The effort to restore a summertime staple in northwest Louisiana has come to an abrupt end.
In a public letter shared on Facebook, Lee Hovis announced that Wonder Oasis Waterpark has ceased operations effective immediately, citing financial strain, weather related setbacks, and mounting debt. The closure marks the latest chapter in the long and often challenging history of restoring the waterpark.
“To the entire Shreveport community, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has supported, encouraged, and believed in my vision to bring the Shreveport waterpark back to life,” Lee Hovis shared. “When I first took on this project, my intentions were rooted in hope, excitement, and a genuine desire to restore a beloved community destination.”
Waterparks have historically served as regional draws, especially in markets like Shreveport Bossier that experience extended periods of summer heat. According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, waterparks remain among the most weather dependent attractions in the industry, with attendance and revenue closely tied to favorable seasonal conditions.
“From the outset, we faced significant financial challenges, entering this endeavor underfinanced,” he stated. “I believed that with hard work and steady revenue, we could overcome those hurdles. Unfortunately, delays in opening the park led to substantial financial strain and a loss of critical revenue during the 2024 season.”
Seasonal attractions typically rely on a narrow operating window to generate the majority of their annual income. Missing even a portion of peak summer weeks can have outsized consequences.
Hovis said he personally assumed financial risk in an attempt to stabilize operations. “In an effort to keep the dream alive, I took on personal debt and was able to raise some capital from local investors to operate the park in 2025. As the 2025 season began, there was a sense of optimism, and it appeared that we had finally turned a corner. July started off with promise, and we were hopeful for a strong recovery.”
However, unpredictable summer weather created additional setbacks. “Unforeseen weather conditions struck, dramatically reducing attendance and compounding our financial difficulties. Despite our best efforts and the resilience of those who stood by us, these challenges proved insurmountable.”
The restoration took a personal toll on Harvis as well. “Throughout this endeavor, I have given everything I had to revive the waterpark (mentally, physically and financially). No matter the issues, I remained positive and never gave up. Unfortunately, the financial situation is now beyond my ability to continue the business forward.”
He added, “I am truly sorry that I could not deliver on the vision we all shared. I appreciate the support, hard work, and patience from the community, investors, employees, and everyone who believed in the park’s potential. Your trust and enthusiasm have meant a great deal to me, and I regret that circumstances prevented us from achieving our goal together.”
Regional Parks Step In to Support Families
Although Wonder Oasis is closing, two nearby parks have extended offers to Shreveport Bossier residents.
Big Dam Waterpark in Texarkana, Arkansas, and Splash Kingdom Waterparks, which operates locations in Canton and Nacogdoches, have announced discounted season admission options for Shreveport and Bossier City residents.
“As this chapter comes to a close, l am grateful to see the continued spirit of care and community surrounding Wonder Oasis Waterpark. Two nearby waterparks, Big Dam Waterpark in Texarkana, Arkansas, and Splash Kingdom Waterparks in Canton and Nacogdoches, Texas, have generously stepped forward to support Shreveport-Bossier families.”
He further explained that both parks are offering specially discounted season admission for area residents and have committed to honoring 2026 Wonder Oasis season passes that were already purchased. Guests may redeem their pass at one selected park.
“I am sincerely thankful for this kindness and for the way our broader waterpark community has shown up for families during this difficult transition.”
Hovis concluded his letter: “Although this is a sad day for myself and my family, I do want to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to try. I remain grateful for this community and hope that, in time, new opportunities for joy and recreation will arise for Shreveport area families.”
For now, the gates at Wonder Oasis are closed. Whether another operator will attempt to revive a waterpark in the region remains uncertain. What is clear is that the idea of a local summer gathering place still resonates deeply with many families in Shreveport Bossier.
