Grand Junction’s kids are back to pushing that green button — the city’s popular Dos Rios splash pad is officially open for the summer season.

From now through September 30, the splash park will operate daily, turning on the waterworks from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Back for Its Second Season and Already a Hit

Built in 2024 as part of the city’s broader Dos Rios Revitalization Project, the splash pad made quite the impression last year. This summer, it’s picking up right where it left off.

Jets. Geysers. Spraying arches. And that familiar green button to set it all off.

“It’s already my toddler’s favorite thing,” said Kayla, a mom from Orchard Mesa. “She knows exactly where that button is.”

The splash park sits right along the Colorado River, offering a breezy spot for families to cool off, especially as Grand Junction heads into its hotter months.

Hours, Features, and What to Expect

The splash pad is open daily from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week — weather permitting, of course.

It’s a free, open-access facility and includes:

• Ground-level jets and fountains

• Interactive geysers

• Sprayers and water tunnels

• A manual activation button (yes, it’s green)

There’s no admission fee, no reservations required. Just show up and get soaked.

One sentence here: No lifeguards are on duty.

Parents are expected to supervise their own children, per city rules. Grand Junction Parks and Recreation stresses that a responsible adult must be present at all times.

A Piece of the Bigger Dos Rios Vision

The splash pad wasn’t just plopped in by chance. It’s one slice of the ambitious Dos Rios Revitalization Plan — a major urban renewal effort centered along the riverfront west of downtown Grand Junction.

Launched by the city, the project includes trails, open spaces, mixed-use developments, and improved public amenities. The splash pad was designed to offer a kid-friendly attraction that meshes with the natural environment.

“It’s a community anchor,” said Leah Thompson with Parks and Rec. “We wanted a safe, fun space where families could gather.”

Here’s a quick comparison of park features from 2024 and 2025:

The park will remain open until the end of September, depending on the weather.

Safety First — But Keep It Fun

While it’s meant for play, the splash pad isn’t a babysitter.

There’s no staff on-site to monitor kids, so all use is at your own risk. That means parents need to be hands-on — literally.

“It’s easy to forget there are rules, especially when they’re running wild,” said Oscar Vega, a local dad of three. “But someone’s gotta keep an eye out.”

Signs posted around the pad remind visitors to:

• Supervise children closely

• Keep food and drinks off the splash area

• Avoid rough play or climbing on fixtures

• Use appropriate swimwear and footwear

The city said it plans to increase signage this year and offer light maintenance daily to ensure cleanliness and function.

A Summer Staple for Local Families

It’s only May, but the splash pad’s already buzzing.

Temperatures in Grand Junction are expected to creep into the 80s and 90s by mid-May. That makes the afternoon hours at Dos Rios not just fun — but necessary.

Parents call it a “lifesaver” on long summer days. It gives kids a break from screens, and lets them burn energy while staying cool.

One sentence here: It’s basically a backyard waterpark — without the backyard.

Some families pack snacks and towels and make a whole afternoon of it. Others just swing by for a quick 30-minute break between errands.

Either way, the green button’s getting plenty of use already.