Waves of Fun, Putnam County vs Long's Retreat Family Resort
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 | Waves of Fun, Putnam County | Long's Retreat Family Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Waves of Fun, Putnam County
- wave pool
Only at Long's Retreat Family Resort
- lazy river
- splash pad
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
- birthday party packages
- season passes
- hiking trails
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
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 →Long's Retreat Family Resort
Ohio
Long's Retreat Family Resort sits on a sprawling property in rural Latham, Ohio, and it's exactly what the name suggests - a genuine family retreat that happens to have some excellent water attractions. This isn't your typical massive commercial water park with towering slides visible from the highway. Instead, it's more like a summer camp for families, where the water features are just one part of a bigger outdoor experience. The main pool area centers around a good-sized swimming pool with a separate shallow end that works perfectly for younger kids. You'll find a couple of moderate water slides - nothing that'll terrify a 7-year-old, but fun enough to keep tweens entertained for hours. The real gem here is how uncrowded it stays, even on busy summer weekends. While other parks have you waiting 20 minutes for a slide, you can usually walk right up here. The lazy river winds through some nicely landscaped areas, and they've done a smart job incorporating natural shade trees rather than building expensive structures. Kids love the splash area with its smaller slides and water features designed for the under-10 crowd. What sets Long's Retreat apart is the full resort experience. You're not just getting water park access - there are picnic areas, hiking trails, and that relaxed atmosphere where parents actually seem to unwind instead of stress about logistics. The food situation is basic but reliable - think burgers, hot dogs, and pizza rather than gourmet options. Pricing stays reasonable because they're not…
Read the full Long's Retreat Family Resort guide →Ready to visit Waves of Fun, Putnam County?