The 7 Best Outdoor Waterparks in California: Splash into Summer Fun!
California is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and exciting attractions. One of the most popular summer activities in California is visiting outdoor waterparks. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones are worth the visit. In this article, we will explore some of the best outdoor waterparks in California.

What’s the best water park in California?
Raging Waters in San Dimas is California’s largest and one of the oldest water parks, offering visitors all the amenities you’d expect with a little extra California flavor. Other great outdoor water parks in California include Knott’s Soak City in Buena Park and Legoland Water Park in Carlsbad.
These waterparks offer a variety of attractions such as thrilling slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and much more. Each park has its unique features and attractions, making them perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a relaxing day in the sun, California’s waterparks have something for everyone.
From San Diego to Sacramento, the best outdoor waterparks in California offer a refreshing escape from the heat and a fun-filled day for all ages. In fact, California is home to over 100 water parks! Even though that doesn’t make it the state with the most waterparks, California has plenty of options to choose from.
So, grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash at one of these amazing waterparks.
Top Outdoor Waterparks in California
California has some of the best outdoor waterparks in the country, offering a variety of thrilling water rides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and beaches. Here are some of the top outdoor waterparks in California:
Raging Waters, San Dimas
Raging Waters in San Dimas is one of the largest water parks in California, featuring over 50 attractions, including water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. This water park near LA has multiple levels of cabanas available for rent, and there are plenty of dining options for visitors.
Raging Waters isn’t just a great California water park, it’s also one of our top picks for the best water parks in the US!
Great Wolf Lodge, Garden Grove
Great Wolf Lodge in Garden Grove is an indoor water park resort with a variety of outdoor water rides and attractions. The park features a wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of water slides, including the thrilling Howlin’ Tornado. Visitors can also rent cabanas and enjoy a variety of dining options.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Concord
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Concord is a popular waterpark with a variety of thrilling water rides, including the Break Point Plunge and the Tornado. The park also features a wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of dining options.
Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park
Knott’s Soak City in Buena Park is a family-friendly waterpark with over 20 water rides and attractions. The park features a wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of water slides, including the thrilling Pacific Spin water coaster. Visitors can also rent cabanas and enjoy a variety of dining options.
Wild Water Adventure Park, Fresno
Wild Water Adventure Park in Fresno is one of the largest waterparks in California. It covers 52 acres and offers more than 30 water rides and attractions, including the GhostSlider, a thrilling water slide that takes riders on a 70-foot drop. The park also has a wave pool, lazy river, and several children’s play areas.
Island Waterpark, Fresno
Island Waterpark in Fresno is another great destination for families with young children. It offers more than 20 water attractions, including the Breaker Beach wave pool, the Adventure Bay children’s play area, and the Kona Kooler lazy river. The park also has several water slides and a family raft ride.
Want to bring your dog with you the next time you go for a splash? Check out our guide to the best dog water parks in California!
Legoland Water Park, Carlsbad
Legoland Water Park in Carlsbad is a great destination for families with young children. It features more than 20 water attractions, including the Build-A-Raft River, where kids can design and build their own rafts, and the Splash Zoo, a water playground with interactive DUPLO animals. The park also has a wave pool, slides, and a lazy river.
Best California Outdoor Water Parks Comparison Chart
Water Park | Location | Attractions |
---|---|---|
Raging Waters | San Dimas | Over 50 water rides and attractions, wave pools, lazy rivers |
Knott’s Soak City | Buena Park | Over 20 water rides and attractions, wave pool, lazy river |
Great Wolf Lodge | Garden Grove | Indoor/outdoor water rides and attractions, wave pool, lazy river, Howlin’ Tornado water slide |
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor | Concord | Thrilling water rides, wave pool, lazy river |
Legoland Water Park | Carlsbad | Over 20 water attractions, wave pool, slides, lazy river |
Wild Water Adventure Park | Fresno | Over 30 water rides and attractions, wave pool, lazy river |
Island Waterpark | Fresno | Over 20 water attractions, wave pool, lazy river, family raft ride |
Conclusion
California is home to a wide variety of water parks that offer something for everyone, from thrilling water rides to relaxing lazy rivers and beaches.
With multiple dining options and cabana rentals available, visitors can enjoy a luxurious and comfortable experience. Families with young children can also find plenty of options, including interactive play areas and wave pools.
Whether you are looking for a day of excitement or a relaxing getaway, California’s water parks have got you covered.