Blog for Zipline Attraction in the Smoky Mountains
Located in Pigeon Forge, TN and near Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
Smoky Mountain Water Parks and Fun for Kids: Splash, Slide & Smile!
By Ross Bodhi Ogle
Posted on March 25, 2025
The Great Smoky Mountains are known for their scenic views, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures-but did you know they're also home to some seriously fun water parks and kid-approved attractions? Whether you're visiting in the heat of summer or just looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained year-round, there's no shortage of places to splash, slide, and play.
Here's your guide to the best water parks and kid-friendly fun in the Smoky Mountains!
1. Wild Bear Falls Water Park – Gatlinburg
Where: Inside Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort
This indoor, mountain-themed water park is perfect for year-round fun-rain, shine, or snow. With over 60,000 square feet of water play, Wild Bear Falls has something for everyone:
- A lazy river for relaxing float time
- Interactive splash zones for toddlers
- Two big water slides for thrill seekers
- Heated indoor pools and hot tubs for all ages
Bonus: You don't have to be a resort guest to visit-you can buy day passes!
2. Soaky Mountain Waterpark – Sevierville
Where: Right across from Wilderness at the Smokies
Soaky Mountain is a massive outdoor water park that takes summer fun to the next level. It's packed with rides and attractions for kids, teens, and adults:
- Boomer's Bay: a kid's play zone with mini slides and fountains
- Soaky Surge: a giant wave pool for floating and splashing
- Avalaunch Watercoaster: for your older kids who want big thrills
- Coyote Springs: a more mellow splash zone for smaller kiddos
- A massive see-through roof that lets in sunshine
- A surf rider simulator
- Wave pools and tube slides
- A 3-story play structure with dump buckets and water cannons
- Bear Mountain Fire Tower: multi-level water playground
- Little Creek Falls: toddler-friendly splash area
- Big Bear Plunge: for those brave enough to tackle the raft ride!
- Raging River Rapids and lazy rivers to keep everyone cool
- Water shoes: Lots of parks have hot concrete or slick surfaces.
- Towels & sunscreen: Even indoor parks benefit from SPF near glass roofs!
- Swim diapers: Required for infants and toddlers at all water parks.
- Refillable water bottles: Stay hydrated, especially outdoors.
- Dry clothes & snacks: Keep some back in the car for post-park comfort.
Tip: Arrive early-this park is super popular during peak summer months!
3. Wilderness at the Smokies – Sevierville
Where: Just off I-40, minutes from Pigeon Forge
This one's a favorite for families staying overnight-Wilderness at the Smokies is a resort and waterpark rolled into one, with both indoor and outdoor options. The indoor park, Wild WaterDome, is open all year and includes:
Note: Access is limited to resort guests, so it's perfect for a full weekend getaway.
4. Dollywood's Splash Country – Pigeon Forge
Where: Next to Dollywood theme park
If you're looking to mix classic Smoky Mountain charm with waterpark fun, Dollywood's Splash Country is your spot. It's beautifully landscaped, family-focused, and has tons of attractions:
Pro Tip: Bundle your Splash Country and Dollywood tickets for extra savings!
5. Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo – Sevierville
Okay, this one isn't a water park, but it's an awesome kid-friendly spot that makes for a great side trip! Home to over 600 live animals-like monkeys, lemurs, and exotic birds-it's part zoo, part indoor jungle. Great for rainy days or when you want a change of pace.
6. Outdoor Mini Golf & Go-Karts – Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg
For dry-land fun, check out spots like The Track or Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf. Many of these attractions have water features like misty caves or splash zones along the way, making them a fun extension of your water-themed day.
Packing Tips for Parents:
Final Thoughts: Smoky Mountain Smiles Await!
Whether your kids are cannonball pros or just dipping their toes, the Smoky Mountains have no shortage of water parks and playful spots to cool off and make memories. From indoor splashing to outdoor thrill rides, there's something fun waiting around every corner-for every age, every season, and every kind of adventurer.
So grab the swimsuits, load up the sunscreen, and get ready for a splash-tastic time in the Smokies!
