Wetlands Waterpark

When summer arrives, there’s one local attraction that’s guaranteed to make a summer splash: the Great Bend aquatic center – Wetlands Waterpark.

Weather permitting, the pool is open from 12:30-5:30 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend in May to mid-August. Once things heat up, the pool is also open for Family Nights from 7-9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Th ursdays. It’s located in Brit Spaugh Park at 2303 Main St., next to the Brit Spaugh Zoo.

More than just a municipal swimming pool, the water park’s fun wetlands artwork and big play features make it a unique, regional attraction.

Th e pool features seven water slides, zerodepth entry for small children, spray features and fl oatables that separate the deep end from the shallow end, a climbing wall and a 300 gallon tipping bucket that periodically spills onto those who dare to stand under it.

For those taking a break in the shaded areas, there are brightly colored umbrellas and a concession stand. Visitors can also fi nd green grass and a bathhouse for changing.

Admission to the Wetlands is $3 for youths 3-17 years old, $4 for adults 18 and older, and free for children under 3. Admission on Family Nights is $2, and discount passes good for 15 visits are available for $40. Th e aquatic center is also available for private parties and special events. For more information call 620-792-1516 during the pool season. Outside of the pool season contact Parks Superintendent Scott Keeler at the City Offi ce, 620-793-4111.

Swimming lessons

Th e Great Bend Recreation Commission off ers summer swimming lessons taught by American Red Cross Certifi ed Water Safety Instructors and GBRC water safety aides. For more information contact Recreation Program Coordinator Megan Hammeke by calling 620-792-2604.

Summer Jobs

Th e pool supplies dozens of summer jobs for persons 15 years of age and older. For 2021 there were 35 lifeguards and 10 concession staff . To apply for a lifeguard position, you must be at least 16 years old and able to complete the Red Cross Lifeguard Certifi cation Class before the pool season starts. Th is class is taught by the Great Bend Recreation Commission over spring break. For more information, call Pool Manager Megan Hammeke at the GBRC, 620-793-3755, or email mhammeke@gbrec.net

Employment applications are available at the City Administration Building at 1209 Williams St. Th e selection for these seasonal positions takes place during the months of January and February, so for best results submit your application early. Th e City of Great Bend provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals. For more information call 620-793-4111.

Before and aft er the season ends

Aft er the pool is fi lled and before it opens for the summer, it is oft en a training site.

Th e lifeguards arrive early for training, but they aren’t the only ones. Th e Great Bend Fire Department’s search and rescue team members sometimes use the pool for dive training.

Just aft er the pool closes in August, there is a one-day event for canines and their human friends, “Bark at the Water Park.” Admission goes toward upkeep of the dog park in Veterans Memorial Park, another city feature.

Wetlands Waterpark

2303 MAIN STREET 620.792.1516

FEATURING: 8 SLIDES, TIPPING BUCKET, SPRAY PARK, ZERO-DEPTH SPLASH POOL, CONCESSIONS, BATH HOUSE, WATER BALLOON SPLASH STATION & PLENTY OF SHADE! Visit us!