The sun is starting to feel strong these days. So what do Texans do when it gets hot? We chill on the water. Any kind of water: pools, lakes, rivers and even water parks.

Water park season is here and it's just in time as the heat starts to pick back up. A Houston Chron article mentioned that there are about 89 water parks in the lone star state - so they named there top picks. Nine of those top picks are within two hours driving from the great Tyler area in East Texas. So when it's hot and your family wants to play, you have plenty of theme park options to choose from!

Despite the fire at Splash Kingdom in Canton earlier this season, opening day has not been delayed and is expected on May 27. None of the park was damaged in the fire.

Splash Kingdom - Canton - 14 attractions

Open: May 27 through August
Cost: $15 to $24

Splash Kingdom in Canton was the first and obvious choice for an East Texas water park to go to. It's close and boasts more water attractions than the average water park in Texas with 14, according to Chron. This water park is also faith-based. In their About Section on Facebook it reads:

Splash Kingdom Waterpark Mission Statement: To glorify God while providing a safe and fun recreation experience for families.

Bahama Beach Waterpark - Dallas - 9 attractions

Open: June 2 to August 13
Cost: $11 to $15

Bahama Beach in Dallas is the most cost-friendly on this list, starting at $5 and maxing out at $15 - not a bad way to spend a day!

Hawaiian Falls - Mansfeld - 11 attractions

Deemed 'one of the best-rated parks in Texas", we suggest taking a look at all of their rides on their website right here.

Open: May through August
Cost: $20 to $27

Hawaiian Falls - The Colony - 12 attractions

Open: May through August
Cost: $20 to $27

Great Wolf Lodge - Grapevine - 15 attractions

Here, you can really make a weekend out of it. Water park passes are included in your suite price along with great dining and shopping choices. Of course, the cost of the water park below will be much cheaper than staying overnight.

Open: All year
Cost: $21 to $27