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. The description on the website sounded fun: a 16-foot tree with two slides, a great blue heron, frogs, turtles and flowers that spray water. So, we changed into our suits, slathered on sunscreen, packed some snacks and headed over.
My first impression was one of awe. Woodland Mound is beautiful, and you can see the Ohio River from the splash park. The views reminded me of the scenery at Smale Park.
My kids were awestruck by the sheer size and variety of water features. The slide was a huge hit, as were the spray animals. Attempting to photograph any of it proved tricky, since water was shooting at me from all sides. My kids thought it was hilarious watching me dodge the various spurts and showers. Wear a waterproof rash guard and sandals. You’ll thank yourself later.
There’s also a preschool-only area that is mostly shaded and a completely different speed from the main pad. For the 2-and-under crowd, it’s much more manageable. In addition to gentler fountains, there are cups, balls and water toys for kids to play with.
Despite how waterpark-like Parky’s Wetland Adventure is, it’s well-controlled for the size. Several lifeguards walk the area and actually enforce the rules — no running, no fighting, take turns on the slides.
After the splash pad, there are picnic tables just off the water, which is perfect for towels and snacks. A concession stand sells ice cream and summer treats, but my kids were perfectly happy with the watermelon I’d packed.
There’s also a large playground right next to the splash pad, which is great for the drying-off phase. Highlights include musical instruments, multiple slide types and enough hidden nooks to keep a solid game of hide and seek going.
Parky’s Wetland Adventure Hours and Admission
Admission is $6.75 per child ages 2 to 12. Adults get in free. [Can’t be verified: 2026 three-child group rate and season pass price — last known was $8 for three kids and $24 for a season pass.] Bathing suits are required.
The splash pad opens May 23 and runs daily 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Aug. 9. From Aug. 10 through Sept. 7, it’s open weekends only, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Parky’s Wetland Adventure is located at Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road, Anderson Township, OH 45255. While you’re planning your summer, check out our guide to splash pads in Cincinnati for more options around the area.
