Spray Parks Take Water Play to a Different Level

That’s a good question, since the two terms often get confused. While both splash pads and spray parks are types of wet playgrounds, there are some unique differences.

• SPLASH PADS – Splash pads are generally designed for use by younger children in the preschool and elementary age categories. For this reason, a splash pad often occupies a smaller footprint than a spray park. And the focus on younger users tends to require a different safety approach for splash pads. For example, even though splash pad equipment can include features which spray or pour water, as a rule there’s little to no standing water on a splash pad. This tends to create a safer environment for smaller, less sure feet, and essentially removes any drowning threat. The absence of standing water also means that splash pads can be operated with little to no staff supervision.

• SPRAY PARKS – A spray park, on the other hand, is often intended to appeal to users of all ages, so it typically occupies a larger footprint than a splash pad. Spray parks of this nature often have splash pad areas for younger children, while offering more robust play options for older children. The larger footprint of a spray park also allows for a greater diversity of water park equipment and event stations. You can choose from a mix of small, medium and larger water features to give your users a good variety of play options. Some of the options available include static spray features with various spray effects, kinetic features that feature moving equipment, and user-powered features that invite interaction through cranking, pedaling, or rocking in order to generate a water spray.

Many public parks, private parks, country clubs, municipalities, and other organizations have chosen to reap the benefits of investing in a commercial spray park installation. These types of water play features can even be built over the top of existing pool footprints that are no longer being used. Many towns and communities are finding that spray parks are much more cost-effective, simpler to maintain, and easier to staff than traditional pools. But for those who want to keep their pools, some organizations simply choose to integrate a spray park alongside their other existing pool and playground facilities, while others have installed a splash pad as its own stand-alone feature. Whether you’re interested in installing a spray park as an add-on or as a standalone feature, there are several notable features & benefits to keep in mind with a spray park:

• Customizable – A universal spray mounting system grants you the flexibility to change and rotate spray fixtures whenever you like. This can help to maintain interest among your users, and also motivates people to return for subsequent visits.
• Revitalize Your Community – If you’re looking for a way create a spark of vitality around an urban center that seems to have lost its appeal? Nothing helps to generate a buzz of excitement like the introduction of a new, accessible, easy-to-use spray park that’s fun for the whole family!
• Draw Young Families – And speaking of engaging with families, one of the best ways to attract families with children is to provide something that children are known to enjoy. To that end, there aren’t many things more fun than an exciting water-based playground!
• Steady Revenue Generator – You may choose to charge an admission fee for access to your spray park, but not all spray park owners do so. But if you don’t charge admission, how will you generate revenue? Here are some insights:
  • Add shelters/pavilions around the perimeter of your spray park that families and groups can rent by the hour, or by the day – these are great for hosting birthday parties, family gatherings, and other events.
  • Add concession stands around your splash pad to provide revenue through food, beverage, and ice cream sales.
  • Businesses located in close proximity to your spray park will see an uptick in foot traffic as well – especially restaurants and gas stations.
  • There are other creative ways to leverage your spray park as a revenue generator, as well – just use your imagination!