Water Ways vs Waves of Fun, Putnam County
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 | Water Ways | Waves of Fun, Putnam County |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Water Ways
- lazy river
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
- birthday party packages
- group rates
- season passes
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Water Ways
West Virginia
Water Ways sits on 15 acres of rolling West Virginia hills about 20 minutes north of Charleston, making it the go-to summer destination for families across the Kanawha Valley. The park's claim to fame is its massive wave pool that generates 4-foot swells every 15 minutes - big enough to body surf but not so intense that younger kids can't handle the shallow end. The slide tower anchors the center of the park with four different options: two traditional tube slides that twist through the trees, a racing slide where you can challenge your friends, and a kiddie slide that's perfect for first-time sliders. What really sets Water Ways apart is how well they've designed the kids' area. The Tadpole Pool has mini slides, fountains, and a giant tipping bucket that dumps 300 gallons every few minutes. Parents can actually relax on the surrounding lounge chairs and keep an eye on everything. The lazy river winds around most of the park and takes about 8 minutes to complete if you don't stop at the swim-up snack bar halfway through. Speaking of food, skip the usual water park pizza and go straight for their pulled pork sandwiches - they smoke the meat on-site and it's legitimately good. The best strategy for visiting is arriving right when they open at 10 AM. Grab your tubes early because they run out of the good double ones by noon on busy days. The concrete gets scorching hot by mid-afternoon, so water shoes are essential…
Read the full Water Ways guide →Waves of Fun, Putnam County
West Virginia
Waves of Fun sits on a pleasant stretch of land in Putnam County, West Virginia, and it's exactly what you'd expect from a well-run municipal water park. The centerpiece wave pool generates decent-sized waves every few minutes, creating that ocean-like experience that kids absolutely love. I've watched families spend hours here just riding the waves and floating around when the pool goes calm between cycles. The water stays surprisingly clean for a public facility, and the lifeguards actually pay attention. Beyond the wave pool, you'll find a solid collection of water slides that range from gentle slopes perfect for younger kids to a few steeper drops that'll get your heart pumping. The children's area features smaller slides and interactive water features that keep the little ones busy while parents can actually relax nearby. What really sets Waves of Fun apart is how well-maintained everything feels. The grounds are clean, the facilities work properly, and the staff seems to genuinely care about the place. It's not going to compete with the massive commercial water parks, but for a county-run operation, they've nailed the balance between fun attractions and family-friendly atmosphere. The pricing reflects its municipal nature, making it accessible for families who want a full day of water fun without breaking the bank. Pack your own snacks if possible since concession options are limited, and arrive early during summer weekends when local families pack the place. The parking lot fills up fast, but it's free. This park works best for families…
Read the full Waves of Fun, Putnam County guide →Ready to visit Water Ways?