When the Texas heat cranks up, there’s no better escape than a water park—and Fort Worth is surrounded by some of the best. These family-friendly destinations are filled with twisting slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, splash pads, and cabanas designed for parents to kick back while the kids burn energy. Whether you’re planning a summer weekend getaway or just a quick day trip to cool off, these water parks near Fort Worth make a perfect road trip destination for all ages.
Why Water Parks Make the Perfect Family Road Trip
Water parks offer more than just a place to get wet—they provide all-day entertainment for toddlers, teens, and adults. With a mix of high-speed thrills, toddler zones, shade areas, and dining options, it’s easy to spend an entire day without needing to plan much else. Many of the best water parks near Fort Worth are part of larger resort or entertainment complexes, turning your day trip into a full-blown adventure.
Top Water Parks Near Fort Worth for Family Fun
1. NRH2O Family Water Park
This award-winning city-owned water park in North Richland Hills is just 20 minutes from Fort Worth and consistently ranks among the top water parks in Texas. With a mix of adrenaline rides, lazy river, wave pool, and kiddie areas, NRH2O is ideal for families of all sizes.
Address: 9001 Boulevard 26, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
Hours: Seasonal; typically open daily in summer, 10 AM–7 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$35 per person; discounts for kids/seniors
Famous For: Green extreme slide and family-friendly atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own cooler—NRH2O allows outside food, a rare perk among water parks.
2. Hawaiian Falls Roanoke
A Polynesian-themed park that’s great for younger kids and parents looking to relax, Hawaiian Falls offers a wave pool, lazy river, slides, and shaded cabanas in a compact, easy-to-navigate layout.
Address: 290 W Byron Nelson Blvd, Roanoke, TX 76262
Hours: Seasonal; generally open Memorial Day–Labor Day, 10:30 AM–6 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$40 per person
Famous For: Keiki Kove kids area and laid-back tropical vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Weekdays are less crowded—plan a Tuesday or Wednesday for shorter lines.
3. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
Located in Grand Prairie, this year-round indoor water park is perfect for rainy days or off-season fun. With 80,000 square feet of climate-controlled aquatic attractions, it’s packed with slides, a FlowRider surf simulator, and even a retractable roof.
Address: 2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Hours: Open year-round, hours vary by day
Approx Cost: $30–$45 per person
Famous For: Texas’s largest indoor water park with weatherproof fun
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip long entrance lines, especially on weekends and holidays.
4. Pirates’ Cove Water Park
Attached to North Texas Jellystone Park in Burleson, this pirate-themed water park is perfect for families staying at the campground or nearby. With slides, splash zones, and a giant pirate ship play area, it’s a hit with younger kids.
Address: 2461 S Burleson Blvd, Burleson, TX 76028
Hours: Seasonal; generally open summer weekends, 11 AM–6 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$30 per person; included with some Jellystone stays
Famous For: Kid-friendly slides and pirate ship play zone
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine your visit with a glamping or RV stay at Jellystone for the full weekend experience.
5. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Arlington
Just 30 minutes from Fort Worth, this massive water park is packed with thrilling slides, multi-rider raft rides, and massive wave pools. It’s a great pick for older kids and teens craving adrenaline.
Address: 1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006
Hours: Seasonal; typically open daily in summer, 11 AM–7 PM
Approx Cost: $35–$60 per person
Famous For: Big-name thrill slides like Tornado and Typhoon Twister
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early and rent a locker—lines build fast and shaded seating fills quickly.
6. Splash Kingdom Family Waterpark – Hudson Oaks
A smaller, more relaxed alternative, Splash Kingdom offers a family-friendly water park experience without the overwhelming crowds. Great for younger kids, church groups, or first-timers.
Address: 1001 Cinema Dr, Hudson Oaks, TX 76087
Hours: Seasonal; open summer months, 11 AM–6 PM
Approx Cost: $20–$30 per person
Famous For: Chill vibe, clean park, and attentive lifeguards
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water shoes for kids—the concrete gets hot mid-day.
Great Eats Near the Splash Zones
1. Babe’s Chicken Dinner House – Roanoke
A legendary family-style dining experience that pairs perfectly after a water park day. Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and endless sides await.
Address: 104 N Oak St, Roanoke, TX 76262
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$25 per person
Famous For: Homestyle Southern cooking and lively family vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Come hungry—everything is served family-style and it’s all-you-can-eat.
2. Rio Mambo – Burleson
Tex-Mex perfection with cool drinks and shaded patio seating. Great for parents wanting a margarita break after a hot water park day.
Address: 1401 N Burleson Blvd, Burleson, TX 76028
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$22 per person
Famous For: Fajitas, queso, and patio dining
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for the kids’ menu if you’re dining with little swimmers in tow.
3. Jambox – North Richland Hills
A funky food hall and arcade spot just minutes from NRH2O. Perfect for post-splash burgers, pizza, and ice cream in a casual setting.
Address: 8851 Boulevard 26, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20 per person
Famous For: Variety of food vendors and kid-friendly vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Let the kids play arcade games while you relax with coffee or a cold brew.
Packing Tips for a Water Park Road Trip
- Swimsuits, towels, and flip-flops
- Waterproof phone pouch or lanyard
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Reusable water bottles
- Change of clothes for ride home
- Water shoes (especially for toddlers)
- Hats and sunglasses
- Ziplock bags for wet swimsuits
- Light snacks or picnic items (if allowed)
- Small cooler for drinks if permitted
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
Go Early: Water parks get crowded fast—arrive at opening for the best chairs and no lines.
Midweek Visits: Tuesday through Thursday tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Shaded Seating: Rent a cabana or arrive early to snag a shaded spot.
Deals: Many parks offer family passes, resident discounts, or online ticket deals—always check before you go.
Weather Check: Summer storms can shut down rides—watch forecasts before committing to a long drive.
Wristbands: Parks often offer reloadable wristbands for food and lockers—convenient for hands-free fun.
Final Thoughts: Dive Into Family Fun Near Fort Worth
Water parks near Fort Worth are more than just a way to beat the heat—they’re memory makers. From thrilling slides to floating rivers, these family-friendly escapes offer excitement, bonding, and belly laughs all in one sunny day.
Whether you’re planning a birthday splash, a summer weekend road trip, or just looking to cool off, these parks deliver all the adventure without the airfare. So pack up the car, grab your goggles, and get ready to make a splash just a short drive from home.
