Splish Splash, Long Island vs Thunder Island, Fulton
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Splish Splash, Long Island | Thunder Island, Fulton |
|---|---|---|
| Wave Pool | ||
| Lazy River | ||
| Water Slides | ||
| Kiddie Area | ||
| Tube Rentals | ||
| Cabanas | ||
| Food & Dining | ||
| Gift Shop | ||
| Parking | ||
| Picnic Area | ||
| Birthday Parties | ||
| Splash Pad | ||
| Season Passes |
Only at Splish Splash, Long Island
- Wave Pool
- Kiddie Area
- Cabanas
- Food & Dining
- lockers
- Gift Shop
- Splash Pad
- Birthday Parties
- Season Passes
Only at Thunder Island, Fulton
- mini-golf
Both parks share 5 amenities including Lazy River, Water Slides, Tube Rentals, and 2 more.
About Each Park
Splish Splash, Long Island
New York
Splish Splash sits on 96 acres in Calverton, Long Island, making it the biggest water park in the state. The park's got that classic Long Island vibe - busy, fun, and packed with families from the city looking to cool off. The Giant Twister is their signature ride, a massive funnel slide that'll have you screaming as you plummet into the bowl below. It's genuinely terrifying in the best way possible. The lazy river here is actually worth the float - it's long enough that you can genuinely relax, unlike some parks where you're doing laps around a tiny circle. For little ones, Splish Splash does kids' areas right. The splash zones have mini slides and water features that'll keep toddlers busy for hours while parents can actually sit down. The wave pool gets absolutely packed on summer weekends, so hit it early or late in the day. What sets this park apart is the sheer variety - they've got everything from gentle family slides to legitimate thrill rides that'll challenge even water slide veterans. The Cliff Hanger drop slides are particularly brutal if you're into that rush of terror before the floor drops out. Food's typical water park fare, but the portions are decent and they don't completely gouge you on prices. The park gets slammed on hot summer days since it's the go-to spot for NYC area families, so arriving right at opening is crucial. Parking fills up fast and you'll spend forever in lines if you show…
Read the full Splish Splash, Long Island guide →Thunder Island, Fulton
New York
Thunder Island in Fulton sits right in the heart of Oswego County and punches above its weight for a smaller operation. Don't expect massive body slides or wave pools here, but what you get is a well-maintained family spot that doesn't overwhelm younger kids or your wallet. The water slides are perfect for elementary-age children who've outgrown splash pads but aren't ready for the intense stuff at bigger parks. The lazy river moves at an actual lazy pace, which is refreshing since some parks rush you through like you're late for work. What really sets Thunder Island apart is the dry activities mixed right in. The miniature golf course gives parents a break from water duty, and kids love bouncing between the slides and putting greens. It's one of those places where a family of four can spend half a day without anyone getting bored or parents spending grocery money on admission. The facility feels more like a community center than a commercial water park, and that's actually a good thing. Staff knows regulars by name, lines move quickly, and you're not fighting crowds for inner tubes. Pack your own snacks if possible since food options are limited, but there's usually something available. The changing facilities are basic but clean, and parking is never an issue. This place shines brightest with families who have kids between 4 and 12. Teenagers might find it too tame, and parents with toddlers will appreciate the gentler slides but might want more splash features…
Read the full Thunder Island, Fulton guide →Ready to visit Splish Splash, Long Island?