One of the things I enjoy about living in California is that it’s Labor Day weekend and hot enough to swim (it’s been in the 80′s)!  Right before we boarded a plane to New York City, we headed to Wild Rivers in Irvine for a splash day.

The Orange County water park features over 40 water rides and attractions including several play areas specifically geared towards smaller children.  The park also features thrilling rides, my favorite being those that use an inner tube like The Abyss.  Once you’re ready to relax a bit, head on over to one of their wavepools or lounge areas.  While the park is definitely on the smaller side, there were plenty of rides we didn’t get on (due to time and tired kidlets).

I was quite impressed with the number of water activities that my 3 year old could enjoy.  From “big” slides geared towards kids under 54″ tall to a quarter mile lazy river, my son couldn’t get enough of the water.  The highlight of his day was Buccaneer Bay which features a 45 foot pirate ship, four water cannons, tipping buckets, and an eighteen foot water tower that pours out 300 gallons of water per minute.

Unfortunately, the park is only open May through September.  There are really only two full months (July and August) where the park is not closed.  Because California enjoys many months of sunshine and warm weather, I’d love to see the park extend it’s open days in May, June, and September.  Some Southern California water parks are actually open through October.

Ticket prices are as follows:

General: $32.98 (height 48 inches or taller) Senior Citizens 65 and over are free of charge

Junior: $19.98 (height less than 48 inches)

Evening Admission Price: $21.98

(After 4PM. Must purchase tickets at the Waterpark)

Evening Admission for Juniors Price: $16.98

(After 4PM. Must purchase tickets at the Waterpark. Height less than 48 inches)

Parking : $10.00

Save$5 off general admission to Wild Rivers! Use code: SUMMER4 on the website OR print your coupons at www.wildriversfun.com/summer4.

No compensation was received for this post.  Media tickets were provided which helped facilitate this review.