Back in 1988, as part of the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department five year park and open space plan, a survey was conducted that included an evaluation of park operations and a guideline for future developments in Lake County. One of the biggest requests from the public in that survey was that the people wanted to see more water-based activities in the area.
As a result, the development of Deep River Waterpark began. The waterpark stood at about 1,200 acres and officially opened up to the public in 1995. Attractions such as the wave pool, body slides, tube slides, and the lazy river have been around since the conception of the waterpark. However, the waterpark has also made many additions since opening day of the first season.
Deep River Waterpark had its 30th season of operation in 2024. With the monumental season being another success, the waterpark is dedicating the 2025 season to celebrating the 30th anniversary
(1995-2025) of “Simply Splashtastic” experiences. Nicole Drexler, general manager of Deep River Waterpark, can’t wait to kick off one of the most exciting seasons in the waterpark’s history.
“It’s such a big milestone for us to celebrate our 30th anniversary,” Drexler said. “Last year was officially our 30th season, and now we get a chance to dedicate this season to three decades of fun here.”
Lexi Crenshaw is a part-time park service lead at Deep River Waterpark. In her three years with the waterpark, she believes the level of dedication from the entire staff has been at an all-time high in gearing up for this celebration.
“I’ve only been here for three years, and it’s been exciting to see how much this place has improved since I first got here,” Crenshaw said. “We’ve been doing a lot of work behind the scenes. Whether someone has been here for 30 years or it's their first year, it’s going to be a lot of fun to see everyone come together this year.”
Deep River Waterpark wants to make the 30th anniversary summer celebration one to remember for everyone who comes to the waterpark. As a result, the waterpark has lowered its rates and added some special promos to give the public a place to have the ultimate family-fun experience this summer.
The previous rates were $41.95 across the board. This year, that rate of admission will be lowered to $30 from Monday through Thursday. The price does jump back up to $39.95 during the weekend days of Friday through Sunday, albeit still a discount from previous years. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Indiana residents with an ID get a $6 discount. On all days those 46” and under and those seniors 60+ receive a $4 discount.
“With the cost of everything going up, and families’ budgets being stretched thinner than ever, we've lowered prices for our 30th year to help as many families come out and see us this summer,” Superintendent of Park Operations, Chris Nawracaj said. “Providing access to as many people as possible is one of our key goals for our 30th year. We've lowered prices to help many people come to see us this summer.”
“A lot of what we do is based on what the community wants,” Drexler said. “We’ve received feedback that some people felt we were a little bit higher priced than other surrounding areas. We said, ‘Okay, let’s make ourselves more accountable. Let’s see how much of the community we can bring back.’ We’re motivated to give them a place where they can maximize the fun.”
There’s plenty of group discount opportunities to take advantage of at Deep River Waterpark this season, for groups of 20 or more and advance reservations. Daily discounts of 25% off the standard admission price will be offered to military veterans and active duty, including up to four additional people who come in with them.
Wednesdays are dedicated to supporting the Humane Society of Hobart, and Thursdays will benefit the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. On Wednesdays, guests can receive a $5 discount upon admission if they bring in either dog or cat treats, two cans of wet dog or cat food, dog toys, spray cheese, garbage bags, two packs of paper towels, laundry soap, bleach, Martingale collars, large harnesses, or leashes. The same $5 discount applies if they bring in two cans of non-perishable food on Thursdays
that are donated to the Food Bank of NW Indiana.
Seniors get to splash for free on Fridays if they are accompanied by two paid kids. In honor of the 30th anniversary celebration, Deep River Waterpark will be providing its two biggest discounts on opening weekend and the 30th day of every month.
“We’re doing a fun discount on opening weekend, where the first 100 people who come to the gates will get in for just $7.95 a person, which was our admission price when the park opened in 1995,” Drexler said. “On the 30th of each month, we’re letting the first 30 people get in for free. We’re expecting an influx of people, so it helps having the part-time staff here to help gear up and get ready for that.”
On top of the new discount opportunities and days to benefit local nonprofit organizations, the best slides and extra amenities will be the stars of the show in most people’s eyes at Deep River Waterpark. Families and friends can conquer slides such as the Dragon Speed Slides, Storm Tube Riders, Kraken Racer, or the iconic Double Dueling CannonBowl. You’ll be able to grab a slice at Chompy’s Pizza Place, cool off with Dippin’ Dots ice cream, or enjoy a brand new food stand at the waterpark which will consist of menu items such as donuts, drinks, and cotton candy.
“I’m super excited for this season,” Drexler said. “The 30th season was an incredible success, and I’m proud of all the hard work that our team has put in to give our guests the best experience this year.”
For more information on Deep River Waterpark, you can visit deepriverwaterpark.com.
