Families have been going to Spring Valley Beach for over 50 years for good reason: This water park near Cullman, Alabama keeps getting better with time, adding new features that appeal to new generations while maintaining its long-held reputation as a destination for laid-back, family fun. The Blountsville park's most recent addition came in the summer of 2022 with the fantastic Double TornadoWAVE waterslide – the only one in the state. While the cool new ride has won over new fans, let's take a look at why families in Alabama and beyond return to the water park year after year.

First of all, Spring Valley Beach Water Park is huge, covering 25 acres. This family-owned park has continually evolved since the early 1970s when Allen Gilliland bought it as a simple, spring-fed recreation lake and sandy beach.

It wasn't long until Gilliland decided to convert the lake into what is now the park's most prominent feature, a massive, 2-acre pool. Still fed by the same spring, the park is the largest of its kind in the Southeast. Alongside the main pool, visitors can explore over 20 pavilion areas and about a dozen water slides that cater to various thrill levels.

As for the newest ride, the Tornado DoubleWAVE will thrill even the most ambitious adrenaline junkies. Its two towering, curved walls drop riders down and up a 100% grade – twice! – before zooming into the cool pool below.

Your younger kiddos will love the colorful Kids' Water Playground with multiple features and age-appropriate slides just for them. Parents can cool off and unwind in the many shaded seating areas within view.

One unique feature of Spring Valley Beach is how guests can bring their own grills, picnic baskets, and pop-up tents to set up just as you can at a public beach. This added perk allows you to save little on concessions costs and customize your meal choices, too – both especially handy if you're feeding a larger crew. And really, who doesn't love the experience of a poolside cookout?

Over the years, Spring Valley Beach's dedication to guest satisfaction has earned it recognition as a "Driving Destination," an "Absolutely Alabama attraction," and a "Tennessee Valley Treasure." The park's well-maintained, lush, green grounds perfectly frame the cool blue hues and pops of color across the landscape, creating a comforting vibe ... even when you're experiencing G forces on a wild slide ride.

Located just 19 miles east of Cullman and about an hour's drive south of Huntsville on Highway 231, Spring Valley Beach is a super accessible and fun spot for an easy day trip. To make the most of your visit, plan ahead by checking the Spring Valley Beach website and Spring Valley Beach Facebook page for the most current hours, ticket prices, and current events. be sure to stay hydrated and pack sunscreen and any other gear you may need for the day (check out this awesome Foldie bag for that!). And don't forget all the snacks and goodies you can bring for a cookout or picnic.

Have you visited this family water park near Cullman, Alabama? If not, we bet it will quickly become a new tradition every summer. Let us know if you've been (or plan to go)! We want to hear all about your time there.