Valdosta, Ga. (WDNews) — Paradise River at Wild Adventures & Splash Island Waterpark has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Lazy River, placing the South Georgia attraction among top destinations nationwide.
Public voting is now open and will run through April 20 at 12 p.m. EDT. Supporters can vote once per day, per device through the Wild Adventures website.
The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize attractions across the country, with winners determined by public vote.
“This recognition reflects the experiences our team works to create for every guest who visits,” said Donald Spiller, vice president and general manager of Wild Adventures. “Being nominated during our 30th Anniversary Season makes it even more meaningful as we continue to focus on creating lasting memories for families.”
Splash Island Waterpark is set to open for the 2026 season on April 4, featuring a variety of attractions, including the nominated Paradise River.
Park officials also announced several updates for the new season. Guests will be able to explore an expanded Alapaha Trail with 6,000 feet of new wood replaced, visit a larger Spider Monkey habitat and take part in new animal encounters featuring two-toed sloths, tamanduas and giraffes.
Several ride upgrades have also been completed, including improvements to the Boomerang, Safari Train and Island Falls. New food items will be introduced, including shrimp po’ boys at Typhoon Grill and lemon pepper wings at the updated Walkabout Wings.
Wild Adventures is also offering 2026 Season Passes, with Gold passes starting at $14.80 per month for 10 months. The passes include access to rides, water attractions, animals and Wild Adventures LIVE! concerts, along with additional perks.
Wild Adventures Theme Park, located in Valdosta along Interstate 75, spans 170 acres and features more than 35 rides, hundreds of animals and a full schedule of concerts and events.
