Wilderness Resort
America's largest waterpark resort, offering endless family fun with multiple indoor/outdoor waterparks, arcades, and dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Wilderness Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
America's largest waterpark resort, offering endless family fun with multiple indoor/outdoor waterparks, arcades, and dining.
"It's like Vegas for kids, with endless activities that kept my children entertained for hours!"
Pack Smart for Waterparks
Bring your own towels and sunscreen to save money. Some visitors suggest bringing a waterproof phone case.
Utilize Resort Shuttles
The resort is large; use the convenient shuttles to easily navigate between attractions and lodging.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indoor Waterparks
Multiple locations across the resort
Experience year-round aquatic fun with massive indoor water parks, including wave pools and thrilling slides.
Outdoor Waterparks
Seasonal locations
Soak up the sun at expansive outdoor water parks, featuring lazy rivers and exciting water attractions.
The Black Hole Slide
Wild West Indoor Waterpark
Brave this enclosed bowl slide for a dizzying spin experience that ends with a splash.
Lunar Loop AquaLoop
Lost World Water Park
An exhilarating water slide with a vertical drop and a thrilling loop for adrenaline seekers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Best Value
Prepare for Endless Entertainment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Smart for Waterparks
Bring your own towels and sunscreen to save money. Some visitors suggest bringing a waterproof phone case.
Utilize Resort Shuttles
The resort is large; use the convenient shuttles to easily navigate between attractions and lodging.
Explore Multiple Waterparks
Don't stick to just one! Each park offers unique slides and experiences. Lost World is a favorite for its lazy river.
Arcade Game Strategy
The arcade by the Wild West waterpark is recommended over the one by the main entrance for a better experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Smart for Waterparks
Bring your own towels and sunscreen to save money. Some visitors suggest bringing a waterproof phone case.
Utilize Resort Shuttles
The resort is large; use the convenient shuttles to easily navigate between attractions and lodging.
Explore Multiple Waterparks
Don't stick to just one! Each park offers unique slides and experiences. Lost World is a favorite for its lazy river.
Arcade Game Strategy
The arcade by the Wild West waterpark is recommended over the one by the main entrance for a better experience.
Consider a Day Pass Wisely
Day passes can be pricey. Evaluate if it's more cost-effective to book a stay if you plan on extensive park use.
Swim-Up Bar Fun
Yeehaws Watering Hole in the Wild West waterpark is a great spot for adults to relax with a drink.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise Wilderness Resort for its vast array of activities, especially the numerous waterparks, making it a hit with families. The friendly staff and clean accommodations are frequently mentioned positives. However, some find the beds a bit firm and note that daily room cleaning isn't standard. A significant concern for some is the persistent timeshare sales pitches, which can detract from the vacation experience. +1
"We had a great time at Wilderness resort! Spent 2 weekend days there in August. Crowds were manageable and spread out across the multiple indoor and outdoor parks. The staff was very friendly, respectful, responsible, and helpful. The amenities were nice. Rooms were clean. Only nitpicks are the beds were a little hard and the bathroom soaps were tiny bottles instead of more modern wall-mounted dispensers. We were very impressed by the quality and attention to detail at Wilderness resort!"
Jake Talbott
"This is our second time visiting the wilderness resort, and it’s always a fun experience for our family of four. My children especially love the indoor water park with the wave pool, their favorite. The resort is clean, as is our room and the common areas. One feature I appreciate is the laundry room on each floor, which allows us to wash clothes and bring home clean laundry! My children also enjoyed the mini golf, go karts, laser tag, and the arcade game (by the Wild West waterpark), not the one by the main entrance.
The only feedback I have is that I would prefer our room to be cleaned every day instead of having to call for service. Additionally, some of the equipment in the water park needs to be replaced or repaired. Otherwise, it’s a great place for both young and older children!"
Yuri Komatsu
"The wilderness resort is like Vegas for kids, my kids had an amazing time and there was endless activities. We did them all multiple times and they had so much fun. BUT…..the Wyndham employees on property are there to sell you time shares. They called our room, everyday at 930am trying to get us to come to a sales pitch. I told them no every time but they called everyday nonetheless. It woke my kids up who had stayed up late every night enjoying vacation. It was annoying BUT what made it worse was that the Wilderness told me they couldn’t do anything about the harassment and when I talked with the Wyndham staff at the desk they said “it is our job to call you and you can’t be mad about it, it’s business.” I was then told the only way to make them stop is to specifically ask to be on a no call list. But that info was only given after my thoughts of sleeping in on vacation was ruined. Wyndham didn’t care and told me it was my fault for not telling them to put me on that list, I thought no meant no? The Wilderness eventually refunded my $50 that I paid for a late check out since we were up at 930 and decided to leave. Don’t go here if you want to be harassed to buy a timeshare. BUT if you choose to go make sure you demand a no call list at check-in, they won’t offer it. It’s a shame they bother families for more money after already spending well over $1000.00 for 3 days. Will not be back."
Kate E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wilderness Resort is located in Wisconsin Dells, WI. It's a few hours drive from major cities like Chicago. The resort is large, so once you arrive, utilize their internal shuttle system to get around.
Yes, parking is available for guests. Given the size of the resort, familiarize yourself with the parking areas closest to your lodging or desired attractions.
Absolutely! Wilderness Resort offers a shuttle service to help guests navigate the expansive property, connecting lodging, waterparks, and other attractions.
Depending on your room's location, some attractions might be within walking distance. However, due to the resort's size, utilizing the shuttle service is often more convenient.
The resort shuttles are highly recommended for getting around efficiently. They connect various points of interest throughout the Wilderness Resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to the waterparks typically requires a ticket or is included with your resort stay. Day passes are available for purchase, but booking in advance is advised.
Waterpark hours vary by season and specific park. It's best to check the official Wilderness Resort website or app for the most up-to-date operating schedules during your visit. +1
The official policy generally states no outside food or drinks are allowed in the waterparks. However, some guests have reported success bringing in water bottles.
Keep an eye out for special promotions, like the 'Christmas in July' gift card sale, which can offer bonus value. Booking packages or looking for off-season deals might also provide savings.
Day passes can be on the pricier side, with some guests reporting around $150 per person for a one-day pass. It's often more economical to book a stay if you plan extensive park usage.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wilderness Resort boasts multiple indoor and outdoor waterparks, arcades, mini-golf, go-karts, a ropes course, and various dining options.
Many guests love the Lost World Waterpark for its two-story lazy river and multiple hot tubs. The Wild West waterpark is also popular, featuring the Black Hole slide and a swim-up bar. +1
Yes, it's a very family-friendly resort with attractions suitable for all ages, including dedicated areas for younger children in the waterparks. +1
Beyond the waterparks, enjoy arcades, mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, a ropes course, and a spa.
Yes, there are plenty of lifeguards stationed throughout the waterpark areas to ensure guest safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort offers various dining choices, including casual eateries, pizza places, and sit-down restaurants. Popular spots include Yukon Yogurt and Jurassic Joe's.
Many accommodations, such as condos and villas, come equipped with full kitchens or kitchenettes, allowing for meal preparation.
While some dining can be pricey, utilizing kitchen facilities in your room or packing some snacks can help manage food costs.
Yeehaws Watering Hole in the Wild West waterpark features a swim-up bar, offering a relaxing spot for adults to enjoy drinks while in the pool. +1
Most restaurants within the resort will have options to accommodate common dietary restrictions. It's always best to inquire with the staff directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture vibrant shots at the waterparks, especially with the colorful slides and wave pools. The resort's themed areas and scenic outdoor spaces also offer great photo opportunities. +1
Yes, you can take photos in the waterparks. Consider a waterproof phone case or a waterproof camera for capturing underwater or splash-filled moments.
The enclosed slides like 'The Black Hole' and 'Lunar Loop' offer unique perspectives if you can capture them safely. The swim-up bar area also provides a fun, relaxed vibe for photos. +2
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for better photo conditions. Indoor parks are consistently lit.
While smartphones are great, a GoPro or waterproof camera is ideal for capturing action shots in the waterparks. For general resort photos, your phone will likely suffice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a condo or villa with a kitchen to save on food costs and have more flexibility. The resort's shuttle system makes it easy to navigate with little ones. Lifeguards are plentiful in the waterparks, providing peace of mind for parents.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own towels and sunscreen to the waterparks can also save money. While day passes are an option, they can be expensive, so evaluate if a multi-day stay is more cost-effective for your planned activities.
💑 Couples
Consider booking a more secluded cabin or a well-appointed villa for a romantic getaway. While the resort is geared towards families, it's still possible to find moments of tranquility and enjoy the amenities together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waterparks
When visiting the waterparks, consider arriving early to beat the biggest crowds and secure good seating. While the resort's official policy may restrict outside food and drinks, some guests have found success bringing in water bottles.
For adults looking for a break, Yeehaws Watering Hole in the Wild West waterpark offers a swim-up bar experience.
Accommodation Options
Condos and villas are particularly well-suited for extended families or groups, providing ample living space and amenities like full kitchens and multiple bathrooms.
It's worth noting that while the resort is extensive, the internal shuttle system is crucial for easily accessing all the amenities from your chosen accommodation.
Beyond the Waterparks: Activities & Entertainment
For some friendly competition, try your hand at mini-golf or hit the go-karts. These attractions add another layer of fun, especially for families and couples looking for diverse entertainment options.
The resort also boasts a ropes course, offering an adventurous challenge for those seeking a bit more thrill. Beyond the active pursuits, guests can also enjoy dining at various on-site restaurants, grab a treat from Yukon Yogurt or Jurassic Joe's,
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit