Best Austin Water Parks in 2023!

written bySierra Schmidt Published

When summer hits Texas, there is only way to stay cool outdoors and that is by being in the water! Luckily for visitors to this Central Texas city, there are plenty of Austin water parks within a short drive.

With the Texas Hill Country close by and a handful of water parks within a short drive, there are many options for spending your days outside in Austin with family and friends. Water parks are a great way to cool off during the hot and humid summer months!

As our children have gotten older, water parks have become one of our favorite ways to spend a summer day in this vibrant (but HOT) city. We are on a mission to explore every water park within a one hour radius and let you know what we think of them! So far, our favorite might surprise you! Check it out below!

Hyatt Hill Country Lazy River near Austin

Popular Austin Water Parks

Austin is home to some of the best water parks in Texas, offering a variety of attractions and activities for families and friends to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular water parks in Austin or nearby:

Waterloo Adventures

Waterloo Adventures is a unique water park experience located on Lake Travis. The park offers boat transportation to a private beach where visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities including a floating obstacle course!

This inflatable aqua park is a really unique way to spend the day on the water! It features a variety of obstacles and attractions, including slides, trampolines, and climbing walls. It’s a great place for adults and kids alike to have fun in the sun. Visitors get 50 minutes on the obstacle course with admission.

The resort-style amenities also include lakefront beach umbrellas, chaise loungers, hammocks, drink coolers, and more. Grab a BBOQ sandwich or smokehouse sausage spend the rest of the day on the beach soaking up the sun after an active time on the course! It is the perfect spot to take in some amazing Hill Country views.

Typhoon Texas – one of our favorites!

Typhoon Texas is known for its thrilling rides and attractions, including a lazy river, wave pool, and water slides. Our family of five was able to visit this water park near Austin for a great price with our Pogo Pass just this month.

This water park is on a 25-acre property in Pflugerville that features over 30 rides and attractions, including the Tanzanian Twister, a thrilling uphill water coaster, and Adventure Island, an obstacle course and playground for kids.

One of the main attractions at Typhoon Texas is the wave pool in Tidal Wave Bay (this is where you will find my daughter most of the day!). The pool generates waves of up to six feet, providing a thrilling experience for swimmers. You can also relax on the lazy river, which is over 1,000 feet long and features a variety of water features.

You’ll find a good number of water slides, including The Snake Pit slides, which are an exciting ride (and where you are most likely to find my sons!).

You can relax in hammocks and beach chairs, play beach games, and sometimes even enjoy live entertainment. The park also offers cabanas for rent and plenty of food and bar options.

I find admission to Typhoon Texas to be reasonably priced, and season passes or multi-packs are available for those who want to visit the park multiple times throughout the season.

Pro tips:

  • Visit on a weekday for lighter crowds.
  • Toward the end of the summer, the water gets pretty warm from the high temperatures. The pools are most refreshing in early summer.
  • Discount tickets can sometimes be found at local Costcos.

Quest ATX

Quest ATX is an adrenaline-filled paradise for adventure seekers of all ages. One of the best water parks in Austin, Texas, this recreational facility offers the perfect chance to try something new.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Quest ATX offers a wakeboarding experience for all levels. The cable wakeboarding park is a highlight, where you can glide across the water, catching air on ramps and honing your skills. With professional instructors available, even first-timers can experience the joy of wakeboarding.

Quest ATX also boasts a high-flying swing that will have you soaring through the treetops, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. And if you’re up for a challenge, the outdoor obstacle course will put your strength and agility to the test.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Schlitterbahn near Austin | Huge Waterpark!

Schlitterbahn Waterpark is one of the most popular waterparks in Texas (and definitely the biggest!), located in New Braunfels, just a short drive from Austin. It is a perfect destination for those looking for a whole fun-filled day of water activities.

The waterpark has a variety of attractions that cater to all ages, including a lazy river, wave pool, uphill water coaster, tons of slides, area for littles, and many more. The park is also known for its cabanas, which provide a great spot to relax and enjoy the sun. There are two sections of the park – the “old” park and the “new” park with an easy shuttle that runs between them. We spent most of our time at the new park.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is-lazy river, which is a great way to relax and cool off while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The Torrent River wave pool is another favorite, as it provides a thrilling experience for those who love to swim in the waves. We spent HOURS here last summer – it was a definite family favorite!

Another family favorite is the Raging River! My son and I hopped in the short line as one final hurrah as the ret of the family was ready to head back to the car. Thirty minutes later we had ridden through a series of rapids, gone through tunnels, meandered through the entire original water park, AND we floated all the way into the Comal River! After floating down the natural springs river for a few minutes, we were able to exit the river and reenter the park. It was was such a fun surprise!

For those who are looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, the uphill water coaster is a must-try. This ride takes you up a hill before dropping you down a steep slope, providing a thrilling experience for all.

We love that Schlitterbahn lets you bring in your own coolers with food and rinks. Stake out a spot as your home base or rent a locker for your things. There are plenty of food and drink options and cabana rentals if you would rather eat at the park.

Pro Tips:

  • If you visit on a weekend, expect VERY long lines for the slides. We got in line within an hour of opening on a summer Saturday and it took over 2 hours to ride one slide! The Blast Pass can help speed this up.
  • Bring your own cooler filled with food and beverages. Check their website for limitations.
  • Join the Reading Program in the fall so that your children can earn free passes by reading!

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines – our other favorite!

Water Park in Austin Texas at Hyatt Lost Pines


Welcome to Hyatt Lost Pines, a hidden paradise in the heart of nature! While this resort is a bit different than the other water parks we have on this list, if you are looking for a getaway that includes some water park features, we think you will love this option.

As locals, Hyatt Lost Pines is our favorite local staycation getaway for a night or two and we often recommend it to others. As you arrive, you’ll be blown away by the beautiful surroundings. Tall trees sway in the breeze, and the air smells like wildflowers.

If you love water adventures, you’re in for a treat at Hyatt Lost Pines. The outdoor space features a lazy river, one water slide, a splash pad, and a pool with a beach entry that is perfect or little ones. Waterfalls flow into the lazy river which is one of my favorite parts! Plenty of tubes are provided too.

Plenty of seating is available with food and drink service. Local tip: Choose some in the shade under the trees as that area is much cooler than the seats under the umbrellas. Some cabanas are also available for rent for a larger personal space. You’ll find bar service in the lazy river and servers happy to serve you a drink as you float by. A section of the lazy river is designated for adults only for a peaceful spot to relax.

The pool area is available year round, but the water slide is only open seasonally. Also, the pool is heated but the lazy river is not, so we have found it to be the most comfortable May – September.

In the mornings, take the complimentary bikes for a ride or play tennis on the courts. Play a round of cornhole, take a walk through the scenic trails, or check the activity calendar for that day’s crafts, shows, or seasonal fun.

As the sun sets, gather around the cozy fire pit under the starry sky and pick up a packet for making tasty s’mores. On our last trip, a racoon stopped by the fire pit to say hello! Plan to sleep well in the cozy rooms surrounded by trees and beautiful landscaping!

Volente Beach Resort + Waterpark

Volente Beach is a family-friendly water park located on Lake Travis just a half our from Austin. The park features water slides, a swimming pool, lake access, and beach games. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, movie nights, and indulge in really tasty food and ice cream.

This Austin water park is so close home for us that we can’t believe it took us so long to visit!

If you are ready for adventure (and over 42″ tall), the waterpark has a range of water slides that will get your adrenaline pumping. The Texas Twister will make you scream the loudest! There is also a Pirate playground and a splash pad that younger children will love.

Play in the lake or splash in the pool. Feel free to bring our own life jackets and floaties. Or you can enjoy a variety of beach games and activities, including volleyball and cornhole.

When it comes to food and drinks, Volente Beach has definitely got you covered! The waterpark has a bar that serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. There is also a restaurant that serves a range of delicious snacks and meals, including burgers, hot dogs, and nachos.

To add to the fun, Volente Beach hosts live music events throughout the summer. Visitors can enjoy some great music while lounging by the pool or floating on the lake.

Pro Tips:

  • You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. No alcohol allowed and no grills available.
  • Arrive after 4pm for a discounted entry rate.
  • No cabanas are available but you are welcome to bring your own umbrella (we recommend this!).

Kalahari Resorts

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock, Texas is a massive resort that offers a unique all-under-one-roof getaway for families of all ages. It is home to America’s largest indoor waterpark, covering 223,000 square feet, filled with wet, wild, and fun rides and attractions.

This resort-style water park in Round Rock features both indoor and outdoor water attractions. The park offers a variety of slides, including a lazy river, and a splash pad for kids. Visitors can rent cabanas, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in food and bar options.

In addition to the waterpark, Kalahari offers Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park, an indoor theme park experience with a ropes course, climbing walls, laser tag, mini-golf, and more. There are also four on-site signature restaurants and a spa for guests to enjoy.

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is a great place for families to spend quality time together and make SUPER fun memories, but it does come with a pretty hefty price tag. We highly recommend weighing the cost of staying overnight with included passes or buying separate day passes. Locals will also want to keep an eye on their social media pages for locals’ deals.

Pro Tips:

  • Check their prices and keep an eye out for deals and upgrades!
  • Bring your own towel – they are not provided!
Hyatt Lost Pines | Resort ni Austin with Water Park

Rock’N River Waterpark

Rock’N River Waterpark is a popular destination for families looking to beat the summer heat in Austin, Texas. Located within Old Settlers Park, it boasts a 40,481-square-foot park complete with a lazy river, crazy slides, and a water playground.

We were introduced to this hidden gem when my daughter’s youth group planned a trip there. I packed up the other kiddos and we made a day of it. It is so reasonable priced with plenty to do to keep everyone busy for hours.

The park offers many amenities, including tunnel showers, a water cannon, tipping buckets, floor geysers, and a zero beach entry play area. Whether you are looking for a relaxing float down the lazy river or an adrenaline rush on one of the many thrilling water slides, it is the perfect low maintenance water park to plan a great summer day.

Pro Tips:

  • Rock’N River Waterpark also offers season passes that include up to two adults and children from the same household if you plan to visit multiple times in one summer.
  • If shade is important to you, rent a cabanas or umbrella space in advance.

Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs in Austin, TX

This natural spring-fed pool is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery, making it feel like an oasis in the middle of the city. The water is always a refreshing 68 degrees, making it a great place to cool off on a hot day. To be totally honest, it is a CHILLY 68 degrees!

So Barton Springs is not exactly a water park. It is a natural springs pool in the middle of the city that is also one of Austin’s best beaches. But is so beautiful, and if you don’t feel up to a drive elsewhere to hit up some slides, it is well worth a visit.

Plan to bring a floatie because it makes the water much more comfortable to hang out in for more than a few minutes – we learned this the hard way! Be adventurous and jump off the diving board!

Only non-alcoholic drinks with a lid can be brought into the pool area, so leave all other drinks and snacks in the car and enjoy them at the picnic tables outside the gate when you need a refreshment break.

You can get your hand stamped and come in and out all day. Our favorite way to spend the day here is to go for a swim, and then walk over to The Picnic down the street and grab some tasty food from the food trucks for dinner before heading back for a sunset swim.

Pro Tips:

  • Bring a floatie!
  • Leave coolers in the car.
  • Buy your pass in advance to skip the line at the kiosk.

Water Park in Austin TX FAQs

Are there any indoor water parks in Austin?

Yes, there is an indoor water park in Austin called Splash Shack. It features a retractable roof, making it an all-weather attraction.

What are the best water parks near Austin?

There are several water parks near Austin, including Typhoon Texas Austin, Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels, and Hawaiian Falls Pflugerville.

How much does it cost to visit Kalahari Waterpark in Round Rock?

The cost to visit Kalahari Waterpark in Round Rock varies depending on the day and time of year. Prices start at around $50 for a day pass, but it’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

What is the biggest outdoor water park in Texas?

Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels is the biggest outdoor water park in Texas, with over 70 acres of water attractions.

What are the hours of operation for Kalahari Waterpark in Texas?

The hours of operation for Kalahari Waterpark in Texas vary depending on the day and time of year. It’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.

What are the age requirements for the water slides at Kalahari Resort in Round Rock?

The age requirements for the water slides at Kalahari Resort in Round Rock vary depending on the slide. Some slides have a minimum height requirement of 42 inches, while others require riders to be at least 48 inches tall. It’s recommended to check the official website for specific age and height requirements for each slide.

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

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