Since opening its gates in 2001, Dollywood’s Splash Country has welcomed millions of guests seeking summer fun in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Now entering its 25th anniversary season in 2025, the award-winning water park continues to deliver thrilling rides, family-friendly experiences, and Southern hospitality — all inspired by Dolly Parton’s cherished childhood memories of mountain streams and swimming holes.

Operating from mid-May through mid-September, Dollywood’s Splash Country has earned national acclaim from The Travel Channel, TripAdvisor, and USA Today’s Top 10 Outdoor Waterparks. In 2024, it was honored with the Al Turner Memorial Commitment to Excellence Award by the World Waterpark Association — a prestigious recognition for leadership and community engagement.

Over the past quarter-century, the park has expanded to include an impressive mix of high-speed slides, immersive theming, and relaxing retreats. Signature attractions like Fire Tower Falls (the park’s tallest and fastest slides) and the 1,500-foot Downbound Float Trip lazy river remain guest favorites.

For adrenaline junkies, RiverRush — Tennessee’s only water coaster — offers an unforgettable mix of plunges and turns. Other thrill rides include TailSpin Racer, Big Bear Plunge, SwiftWater Run, Mountain Scream, and the twisting Mountain Twist and Slick Rock Racer. Even solo sliders can find unique thrills with the butterfly-themed drop slide, The Butterfly.

Families have plenty to enjoy together, including Raging River Rapids, Wild River Falls, and kid-friendly areas like Bear Mountain Fire Tower — complete with water cannons, seven slides, and a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Younger guests can explore Little Creek Falls, a zero-depth splash pad with shade and gentle geysers, or the expansive Cascades, an 8,000-square-foot lagoon featuring more than 25 interactive elements.

To recharge, guests can retreat to shaded Riverside and Waterside Retreats, equipped with sun decks, TVs, and private seating. Additional canopies are scattered throughout the park, offering rest from the sun — with reservations recommended for premium areas. Accessibility and comfort remain top priorities, with amenities available to assist all guests in having a seamless visit.

Dining is another area where Splash Country stands out — a rarity in the world of water parks. From indulgent to refreshing, guests can find something for every craving. Big River Pavilion near TailSpin Racer serves up chicken street corn nachos, while the Campsite Grill offers classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken tenders (including buffalo), alongside vegetarian options such as Beyond Meat burgers and DAIYA pizza.

New for the 2025 season, guests can enjoy even more fresh options, including chicken alfredo pizza at Campsite Grill and garlic parmesan chicken tenders from Oakley Bros Food Wagon. Chicken street corn nachos are now available at both the Watering Hole and Big River Pavilion.

For sweet treats, Mountain Waves Creamery offers hand-scooped ice cream churns in waffle bowls, while Ned’s Bear Paws serves up massive mountain fried dough in sweet and savory flavors — including cinnamon bread and chicken bacon ranch. Other guest favorites include Dolly’s Pink Lemonade Dippin’ Dots at Cascades Concessions, Nathan’s Famous footlongs at Dogs-N-Taters, and chili-lime chicken nachos at The Watering Hole.

Staying hydrated is easy with Fill & Chill stations offering kettle corn, popcorn, and pretzels. Guests looking to maximize value can take advantage of the All-Season Dining Pass, which includes one meal and one snack per visit throughout the summer.

Dollywood’s Splash Country also takes pride in its safety and hospitality. All lifeguards are certified through the elite Ellis & Associates training program, and the team’s commitment to guest well-being is second to none. In 2024, Splash Country hosted the second-largest turnout in the entire world for the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson — a global initiative to promote water safety — reinforcing its role as a leader in guest care and community engagement. The 2025 Water Safety Day is scheduled for June 26.

Entertainment continues to enhance the experience. Back for the 25th season is the popular Splash Bash Music Series, which turns the wave pool area into a festive hub of live music and dancing throughout the summer. A full schedule of performers is available online.

Guests can choose from single-day tickets, Two-Park Season Passes, or vacation packages that include stays at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa. 

No matter how you visit, Dollywood’s Splash Country remains more than just a water park — it’s a Smoky Mountain tradition where memories are made, one splash at a time.

What You Should Read Next: 

• New Wilderness Pass Restaurant Brings Smoky Mountain F;avors and Scenic Charm to Dollywood
• Dollywood Celebrates 40 Years of Family, Faith and Dreams with Dolly Parton at the Helm

(Photos: Dollywood Parks & Resorts)