When you live in Southern California, frequent trips to the beach are a must! People come in from all across the world to experience the shore, and we’re not about to take it for granted. If you want a way to switch things up this summer, you need to plan a trip to Wild Rivers Irvine. As an Orange County family photographer, I love working with parents to make sure they can create memories throughout every season. Here’s why I love this water park so much!

10000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, California 92618
Wild Rivers had spent years as a family staple in Irvine. Once a drive-through zoo, this place was completed in 1986 and delivered heart-stopping waterslides designed to keep California residents cool. The property was shut down following the 2011 season, and developers made plans to demolish it and replace it with apartments. Over the next few years, people tried to find a new space for it, and finally, in 2017, a contract was made to rebuild. Construction started in 2021 and was completed the next year. Now, generations all across the OC can stop in and make memories with their favorite people!

Wild Rivers rests on 20 acres and has activities for visitors of all ages! If you have younger kids, you are going to love Cook’s Cove. This is a play area with a maximum water depth of 9 inches. Your child will be able to race across the playground, dodge the dump bucket, and tear down slides. And because some of the rides are modeled after larger attractions, they’ll never feel like they are missing out!
Over at the main area, you can pick from giant tube slides, raft flumes, side-by-side racer slides, and more. This park has it all, from the daring and towering structures to the low-thrill slides. No matter what you’re in the mood for, they have just the thing!

If you aren’t feeling the slides, no worries! Wild Rivers Irvine has tons of other ways to stay cool. They have received recognition by USA Today for both their wave pool and their lazy river. Both options offer a great experience without you having to deal with huge heights and long lines.
If you feel like staying here all day, they make it easy! They let you reserve a cabana ahead of time, where you can relax with up to 8 guests. These have been strategically placed near the kids’ area so you can watch them while relaxing. You will also have a special menu so you can order food straight to your spot.

If you have been looking for the best way to enjoy the summer, I just know you are going to love Wild Rivers in Irvine! With this destination, you are about to have the best day ever!
Are you looking for more ways to make this a time worth remembering? Then I would love to chat! I am an Orange County family photographer, and I adore working alongside families to make sure they can remember every moment. I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my sessions so you can decide if we’re a match. Send me a message today if you would like to learn more!