Utah's Best Kid-Friendly Stays with Cool Pools

Map out your family's next poolside escape at Utah's most splash-tastic destinations.

Written By Aspen English

Hurricane Yogi Bear Water Zone | Jellystone Park Zion

When you're traveling through Utah with kids, the deep red rock canyons of Zion or the towering pillars of Capitol Reef may not always be their first concern. More often than not, the burning question on their minds is: 'Does the hotel have a pool?'

Whether your idea of a splash-worthy getaway includes a lazy river, a wave pool, a thrilling waterslide, or simply space to soak under the stars, these family-friendly stays across the state understand that a good pool turns downtime into memory-making time. From canyonside pools to mountain-town slides, explore our round-up of top spots that keep the fun going long after the day’s adventures wrap.

Northern Utah

Lagoon RV Park & Campground

Farmington, Utah

Less than 20 miles north of Salt Lake City, Lagoon is a family-owned amusement park that blends classic carnival fun with modern water play. For those wanting to stay overnight, there’s a full RV park and campground on-site — so you can wake up and head straight to the fun (note: guests receive discounted park admission). (Read: At Lagoon, a Utah-grown Amusement Park Where the Fun Never Ends)

The park’s six-acre Lagoon A Beach area is a dream for kids, complete with waterslides, waterfalls and a lazy river. Outside the water, families can explore Pioneer Village, Kiddie Land and the adrenaline-pumping X-Venture Zone. The full amusement park is home to 11 roller coasters, including the historic Roller Coaster (built in 1921!) and Cannibal, which boasts one of the steepest drops in the world.

Parents, take note: If the kids are old enough to roam the park solo, grab a pint and some schnitzel at the Biergarten. And here’s a pro tip — outside food and drink are allowed inside the amusement park (just not at Lagoon A Beach or the Biergarten), which is a lifesaver for picky eaters or anyone looking to skip the lines.

Ready for a splashdown? The waterslides at Lagoon A Beach deliver unforgettable fun for all ages.

Photo: Courtesy of Lagoon Park

Grab a tube and ride! Float, spin and splash your way through Lagoon A Beach's exciting rapids.

Photo: Courtesy of Lagoon Park

Lagoon RV Park & Campground offers the perfect spot to park your RV or pitch your tent, just steps from all the excitement.

Photo: Courtesy of Lagoon Park

Cherry Hill Water Park & Campground

Kaysville, Utah

Cherry Hill began as a cherry farm in Fruit Heights back in the day (fun fact: Utah's official state fruit is the cherry). Today, the legacy lives on with fruit trees still growing across the grounds. But instead of buckets and baskets, the kids will be splashing down slides and conquering climbing walls.

The main draw is the water park, complete with slides of all sizes. This includes a slide shaped like a massive dragon, and the beloved Pirates Cove play area, where a 40-foot pirate ship sets the scene for cannon battles and mermaid spotting. On land, families can enjoy mini golf, rock climbing, a jungle gym and even basketball played on trampolines. Summer weekends often bring live concerts for an added dose of family fun.

With 140 shaded campsites for tents and RVs, Cherry Hill offers more than just a day trip. It’s a nostalgic, splashy way to make new summer memories while celebrating a slice of Utah history.

Cherry Hill Water Park

Photo: Courtesy of Cherry Hill Co.

Waterdance Bear Lake

Garden City, Utah

For families looking for something a little more private than a hotel — but with all the same amenities and more — look no further than Waterdance Bear Lake in Garden City. Located along the western shoreline of Bear Lake, the collection of luxury vacation rentals features tons of outdoor fun and a year-round private rec center. The center is perfect for when the family-sized bottle of sunscreen has run dry, with indoor activities such as pools and hot tubs, pickleball courts, foosball, air hockey, cornhole and even a bounce house.

Once you’ve restocked and slathered on sunscreen, head outside for what is essentially a mini water park in your backyard, perfect for when the Bear Lake beaches might get a little busy. Activities include water basketball, a splash pad, a twisty water slide and a waterfall. Each unit has access to the amenities, while still retaining their own private space and fire pits.

Outdoor Splash Pad at Waterdance Bear Lake

Photo: Adam Mecham

Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa

Midway, Utah

Just an hour southeast of the state’s capital lies the charming town of Midway, nicknamed “Little Switzerland” by the original Swiss settlers in the 1850s. Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa embraces that heritage, offering Swiss-inspired luxury in each of its premier amenities. In addition to the swimming pool, that includes tennis, volleyball, life-sized chess or mini-golf, all of which are available to play on-site.

Zermatt’s pools and hot tubs are easily accessible from either the main hotel building or the nearby villas, and there’s something for everyone. Options include heated pools, a year-round indoor/outdoor swim-through pool and a large indoor hot tub that has its own two-story waterfall. If the night gets brisk, the outdoor hot tub is perfect for those looking to warm up. Each pool offers picturesque views, but the indoor one is particularly notable for its sky mosaic that changes colors throughout the evening.

Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa

Photo: Courtesy of Zermatt Resort

The Little America Hotel

Salt Lake City, Utah

Don’t be fooled by its name: Little America boasts Salt Lake City’s largest indoor-outdoor swim-through pool! That’s right, just swimming or wading under a bridge will take you out to the sunshine or safely in the shade depending on the direction. There’s also an additional outdoor swimming area with both a shallow, walk-in side and a deeper end. And with access limited to hotel guests only, you won’t have to worry about overcrowding.

Plus, for parents or adult travelers looking for an extra relaxing experience, head across the street to the sister establishment, The Grand America Hotel, and its aptly named Grand Spa. With a steam room, sauna, more pools, hot tubs and even a couples’ relaxation lounge, you’ll wish your vacation would never end. Pro tip: Any spa or salon service, from a pedicure to a massage, includes free entry to the pools and sauna rooms, so be sure to take full advantage.

Salt Lake City's Little America Hotel

Photo: Courtesy of The Little America Hotel

Southern Utah

Jellystone Park Zion

Hurricane, Utah

A unique blend of exciting outdoor activities, water attractions and cozy accommodations, Jellystone Park Zion in Hurricane has something for every family — whether you’re pulling up in an RV, pitching a tent or checking into a cabin. Located just 30 miles west of Zion National Park and four miles north of Sand Hollow State Park, Jellystone Park Zion is an ideal hub for family-friendly adventures.

The real star of the show is the Yogi Bear™ Water Zone, which features two pools, a lazy river, four giant water slides, a splashground, a floating obstacle course and more. Competitive kiddos will love the side-by-side speed slides, perfect for (safely) racing siblings and new friends. And for little ones, the splash pad comes complete with a tipping water bucket and plenty of gentle jets to stay cool without the chaos.

Scramble, bounce and dive your way through the exciting Yogi Bear Water Zone floating obstacle course at Jellystone Park Zion.

Photo: Jellystone Park Zion

Feel the rush as you zoom down the thrilling waterslide at the Yogi Bear Water Zone.

Photo: Jellystone Park Zion

Even the littlest adventurers have their own dedicated space to splash and play at our smaller, kid-friendly splash pad area.

Photo: Jellystone Park Zion

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab

Moab, Utah

In the southeastern corner of the state, Springhill Suites is often considered one of the best for families in Moab. Its impressive pool area features two large outdoor pools, multiple hot tubs and a canyon-inspired splash pad. And it’s all located in the shadow of Arches National Park, with red rock canyons visible poolside. After an early hike in the cooler temperatures of a summer morning, an afternoon at the pool is a great way to cap off the adventure. And we’d be remiss not to mention the hotel’s complimentary hot breakfast buffet — a hit with kids and adults alike.

Whether you're looking for a luxe resort or a rustic campground with a twist, these family-friendly locations are packed with hours of adventure, relaxation and downright splash-tastic fun. So grab the goggles, sunscreen and snacks — Utah’s coolest getaways are calling.

The entire family will enjoy cooling off next to the canyon-inspired splash pad and pool at SpringHill Suites by Marriot Moab.

Photo: Fairfield Inn Springfield

Arcadia Resort Utah

Santa Clara, Utah

Arcadia Resort near St. George is practically built for water-loving families. Two sprawling pool areas are connected by a lazy river that meanders around a red rock installation, and there’s a large water slide to keep thrill-seekers entertained. For parents or swimmers who want a bit more structure, there’s also a lap pool and comfy poolside loungers. And when the sun sets, fire pits light up around the pool decks — perfect for s’mores or just staying warm while the kids soak a little longer.

With pools ranging in depth from baby splash zones to deeper swimming areas, everyone can find their place to play. The newest addition at the north end of the resort includes swim lanes for adults looking to sneak in some cardio between cannonballs. Some villas are right next to the pool, and a few even come with private pools or hot tubs. As an added bonus, several are dog-friendly, so even your furry family members can join the fun.

With two expansive pool areas, baby splash zones and deeper swimming areas, every family member finds their perfect spot to play and cool off at the Arcadia Resort.

Photo: Jaxton Reber

Brace for excitement! The large water slide at Arcadia Resort offers exhilarating drops and twists, promising squeals of delight for thrill-seekers of all ages.

Photo: Jaxton Reber

For those seeking a bit more relaxation, the private pools at Arcadia Resort are ideal for a refreshing swim, while comfy poolside loungers invite parents to unwind in the shade.

Photo: Jaxton Reber

Utah's Kid-Friendly Splash Guide

About the Author – Aspen English

Aspen English is — as you might have guessed from her last name — a writing enthusiast. She’s deeply passionate about life’s little joys, including food, travel and the great outdoors. As a contributing writer for SLUG Magazine, Aspen loves reviewing local shows and interviewing Salt Lake City icons (whether they know they’re icons or not). If she’s not typing away or on a grand adventure, she’s probably curled up on the couch with a good book and her mischievous puppy, Oaky.

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