With hundreds of lakes and rivers, including the mighty Mississippi River, this southern state is well known for its watery attractions and Mississippi water parks offer aquatastic recreation for everyone.
Thrilling Water Parks
Adventurous visitors to Mississippi are interested in the best waves, rapids, and splashy fun the state has to offer, and they will find it at these three large water parks.
- Geyser Falls: This large water park in Choctaw has a festive tropical theme complete with palm trees, shaded cabanas, and white sand beaches, and it features a wide range of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. The 1,200 foot long lazy river is the perfect place to cool off on hot summer days and includes a refreshing waterfall. Children will love the Creaky Leaky Water Factory with its 100 unique fountains, geysers, waterfalls, small slides, and other water features as well as the multiple levels to explore and the cargo nets to climb, all topped with a massive tipping bucket. The wave pool is suitable for both serious surfers and timid waders, and the park's selection of water slides includes speed body slides, multi-person tube slides, a mat racing slide, and a unique backwards slide.
- Grand Paradise Waterpark: Located in Collins, this adventurous water park is brightly colored in tropical shades of pink, yellow, blue, and teal. The water fort features different fountains and fun slides for younger guests, and everyone will love the 800 foot long lazy river. Waddleland is especially for children, and the range of slides including a bowl slide, mat racer, and tube slides are fun for all ages. Private cabanas are available to rent.
- Gulf Islands Waterpark: Gulfport is home to this island-themed water park with dozens of fun attractions. The Master Blaster water slide water coaster is a thrilling choice or guests can enjoy the family flume slide or other water slides. Lil' Pelican Bay is perfect for the youngest guests, and the lazy river and wave pool are great for everyone. After working up an appetite, visitors can indulge in delicious barbeque or sample other treats at the park's food court while listening to one of the regular live music performances.
Natural Water Parks
Not everyone enjoys the adventuresome water attractions of wave pools and water slides, and there are many natural Mississippi water parks to choose from with more rustic fun. Popular water sports available throughout the state include fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, and many parks use rivers and lakes as their focal point to offer these and other watery activities. While features may vary at each park, popular amenities include:
- Campsites for tents or RVs as well as rental cabins
- Small waterslides
- Playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Ball fields and disc golf
- Waterfalls, dams, and other water features
- Nature trails for hiking, biking, and birding
- Boat and equipment rental options
There are dozens of natural water-oriented parks in Mississippi, and the features and resources of each vary. Online resources for finding the best park or campground for a Mississippi getaway include:
Visiting Mississippi Water Parks
While Mississippi may be known for hot summers and splendid water attractions, savvy guests will be prepared for the best vacation possible when visiting these water parks.
- Many parks are open only seasonally. Check individual park calendars for operating dates and hours.
- Summer weather can be unpredictable with heavy thunderstorms and oppressive humidity. Wear appropriate clothing and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
- Always wear adequate sunscreen when visiting a water park. Waterproof or sport varieties with the highest possible SPF numbers are best, and the sunscreen should be reapplied every two or three hours.
- Exercise caution when swimming in unfamiliar waters, especially lakes and rivers that may have hidden currents, varying depths, wildlife, and other potential hazards.
- Obey all posted rules and regulations, including warnings about diving or other dangerous behaviors.
Mississippi water parks, whether they feature a smooth, natural lake or crazy water slides, can be a fun way to cool off during a hot southern summer. Whether guests prefer inner tubes or kayaks, rental cabanas or tents, they can find the perfect watery getaway in Mississippi.
