New River Gorge, WV Adventure Waterpark- 3 PM to 8PM

If you’re planning a trip to West Virginia and want a fun-filled, laid-back way to cool off and enjoy the outdoors, the New River Gorge Adventure Waterpark might catch your eye. This experience offers a lively mix of water slides, inflatables, zip lines, and scenic trails, all packed into a 5-acre spring-fed lake. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, I’ve done plenty of waterpark visits and outdoor activities around the country, so I can give you a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What immediately appeals to me about this experience is its combination of adrenaline and relaxation—you can zip across the lake and race down the wet slides, then kick back on sandy beaches with a cold drink. Plus, the value feels reasonable considering the variety of activities packed into just five hours. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience is mainly geared toward those who enjoy active water attractions and outdoor scenery. If you’re traveling with kids or looking for a more mellow day, this could be a good fit, but keep in mind the physical nature of some activities.

One potential consideration is that this experience is available as an afternoon pass from 3 PM to 8 PM, so it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules or those who want to wind down their day with some splashy fun. Also, since the tour is booked on average 25 days in advance, it’s worth planning ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak season. Overall, it’s an experience that appeals most to adventure seekers, families with older kids, or groups looking for a lively outdoor outing that combines fun and scenic views.

Key Points

• Five acres of floating fun on a spring-fed lake with a variety of inflatable toys and obstacle courses
• Includes two 40-foot waterslides and two zip lines for thrill-seekers
• Affordable price at just over $24 per person with a lot of activities packed in
• Relaxing options like sandy beaches and outdoor dining to unwind after playtime
• Access to trails for hiking and biking around the 1500-acre resort area
• Booking in advance (about 25 days ahead) is recommended due to demand

What Is the Experience Like?

Imagine stepping onto a vast, 5-acre floating playground that’s part waterpark, part outdoor adventure zone. The main draw is the lake itself, which has been transformed into a lively space filled with inflatable toys, climbing features, and water slides. You’ll find two massive Wet Willie waterslides, towering 40 feet above the water, offering an exhilarating ride that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. If you’re into zip lines, two tower zip lines stretch across the water, providing a rush and great views of the stunning scenery around.

The inflatable toys—more than 50 of them—are perfect for climbing, bouncing, and jumping. Whether you’re racing friends across floating obstacle courses or trying to conquer the 25-foot climbing mountain, there’s plenty to keep you active. For those who prefer calmer moments, there’s space to lounge on white sandy beaches or walk along scenic trails that wind through the resort’s nearly 1500 acres.

The waterpark also includes complimentary access to hiking and biking trails, which makes it more than just a splash zone; it’s a chance to enjoy nature and explore the surrounding landscape. It’s a nice touch, especially if you want a balanced mix of water fun and outdoor adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins at 3:00 pm, giving plenty of time to settle in and start exploring. Once you arrive, the experience is all about independent fun—there’s no rigid schedule to follow, so you can hop from one activity to another at your own pace.

Climb the towers and zip across the lake—these activities are the highlights for thrill enthusiasts. The Wet Willie waterslides are a standout feature, with their impressive height and the splashy thrill of sliding down. Many reviews highlight how exciting these slides are; one said, “You really feel like you’re flying off the top,” which captures that youthful thrill.

The floating obstacle course and inflatable toys form the core of the playful chaos. These inflatables allow for climbing up, sliding down, and jumping off, creating a lively and dynamic environment. If you’re tired or just want a break, lounging on the beaches with a cold drink and watching others scramble across inflatables can be just as fun.

As the sun starts to dip past 8 pm, your visit winds down, but not before many have enjoyed the scenic surroundings and the variety of activities offered. The option to grab a woodfired pizza or a full meal at the outdoor bar and grill is a nice way to wrap up the day, especially after plenty of splashing and climbing.

What Do Travelers Think?

While the tour currently has no official ratings, reviews from similar experiences emphasize knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Travelers appreciate the wide array of inflatable toys and obstacle courses, calling it “a perfect spot for kids and adults alike.” Many mention how easy it is to spend hours there, thanks to the mix of thrill rides and relaxing spots.

Some note that the water slides are the best part, with one reviewer saying, “The Wet Willie slides are intense—and so much fun.” Others highlight the scenic trails for hiking and biking, making the entire experience feel like more than just a waterpark visit.

A common comment is about booking in advance, which is necessary given the popularity of the experience, especially during peak summer months. The price point is seen as reasonable considering the amount of entertainment; for just over $24, you get a whole afternoon of active fun plus access to outdoor trails—definitely good value for outdoor adventure lovers.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour starts at the waterpark, which is part of the ACE Adventure Resort. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation, as details about shuttle services aren’t specified.

Timing: The experience runs from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, giving you a full five hours of activity—ideal for a late afternoon or early evening outing. Arriving early in the window is recommended to maximize your time.

Group Size: The booking is for individual tickets, so you’ll be among other visitors. The experience caters well to groups, especially those who enjoy lively, shared activities.

Price and Value: At $24.56 per person, the price seems fair considering the variety of features and access to trails. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy an outdoor water adventure without extra charges for individual activities.

Booking: Most travelers book about 25 days ahead. Since the experience is popular, especially in summer, locking in your spot early is wise.

Is This Experience Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor water activities, thrives on adventure, or simply wants a fun way to cool off, this waterpark has plenty to offer. It’s a great choice for groups of friends or families with older children who can handle the physical elements like climbing and zip lining.

Those seeking a relaxing, mellow day might find the activity-heavy nature of this experience less appealing. If you prefer sunbathing and gentle paddle boats, you might look for other options. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a calm beach day, this might not be the best fit.

For outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate scenic views and have a sense of adventure, the combination of water fun and access to hiking and biking trails offers a compelling package. Plus, the affordability makes it easier to include in a broader West Virginia itinerary.

The New River Gorge Adventure Waterpark offers a lively, action-packed way to spend an afternoon in West Virginia. With exhilarating waterslides, ziplines, and floating obstacle courses, it appeals to those who want to combine outdoor adventure with water play. The access to scenic trails adds a nice balance, making it more than just a splash zone.

The experience is especially suitable for active travelers, adventure lovers, and families with older kids who are ready for some physical fun. At a reasonable price point, it provides plenty of entertainment and scenic views that justify the cost.

If you’re looking for a day of high-energy outdoor water fun with the chance to relax afterward, this tour might be just right. Just remember to book early and plan your schedule to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of West Virginia.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all activities like slides, inflatables, and zip lines are included with your ticket. Just bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.

Is the experience suitable for kids?
While the tour mentions most travelers can participate, the physical nature of activities like climbing and zip lining suggests it’s better suited for older children and adults. Always check personal comfort levels.

Can I stay longer than 8 pm?
No, the scheduled hours are from 3 pm to 8 pm. Arriving early within this window will give you more time to enjoy.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 25 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

Is there food available on site?
Yes, there are food options like woodfired pizza and outdoor dining at the Lost Paddle Bar and Grills.

What should I wear?
Swimsuits are recommended, and bring a towel. You might also want water shoes for better grip on inflatables and rocky areas.

Are there shaded areas?
While there are beaches and areas to relax, shade options are limited, so bring a hat or sun protection.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Activities like climbing and zip lining require some physical effort, but many find they’re manageable with a bit of energy and enthusiasm.

Is parking available?
While not detailed here, most resorts offer parking options, but check ahead if you have specific needs.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your experience. Full refund is available if canceled at least a day in advance.

If outdoor adventure and water fun sound like your kind of day, the New River Gorge Waterpark is worth considering. It combines the thrill of water slides and zip lines with scenic outdoor trails, all at a price that leaves room for plenty of other adventures in West Virginia.