There are three things we know for certain in life: death, taxes, and a brutally hot Louisiana summer. Fortunately for Shreveport, there has been a place for residents to cool down when the heat turns up. You may remember it as Water Town or Splash Kingdom, but today, Wonder Oasis Waterpark stands as the premier destination for summer fun, continuing a legacy that spans generations. More than just a water park, it is a landmark of joy, family memories, and community spirit. Wonder Oasis Waterpark is one of the longest-running, continuously operated water parks in the U.S., and it’s right here in North Louisiana.
The story of Shreveport’s beloved water park dates back to 1983, when it was opened as a response to the region’s scorching summers. The park quickly became a favorite for families, offering a variety of slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Over the years, the park changed hands multiple times, each owner bringing new enhancements while keeping the heart of the park intact. Eventually, it was acquired by Splash Kingdom, which continued operations while maintaining its family-friendly atmosphere.
In March 2024, a new era began when Lee Hovis, a lifetime water park enthusiast and World Waterpark Association Hall of Famer, took ownership and rebranded the park as Wonder Oasis Waterpark. Hovis has brought fresh energy and a revitalized vision to the park, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community. His extensive experience and passion for the industry have led to exciting upgrades and improvements, making the park more enjoyable and accessible than ever.
Having a water park in our area is essential to making Shreveport a great place to live, work, and play. There are lots of family-friendly activities in the city, and Wonder Oasis will remain one of those. Unlike passive entertainment, this is a place where families can actively share in the excitement together. Beyond summer thrills, Hovis has big plans for the off-season, including a Halloween scare park and a Christmas light walkthrough, bringing seasonal magic to the west side of Shreveport.
Wonder Oasis Waterpark is more than just a fun getaway — it’s an integral part of Caddo Parish’s identity. Positioned near the Texas-Louisiana border, it serves as one of the first attractions visitors see when entering the state, offering a warm and inviting welcome. Over the decades, it has become a rite of passage for local families, with parents now bringing their children to the very same slides and pools they enjoyed in their youth. It is a place where birthdays are celebrated, summer breaks are made memorable, and friends gather to beat the heat.
Beyond recreation, the water park plays a vital role in Shreveport’s economy. Each summer, it provides jobs for over 200 local young adults, offering them valuable experience in responsibility and customer service. That is impressive for employment, skill building, and relationship building in the area. Its impact extends to local businesses as well, drawing visitors who spend money at nearby hotels, restaurants, and shops, further boosting tourism revenue and enhancing Shreveport’s reputation as a family-friendly destination and place to live.
However, maintaining a community staple like Wonder Oasis Waterpark requires support from local residents and leaders. Preserving this iconic attraction means showing up — whether through season passes, special event bookings, or simply spreading the word about the park’s value. It is up to us to ensure that Wonder Oasis continues to thrive for future generations. Shreveport has a rare gem in its backyard — let’s do our part to keep it shining bright!