Big Rivers Waterpark’s 2025 Opening Day
As a newbie to the U.S., my first summer in Texas kicked off with a splash at Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures in New Caney, just 40 minutes from Houston, on its 2025 opening day, during the Big Summer Blastoff! Our friends invited us to join them at this 80-acre wonderland of waterslides, wave pools, zip lines, axe throwing (well that was definitely a first) and some farm fun. The park opened the season with a Big Summer Blastoff. It was a party with live music, food stalls, and fireworks.
My Opening Day Experience: A Newcomer’s Highlights
We arrived at the waterpark around 4pm, just enough for a few hours of scorching heat and enjoying the cool breeze of the water with fireworks at night. The waterpark has tons of activities to do from lazy river, petting zoo, axe throwing and archery.
1. COLORado Racers – Slide Madness
The slides are a six-story, multi-lane racing slide for head-first mat race. Height requirement is 42 inches minimum and could accompany up to 6 racers per round. It’s a fun thing to do for some splashdown competition. Our friends did it but for someone who has fear of heights, this was a no. You know where I went? To the kiddie slides stat!
2. Rio GRAND River – Chill Vibes
After the slide rush, we floated on the Rio GRAND, Houston’s longest lazy river. It was the perfect breather, with partial shades, though drinks are not allowed. Leave those margs out.
3. Gator Splash – Water Chaos
You remember that kiddie slide I went to instead? This giant play structure with 300+ sprayers, slides, and a dumping bucket was insane! I climbed, slid, and got drenched when the bucket tipped. It’s not just kid-friendly but adult-friendly too! My friend and I started a chant with the kids ‘bucket bucket’ for the bucket to dump and drench us all in water.. Shaded spots nearby were great for a quick break. This is probably my absolute favorite station in the waterpark.
4. Big Al’s Farm & Fishing Hole – Goat Cuddles
Needing a break from water? Go to Big Al’s Farm, where you can feed baby goats. They also offer gem mining (additional cost of $15), digging through sand for shiny stones.
5. Wild Isle (Floating Obstacle Course)
From what the waterpark has mentioned, this is North America’s largest inflatable floating obstacle course on a lake. It has inflatable climbing walls, balance beams, slides on water located on the lake area. They have age and height requirements, with<50 participants at a time and mandatory life jacket for safety. This looked really fun, we wanted to try this but the line was too long.
6. Axe Throwing and Archery Area
This is a dry attraction zone for axe throwing and archery target practice. You need to sign a waiver before you can start the activity and they will put a bracelet tag on you. The Axe Throwing features multiple lanes with wooden targets, staff-guided, 10–15-minute sessions, while the Archery has Bow and arrow stations with inflatable targets.
7. Carnival Rides
There are multiple rides you can enjoy here. Just make sure you are wearing a proper top and bottom, with shoes to be allowed.
Entrance Costs & Ticket Info
General Admission: $39.99 online (recommended), $44.99 at gate. Kids under 48”: $29.99. Ages 2 & under: Free.
Season Pass: $99 (unlimited visits through September 2025).
Parking: $10 per vehicle (cash or card) for VIP. They also have free parking.
Cabanas: $50–$100/day (shaded, seats 6–8, book online).
Extras: Gem mining ($10–$20), locker rentals ($10–$15).
Deals: Buy online at bigriverswaterpark.com for $5 off. Check for group discounts (15+ people, call 832-509-1556).
FAQ: First-Timer’s Guide to Big Rivers
Q: What should I bring?
A: Towels, sunscreen, waterproof phone case. water shoes, water bottle that’s empty. Food and drinks are not allowed.
Q: Is it safe for non-swimmers?
A: Yes! Free life jackets are everywhere.
Q: What’s the vibe on opening day?
A: Electric! Live music, crowds, and energy made it a party, but it was hectic. Quieter weekdays might suit first-timers.
Q: Is it accessible?
A: Flat paths and wheelchair-accessible areas helped my group. Call (832) 509-1556 for specific needs.
Q: How do I get there from Houston?
A: Drive 40 minutes via I-69 N to 23101 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357. . Parking is $10.
BigBig Rivers was the perfect intro to American waterparks—thrilling, chaotic, and so much fun. From slide races to goat cuddles, the first day of summer 2025 was a blast!