Raging Waves Water-Park

Raging Waves Water-park sprawls over 58 acres with 32 water-slides, 43 private cabanas, with a total of 11 dining options! There is also a 1/4 mile lazy river, and a 350,000 gallon wave pool. Highlights of the water-park include: The Aussie Mat Dash, This six-lane RallyRACER is just 1 of 3 of its kind in the WORLD! PJ’s Plummet is another popular attraction within the park. On this extreme slide you can hit speeds of 43 mph during descent, as you come to a splashing stop at ground level. The younger members of your group will love the Quokka-Nut Island,  The fun and exciting features will give our lil’ mates the chance to explore the land of the Quokka! Splash on over to meet the newest furry friends and experience 4 slides, interactive water features, and so much more! Raging Waves is located at 4000 N. Bridge St. in Yorkville, Illinois. For more information, you can visit their website by clicking here.

Magic Waters Water Park

Magic Water Water Park is a place the whole family can enjoy.  For the thrill seekers in your group there are plenty of water slides and dump buckets, while those just looking to relax can enjoy the beautiful lazy river. One of the more popular attractions at Magic Waters is the 707,000 gallon wave pool, known as Tsunami Bay.  The waves alternate between huge ocean waves, and calm relaxing tide, to give you a perfect mixture of thrill and chill.  Tsunami Bay is Illinois’s largest wave park, and can produce waves over 6 feet in height. Magic Waters Waterpark is located at 7820 Cherryvale N Blvd., in  Cherry Valley, IL. For more information, click here.

Grand Bear Resort 

Discover a magical family getaway just beyond the glow of Chicago at Starved Rock’s own Grand Bear Resort. Nestled in this gorgeous natural area of Illinois, Grand Bear Resort offers an oasis of relaxation and adventure – a destination where water-park fun meets nature! A truly unforgettable place to unwind, play, meet, dine and explore with family and friends. Grand Bear Resort is an oasis of relaxation and adventure where water park fun meets natural wonder! Featuring 24,000 sq.ft. indoor water-park, mini-golf, arcade, 4 cafe/restaurant/bars, banquet hall & party suites just steps from Starved Rock State Park.Grand Bear Resort is located at 2643 IL-178, North in Utica, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Raging Rivers Water-Park

Raging Rivers Water-Park is the perfect place for summer vacation. The water-park has some amazing attractions for guests of all ages. This place has family fun written all over it! Raging Rivers Water-Park has some amazing attractions! Including Breaker Beach Wave Pool, a never ending Lazy River that loops around the park, there is Treehouse Harbor and the Itty Bitty Surf City for the younger guests. If you love water-slides, they have those too! They have the Swirlpool, the Shark Slide, Runaway Rafts,  the Cascade Body Flumes, and the brand new MIssissippi Monster! Raging Rivers Waterpark is located at 100 Palisades Pkwy in Grafton, Illinois. About 40 miles from St. Louis. For more information, click here.

Fox River Resort

A Quiet Escape Surrounded by Rolling Hills. After fast-paced, big-city sightseeing in Chicago, families might want a vacation after their vacation. Savvy Midwesterners know there’s a serene, all-in-one retreat just 90 minutes away. In the rolling hills along the Fox River, near beautiful Starved Rock State Park, outdoor entertainment and indoor surprises await, including: Horseback Riding, Indoor Water-park, onsite watersport rentals, and golf course. Fox River Resort is located at 2558 N 3650rd Rd, in Sheridan, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Big Surf

Big Surf is an amazing water-park and has a variety of rides and attractions the entire family will enjoy! This is the ultimate Lake Of The Ozarks family destination. The water-park has 5 different water-slides each one varying in length and and thrill factor. The lazy river winds through about half of the park! It takes about five minutes to float completely around the river. Aside from the water-slides and the incredible lazy river is a huge Wave Pool. The 375,000-gallon pool generates waves up to three feet tall. Relax in the shallow area or grab a tube and hit the deeper end to ride the tides every 10 minutes.  Big Surf Water-Park is located at 954 State Road Y in Linn Creek, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Fugitive Beach

It’s not often you can find a swimming hole this exotic, right smack dab in the middle of the Midwest.  Perhaps that is why, The Fugitive Beach is such a popular destination for both locals and those all over the region.  Once an abandoned rock quarry, The Fugitive Beach now serves as a tropical paradise, surrounded by towering limestone bluffs. The Fugitive Beach is a family owned business, spread out on more then 20 beautiful acres.  The beach itself is over 300 feet in length of soft sand, just perfect for laying out in the summer sun. The Fugitive Beach is located at 16875 County Road 5285, in Rolla, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Jolly Mon

Enjoy fun and excitement at Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park, featuring 600 feet of water slides, an activity pool, an over-sized whirlpool, and a lazy river for tubing, and floating. This indoor water-park is open year round and is a perfect vacation destination! Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park is located at 494 Tan Tar A Drive, in Osage Beach, Missouri. For more information, click here.

White Water Water-Park

White water Water-Park in Branson features over two million gallons of fun, spread out across 13 acres of water rides, slides and waves.  White Water has numerous slides and attractions to keep even the busiest families active all day long! There are 15 water slides to choose from ranging from mild to wild, they have something for everyone! This highly-themed family attraction will transport you to the lush Polynesian jungles of the South Pacific. Plan your White Water adventure today! Whitewater is located at 3505 West 76 County Blvd in Branon Missouri. For more information, click here.

Oceans OF Fun Water-Park

Oceans of Fun is a tropically-themed water-park located in Kansas City Missouri. Oceans of Fun is thee largest water-park in Missouri and also one of the largest in the entire Midwest.  This amazing tropical paradise water-park offers a wide variety of water slides and attractions to provide guests of all ages an unforgettable experience! When Oceans of Fun opened back in 1982, it was the largest water-park in the world. Since that time they have continually expanded and added on! Currently the park sits at just over 60-acres, and has a large selection of water rides and attractions. Including: a MILLION GALLON wave pool, 18 water slides, and a 800 foot long lazy river! Oceans of Fun is located at 4545 Worlds of Fun Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Your journey includes: a “Mule Tending 101” class in which you’ll meet Moe the Mule, interact with crew of period dressed guides, hear tales of the canal’s heyday and enjoy a 60-90 minute boat ride.  The tour starts at 754 First Street, in  LaSalle, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Catch the boat at I&M Canal State Trail – Lock 14 Access, LaSalle IL. It’s near the I&M Canal Visitor Center and Lock 16 Café and Gift Shop (754 First Street), so pop in if you have questions, want to buy tickets in person, need to use the restrooms before you embark or are looking for a tasty bite or beverage.

The boat runs from late May through October and is accessible to those who use manually-powered mobility aids, such as walkers, crutches, canes and non-motorized wheelchairs.

In the midst of North Florida’s sandy terrain and pine forests, a bowl-shaped cavity 120 feet deep leads down to a miniature rain forest. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park is located at 4732 Millhopper Road in Gainesville Florida. For more information, click here.

Small streams trickle down the steep slopes of the limestone sinkhole, disappearing through crevices in the ground. Lush vegetation thrives in the shade of the walls even in dry summers.

Researchers have learned a great deal about Florida’s natural history by studying fossil shark teeth, marine shells and the fossilized remains of extinct land animals found within this park!

The boardwalk system that descends to the bottom of the Devil’s Millhopper is open.  A half-mile nature trail meanders along the top of the sinkhole. Dogs on a hand-held 6-foot leash are welcome.  Guided walks with a ranger are available every Saturday at 10 a.m. Special guided walks for groups are available by reservation.

Visitors to the park over the years have found several prehistoric archaeological artifacts such as arrowheads, but the exact locations of any discoveries remain unknown. These incidental finds seem to indicate at least early visitation to the area, if not habitation.

The park is a popular spot for a quick escape from town for a picnic. Squirrels, rabbits and a variety of reptiles and amphibians can be seen in the park. Birds of the pinelands and suburbs are also commonly sighted. The visitor center offers exhibits explaining the formation of the Devil’s Millhopper.

For more great parks and amazing locations in Florida, click here. For nearby lodging and campgrounds in the area, click here. For the best family activities in Florida, click here.

The African Treehouse

Enjoy an adventure in the trees in African Tree House! This treehouse sleeps 6 people. It comes complete with swinging bridges, and a ladder leading up to the loft area where the sleeping quarters are. This is for the brave and more adventurous family! The loft area has two sleeping areas, one area has a queen sized bed and the other area has has twin sized bunk beds. The treehouse can sleep 6 people. Outside you will find a swinging bridge that leads you to a grass roof hut area with a picnic table! There is also a private deck located out back, perfect for stargazing. This epic treehouse resort is located at 159 Acorn Acres Ln, Branson West, Missouri. For more information, click here.

The Enchanted Garden Treehouse

The Enchanted Garden Treehouse is set fifteen feet above a stunning waterfall Koi Pond with a new fire table! The private entrance leads to flower and bird-filled garden with cedar hot tub, gas grill, and private outdoor shower with unlimited hot water. This Eco-friendly treehouse has Pella windows, fireplace, A/C, a full sized bed and a twin sleeping loft! There is a kitchenette with sink, microwave, fridge, coffeemaker, WIFI, high def xfinity cable, and new smart wifi TV for Netflix, etc. There is even a blue ray DVD player, a fireman’s pole and a private nature’s head composting toilet in tent on treehouse deck! The Enchanted Garden Treehouse offers guests a very unique lodging experience. Even if you have stayed in a tree-house before. you haven’t experienced anything quite like this. The Enchanted Garden Treehouse is located in Schaumburg Illinois, and is available by clicking here.

Whispering Elm Treehouse

This stunning Whispering Elm Treehouse is the culmination of years of work, with the aim to provide guests with an unforgettable lodging experience! This treehouse is a spacious two bedroom, one and a half bath, adults only treehouse tucked away in the forest among several elm trees with the sounds of a trickling creek nearby. If you love coming home to a beautiful home surrounded by nature, then the Whispering Elm Treehouse is a perfect place for you escape and enjoy vacation! The Whispering Elm Treehouse is located 8 miles north of Leavenworth Kansas. For more information, or to book your stay, click here.`

The Getaway Tree Suite

The Getaway Tree Suite is an authentic tiny-house Treehouse and Jacuzzi bath house nestled within seven trees on 10 wooded acres. The Getaway is surrounded with some of the Midwest’s most amazing parks and natural springs. The area is an absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts. The treehouse is an authentic tiny-house treehouse built for 2 adult guests, although it can accommodate as many as four. If the Getaway looks familiar to you, that goes with reason as it has been featured in Southern Living and Bob Vila. The treehouse and bath house are adjoined by a walkway bridge on a hillside. The heated jacuzzi bathhouse bathroom (adjoined by the walkway deck) has a jacuzzi bathtub and a picture window overlooking the hillside. The treehouse is located in Cassville Missouri, just minutes from Roaring River State Park! For more information, click here.  

The Kingfisher Tree-House

The Kingfisher Tree-house is the newest tree-house addition at River of Life Farm! This is the perfect secluded cabin for a honeymoon, romantic anniversary, or vacation. This luxurious tree-house can sleep 2 adults in it’s hand-crafted king size bed. With the large whirlpool tub, this is a perfect place for a romantic getaway! At the end of the day you can relax around a fire in front of the fireplace! The cabin has all the comforts of home, just with better scenery! The Kingfisher Tree-house has a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and many other amenities. Plus incredible views of “The Falls” on North Fork River! This treehouse is located at 1746 River of Life Drive in Dora, Missouri. You can book and check availability by clicking here.

The Lakefront Tree-house

This is a one of a kind luxury treehouse that sits 20 feet in the air just a stone throw from the beautiful Sayersbrook Lake on Spring Lake Ranch. Guests will sleep in a loft which has a California king bed! The views from this loft are incredible, from bed you can see the stars above or the beautiful lake in front of you. On the lower deck there is a private hot-tub. Imagine relaxing in the tub while surrounded by all the nature the area has to offer. This treehouse is hand crafted and skillfully built, combining both modern and rustic features with all the amenities of a tiny luxury home. This stunning vacation home is located in Potosi Missouri. For more information or to check availability click here.

The Captain’s Quarters

If your looking for a unique place to stay during your Branson Missouri Vacation. This is it! Enjoy a night in the trees with the “Romantic Couples” treehouse that sleeps 2 adults (NO children). It features a corner two-person jetted tub, a bathroom with shower, a small kitchenette, and a private deck. It also has a Samsung smart TV and a DVD player. The main area of the Captains’s Quarters Tree-house features a living area with chairs, Samsung smart TV and DVD player.  Outside the tree-house is patio furniture, a small grill, and a private deck offering beautiful views! The deck is a perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee! The Captain’s Quarters is available at Branson Treehouse Adventures! This epic treehouse resort is located at 159 Acorn Acres Ln, Branson West, Missouri. For more information, click here.

The Jaybird Treehouse

This incredible treehouse is built beneath an oak tree and two tall pines. Underneath the cabin is a hammock, which is an incredible place to escape the summer heat or just to relax after a fun day of adventure! Outside the property are large decks, one on the front and another out back. The decks are perfect for relaxing, grilling, and watching the sun set. The treehouse has two bedrooms, one with a queen sized bed and another with a single bed.  There is also a common space with a queen sized bed, a sofa bed and a floor mattress. This stunning vacation home can comfortably sleep six adults! The tree-house is located just a short walk from Lake Of Egypt, and the tree-house host provides a canoe, kayak, paddleboards, and a paddleboat! The Jaybird treehouse is located in Goreville Illinois on beautiful Lake of Egypt! To check prices and availability, click here.

Graham’s Tree-House

Escape to an adult only majestic rustic treehouse / tree cabin tucked away on 32 heavily wooded acres, at Hidden Valley Wilderness Retreat! Graham’s Tree-House is a magical place surrounded by mother nature! Graham’s Tree-House is a full private tree cabin built and opened in 2018. The treehouse is located on top of a ledge overlooking wilderness creek, some 60 feet below! The views are outstanding! This is the perfect spot to get away from it all. Graham’s Tree-House has one bedroom with a queen sized bed. The cabin has large beautiful windows, which helps you enjoy incredible views while taking in the natural light. There is also a living room, dining area, and kitchen. There is seasonal air conditioning and heat. Graham’s Tree-House is located at 19190 Logan Rd, in Easton, Kansas. For more information or to check availability, click here.

The TreeLoft

Location Location Location! This unique lodging destination is surrounded by some of Missouri’s most popular Parks and Attractions!  If you love nature and visiting incredible attractions then TreeLoft, is the perfect lodging option to serve as BaseCamp on your next adventure! This is a custom built luxury treehouse for two, and is a fantastic place to relax and reconnect with nature! TreeLoft is a one bedroom, one bed, one bathroom treehouse, that has been featured in Architectural Digest, and GQ Magazine! There’s a skylight just above the king size bed for night sky gazing with a remote solar shade to keep you sleeping in the wee morning hours. Amenities include: Private patio/balcony, fire pit,  outdoor furniture, grill, indoor gas fireplace, and a private hot tub, among many others! TreeLoft is located on a private farm near Perryville Missouri, for more information, or to check availability, click here.