For some, Indiana may seem like a flyover state. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While the state is home to a lot of farmland, it also has plenty of attractions. These include an entire museum dedicated to RVing, some of the best Amish food in the country, and plenty of exciting Indiana amusement parks.
That’s right, there are a huge number of amusement parks in Indiana, and each and every one has something special to offer. If you’re looking for great attractions in the area, we highly recommend visiting at least one of the state’s theme parks.
Can’t decide which place might be best for you? Check out our picks for the top 9 amusement parks in Indiana.
Amusement Parks in Indiana
Below is a list of our absolute favorite Indiana amusement parks. From water parks to more traditional amusement parks, you’re sure to find something that suits your family on this list:
- Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
- Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort
- Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing
- Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort
- Splash Island Water Park
- The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center
- Deep River Water Park
- Pine Lake Waterpark
- Tropicanoe Cove
Of course, simply having a list of options doesn’t help much if you don’t know anything about each one. Let’s continue on and share a bit about each park, including where to stay, what to do, and what to expect.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Considering this park is located in the town of Santa Claus, you can probably guess right off the bat that Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is going to be a fun place. A combination of amusement park and water park, this place has been around since 1946 and continues to draw international attention today.
Some of the most famous rides in Holiday World are the wooden coasters. These include milder rides such as “The Legend” as well as more thrilling options such as “The Voyage”, which was named the “top wooden roller coaster” by Time magazine.
All that said, the park has far more to offer than just wooden roller coasters. Here, you’ll also find some awesome steel coasters, super cute kiddie rides, plenty of family rides, and on the water park side of things, incredible water slides! The park also plays host to a variety of performances, as well as some delicious food options.
RV Camping Near Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Planning to take the RV on your adventure to Holiday World? We think this is an excellent idea! Not only will this give you access to all the comforts of home on your vacation, it will also allow you to take advantage of the closest lodging option when it comes to staying near Holiday World: Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph.
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph — This awesome campground is located right across the street from Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari and even offers free transportation to and from the park. When staying at this campground, you will have a level site with full hookups, access to an onsite water park and pool, fun entertainment options (such as gem mining and paddle boats), and a whole lot more!
If you choose to stay at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, be sure to book a vacation package through the Holiday World website for a great deal.
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Planning Your Trip to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Tickets to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari start at $59.99 for a single day ticket. Two- and three-day tickets are available for less per day, and season passes will save you money if you plan to visit often. The park also sells “pick your date” tickets that can be bought for less, and there are discounts available for military personnel, first responders, and nurses.
As mentioned above, this park offers a huge variety of food that you will definitely want to try. Additionally, you can expect a lot of freebies during your time here. These include free parking, sunscreen, and even soft drinks!
Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park
Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park is definitely well worth visiting during your time in Indiana. This awesome park, located on the shore of Lake Schafer in Monticello, has been up and running since 1926. Because this park is halfway between Chicago and Indianapolis, many visitors find that it’s the perfect location for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
The rides at this park include roller coasters, water slides, family rides, and some pretty fun little kiddie rides. Some guest favorites are the Cornball Express, Steel Hawk, and Hoosier Hurricane. That said, anything you choose to ride is sure to be an absolute blast, and we highly recommend squeezing in as many rides as you possibly can.
Wondering what else there is to do in this park? Well, there are often live music performances, and fireworks nights are a must-see. Of course, shopping is also an option, and theme park food is found around every corner.
RV Camping Near Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park
This is another excellent RV camping destination! Yes, we think every destination is great for RV camping, but this one really is ideal. Why? Because of the super close (and super nice) Indiana Beach Campground.
Indiana Beach Campground — This lovely little campground is the perfect place to spend your amusement park getaway. Here, you can play in the game room, enjoy a campfire in the provided fire ring, and use the free transportation to and from the amusement park each day. The super clean restrooms and laundry facilities are awesome for washing up after your time in the parks, and we really appreciate that pets are welcomed with open arms.
Rent an RV near Indiana Beach Amusement Park and Water Park!
Planning Your Trip to Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park
Surprisingly, admission to this park isn’t all that high. You can expect to pay $39.99 for a single day, with discounts for those under 48” as well as seniors. If you’ll be in the area for a while, we recommend springing for a season pass, which will only cost you $69.99 and gives you access to the parks for the entire summer.
Wondering about food during your time in the park? Unfortunately, outside food is not allowed in this amusement park. However, as we mentioned above, there are plenty of dining options in the park, so you won’t go hungry.
Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing
For a more laid-back amusement park experience, consider a visit to the Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing in Columbia City. This is a smaller amusement center that manages to offer a whole lot of fun without so much of the overwhelm found in many traditional amusement parks.
Attractions at the Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing include three different mini golf courses, rides such as the Runaway Train coaster and Frog Hopper, a rock climbing wall, arcade games, go-karts, batting cages, a driving range, Jumperland, and more. There truly is something for everyone here, and we’re confident every member of your family will have a good time when visiting the Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing.
This super fun spot also has an excellent snack bar that serves up kid favorites such as hot dogs and soft pretzels. Additionally, the park now features an outdoor bar, meaning parents can enjoy an adult beverage while their kids play.
RV Camping Near Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing
RV camping is absolutely the best option when visiting Columbia City. Taking your RV ensures you have everything you need during your stay, and there are a number of great RV parks and campgrounds in the area, meaning finding a place to park is a cinch.
Chain O’Lakes State Park — Our favorite camping option near Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing, Chain O’Lakes State Park is a beautiful spot to park your rig. The sites are spacious and well-kept, and they include a picnic table. Water and electricity are available, as are restrooms with showers. The park offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and is just a great place to head back to after a busy day of fun.
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Planning Your Trip to Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing
The prices at Fun Center at Paige’s Crossing depend on what you plan to do. Packages are available and will save you some money. On certain days, wristbands are another option. These give you access to unlimited rides, go-karts, mini golf, and batting cages.
Outside food isn’t allowed at this park, so plan to either buy from the snack bar or eat before you arrive.
Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort
Looking to have some water park fun in the colder months? Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark and Resort in French Lick is the place for you. This spot is totally fun! It’s all inside, so it’s open year-round, but the roof is retractable so hot and sunny weather can still be enjoyed. This means a splashing good time no matter what the weather decides to do!
With 40,000 square feet of water park fun, we’re betting you can easily fill a day at Big Splash Adventure. Here, you’ll find a three-story climbing structure with interactive water features, some enclosed body slides, a baby pool with swings and a tiny slide, a big bowl slide, a lazy river, and more.
Want even more fun during your time at Big Splash adventure? Consider visiting Treasure Chest Arcade, Wilstem Wildlife Park, or Shotz Laser Tag and Mini Golf.
RV Camping Near Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort
Hoping to take your motorhome or trailer with you to Big Splash Adventure? We don’t blame you! Of course, you will need to find a place to park your rig during your stay. This is where French Lick RV camping options come into play.
Patoka Lake State Park — Our favorite nearby RV campsites are found at Patoka Lake State Park. This park is a short 20-minute drive from Big Splash Adventure. It offers electric hookups, bathrooms with showers, and well-maintained sites. The campground is off the beaten path, but the beauty of the place makes it worth seeking out.
Rent an RV near Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort!
Planning Your Trip to Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort
Before visiting this park, you will need to fill out a liability waiver. This can be done when you arrive, but we recommend doing it online beforehand to save time.
While guests of the resort hotel are given park passes for free, day guests will need to purchase tickets. These are $24.95 for one day for guests 46 inches and taller. Those under 46 inches and seniors get in for just $19.95, and those aged 2 and under are free. In addition to tickets, you will also want to budget for a locker rental and food.
Splash Island Water Park
Another water park option can be found in Plainfield, just outside of Indianapolis. Splash Island is located at the Plainfield Recreation Center and is an awesome indoor and outdoor water fun spot that the locals love and guests will enjoy just as much.
When visiting the indoor aquatic center side of this park, you can expect a zero-entry pool, a single body slide, a lap pool, and a kids’ climbing structure with water features and a small slide. The indoor locker room is clean and spacious—something moms truly appreciate.
During the summer months, you will want to hit up the outdoor section of this park. This area has even more fun to offer, including three large water slides, a lazy river, an interactive water play area with water shooters and kiddie slides, a baby pool, diving boards, and more. The outdoor area also features a snack bar complete with Dippin’ Dots!
RV Camping Near Splash Island Water Park
Those looking to do some RV camping during their visit to Splash Island are in luck. There are lots of great campgrounds nearby, meaning you shouldn’t have any trouble at all finding a place to park your rig. Our favorite option is listed below.
Lake Haven Retreat — Located about 30 minutes away from Splash Island, Lake Haven Retreat is a nice place to call home for a few nights. The large pull-through, full-hookup sites are appreciated by guests, and the location just off the highway is awesome. Best of all, this park has some of the friendliest staff out there!
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Planning Your Trip to Splash Island Water Park
The indoor side of Splash Island is open year-round. Meanwhile, the outdoor section is only open from the end of May through Labor Day. The cost to visit depends on whether you’re visiting the indoor or outdoor area and whether or not you are a resident of the area. That said, admission is always affordable.
Outside food is allowed in certain areas of this park, but we highly recommend budgeting to get a treat from the snack bar while you’re there!
The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center
The Waterpark at Monon Community Center in Carmel is another one of those community water parks that is surprisingly fun and worth checking out. Here, you can swim year-round in the indoor pool, but the real attraction is the awesome outdoor water play area that is open during the summer months.
When visiting the indoor aquatic center at the Monon Community Center, you can expect the typical lap pool as well as a couple of slides and a fun activity pool. This is a great option for those winter days when the kids need to get out and move around.
Of course, you will also want to make sure to visit during the summer months when you can have a blast trying your hand at surfing on the FlowRider or attempting to climb the AquaClimb wall. Young kids will love the zero-entry pool and kiddie pool with play structure, and everyone will appreciate the lazy river.
Have a thrill seeker in your group? Be sure they get a chance to try the three large water slides!
RV Camping Near The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center
We definitely recommend taking your RV when heading out on a trip to The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center. This will ensure you have everything you need to fully enjoy your time away and can be completely comfortable after each long day of play. Not sure where to park? We recommend the park below.
White River Campground — White River Campground might not be the closest RV camping option for those visiting Monon Community Center, but it is definitely the nicest. This well-reviewed park features some full-hookup sites, concrete pads, lovely views of the river, and a nice escape into greenery. Additionally, the rates are very reasonable—a major bonus, if you ask us.
Rent an RV near The Waterpark at Monon Community Center!
Planning Your Trip to The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center
As mentioned above, the indoor pool at Monon Community Center is open all year. The outdoor water park is only open late May through early August though, so plan your trip accordingly.
Rates vary based on whether you’re visiting the indoor pool or the outdoor area. Discounts are available for Carmel residents.
Outside food is allowed in certain parts of the outdoor park. Additionally, a snack area is available and offers favorites such as hot dogs, snow cones, and more.
Deep River Waterpark
Located about an hour outside of Chicago in Merrillville, Deep River Waterpark is an excellent summer fun destination. The park opens on Memorial Day weekend and stays open through Labor Day, offering residents and visitors a full three months of watery fun.
This medium-sized water park offers something for all ages. From large water slides for the thrill seekers to a play area for little ones, every single person in your family is sure to find something to love about this place. We especially appreciate the two different lazy rivers with water features that keep them interesting, along with the Double Dueling CannonBowl slide.
Besides awesome slides and attractions, you’ll also find plenty of food stops in this amusement park. These include an ice cream shop, a pizza place, and more.
RV Camping Near Deep River Waterpark
Want to take your RV along when you go to check out Deep River Waterpark? Excellent plan! Just choose one of the nearby RV parks and you’re sure to have a great stay. Our favorite camping option in the area is listed below.
Cedar Lake RV Park — A basic park that has everything you need to be comfortable while you explore the area, Cedar Lake RV Park is a great home base. Sites are level and have full hookups, guests love how green the park is, and the kind staff is a major plus.
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Planning Your Trip to Deep River Waterpark
Regular admission to Deep River Waterpark is $37.95 Monday through Friday, and $39.95 on Saturday and Sunday. Discounts are available for those under 46 inches as well as seniors and Indiana residents. Babies are free.
Tubes are free at this park, and there is no charge for parking. Additionally, this park does allow outside food and drink, making it easy to save money.
Pine Lake Waterpark
Pine Lake in Berne is an interesting water park because it’s built in a lake rather than a set of swimming pools. This lake has been a favorite swimming hole for locals since 1922. Since then, the spot has grown into a full-fledged park with all kinds of attractions that the whole family can enjoy together.
Wondering what sorts of attractions you might enjoy during a day at Pine Lake Waterpark? Slides are a favorite here. These include an enclosed slide, a racer slide, a drop slide, a curly slide, and more.
The jump tower and zip line are great options for thrill seekers, and those who enjoy a challenge will love the log walk and bobbers. A splash pad and kiddie slides will keep little swimmers happy, and the whole family can enjoy being out on the water in a duck-shaped paddle boat.
RV Camping Near Pine Lake Waterpark
RV camping during your getaway is definitely the best way to fully embrace the outdoorsy feel of Pine Lake Waterpark. Choosing to camp will allow you to park in the natural beauty that Indiana has to offer and really reconnect with Mother Nature.
Ouabache State Park — One of our favorite places to camp in Indiana is Ouabache State Park. This park is located just 15 minutes from Pine Lake Waterpark, making it a great option for water park visitors. The campground offers electric hookups, a dump station, potable water, and restrooms with showers. Playgrounds are available for the kids, and bison can be spotted in the park.
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Planning Your Trip to Pine Lake Waterpark
The cost to enter Pine Lake Waterpark is a mere $9 per adult and $7 for kids 4–9. Ages 3 and under are free.
While food is not allowed in the park, guests are welcome to have a picnic or even grill out in the parking area. You can come and go as you please, so leaving the park to have lunch by your car is an option.
Tropicanoe Cove
Finally, we must mention Tropicanoe Cove in Lafayette. Run by the city itself, this little water park is tons of fun for kids and adults alike, and is a great place to spend a summer day.
We love that the smaller size of this park makes it easy for parents to keep track of their little kids in the kiddie splash area while allowing older kids to have the freedom to use the other attractions. The slides at this park include a pretty intense tube slide as well as a collection of wavy racing slides and a more leisurely tube slide. On top of all of that, there is also a lazy river that is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
RV Camping Near Tropicanoe Cove
Travelers who want to take an RV with them to visit Tropicanoe Cove will need to find a campground nearby. The good news? There are several good camping options, so you should be able to park your rig near the water park without a problem. Our top campground pick in the area is below.
Prophetstown State Park — This state park is located about 15 minutes away from the water park. Rates here are incredibly affordable, and the spacious shaded sites include full hookups so you can stay in complete comfort. There are also clean restrooms with showers available, making this an even better pick.
Rent an RV near Tropicanoe Cove!
Planning Your Trip to Tropicanoe Cove
Admission to Tropicanoe Cove is $9 for anyone over 48 inches and $7 for those under 48 inches. Toddlers ages 2 and under are free, and there are discounts for those who visit after 4pm on certain days of the week.
Clearly, there is no shortage of amusement parks in Indiana. Looking for even more theme park and water park fun? You can always search “amusement parks near me” when you get to your campground to see what’s around.
Another option? Check out all of the other amazing things to do in Indiana! Below are links to articles that talk about some of our favorite Indiana attractions:
