Best Water Parks with Picnic Areas for Families in the U.S.

If you're looking for the perfect family outing that combines thrilling water slides with relaxing picnic areas, you're in the right place. Over the years, water parks have evolved from simple swimming pools to expansive, all-inclusive destinations that cater to families of all sizes. Whether you're looking to splash around with the kids or take a break in a shaded picnic spot, here are some of the best water parks in the United States that offer not just water attractions but also the perfect picnic spots to enjoy a meal with loved ones.

1. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels, Texas

Located in New Braunfels, Texas, Schlitterbahn is a must-visit for families who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. The park features a wide variety of attractions, including thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. What sets it apart is the abundance of picnic areas nestled within the park, allowing you to take a break from the action without having to leave the fun behind. Many families choose to pack a picnic basket and enjoy their meal in the shaded areas near the park's quieter attractions. With ample space and beautiful surroundings, it’s a perfect spot for a family gathering.

2. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Orlando, Florida

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is a favorite for families visiting the Orlando area. Beyond the famous Disney magic, Typhoon Lagoon offers a large variety of water attractions, from exciting slides to the world’s largest wave pool. The park has several picnic areas where families can relax and enjoy a meal together. These areas are conveniently located near many of the park’s quieter attractions, making them the perfect spot to unwind after a day of excitement. Disney even offers picnic packages, allowing you to pre-order your food and have it delivered right to your table, so you can focus on fun rather than food prep.

3. Hurricane Harbor – Arlington, Texas

Hurricane Harbor in Arlington, Texas, is a part of the Six Flags family of amusement parks, but it also stands out for its family-friendly environment and spacious picnic areas. This water park boasts a range of water attractions, including thrilling water slides, wave pools, and relaxing rivers. If you’re looking to relax in a scenic spot while enjoying a homemade lunch, Hurricane Harbor has numerous shaded picnic areas throughout the park. After enjoying the water rides, you can settle into one of the many picnic tables and enjoy a meal with your family while recharging for the next round of fun.

4. Water Country USA – Williamsburg, Virginia

Water Country USA is another great water park for families looking to combine fun and relaxation. This Virginia-based park offers a range of water rides suitable for all ages, from thrilling slides to gentle wave pools. What makes Water Country USA stand out is its emphasis on family-friendly amenities, including spacious picnic areas throughout the park. Families can enjoy their meals in the park's designated picnic zones, which are shaded and comfortable. Additionally, the park’s location in Williamsburg offers a scenic backdrop, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic after a day of water activities.

5. Knott’s Soak City – Buena Park, California

Knott’s Soak City in Buena Park, California, offers the perfect blend of water attractions and family-friendly spaces. Located right next to Knott’s Berry Farm, this water park features a variety of slides, wave pools, and interactive water play areas. The park also offers numerous picnic areas, where families can enjoy lunch under the shade of umbrellas. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, these picnic spots provide a comfortable place to sit back, relax, and enjoy some downtime before heading back into the water. Knott’s Soak City is perfect for families who want to balance water fun with leisurely moments in between.

6. Aquatica – Orlando, Florida

Aquatica, located in Orlando, Florida, is another fantastic water park that offers picnic areas for families. Part of SeaWorld’s family of parks, Aquatica is known for its exhilarating water rides, including high-speed slides and lazy rivers. Families visiting the park can take advantage of the many picnic areas spread throughout the park. These spots are ideal for families to relax, enjoy a packed lunch, and recharge before hitting the water rides again. Aquatica also offers shaded pavilions where families can book a more private space for their meals, providing a great option for those looking for a bit more comfort and seclusion.

7. Wild Wadi Waterpark – Dubai, United Arab Emirates (International Recommendation)

While this may not be in the U.S., Wild Wadi Waterpark in Dubai is worth mentioning as a top water park destination with excellent picnic areas for families. This park combines adventure and relaxation with an Arabian twist, featuring thrilling rides and expansive water play zones. The park includes various picnic areas, allowing families to enjoy a relaxing meal in between their water park adventures. These picnic spots are conveniently located near the park's main attractions, so you won’t have to travel far to take a break and enjoy some family time together.

8. Splashdown Waterpark – Manassas, Virginia

Splashdown Waterpark in Manassas, Virginia, is a great option for families looking for a more budget-friendly water park with ample picnic areas. The park offers water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, perfect for kids and adults alike. The picnic areas in the park are plentiful, and families can enjoy a peaceful meal under the trees, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. After a fun-filled day at the park, these picnic spots offer a tranquil environment to relax and refuel before heading home.

9. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park – Destin, Florida

Located in the scenic town of Destin, Florida, Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is known for its thrilling rides and family-friendly atmosphere. The park offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, including water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. One of the highlights of Big Kahuna’s is its ample picnic areas. These shaded spots are perfect for families to take a break, enjoy a packed lunch, and cool off before heading back to the rides. The park’s beachside location adds to the charm, offering families the perfect setting for a relaxing picnic experience.

10. Raging Waters – San Dimas, California

Raging Waters in San Dimas, California, is another fantastic water park for families with its wide range of attractions and spacious picnic areas. With exciting water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, Raging Waters is a hit for all ages. After spending the day in the water, families can unwind in one of the park’s many picnic areas. These areas are conveniently located near the attractions, offering a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal or snack without leaving the fun behind. The park also offers group picnic packages, perfect for large family gatherings.