I’ve always had a thing for water parks.
Maybe the scent of chlorine mixed with sunscreen triggers childhood memories. Or I can’t resist the thrill of racing down a water slide with the sun on my face.
Whatever it is, water parks have been a constant throughout my travels. When I found myself with a free week in July, I knew it was time to map out the ultimate tour of water parks in Maryland.
I scoured reviews, asked fellow travelers for their favorite spots, and even looked up hidden gems with fewer crowds and great family vibes. I plotted a loose itinerary, booked a rental car (opting for the mid-size SUV because towel piles are no joke), then packed my flip-flops, sunscreen, and waterproof phone pouch.
The goal? To explore the most exciting, family-friendly, and refreshingly fun water parks Maryland offers.
Preparing for the Water Parks in Maryland
Before heading out to explore the best water parks in Maryland, a little preparation goes a long way. Most Maryland water parks are family-friendly but vary in size, rules, and what’s available on-site. Thus, it’s important to pack smart.
Bring quick-dry towels, water shoes (especially for those hot concrete paths), and extra sunscreen (reef-safe is always a good idea). If you’re searching for ‘parks with water near me’ or even ‘indoor water parks in Maryland,’ don’t forget to check if your chosen location allows outside food and even water bottles; many do not, though some have shaded picnic areas just beyond the gates.
Lockers are usually available for rent, but it’s always wise to leave valuables at home.
Also, plan for a mix of wet and dry time: light clothing, a sun hat, and a waterproof phone pouch will keep you comfy and connected throughout the day. Whether venturing to a water park in Baltimore or road-tripping to big water parks near you, being prepared ensures you can focus on the fun, not the logistics.
Must-See Water Parks in Maryland
With all this in mind, let’s dive into Maryland’s best water parks.
Adventure Park USA (New Market)
Adventure Park USA is more than just a water park Maryland has to offer; it’s a hybrid of amusement thrills and aquatic fun. Located in New Market, this place has a charm that feels like an all-American summer wrapped up in one location.
I started my visit indoors with the arcade, mainly to avoid the midday sun, then ventured to the Wild West-themed area.
The Wild West Water Zone isn’t massive, but it makes up for its size with its energy. Kids splashed beneath tipping buckets while adults relaxed under shaded cabanas. What stood out was the friendly staff and the laid-back, low-pressure vibe, perfect for families who want both adventure and chill.
It’s one of those parks with water near me that I’d return to for stress-free fun.
Bohrer Park (Gaithersburg)
Bohrer Park was recommended by a friend who swore it was a hidden gem.
Tucked into a lush community space in Gaithersburg, this aquatic center is an affordable and clean option, especially great for locals or those road-tripping through suburban Maryland.
The main draw is the giant, twisting water slide and the zero-depth entry pool, which is ideal for younger kids and those easing into the water. I also loved the expansive lawn where visitors lounged on towels and shared snacks.
Parking was easy, and locker rentals were only a few dollars. This place might not scream “big water parks near me,” but it more than delivers in quality and comfort.
Pro tip: The water park is only open to residents of Gaithersburg on the weekends, so plan accordingly!
Chesapeake Beach Water Park (Chesapeake Beach)
Chesapeake Beach Water Park had the best beach-town energy of all the Maryland water parks I visited. With palm trees, tropical murals, and reggae music piping through the speakers, it was easy to forget I was only an hour from Washington, D.C.
The park features a lazy river, tube slides, and a splash pad perfect for toddlers. I spent most of my time floating under a brilliant blue sky, wondering why I hadn’t gone there sooner.
Bonus: the Chesapeake Bay is just a short walk away, making combining your water park day with seafood dining or beach combing easy. It’s a classic pick when searching for a water park in Maryland with scenic surroundings.
Francis Scott Key Family Resort (Ocean City)
Francis Scott Key Family Resort surprised me with its charm.
I’d booked two nights here as a midway break in Ocean City, and I didn’t expect their indoor water park to impress me as much as it did. With its pirate ship theme, the indoor park has everything from water cannons to mini slides, and it’s a lifesaver during bad weather.
Families dominated the crowd, and the vibe was relaxed. Outside is a heated pool with a shallow end for kids and a hot tub for parents. It’s one of the more underrated indoor water parks in Maryland, especially for vacationers looking for a break from the beach crowds.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park (Perryville)
This is one of Maryland’s newest (and easily one of the most exciting) indoor water parks! With over 126,000 square feet of indoor water attractions kept at a balmy 84°F, it felt like summer no matter what the weather was like outside.
As indoor water parks in Maryland go, this one’s top-tier. I spent hours bouncing between the high-speed body slides, wave pool, and the giant splash fortress (which dumps a surprise bucket of water every few minutes and had everyone laughing).
The lazy river was the perfect wind-down between thrill rides, and I loved that there were plenty of attractions for younger kids, too, including a designated toddler zone with pint-sized slides and sprinklers.
Since this is a complete resort, I stayed overnight in one of their themed suites; it was super comfy and kid-friendly, with forest murals and bunk beds that would make any child’s day. There were story times, arcade games, and even a mini bowling alley to keep things going when we weren’t swimming.
Great Wolf Lodge is a solid bet if you’re looking for an indoor water park in Maryland that works for all seasons. Whether you make it a weekend getaway or just grab a day pass, it’s easily one of the most comprehensive and entertaining water parks in Maryland I’ve visited so far.
Jolly Roger Splash Mountain Water Park (Ocean City)
This park was a showstopper.
When searching for ‘water parks near us,’ most people dream of discovering Jolly Roger Splash Mountain, part of the larger Jolly Roger Amusement complex. With over 18 slides, a huge wave pool, and splash zones galore, it’s the adrenaline-packed heart of Ocean City.
My favorites were the Aqualoop (not for the faint of heart) and the Master Blaster water coaster. I loved the variety, from extreme thrill rides to lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone.
This is one of those water parks in Maryland where you’ll want to spend the whole day and maybe even come back for more.
Prince George’s County Splash Parks
This collection of splash parks might just be Maryland’s best-kept secret for families.
I visited Ellen E. Linson and Lane Manor Splash Parks on a sunny weekday, and both were full of life but not overwhelmingly crowded. These parks are especially great for toddlers and younger children, offering colorful fountains, mini slides, and shallow pools.
Each park has its own unique charm. Glenn Dale is more open space and picnic-friendly, while North Barnaby offers a bit more shade.
Entrance fees are typically quite low, making these incredibly budget-friendly. If you’re Googling ‘parks with water near me’ and want variety and affordability, this is where you should go.
Six Flags America (Upper Marlboro)
I went to Six Flags America expecting a theme park with some splashy extras, but Hurricane Harbor, their water park, blew me away. Included with regular admission, the water park section could easily stand independently.
The Tornado slide, the giant wave pool, and the interactive splash fortress were highlights. I recommend arriving early and renting a locker immediately to stash your phone and dry clothes.
It’s a high-energy, high-volume experience best suited for teens and adults looking for all-day fun. It’s a solid contender among the best water parks Maryland has to offer!
Splash Mountain Water Park (Ocean City)
Yes, Ocean City has two ‘Splash Mountains,’ but this one stands apart with a unique spin.
This section focuses more on the younger crowd as part of the Jolly Roger chain. The kiddie play area is expansive and well-supervised, and the atmosphere is less hectic than the main complex.
I appreciated the ample seating and shade, which were perfect for taking a break without leaving the action.
Ticket bundles are available, and if you plan on visiting multiple Jolly Roger locations, it’s worth grabbing a combo pass.
This is an excellent pick for families with young kids or those wanting a quieter water park near Baltimore.
Sun Outdoors Frontier Town Water Park (Berlin)
My final stop was the Sun Outdoors Frontier Town Water Park, just outside Ocean City. This Wild West-themed campground-and-water-park hybrid was a fitting finale. There’s a lazy river, water slides, and a large activity pool that feels more like a party than a swim.
I stayed the night in one of their rustic cabins and was pleasantly surprised by the clean amenities and strong Wi-Fi. The vibe was pure Americana, with families grilling outside and kids racing back from the pool, soaked and smiling.
It’s not the biggest, but it has heart and is a perfect match for anyone searching for outdoor, all-ages water parks Maryland campers can enjoy.
Wrapping Up My Visit to the Maryland Water Parks
As I drove back toward Baltimore, a stack of damp towels in the back seat and the scent of SPF 50 still on my skin, I already knew I’d do it all again.
Maryland water parks surprised me—not just in scale, but in spirit. Whether you’re craving the rush of a high-speed slide, the quiet bliss of a lazy river, or your toddler’s giggles in a splash pad, there’s something here for everyone.
What struck me most during this trip was how diverse Maryland’s water park scene is. From sprawling amusement-style parks to intimate splash pads tucked into residential neighborhoods, there’s a level of accessibility and personality in each spot.
It’s not about the biggest slides or the flashiest features; it’s about the experience, the joy, and the memories you make along the way.
I met families on their annual summer trips, couples escaping the city for a weekend, and solo adventurers looking to recharge. These parks create space for all of them. If you’ve never considered Maryland for a water-filled getaway, I promise you: it’s more than worth the drive.
