If you want to escape the heat this summer you might want to head to the best water park in Missouri as named by Missouri Magazine's readers.

Get our free mobile app

Missouri Magazine's readers voted Big Surf Waterpark in Linn Creek at Lake of the Ozarks as the best waterpark in Missouri. Big Surf has three different pools, a wave pool, a zero-depth pool geared for younger kids, and an activity pool for swimming and games.

Of course, a waterpark isn't just about a wave pool and splashing around with your friends. It's about the chills and thrills of riding all the slides and other water attractions, and there's no shortage of these types of rides at Big Surf.

Challenger Flumes

Let's start with the Challenger Flumes. Race down dueling 300-foot waterslides into a three feet deep catch pool. The yellow flume is open, while you'll twist and turn down the blue one in darkness because it's covered.

Zambezi Falls

Zambezi Falls is a three-story drop down the Lake's largest half-pipe full of rushing water. You'll scream loudly as you fly all the way down.

Space-Bowl

The Space-Bowl is a first of its kind in the United States, and Big Surf has it. You'll start with a sweet swift slide into a 30-foot bowl where you'll spin round and round until you drop into an eight-foot catch pool.

The Rapids

Ride down the rapids at Big Surf! You can start your ride by going down the big yellow slide, or start your journey from the catch pool for a little less exhilarating ride.

Lazy River

If you're looking for something a little more relaxing, perhaps a float down the Lazy River at Big Surf is just what the doctor ordered. The Lazy River winds itself through about half the park.

Not only does Big Surf offer all the aquatics, but they do also have some activities guests can participate in on land. They have volleyball courts, basketball courts, and a sandbox and playground for younger guests.

Big Surf Waterpark is open daily from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM weather permitting. All-day passes range from $39.95 to $32.95 depending on your age. Passes that get you into the park from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM range from $26.95 to $21.95 depending on your age. They offer discounts for military personnel, as well as a Second Wave discount that'll let you in the park for a second visit for 50% off. They also offer season passes.

As far as amenities go they have free life jackets, offer a variety of food and drink, and guests have the opportunity to rent cabanas and pavilions, as well as other amenities to make your visit more enjoyable.

You can learn more about Missouri's best waterpark according to Missouri Magazine's readers at the Big Surf Waterpark website. If you've been to Big Surf Waterpark drop me a note and let me know what you thought about your experience.