As an avid waterpark enthusiast with over 7 years of experience visiting parks across the country, I’m thrilled to share my insider knowledge about one of my favorites – Big Rivers Waterpark. Nestled along the stunning Auxvasse River, this beloved Missouri park packs an impressive selection of water slides, pools, and family-friendly attractions into its beautiful natural setting.
With the 2024 season just around the corner, I wanted to provide an in-depth guide covering everything you need to know before you visit Big Rivers Waterpark for a spectacular day of aquatic adventure.
Getting There – Directions and Parking
The park is conveniently located right off I-70 at Exit 161 in Kingdom City, Missouri. There’s ample free parking in the massive lot right in front of the main entrance, so getting there is a breeze. I definitely recommend using GPS though, as cell service can be spotty in the area.
I once visited with some friends who didn’t preload the maps. And we drove around for nearly 30 minutes before finally locating the park entrance! So be sure to have the address handy, especially if you’re coming with a caravan of cars.
Lockers, Tubes, and Other Rentals
One of the great things about Big Rivers is that they offer locker, tube, and cabana rentals right onsite. The process is quick and affordable, saving you the hassle of having to transport a bunch of bulky items.
The lockers come in handy for securing valuables, while the tubes make navigating the lazy river and racing down slides like The Big Kahuna even more fun. During my last visit, we rented a cabana for the day which provided ample shade and a place to store our things while we hit the rides.
Signature Attractions and Slides
With over 15 awesome slides, there is definitely no shortage of attractions to enjoy at Big Rivers. One of my personal favorites is The Sidewinder, which uses a unique spiral design to send riders spinning down steep walls before emptying into a splash pool. It provides a thrilling ride every time!
For visitors looking for even more extreme slides, the park unveiled two new additions in 2023 that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. First up is the Python Plummet, which sends brave riders down nearly vertical free-fall drops at exhilarating speeds. There’s also the new Boomerang Blast, a crazy enclosed slide with flashing lights and blaring music that slings passengers back and forth before finally dropping them four stories into a pool below.
If heart-pounding drops aren’t your thing, The Big Kahuna lazy river never disappoints. I’ve probably floated around this thing hundreds of times over the years – it’s the perfect way to relax after tackling some of the more intense attractions. One tip: aim for the early afternoon hours to beat the crowds!
Dining Options
One aspect of the park that has seen major improvements over the years is the food and beverage selection. Big Rivers now boasts a variety of all-day dining choices to satisfy any appetite or budget.
On my last trip, my family and I grabbed cheeseburgers, fries, and milkshakes from the Lakeside Grill. The portions were generous and it offered nice views of the Hydro Racer slides across the lake. There are also several snack bars scattered throughout if you just need a quick bite or refreshment.
No visit is complete without trying the Dippin’ Dots ice cream or fresh-squeezed lemonade. The unique mini ice cream beads offer the perfect sweet treat on a hot summer day, while the handmade lemonade provides a tangy, thirst-quenching punch.
Insider Tips for Families
As a parent myself, I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to visit a crowded waterpark with small children. That’s why I wanted to provide some helpful tips to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
First, take advantage of the free lifejackets available at several locations around the park. Having your little ones wear one offers peace of mind, even in shallow areas. During my last visit, we rented a cabana for the day which provided ample shade and a place to store our things while we hit the rides.
Second, arrive early before the massive afternoon crowds. You’ll get your pick of chairs/tables and have shorter wait times for attractions.
Finally, check the park map for the Kiddie Cove area. It offers a zero-depth entry pool and several mild slides perfect for tiny thrill seekers! My 5 year old daughter spends hours splashing around here under my watchful eye.
I hope this guide gets you pumped and prepared for a memorable 2024 visit to the incredible Big Rivers Waterpark! Feel free to drop any additional questions in the comments section below. And be sure to tag @riverandearth and use #BigRivers when sharing your own epic waterpark experiences on social media!
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Sandeep Karki is a passionate travel writer with a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and over 8 years of experience exploring and documenting the world’s most pristine natural landscapes. As the sole writer for RiverandEarth.com, Sandeep blends his love for travel with a deep understanding of environmental sustainability, offering readers unique insights into eco-friendly travel destinations, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. His work emphasizes responsible travel practices that respect and preserve the environment.
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