11 Fun Sprinklers for Kids of All Ages (Updated for 2025)

Photo by Gary Cole

You ask any kid whether they’d rather stay cool with a kiddie pool or a water sprinkler this summer, and, well, they’re going to tell you they want a pool. A sprinkler—even a fun sprinkler made for kids—doesn’t quite cut it for water games like We’re Mermaids, And We’ve Been Kidnapped! and Mom, Watch This! Watch this, Mom!

But I’m putting my foot down this year and going with sprinklers, because keeping the kiddie pool water clean is a beeeotch for someone who procrastinates and then stress-ignores as much as I do.

Plus, last year the kid swam exactly three times because it was either “too hot to swim” or her “legs hurt” or she was “too tired” or she “didn’t feel like getting wet.” So this summer, we’re going with the second-best thing for cooling down on a hot day: A super-fun backyard sprinkler setup. It’s a “plug + play + store-away” option, and I love that for myself.

I’ve plumbed the depths of Amazon in search of the perfect sprinkler for our backyard setup, and WOW, there are a lot of choices. So if you’re also in the market, read on—I’ve done our due diligence (I do love a deep dive) and sussed out a selection of the best sprinklers for kids of various ages.

Every sprinkler option I’ve included here has a rating of at least four out of five stars at the time of publication (I’ve included the star rating and the number of raters). If you click on a link, I may make a small commission—you can read more about that here!

Wiggle tube sprinklers

Wiggle tube sprinklers feature multiple hoses that wiggle around, powered by water flow. Turn the water up full blast to them go crazy, or turn it down for slower, more gentler wiggling!

1. Octopus sprinkler (SAMTOP)

4.2 stars, 950+ ratings

This octopus water sprinkler from Samtop brings a splashy burst of fun to backyard play! Featuring 8 colorful wiggle tubes and a spinning top nozzle, it sprays water in all directions depending on hose pressure—up to 20 feet! The cute octopus design adds a playful touch, and the sprinkler easily attaches to a standard garden hose using the included connector. Made with soft, durable plastic and a waterproof rubber ring, it’s safe for little hands and built to last through hours of summer action. When the kids are done splashing, the wiggle tubes fold under and secure to the bottom of the sprinkler to keep things contained for easy storage.

Customers love the whimsical design and how much ground the sprinkler can cover, making it a hit for both kids and dogs! Many reviewers appreciated how simple and tidy it was to store after play. Some parents did mention that water spray height can be underwhelming with low pressure, and a few wished the tubes stayed up more firmly during play. Still, it’s a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser that turns any backyard into a water wonderland for kids ages 3 and up.

2. Cactus wiggle tube sprinkler (HeySplash)

4.2 stars, 99+ ratings

This wiggly cactus sprinkler is a total blast for backyard fun! With its bright colors and silly tentacle-like tubes, it’s designed to spray water every which way—keeping kids running, giggling, and cool on hot days. It connects easily to a standard garden hose and features a domed base that keeps the sprinkler stable while all those wiggly arms do their dance. This model also comes in the form of a dinosaur, elephant, flamingo, whale, and crocodile, among others! Whether you're planning a backyard birthday party or just trying to beat the heat, this sprinkler turns any lawn into a mini water park.

Parents love how easy it is to set up and how much energy it helps kids burn off. Reviewers say their kids loved chasing the unpredictable spray. On the flip side, a few people noted that the water pressure needs to be fairly high to get the best “wiggle” action, and some wished the sprinkler sprayed a little higher. But overall, it’s a fun and affordable way to get kids active outdoors.

Inflatable water sprinklers

Inflatable sprinklers aren’t as durable as their hard-plastic counterparts, but boy, do they offer an extra layer of super-soaky fun. Most of them come with a patch kit just in case the durable PVC is no match for your rough-n-tumble younguns. You can blow some of these up with your own lung air, but it’s sooooo much easier to just spring for a hand air pump or an inexpensive electric air pump and skip the numb lips and dizzy spells.

3. Snake sprinkler (Splashin’kids)

4.5 stars, 250+ ratings

This inflatable snake sprinkler is 6 feet long and sprays out water from along the entire length of its body, creating lots of space for a crowd of kids to get their fair share of wet without tripping all over one another. The Splashin'kids Inflatable Snake Sprinkler brings a wild twist to backyard water play! Its playful, cartoonish design makes it a big hit with younger kids, and the low-spray height keeps things safe for toddlers while still offering plenty of cooling fun. Made from thick, durable PVC, it’s tough enough to handle excited stomps and endless summer squirms.

Parents say the snake’s bright colors and silly face are a big draw for toddlers and preschoolers, and the water spray is gentle but consistent. Some noted that you may need to anchor the snake in breezy weather or inflate it fully to prevent sagging. Overall, it’s a quirky, crowd-pleasing sprinkler that’s perfect for turning your backyard into a splashy jungle adventure.

4. Inflatable beach ball sprinkler (Toyvian)

4.2 stars, 10+ ratings

Measuring 31” (almost 3 feet!) in diameter, this durable beach ball sprinkler is a fun, splashy spin on the classic beach ball—just way bigger and way wetter! It features a heavy, water-filled base to keep it anchored while the little ‘uns run around it and climb over it like maniacs. Jets around the circumference spray water in all directions. It’s made from durable PVC and inflates quickly, making it a great pick for parties, playdates, or just spontaneous backyard fun.

Parents like how portable and lightweight this sprinkler is, especially for smaller yards or quick, impromptu sprinkler-running sessions. Reviews mention that the spray is gentle enough for toddlers but still exciting for older kids. Some users did note that the hose connection can be a bit tricky to secure, and the spray range is more playful than powerful. Still, if you’re looking for something simple, silly, and easy to store, this beach ball sprinkler is a solid choice for sunny-day, wet ‘n’ wild fun.

5. Ginormous inflatable unicorn sprinkler (Jasonwell)

4.3 stars, 3,500+ ratings

This gigantic, eye-popping inflatable unicorn sprinkler is backyard magic at its finest! Standing over 5 feet tall and nearly 7 feet long, it sprays water out of its horn. This thing is HUGE and comes with four stakes to keep it securely attached to the ground so it doesn’t go flying around the neighborhood in a squall. It’s also available in XXXL — almost 7 feet tall and nearly 9 feet long!

Parents say kids go absolutely wild for the unicorn’s larger-than-life design and nonstop spray action. Reviewers love how easy it is to inflate and connect, and many mention that it holds up well through repeated use. A few people noted it can tip over in strong winds or if not fully inflated, and some recommend adding extra anchoring support if it’s windy outside. For kids who are unicorn-obsessed—or just love getting soaked—this sprinkler is a total showstopper.

Trampoline water sprinklers

Have a trampoline? Bounce up the fun, and make a splash with sprinklers! That’s right—they make sprinklers are made just for trampolines! They come in a few different styles and installation types, but they all ramp up the jumping fun by at least 10 factors.

6. Trampoline sprinkler (ThrillZoo)  

4.5 stars, 8,000+ ratings

The ThrillZoo Trampoline Water Sprinkler takes bouncing (and sprinklering) to a whole new and much cooler level! It attaches directly to the safety net enclosure of most standard trampolines and sprays a refreshing mist around the whole trampoline perimeter, transforming it into a backyard waterpark. It features an extra-long, flexible hose with zip ties for secure installation, and the system is built with durability in mind using heavy-duty materials that can withstand plenty of jumping and splashing.

Parents (and kids!) love the added layer of excitement to their backyard trampoline—it keeps kids cool while they slip, slide, and bounce their energy out. Reviewers say setup is straightforward and the spray coverage is excellent once it’s properly positioned. Some users noted that the included zip ties may need reinforcement for extra security. Overall, this trampoline sprinkler scores major points for turning an already-fun activity into a full-on summer splash fest.

7. Spinning trampoline sprinkler (STFLY)

4.4 stars, 300+ ratings

This spinning trampoline sprinkler with a 360° rotating head turns backyard bouncing up a notch with a spinning spray of cool water! It mounts on top of your trampoline’s safety net pole and spins as it sprays, creating a moving mist that covers the entire jumping surface. Kids can bounce, slide, and spin through the water for nonstop action, and you can easily control the spray intensity with your garden hose. Installation is simple, with adjustable straps and a universal connector that fits most trampoline enclosures.

Parents say this rotating sprinkler is a total hit during hot summer days—especially for kids who already love their trampoline and just need that extra cooling splash factor. Reviewers love the spinning motion and wide coverage, and many noted that setup only takes a few minutes. A few users did mention that the plastic parts feel a bit lightweight and may need gentle handling, and others recommend double-checking your pole size to ensure a secure fit. Overall, it’s super fun for turning your trampoline into a splasholine!

8. LED trampoline sprinkler (ThrillZoo)

4.4, 500+

The Tatub trampoline sprinkler with LED string lights brings all-day, all-night fun to your backyard setup! This kit includes a 360° rotating sprinkler that attaches to the top of your trampoline’s enclosure, creating a refreshing mist while kids bounce and play. But the real standout is the color-changing LED string lights powered by solar energy—no batteries or plugs required. With the included remote control, you can switch between multiple colors and modes to light up your trampoline at night for a personal light show under the stars!

Parents love how this combo keeps kids cool during the day and adds a magical vibe after sunset. The sprinkler provides great water coverage, and the lights are bright, fun, and easy to control. Reviews highlight how much kids love the color-changing effect, and setup is fairly straightforward. A few users mentioned that the light straps might need extra securing, and the sprinkler’s spin works best with decent water pressure. Still, it’s a clever way to double the fun and turn your trampoline into an around-the-clock summer attraction.

Sprinkler toys & games

For kids who want their sprinkler time to be extra-extra, go for a bells-and-whistles approach—choose a sprinkler that’s also a toy or a game, like these cool options!

9. Inflatable cactus ring-toss sprinkler (Boogem)

4.3 stars, 1,300+ ratings

This ring-toss cactus sprinkler is an interactive game that also cools off the kiddos. It stands almost 4 feet high when it’s inflated and sprays water in all directions from the top of the main trunk. It comes with four inflatable rings for the kids to toss over the cactus’s arms. Made from sturdy PVC, it’s a perfect all-ages activity for birthdays, family BBQs, or any day that needs a little wild, watery action.

Parents love how this toy keeps kids moving and laughing all afternoon. Reviews say the water spray is perfect for younger children, and the ring toss adds extra replay value. Some mention that it may need a bit of support to stay upright if it’s windy or if play gets too rowdy, and a few wished the spray reached a bit higher. For a sprinkler that brings something extra to the backyard, this cactus is a total summer win.

10. Tic-tac-toe sprinkler (JOSEN)

4.9 stars, 40+ ratings

This Tic Tac Toe Sprinkler Mat adds a playful twist to classic backyard water fun by combining a splash pad with everyone’s favorite game. This 60-inch mat features a built-in Tic Tac Toe board and comes with waterproof bean bags so kids (and grownups!) can compete while getting soaked. Just hook it up to your garden hose and watch water spray up from the edges for a refreshing challenge. Made from durable, BPA-free PVC, it’s built to handle wild throws, slippery slides, and summer-long fun.

Parents love that this sprinkler mat gets the whole family involved—it's part strategy, part splash zone, and totally screen-free. Reviews highlight how easy it is to set up with the included accessories (like the bean bags, stakes, and hose connector). Some noted that it works best on flat surfaces to keep the water spraying evenly, and a few mentioned that younger kids may need help with the game rules. But overall, it’s a smart, fun-filled way to keep everyone cool and competitive in the summer sun.

11. 4-in-1 turtle sprinkler (VATOS)

4.5 stars, 50+ ratings

The VATOS 4-in-1 Turtle Sprinkler is packed with clever play features that turn your backyard into a full-on water carnival! A cheerful turtle with a cute little snail on its shell delights little kids as the sprinkler sprays cool water from multiple points. But what really sets it apart is the 4-in-1 play setup: kids can hurdle over connected pipes, play ring toss with the turtle, scoop up balls splashing in the spray, or just enjoy the sprinkling water fun. It’s gentle enough for toddlers, but it’s built tough to last all summer long.

Parents love how this sprinkler keeps kids entertained with multiple games in one compact toy. The water pressure is adjustable, setup is simple, and everything you need—rings, scoop, balls, pipes, and connectors—is included right in the box. Reviews praise its vibrant design and the creative game options, though some mention that it works best on level ground to keep the water flowing evenly. If you’re looking for something that goes way beyond your basic spray toy, this turtle-sprinkler-play-pal is the ultimate summer sidekick.

Tips for conserving water during sprinkler fun

Photo by Elena Rabkina

Since water is a finite resource, the more we can do to conserve it, the better for everyone. But that doesn’t mean your kids can’t have all the sprinkler fun they desire this summer! These tips will help you reduce your water usage while maximizing the water you do use—all without ruining any of the fun.

• Kill two birds with one stone (or, as some prefer, ‘feed two birds with one scone’) and set up the sprinkler where you have grass or plants that need watering. 

• If the kids are running through the sprinklers unsupervised, teach them to turn off the water the moment they move on to another activity. 

• Turn the faucet to the lowest acceptable water pressure level. Toddlers and little kids don’t necessarily need the sprinkler spray to go super high—and they probably won’t notice (or care) if you keep it on the lower side.

• Keep the sprinklers off between 11am and 3pm, when more water is likely to evaporate—and when wet leaves and grass can burn under the strong rays of the sun.

Keep sprinkler safety top of mind

Sprinklers are generally safer than kiddie pools—but smaller kids still need adult supervision while playing in the sprinklers or on a splash pad. Here are a few other ways to help keep all kids safe while they slip, slide, and run through the sprinklers.

• Apply sunscreen to the kids liberally and often if the play area is in the sun (here’s how to pick the best sunscreen for your kids.)

• Remove sharp objects, like rocks, from around the spot where you’ll put the sprinkler.

• Got a dog? Here’s how to keep dog doo under control in the back yard

Wanna make it even more fun? Here are some water balloon games the kids can play while they run through the sprinklers.

Happy summer, everyone!