Disney’s abandoned river country water park is reopening. It closed in 2001 after a child died from a brain-eating parasite he got while swimming there.

Disney's River Country will reopen in 2026. Original photo via Disney
Disney’s River Country will reopen in 2026. Original photo via Disney

Disney abandoned the park and let it rot for over 20 years. Now, construction has just begun to bring it back to its original glory. They will be cleaning and repairing the currently abandoned slides and pools.

They will also add new slides as well as more pools. When it closed there were 12 attractions at the waterpark. However, according to an internal source, there will be 20 when it reopens. The original 12, plus 8 more. River Country was often considered the all-time greatest Disney World water park.

Many people are excited for the water park to make its return to Disney World. However, some have concerns that there will be more deaths either from parasites or alligators. According to an internal source, Disney is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of guests at this water park.

A look at the abandoned River Country in its current state
A look at the abandoned River Country in its current state. Photo via abandonedsoutheast.com

However, it can’t be any less safe than losing your hands on Space Mountain or the euthanasia roller coaster. River Country is set to reopen on June 20, 2026. This will be the 50th anniversary of River Country’s original opening.

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