End of Era for RI’s Last Waterpark

After more than 35 years of summer fun, Rhode Island's only water park has officially closed for good.

Yawgoo Valley Ski Area in Exeter has announced the permanent closure of its waterpark and summer camp ahead of summer 2026, marking the end of an era for generations of local families who grew up visiting the popular attraction.

Though the waterpark was only a small portion of the resort's 36 skiable acres, many regarded it as a summertime oasis and its presence will definitely be missed in the months ahead.

Why Yawgoo Closed Its Waterpark

In a statement posted on their website, the company said the decision came "after careful consideration," citing "long-term operational factors and the need to focus resources on other areas of the property."

Nancy Hall/Townsquare Media

What Will Stay Open at Yawgoo Valley

Though the waterpark will never reopen, Yawgoo emphasized that the resort's trails and tubing park will continue to operate as usual.

A Look Back at 35 Years of Summer Fun

Rhode Island's last standing ski resort has been in operation for 60 years, though the water park was only added in 1989. Over its 35 seasons, the park grew to include two serpentine water slides with splash pool, a full-size swimming pool, 1-foot-deep kiddie pool, a pavilion for shade and a tiki bar for adults.

Nancy Hall/Townsquare Media

Rhode Island Now Without a Waterpark

It served as a rare local option for water-based fun and was the only water park left in the Ocean State after Water Wizz of Westerly closed in 2019.

Beloved New Bedford Bars That Are Gone But Not Forgotten

From 908 to the Regal Beagle on Acushnet Ave, these are the bars that are no longer with us but never forgotten.

Gallery Credit: Gazelle

Look Inside New Bedford's Abandoned Orpheum Theatre

New Bedford's Orpheum Theatre has been vacant for decades, but artifacts remain in place as an ode to its rich history. Let's go inside.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter this property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing on private property.

Gallery Credit: Maddie Levine

Abandoned North Truro Military Base is a Peek Into 1950s Cape Cod

After closing in 1994, the North Truro Air Force Base has been left untouched. Decay, destruction and graffiti have taken over many of the buildings, but some family belongings can still be spotted. The area is now in the possession of the National Parks Service, and according to an update on Atlas Obscura from June 2021, the base had been fenced off and locked tight to visitors hoping to get a glimpse inside the historical Cape Cod site. Luckily, YouTuber @Exploring With Josh took viewers inside the base back in 2015, so we can still take a peek inside the long-abandoned property.

Gallery Credit: Kari Jakobsen