Looking for the perfect family day trip to kick off summer fun? This is it! Whether your crew loves splashing, digging, climbing, or just soaking in sunshine, Waterfall Junction at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a summer must-visit.
The first time we came here, I was honestly blown away—how had we not visited sooner, especially with Riverbanks Zoo being one of our regular spots? Our kids have always loved the koalas and could spend ages at the petting zoo with the goats. But somehow, we always skipped the Botanical Garden side—and totally missed out on Waterfall Junction.
Waterfall Junction
Waterfall Junction—with its awesome splash pad—is honestly one of the best splash spots we've been to in South Carolina. And yet, it still feels like a hidden gem. Tucked away right next to the beautiful Botanical Garden, this section of the zoo is huge—there’s so much to do, you could easily spend the whole day here!
Waterfall Junction is a 3-acre wonderland where kids can splash under a 25-foot waterfall, explore two separate splash zones for big and little adventurers, and dig for fossils in a sandy dino dig. There’s a giant treehouse packed with hands-on fun, colorful art, and shady hangout spots, plus open green spaces for running wild, building, balancing, and playing pretend. Hidden play pockets like rope climbs and tunnel slides add to the magic—making it a place your kids won’t want to leave.
It’s truly one of the top summer spots in the Columbia area—and for good reason. Its convenient location inside Riverbanks Zoo & Garden makes it easy to add to your day of exploring. And unlike many splash pads that don’t open until mid-May or even Memorial Day weekend, Waterfall Junction opened early this year—on April 1st. And no, it wasn’t an April Fools’ joke!
Splash Zones
The splash zone for bigger kids is a total blast—with a towering waterfall you can stand directly under, built into a rocky outcrop that makes it feel like you’re exploring a real cave falls. Surrounding the falls, in-ground water shooters and side sprinklers blast water at all angles and speeds, keeping the excitement going nonstop. The water gently flows into a shallow creek area, perfect for wading, splashing, and cooling off. Kids love to sit, roll, and relax in the slow-moving stream. A small set of stairs connects the main splash pad to the lower stream area, creating a seamless space to explore and cool off.
The park also features a toddler-friendly splash pad, complete with gentle in-ground sprinklers and a whimsical frog-themed sprayer.
You’ll find natural shade, seating for caregivers, and some fun little surprises nearby—like charming mushroom and ladybug sculptures tucked into cozy pockets of the landscape. To find it, just follow the stream that flows from the main splash pad area!
—plus a HUGE treehouse filled with colorful art, hands-on activities, and plenty of shade under the towering trees. It’s packed with colorful art and hands-on activities. Honestly, this treehouse probably deserves a post all its own—it’s that cool.
Beyond its impressive size, it’s full of fun surprises along its winding paths, like a water painting station, a kid-friendly yoga corner, net bridges, and tons of playful art elements—think faces carved into trees and giant metal sculptures.
And best of all, it’s a perfect break from the sun on those hot days.
We had such a great time exploring this place! There’s tons of open space for running, climbing, and stumbling upon fun little play pockets tucked around the perimeter. One of our favorite spots was the nature-inspired playground, with its twisty tube slides, climbing nets, and bouncy dinosaur spring riders the kids couldn’t get enough of. Everything was super clean, family-friendly, and just plain fun from start to finish!
Right at the entrance, kids get to choose their own adventure—starting with a tunnel that leads straight into splashy, giggle-filled day! And honestly? You’re going to love all the little surprises scattered around—like unexpected sculptures and silly play pockets that make you go, “Okay, this is why we came.”
And don’t even get me started on the giant dino dig sand pit—it’s seriously epic! Tucked under the wings of soaring pterodactyls, this shady spot is packed with sand toys and ready for hours of fossil-hunting fun.
There are also fun lawn games like giant building blocks and hula hoops that are a big hit with kids. Just a heads-up—this play zone is out in the open sun, so be mindful of sun exposure. Kids get so into the fun, they’ll totally lose track of time!
If you're planning spring or summer outings, make sure Waterfall Junction is on your list. It’s the perfect place for kids to burn energy—and for parents to relax in the shade while soaking up the joy.
Why You’ll Love Waterfall Junction
From toddlers to tweens (and even grown-ups!), there's something here for every age to enjoy:
- Cool off under a 25-foot waterfall and run wild through two splash zones — now open daily through Labor Day!
- Climb, crawl, and explore through giant treehouses and twisty tunnels
- Uncover a life-size T-Rex fossil dig — perfect for your little paleontologist
- Get hands-on in the veggie garden or make some noise in the musical play areas
- Relax in shady seating areas while the kids let loose in wide-open green spaces
What to Know Before You Go
Here’s everything you need to plan your trip:
- Included with Riverbanks Zoo & Garden admission
- Open daily | 9AM–5PM (water features turn off 30 minutes before the zoo closes)
- Admission: Adults – $24.99; Kids (2–12) – $21.99; Under 2 – FREE
- Museums for All pricing available with EBT/WIC card: just $3/person for up to 6 guests (with valid ID)
- Bring: towels, sunscreen, water shoes, and swim diapers for littles
- Free tram runs between the Zoo entrance and the Botanical Garden
Waterfall Junction at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Where: Columbia, SC
Website: riverbanks.org
Whether you're local or road-tripping through South Carolina, Waterfall Junction is where summer memories begin. Just don’t forget your towel!
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