Some days, I am such a spontaneous, fun and carefree mom, I can hardly stand it. (Other days, I’m at best a Type-A mess mix of Danny Tanner and Kate Gosselin.) Last week, as temps soared into the 90s, I decided that a visit to a splash park was definitely in order. But not just any splash park would do; I wanted a really, really fun one. So having heard rave reviews about Parky’s Wetland Adventure at Woodland Mound, I decided to have a little adventure at this Great Park.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, having never been to Woodland Mound. But, the description on the website sounded fun: a 16-foot tree with two slides, a whimsical great blue heron, frogs, turtles and flowers which spray water. So, we changed into our suits, slathered on lots of sunscreen, packed some snacks — and headed to Parky’s Wetland Adventure.
My first impression was that of awe — Woodland Mound is beautiful, and you can see the Ohio River from the splash park! The gorgeous river views at Woodland Mound reminded me of the scenery at Smale Park.
My kids, on the other hand, were awestruck by the sheer size and variety of water components at this splash park. The slide was a huge hit, as were the various spray-able animals. Attempting to photograph this splash park proved tricky, as water was shooting at me from all sides and directions! My kids thought it was hilarious watching me run from the various spurts and showers, and I was very glad I’d worn a waterproof rash guard top and sandals.
There was a preschool-only area we went to after awhile — it was much mellower, mostly shaded and the perfect speed for my 3.5 and 2 year old. In addition to the gentler fountains, there were cups, balls and water toys for the kids to play with.
Despite how large and waterpark-like Parky’s Wetland Adventure is, it’s hands-down the most well-controlled splash park I’ve ever been to. There were several lifeguards walking the area, which helped enforce the laws of the splash park (no running, fighting, take turns on the water slides, etc.).
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Afterwards, we sat at picnic tables and had a snack. There is an entire picnic area just off the splash pad, which was perfect for setting our towels and snacks. A concession stand was selling all kinds of ice cream and summer treats — but my kids were happy to eat the watermelon I’d brought from home!
There was a very large playground right next to the wet playground, and my kids dried off nicely as they played. This playground deserves a post of its own — highlights include lots of musical instruments, different types of slides and little nooks and hidden areas to play hide and seek!
Admission to Parky’s Wetland Adventure is $6.75/child ages 2-12. There’s a special rate of $8 for 3 kids — and if you’re going to return a few times this summer, you can purchase a season pass for $24. On a sweltering, 90+ degree day, a few dollars for happy kids is well worth it! (And, you’ll have a blast too, as the fun parent staying cool with their kids!)
Parky’s Wetland Adventure is located at Woodland Mound (8250 Old Kellogg Rd., Anderson Township, OH 45255). It’s open daily from dawn until dusk.
