Dollywood’s Splash Country – What’s New and Returning in 2023

• Angie Davidson

Are you looking for a fun, active and family-friendly way to enjoy your summer break in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains? Well, look no further, because Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park is officially open now through September 4! Whether this is your first time visiting or you are a seasoned slider, keep reading to check out what is new and what’s returning at the water park this season.

What’s New? More Shade!

Even though Splash Country is nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains and the trees and greenery surrounding it already provide a lot of the water park’s natural shade, several more shade options have been added throughout the park for the 2023 season. In a recent visit, my family noticed the addition of a lot more table umbrellas in the main dining areas as well as an installment of extended sunshades in front of the Mountain Waves pool area!

Though not new for 2023, my family and I tried out a new shade option of our very own – Canopies!  With space large enough for 2 people (65 square feet to be exact), the Canopy experience not only was a great home base for our family of three, but it guaranteed us a shaded area that lasted throughout the entire visit. We also enjoyed the fact that the Canopy reservation allowed our family arrival time flexibility and a check-in process that was super quick and easy. And what was my husband’s favorite part? Having our own personal locker inside the Canopy to secure our items when we left the area. That convenience, along with not having to search for seating or shade throughout the day, won this family over to become future Canopy renters.  To reserve a canopy, click here. Don’t wait, because I was told that they book up fast!

If you happen to be planning for a larger group or are thinking of hosting a birthday celebration at the water park, consider reserving a Retreat or Deluxe Retreat for the ultimate Splash Country experience. With approximately 200 square feet of shaded space and some pretty awesome amenities, you can’t go wrong with hosting your next group in one of these spaces. For more information on the Retreats or Deluxe Retreats, visit here.

What Else is New? More Food Options!

A new food venue will be joining the main food area this season as well.  Called Splash and Dash, park goers will be able to literally splash, grab some freshly fried mini donuts and dash their way back to more play!

In addition to the return of many of the fan favorite restaurants this year, Food Trucks are back, and there are MORE than EVER! Also, similar to a recent blog about Dollywood’s commitment to Food Allergen Safety and inclusivity at Dollywood, our family noticed allergen-friendly menu labeling everywhere.  Not only was this Celiac gal excited to learn that there are more available and allergen-friendly food options that people can choose from this summer, but I was thrilled to be able to share these allergen friendly nachos with my family during our last visit!

There may be a few new things added to Splash Country this season, but one thing remains the same – family friendly fun! And don’t forget to check out the live entertainment events that are returning to the Mountain Waves wave pool area - Too Hot Tuesdays (every Tuesday from 5/30 – 6/27 and 7/11 – 8/1), Too Cool Thursdays (every Thursday from 6/15 – 8/3), and Splash Bash LIVE (every Saturday from 6/17 - 8/5).  My family and I hope to see you there!