous in New Jersey, Pennsylvania occasionally features seasonal pop-ups and tie-ins for family water fun events. These include temporary slides, inflatable water zones, and mini water parks at resorts.
Pop-up water slides and inflatable pools for kids.
Interactive splash zones.
Occasional weekend events with water-based games and entertainment.
Food trucks or temporary concessions serving fast food and drinks.
Check local event calendars for pop-up dates.
Great option if you’re traveling along the PA coast or Delaware River resorts.
Regional hotels and Airbnb resorts near the event.
- Website: Morey’s Piers
8. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (Allentown, PA)
Wildwater Kingdom is the waterpark section of Dorney Park, offering a mix of high-speed slides and family-friendly areas. It’s one of the top choices for thrill-seekers in Eastern Pennsylvania.
Tropical Storm Slide Complex: Multi-level slides for adrenaline fans.
Big Surf Wave Pool: One of the largest wave pools in the region.
Lazy River: 1,000-foot-long ride through gentle currents.
Kid-friendly Splash Areas: Small slides, tipping buckets, and shallow pools.
Several onsite restaurants with pizza, burgers, and snacks.
Outdoor shaded picnic areas.
Consider purchasing Flash Pass for faster access to slides.
Arrive early during summer for easier parking and seating.
Hotels in Allentown or Bethlehem for overnight stays.
- Website: Wildwater Kingdom at Dorney Park
9. Zoom Flume Water Park (East Durham, PA)
Zoom Flume is a classic family-owned waterpark that has been delighting visitors for decades. It’s ideal for families with children of all ages.
Cannonball Slides: High-speed thrill slides for teens and adults.
Lazy River & Wave Pool: Relaxation options for families.
Kid-friendly Splash Zones: Shallow pools, tipping buckets, and mini slides.
Adventure Island: Climbing structures with water sprays.
Concession stands serving burgers, fries, pizza, and drinks.
Picnic areas for families bringing their own food.
Arrive early for parking and to beat afternoon crowds.
Perfect for a full-day trip from New York or Philadelphia.
Local inns or B&Bs in East Durham and nearby towns.
- Website: Zoom Flume Water Park
10. Idlewild & SoakZone (Ligonier, PA)
Idlewild is Pennsylvania’s oldest amusement park, and its SoakZone is a waterpark perfect for families. Its charm is in combining classic rides with modern water fun.
SoakZone Slides: Multiple medium-sized slides for family fun.
Wave Pool & Lazy River: For relaxing swims.
Interactive Sprayground: Tipping buckets, water cannons, and small slides.
Water Coasters: Fun for older kids and teens.
Onsite cafes and snack bars.
Picnic-friendly areas outside the waterpark section.
Visit on weekdays to avoid large summer crowds.
Combine your day with the amusement park for a full experience.
Local motels or Airbnb in Ligonier.
Nearby cabin rentals for families wanting a multi-day trip.
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania is packed with waterpark adventures, from massive indoor resorts like Kalahari Poconos and Aquatopia to classic family favorites like Zoom Flume and Idlewild & SoakZone. Whether you’re chasing thrills on high-speed slides, enjoying a lazy river with your kids, or planning a weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone.
For 2025, my advice is: plan ahead, check the park schedules, and combine waterpark visits with nearby lodging or attractions to get the most out of your trip. Each park has its unique charm, so consider your priorities — indoor vs outdoor, kid-friendly vs thrill rides — and you’ll have an unforgettable Pennsylvania water adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best waterpark in Pennsylvania for families with young kids?
For families with toddlers or young children, Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park and Idlewild & SoakZone are excellent choices. They have shallow pools, interactive play areas, and age-appropriate slides.
2. Which Pennsylvania waterparks are open year-round?
Indoor parks like Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark and Kalahari Poconos are open year-round, offering a warm, controlled environment even in winter. Outdoor parks such as Camelbeach and The Boardwalk at Hersheypark are seasonal, typically open May through September.
3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets online, especially during summer weekends. Many parks offer discounted online rates and timed-entry tickets to avoid long lines.
4. Are these waterparks suitable for thrill-seekers?
Absolutely! Parks like Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark, Dorney Park’s Wildwater Kingdom, and Kalahari Poconos feature high-speed slides, body coasters, and surf simulators designed for teens and adults.
5. Can I stay overnight near the waterparks?
Most parks have nearby lodging. Kalahari and Camelback Resort offer on-site accommodations, while Hersheypark, Splash Lagoon, and Idlewild & SoakZone have nearby hotels, lodges, or vacation rentals for convenient multi-day trips.
