In my house, my daughter waits impatiently for Mother Nature to bring some warm summer days so she can drag me to the splash pads and water parks. While there is nothing I love more than hanging out on a sandy beach along the Michigan lakeshore, I’m not a fan of screaming kids and waterparks. However, even the not-so-outdoor mom like me can’t turn down a good splash of cold water on an 80-degree day.
That said, here are our top picks for excellent splash pads + outdoor waterparks that you and your family can enjoy during the hot summer days.
Bluebell Beach Splash pad, Mount Morris 
There are three great reasons to make this splash pad your next stop.
1) The beach is well-maintained. I love to walk along the shoreline and skip rocks with my kid. I spent a lot of summers at this beach.
2)The splash pad is always working. Knowing that the little one won’t be yelling “Mommy fix it, fix it,” is always a major plus.
3) The playground is barrier free. This means all the children can play together regardless of their physical abilities.
The dinosaur theme is amazing and we love it here. I usually pack a picnic basket and hang out on the beautiful lawn. Plus, if the kid gets restless, we are right next to Crossroads Village or Stepping Stone Falls.
Creasey Bicentennial Park Splash pad, Grand Blanc
Why this splash pad? Well, it’s just so stinking cute! The bright colors are inviting and it’s small enough for the toddlers and big enough for the preschoolers. It’s always a hit for the five and under crew. There are nearby tables and benches for you to grab a seat if you want to watch and rest. There is a great play area near the splash pad as well as a dog park. It is truly fun for the whole family!
Lake Callis Dash and Splash, Davison
This is the newest splash pad in Genesee County. The Dash and Splash has 3000 gallons of water flowing every minute. It also features a huge bucket which dumps water on the kiddies. You know that’s always a hit with the tykes. There is a concession stand nearby and Lake Callis itself if you want to go for a swim.
Spraypark at Clintonwood
Located in Clarkston, this spraypark is nestled within beautiful and clean Clintonwood Park. Pack a lunch and sit at the adjacent {and shaded!} picnic tables. Plan to play on the playground, too, right next to the water area. As a bonus, the spraypark offer Toddler Time for ages 6 and under from 10 – 11 am, every weekday in season. It’s a great time to take your little ones!
The Splash Park at East Lansing Family Aquatic Center
Just a short car ride away, the Family Aquatic Center boasts a splash park, a zero entry pool and waterslides. Fun for the whole family, and winner of the Jeff Ellis & Associates’ 2014, 2015 & 2016 Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award. Put this on your day trip list for summer!
Waterford Oaks Waterpark
Located in neighboring North Oakland County, this tropical-theme wave pool is heated to 78 degrees all summer long. The Big Bucket children’s water playground features more than 30 interactive activities including a giant tipping bucket, waterfalls and sprays. A group raft ride, Ragin’ Rapids, is three stories high and carries riders through drops and turns, ending in a three-foot deep splash-down pool. A short car ride away, put this local favorite on your list!
Here’s my splash pad checklist:
- sunglasses
- water shoes
- snacks
- three towels {one for her, one for me, and one for the car seat}
- plastic bag for wet items
- change of clothes
- plenty of sunscreen
What are your favorite splash pads & outdoor waterparks in + around Genesee County?
