Sunday, Aug. 11, is the last day that the Wetlands Waterpark in Great Bend will be open to the public for the 2024 season, as the lifeguards head back to school next week.

Aquatics Director Megan Hammeke said she’s already seeing some of her summer help leave for college.

“It’s been a really good year – good hot swimming weather,” Hammeke said. There were only a few days where the pool was closed due to threatening weather.

“I’ve had a great staff,” she said, adding the pool employees worked long hours over the summer. Weather permitting, the pool is open daily from 12:30-5:30 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday.

Bark at the Park

Canines will have their day to doggie paddle in the pools during Bark at the Park on Saturday. Aug. 17.

Bark at the Park, from 10 a.m. to noon is a fun event where pet owners can bring their family dogs to come and enjoy the pool, but the humans can leave their swimsuits at home. They can wade with dogs in the pool or the small pond, but the slides will be closed and humans will only be allowed to enter the water up to waist high.

The chlorine will be “turned down,” which makes it safer for canine swimmers but less safe for human swimmers, Hammeke explained. 

The concession stand will also be closed.

Admission is a $5 per dog donation, with proceeds going to the Great Bend Dog Park.

After the dog event, the pool will be drained and cleaned. 

Splashpad open to Sept. 30

The Park Department reports its newest water feature, the Splashpad at Veterans Memorial Park, will be open through Sept. 30. This could change if there is an early cold snap, which would prompt an earlier closing date.

Veterans Memorial Park will also be the main location for the annual Party in the Park this Saturday, Aug. 10. The Wet/Dry Parade starts at 10 a.m.