Splash Pads in Ocala
Free splash pads, aquatic fun centers, and year-round pool options for families in Ocala and Marion County. Cool off without breaking the budget.
Free Splash Pads
Marion County offers four free splash pads spread across Ocala and Belleview. No admission, no reservations needed.
Lily's Splash Pad (Lillian Bryant Park)
FreeOne of Ocala's most popular family destinations, Lily's Splash Pad at Lillian Bryant Park features multiple water jets, ground sprays, and dump buckets in a well-maintained park setting. The surrounding park includes playground equipment, shaded pavilions, and restrooms. The splash pad runs seasonally from March through November and is a go-to for families with children of all ages.
Citizens Circle Park
FreeLocated right in downtown Ocala, Citizens Circle Park puts a splash pad within walking distance of the historic square. The compact water play area is ideal for younger children and toddlers, with gentle spray features in a contained space that's easy for parents to supervise. The downtown location means you can combine a splash pad visit with lunch at a nearby restaurant or a stroll around the square.
Marion Oaks Splash Pad
FreeServing the Marion Oaks community in southern Marion County, this splash pad features 15 water jets and a water umbrella that kids love. The water umbrella creates a steady cascade that toddlers and younger children find endlessly entertaining. The surrounding park area provides space for picnics and play. This is one of the best options in the county for very young children due to the gentle water features.
Wilma Loar Splash Park
FreeLocated in Belleview, about 15 minutes south of Ocala, Wilma Loar Splash Park is a well-maintained free water play area within a larger community park. The splash pad features ground sprays and interactive water elements. The park is open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM. If you live in or are visiting the Belleview area, this is the closest free splash pad option.
Aquatic Fun Centers
For water slides, pools, and more structured water play, these aquatic centers offer affordable fun with lifeguards on duty.
Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center
The largest city-operated aquatic center in Ocala with a water slide, waterfall feature, splash pad area, and swimming pool. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours. The facility is operated by the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department and runs seasonally, typically Tuesday through Saturday during summer. Affordable admission makes this one of the best-value family outings in the area.
Hampton Aquatic Fun Center
A city-operated aquatic facility on NW Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard with a pool and water play features at a lower price point than Jervey Gantt. Hampton is a neighborhood pool that provides a more intimate swimming experience with less crowding. Seasonal hours, lifeguards on duty. A good option for families looking for affordable swimming and water play on the northwest side of Ocala.
Florida FAST Pool
Year-RoundThe only year-round aquatic facility in the Ocala area, Florida FAST Pool features both indoor and outdoor pools plus a splash pad area. While the outdoor splash pad is seasonal, the indoor pool operates throughout the year, making this the go-to option when outdoor splash pads are closed during winter. The facility also offers swim lessons and lap swimming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free splash pads in Ocala?
Yes. Ocala has four free splash pads: Lily's Splash Pad at Lillian Bryant Park (NW 17th Place), Citizens Circle Park downtown (SE Osceola Ave), Marion Oaks Splash Pad (Marion Oaks Lane), and Wilma Loar Splash Park in Belleview (SE 110th St). All four are free to use with no admission charge, though seasonal hours vary by location.
When are the splash pads open in Ocala?
Most Ocala splash pads operate from March through November, typically sunrise to sunset. Wilma Loar in Belleview is open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM. Hours and seasonal availability can change, so check with Marion County Parks & Recreation for the most current schedule. The pads are generally closed during winter months (December through February).
What is the best splash pad for toddlers in Ocala?
Citizens Circle Park downtown and Marion Oaks Splash Pad are both excellent for toddlers. Citizens Circle is compact and easy to supervise with gentle water features. Marion Oaks features 15 water jets and a water umbrella at a height that works well for younger children. Both are free, and the contained areas make it easy for parents to keep eyes on small kids.
Are there water slides in Ocala?
Yes. Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center (SE 36th Ave) has a water slide, waterfall feature, and splash pad. Hampton Aquatic Fun Center (NW MLK Jr Blvd) also has aquatic play features. Both are operated by the City of Ocala, charge a small admission fee ($2-5), and are open seasonally, typically Tuesday through Saturday during summer months.
Is there a year-round pool with a splash pad near Ocala?
Florida FAST Pool (SW 67th Ave Rd) operates indoor and outdoor pools with a splash pad area year-round. This is the only year-round aquatic facility in the area with splash pad features. It requires an admission fee but provides swimming and water play regardless of season, making it the go-to option during cooler months when outdoor splash pads are closed.
Do I need to bring anything to the splash pads?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and water bottles. Most splash pads do not have shaded seating, so a pop-up canopy or umbrella is helpful. Water shoes are recommended for hot concrete surfaces. There are typically no lifeguards at splash pads (aquatic centers do have them), so children must be supervised at all times.
Beat the Heat in Ocala
With four free splash pads and three aquatic centers, keeping cool in Marion County doesn't have to cost a thing.