Summer is around the corner. Kids will be at home and if you've got 'em, vacation planning starts now. Here in North Texas, there are oodles of options for summertime fun, including escapes on the other side of the Red River.
Oklahoma is always a prime getaway for us in Collin and Denton counties, with great options for nature, music and, of course, gambling. But a newly-opened resort might just be the most kid-friendly option in the entire state.
What Is It
Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark is a $400 million resort and waterpark with 404 guest rooms and suites, dining and shopping, a family entertainment center, an on-site spa, an expansive indoor waterpark and a 4.5-acre outdoor lagoon.
The indoor waterpark clocks in at 100,000 square feet and features activities for all ages, such as a wave pool, lazy river, luxury cabanas, an adult-only pool and kiddie pool, as well as 15 water slides, including body slides, tube slides, raft slides and kiddie slides.
Please note that guests under 48 inches in height are required to wear life jackets.
Water Park Hours
March 23 - May 22
- Sun-Thurs: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Fri-Sat: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Including April 20)
May 23 - Aug. 16
- 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Towels are available for all resort guests
Must-Try Indoor Attractions
Wild Rapids
This isn’t your average lazy river — Wild Rapids launches riders uphill before hurling them into twisting drops with the speed of a coaster and the splash of a wave. Designed for two riders at a time, this water-powered thrill requires a combined weight between 150 and 400 pounds, with a minimum solo height of 48 inches or 42 inches with a supervising companion. Hang on tight, face forward and prepare for a ride that flips gravity the bird (in the most hydrating way possible).
Whipsplash
Adrenaline seekers, take note — this slide doesn’t just twist, it whips. Whipsplash is a high-speed, multi-directional tube ride that spins one or two riders through a fast, twisting descent, complete with a surprise backward section that’ll keep even seasoned thrill junkies on their toes. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride alone (42 inches with a supervising companion) and there’s a 400-pound total weight limit for two guests — so grab a buddy, hold tight to those handles and prepare for a splashy ride you won’t forget.
Tidal Twist
Tidal Twist sends thrill-seekers spinning through winding chutes and swirling bowl sections on a multi-rider raft built for high-speed fun. With a minimum height of 48 inches and room for up to five people, it’s the ultimate group splashdown — just remember to keep your feet in, your hands on the handles and your screams synchronized. Expect plenty of laughs, a few dizzy moments and more twists than a soap opera finale.
Aqua Duel
Aqua Duel turns friendly rivalry into full-speed fun with a head-first multi-lane slide designed for competitive thrill-seekers. Riders zoom through dips and curves on mats, racing side-by-side to the splashy finish — bragging rights not included, but heavily implied. Minimum height is 42 inches with a supervising companion or 48 inches solo and all participants must follow posted safety rules to keep the good times rolling.
Racing Rapids
Grab a mat and your bravest family member — this head-first, multi-lane slide puts reflexes to the test with timed races that zip through twists, dips and splashy landings. Whether you’re settling sibling rivalries or challenging Dad to a rematch, the thrill kicks in at 42 inches tall and doesn’t let up until the final splash. Riders must stay flat, hang tight to the handles and follow all posted safety rules for a fast-paced showdown that's more fun than fierce.
FlowRider Surf Simulator
Surf’s always up on this wave machine built for both boarders and brave beginners. Guests 42 inches and up can bodyboard belly-first into the fun, while stand-up surfers need to measure in at 48 inches to ride the current like a pro. Waivers are required, spills are likely and the only dress code is “don’t wear anything you’d miss in a wipeout.”
High Tide Wave Pool
Make a splash in this dynamic wave pool where programmable swells roll in on cue — perfect for floating, bobbing, or body-surfing like you're beachside. With a 5-foot depth and room for plenty of paddlers, it's open to all wave-chasers 48 inches and up (lifejackets required). Just remember: the waves may be artificial, but the fun is the real deal.
Our top pick? Tidal Twist. For adults, it's an absolute thrill and depending on the child, it can be either an exciting ride or a slightly intense experience. The wave pool is also a must.
More Kid-Friendly Water Attractions
Splash Falls
Buckets tip, water flies and little feet splash through a maze of fun at this all-ages water playground. With slides designed for guests under 54 inches tall and plenty of soak zones for everyone else, it’s the ultimate stop for younger thrill seekers and their grown-up sidekicks. Just remember — under 48 inches means a lifejacket required and staying dry is absolutely not an option.
Low Tide
Little ones can dip, drift and giggle their way through this pint-sized pool paradise made just for them. With a gentle slide, a mini lazy river and a max height of 54 inches, it’s a splash zone built for younger swimmers still working on their cannonball game. Grown-ups can tag along as supervising companions, but the floaty fun is strictly kid-sized.
Okana Crossing
Balance meets splash in this lily pad-inspired obstacle course that dares guests to hop, wobble and scramble their way across a floating path. Open to anyone 48 inches and up (with lifejackets required), it's part ninja training, part soak session — and all fun. Just don’t look down unless you're ready to get wet.
Enchanted River
This gentle lazy river is the perfect float fix for those seeking a peaceful escape with just enough current to keep things interesting. Surrounded by calm waters and a 3.5-foot depth, it’s ideal for unwinding — just grab a tube, wear a lifejacket if under 48 inches and let the current do the heavy lifting. No paddling required, unless it’s to grab another lap.
Adults-Only Retreat Water Attractions
Soothing Springs
Peace, quiet and zero cannonballs — this adults-only warming pool is reserved for guests 21 and up looking to soak without the splash. With built-in seating and waters just warm enough to melt the stress away, it’s the unofficial headquarters for post-slide recovery and mid-day zen. Just remember: no kids, no lifeguard and no excuses for skipping relaxation.
What To Know About The Outdoor Lagoon
The outdoor lagoon, dubbed Okana Beach, isn't open year round, like the indoor waterpark. Do note the following dates:
From May 17, it is open to resort guests only and from May 24 to Sept. 14, it is open to resort guests and day pass holders.
A day pass for the outdoor lagoon has a base price of $49.99.
Large lockers available for $20 and extra large lockers available for $25.
Here Are The Outdoor Lagoon’s Water Attractions:
The Drop-Off
This deep-drop slide isn’t for the faint of splash — a twisting ride ends in a steep plunge into a 10-foot pool that demands strong swimming skills and steady nerves. Designed for solo riders at least 48 inches tall, it’s a quick thrill with a bold finale and zero room for hesitation. No lifejackets, no second chances — just a fast lane to free fall.
Zip & Dip
This high-flying plunge starts in midair and ends with a splashy landing in 12 feet of water — perfect for thrill-seekers who like their ziplines with a twist. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall, able to swim and brave enough to let go when the time comes. Just hold on tight, keep your feet up and prepare to zip, dip and drip.
Summit Splash
Adrenaline meets altitude on this towering platform plunge, where thrill-seekers step off the edge for a freefall straight into 12 feet of deep water. Designed for confident swimmers at least 48 inches tall, this no-frills, no-floaties leap is as close to cliff diving as it gets — minus the mountain. Just step, splash and try not to scream on the way down.
The Lagoon
Lounge, float or paddle your way through this beach-entry pool designed for laid-back family fun. With a max depth of 6 feet and lifejackets required for guests under 48 inches, this massive lagoon offers room to relax without losing the pool party vibes. It’s like the ocean, but without the salt, sand or surprise jellyfish.
Bounce Bay
Big splashes and bouncy dashes await on this inflatable obstacle course designed for guests ages 6 and up. With climbing walls, slides and plenty of splash zones, it's the kind of cardio that makes you forget you're exercising. Lifejackets are required, supervision is needed for those under 48 inches and yes — wiping out is half the fun.
CABANA Cove
This adults-only escape is all about peace, quiet and perfectly shallow waters. Designed for guests 21 and up, it’s the ideal place to stretch out, cool off and pretend you're on vacation—whether or not you actually left town. Think of it as the chill zone where float mode is always on.
OKASIS Swim-Up Bar
Float, sip, repeat. This adults-only swim-up bar blends poolside lounging with handcrafted cocktails and panoramic views, all without leaving the water. Guests must be 21 or older to wade in, but once you're there, it's all smooth sips and sun-drenched vibes.
How Are The Rooms?
Real nice! From bunk beds to balcony views, this resort’s 404-room lineup offers more than just a place to crash — it’s a full-on staycation headquarters.
With suites that sleep up to seven and layouts ranging from riverside retreats to kid-friendly bunk setups, there’s room for everyone (yes, even the snorer). Guests can enjoy plush beds, sleek amenities and complimentary waterpark access, all wrapped in comfort and a touch of Oklahoma River charm.
How Are The Restaurants
We ate at Jack Rabbit and Chido Tacos. And we got eats from Okana Candy Co. and the Pie Lab, the pizza place. Some of the restaurants, including the Curveball Kitchen with its baseball simulators and Smokehouse Social weren't yet open when we visited.
In particular, the food at Jack Rabbit was really good! In particular, the onion soup, the burgers, the Reuben and the braised short ribs were delicious. Chido Tacos served up solid Mexican and had a well-stocked bar with standout spirits.
For Those With Dietary Restrictions
"There are a variety of restaurant items that are gluten-free and vegetarian, and the team is happy to work with any dietary restrictions," an Okana spokesperson told Local Profile.
Is There Any Gambling?
Nope! The focus here is on the waterpark and resort as well as the surrounding attractions, including the First Americans Museum and the Horizons District. Anchored by OKANA and home to the First Americans Museum, Exhibit C Gallery and more, the Horizons District already offers a vibrant mix of cultural, recreational and resort experiences for visitors to explore.
“Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark has been designed to complement First Americans Museum’s focus on culture as well as to connect visitors to other entertainment experiences along this established and vibrant part of the Oklahoma River,” said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. “It is our vision that the Okana Resort and the Horizons District will become a destination and a hub for visitors from not only our region, but across North America and around the world.”
Getting There And Parking
Finding your way to indulgence shouldn’t feel like a maze — and luckily, it doesn’t. 3 hours and 40 minutes from Legacy West and just a short drive from downtown Oklahoma City, this resort’s riverside address at 639 First Americans Blvd is equal parts convenience and escape. Whether you valet like a VIP ($38/day), park covered ($28), or opt for the free lot just south of the property, there’s a spot waiting with your name on it.
Whether you’re flying in or cruising up the highway, getting here is a breeze — and once you arrive, you’re not just checking in, you’re pressing pause on the ordinary.
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