FELTON, Del. - A new main pool is opening at Killens Pond Waterpark for the 2026 season, bringing more space, improved accessibility and new water features for visitors.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control said the new pool is 13,242 square feet, nearly 48% larger than the previous pool. The rectangular design is meant to improve visibility for lifeguards and allow water to circulate more efficiently.
“The new pool will provide visitors with more room to splash around and cool down, even on the busiest of days,” said Kate Crane, superintendent of Killens Pond State Park.
The pool includes two spray features, a series of lily pads and a zero-entry area for easier walk-in access. It is open to all ages and has a maximum depth of 5 feet.
The waterpark will continue to offer its tot area for young children, which includes bubblers, ground water jets, small slides and a poolside waterplay system. Two speed slides and two spiral slides will also remain available for older children and adults.
DNREC said the new pool and pumps were built by Keller Brothers at a cost of about $4.8 million. The total project cost is about $5.5 million and was funded through the state bond bill.
“We are thrilled to offer this expanded water feature at the Killens Pond Waterpark this year,” said Matt Ritter, director of DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation. “We are always looking for new and better ways to serve our visitors and communities so they can enjoy all the outdoors has to offer. We want to create those special memories for families that last a lifetime.”
Killens Pond Waterpark opens for the season Saturday, May 23, and will operate through Labor Day, Sept. 7. Fees will remain the same as the 2025 season, but children under 1 year old will now be admitted for free.
The waterpark will be open weekends only from Memorial Day to mid-June, then seven days a week until mid-August. Two daily sessions will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Two theme nights are planned for July 10 and Aug. 10, along with the annual “Puppies in the Pool” event Sept. 7. is a 1,488-acre park in Felton with camping, hiking, fishing, boating, a nature center, sports fields, pavilions and playgrounds.
