Lake Martin Water Park

Overview

Lake Martin Water Park is a seasonal, family‑oriented water attraction located on the eastern shore of Lake Martin, just outside Alexander City, Alabama. Open from mid‑May through the end of September, the park provides a mix of high‑energy slides, a winding lazy river, a wave pool, and a children’s splash area. It’s designed for visitors of all ages, from toddlers to adults looking for a refreshing break from the summer heat.

The park sits on public land owned by the City of Alexander City, which means parking is free and the surrounding area offers easy access to the lake’s fishing piers, hiking trails, and picnic spots. Because it’s a regional destination rather than a national theme park, crowds are generally manageable, making it a comfortable spot for families who want a day of water‑based recreation without long lines.

Quick Facts

• Location: 880 Lake Martin Water Park Rd, Alexander City, AL 35010
• Type: Family water park
• Latitude / Longitude: 33.0015, -85.8500
• Best time to visit: Late May – early September, mid‑morning to early afternoon
• Opening hours: May 15 – September 30: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on major holidays)
• Ticket price: Adults $12‑$15, Children (4‑12) $8‑$10, Seniors $7, Free for under 4
• Typical visit length: 2‑4 hours

Why Visit Lake Martin Water Park?

• Conveniently located next to Lake Martin, offering beautiful lake views while you splash.
• Variety of attractions: three tube slides, a family‑size lazy river, a wave pool, and a dedicated kids’ splash zone.
• Affordable admission compared with larger theme parks.
• Ample shaded picnic areas and on‑site food vendors for a full‑day experience.
• Free parking and easy access from Alexander City’s main highway (AL‑9).

Top Highlights

• Turbo Twister Slides: Two 30‑foot high, speed‑enhanced slides that curve back toward the pool.
• Lazy River Adventure: A 1,200‑foot winding river with gentle currents and occasional splash fountains.
• Wave Pool: Simulated ocean waves ranging from gentle ripples to moderate swells.
• Kid’s Splash Zone: Shallow water play structures, water cannons, and interactive spray arches.
• Lake‑Side Picnic Areas: Tables and grills overlooking the water, perfect for a family lunch.

Best Time to Visit

The park’s operating season runs from mid‑May to the end of September. Water temperatures usually reach a comfortable 78‑84 °F by late May, making the slides and lazy river enjoyable. Visiting on weekdays, especially Tuesdays or Wednesdays, helps avoid the larger weekend crowds that tend to gather in July and August. Early afternoon (12 PM‑2 PM) offers the warmest water while still providing some shade from the park’s canopy structures.

Opening Hours & Ticketing

During the season the park opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, with the last entry allowed at 5:15 PM. The park is closed on major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online through the City of Alexander City website; buying online often saves a few dollars and guarantees entry on busy days.

How to Reach the Park

From downtown Alexander City, follow AL‑9 east for about 5 miles; the park entrance is clearly signed. The drive takes roughly 10 minutes. For those staying in nearby Montgomery, the route is via I‑85 South to AL‑9 East, a 45‑minute journey. Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and the Alexander City‑Lake Martin shuttle service also stop at the park entrance. There is a large surface parking lot with 200+ spaces, free for guests.

How Much Time to Allocate

A typical family spends 2‑4 hours enjoying the slides, lazy river, and wave pool, plus extra time for lunch or a snack break. If you plan to combine the water park with a lake‑side boat rental or a hike on the nearby Lake Martin Trail, consider allocating a half‑day (4‑5 hours) to fit both activities comfortably.

Things to Do at Lake Martin Water Park

• Ride the Turbo Twister slides for an adrenaline rush.
• Float leisurely on the lazy river with a tube.
• Play in the wave pool and practice basic surfing moves.
• Let younger kids explore the splash zone’s water cannons.
• Enjoy a lakeside picnic or grill your own meal at the designated BBQ areas.
• Rent a paddle‑board or kayak from the adjacent boat dock (fees separate).
• Attend seasonal events such as “Summer Splash Night” with live music and fireworks.

Visitor Experience & Facilities

The park is fully wheelchair‑accessible, with ramped entry to the pool deck and a dedicated changing area. Restroom facilities are located near the main entrance and at the far end of the lazy river. Lockers are available for a small fee, and a snack bar offers classic fare—hot dogs, fries, ice‑cream, and soft drinks. Free Wi‑Fi is provided in the shaded pavilion area.

Practical Travel Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water‑resistant shoes; the park does not allow open‑toe sandals on slides.
• Arrive early (right at opening) if you want a good spot for the lazy river.
• Check the park’s social media for any weather‑related closures before you leave.
• Bring a reusable water bottle; refill stations are located near the snack bar.
• If you have small children, consider renting a private cabana for extra shade.
• Parking fills up quickly on hot summer weekends—plan to use rideshare if you expect a crowd.
• Take advantage of the free parking and bring a cooler with snacks to save on food costs.

Nearby Attractions

• Lake Martin State Park (5 mi): Hiking trails, camping sites, and a historic plantation house.
• Alexander City Historic Downtown (3 mi): Boutique shops, cafés, and the historic City Hall.
• Lake Martin Boat Rentals (0.5 mi): Paddle‑boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats for lake exploration.
• Mercer House Museum (4 mi): A restored 19th‑century home showcasing local history.
• Alabama Wildlife Center (8 mi): A sanctuary for rescued native wildlife.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Lake Martin Water Park delivers a solid, low‑cost water‑play experience set against a beautiful lake backdrop. It’s especially worthwhile for families with children, groups of friends looking for a relaxed day on the water, and anyone staying in the Alexander City area who wants a quick summer escape without the crowds of larger amusement parks.