WHO KNEW? Texas Township Splash Pad

In 2023 Texas Township opened a Splash Pad at 6603 Texas Drive in Kalamazoo.  It is a 2,000 square foot aquatic play area built onto a cement pad.  It has seventeen interactive water and spray features.  It is designed for children 2-12 years of age, with all abilities. 

Now I am sure you are wondering why I would post about this when we are a 55+ community.  I periodically take care of grandchildren and this summer has been especially hard to entertain them due to the hot humid spells we have been having.  One day, after their begging to go to a beach, I took them to the splash pad (to cool them off and tire them out).  I was delightfully surprised when I got there. 

In addition to the softball, soccer and football fields, there is also a playground and picnic pavilion, restrooms, and playground. I take my lawn chair, but if using the splashpad, there are additional metal picnic tables and benches for adults to sit and supervise.  What surprised me most was the number of grandparents that also came with their grandchildren, and for the same reason I was there.

A couple of days we were able to eat a picnic lunch beforehand.  It worked as I had hoped and they came home worn out, happy, and clean enough to pass on evening baths!  The only drawback I could see is that it is for kids only—I think they should offer big people hours too!

If you have families with children visiting you on vacation, consider taking a picnic and letting them enjoy the splashpad. There is no entry fee, and it is open from 10am-8pm everyday through Labor Day.  The rules and guidelines are listed below:
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SPLASH PAD RULES

Texas Township assumes no responsibility for injuries. Splash pad is unsupervised. Use it at your own risk. No lifeguard on duty. 

Maple Hill Splash Pad may be closed at any time due to weather or maintenance.

1. All children under the age of fifteen must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. One adult is required for every six children. Supervising adults may not leave the dry zone perimeter.
2. Only water is permitted within the splash zone – no other food, beverages, or gum are allowed.
3. Glass containers are prohibited.
4. No animals, other than certified service animals, are allowed on the splash pad.
5. Smoking and vaping are not permitted.
6. Chairs and strollers are allowed in the dry zone, not in the splash zone.
7. Proper swim attire is required. Swim pants or swim diapers are required for anyone in diapers. Please dispose of swim diapers appropriately.
8. Street shoes are not permitted in splash zone, water shoes are recommended.
9. Amplified sound is not permitted.
10. All persons using the splash pad must follow directions of township staff.

The following activities are not permitted: 

• Running, horseplay, or profanity.
• Outside toys, water balloons, water guns, or recreational equipment.
• Skateboards, skates, rollerblades, scooters, or bicycles.
• Changing diapers on the splash pad.
• Bathing, soaps, detergents, or shampoos.