Splash Landing

The Splashing Eagle Waterpark at Lake Hemet proves waterparks aren’t just for kids. This action-packed floating waterpark, just offshore in the 470-acre lake nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, presents plenty of adult-size challenges. Challenge 1: You have to swim through the chilly water to reach it! Sure, the mandatory life jackets help keep you afloat, but every play structure in the park is out beyond where you can stand. Challenge 2: Hoisting your body out of the water and onto the structures. Challenge 3: Maintaining your footing on the wet and slippery inflatable structures that bob around in the water.

Then the fun really begins! Climb the 14-foot King of the Mountain Ice Tower, a massive climbing wall, or ascend the Summit Express, a towering slide that requires a steep climb to reach the top. Or practice your gymnastics skills on the floating trampoline before sending your friends flying on the summer camp classic: the blob (not as easy as it looks in the movies!). Or perhaps test your balance skills on the giant multiperson teeter-totter. Or just climb any of the structures to enjoy the view of the lake from the top—watch for trout jumping out of the water! Tired and need a break? Relax on the sandy swim beach, or walk over to the marina to pick up some ice cream. Your admission gives you in-and-out privileges all day, so don’t worry about packing it all in at once! This is summer: no need to rush.

Lake Hemet Recreation Co. is at 56570 Hwy. 74 in Mountain Center. From Hemet, follow CA-74 east for 18 miles, and then make a right on Lake View Dr. The lake will be on your right. The waterpark is open Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. No dogs in the waterpark.