There’s just something magical about that first splash of cold water on a hot summer day—especially when your kids are squealing with joy and you’ve got an iced drink in hand. If you’re looking to cool off without committing to a full-on pool day, splash pads are the way to go. Lucky for us, the Albany area has some pretty awesome spots (and yes, a few are FREE!). Here’s your guide to the best splash pads within about 30 minutes of Albany, Oregon—broken down by free vs. paid, because let’s be honest: sometimes you just want to let the kids run wild without opening your wallet.
💦 Free Splash Pads Near Albany
Monteith Riverpark – Splash Pad in Albany, OR
489 Water Ave NW, Albany, OR
Hours: 10am–8pm daily (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
Right in the heart of downtown Albany, Monteith Riverpark’s splash pad is a favorite for good reason. It’s sensor-activated (just tap the pad to start the water!) and surrounded by shady trees, a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of space to sprawl. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a change of clothes—you’ll be here a while.
Pro tip: The water shuts off automatically after a bit, so you might have to tap the sensor again. Also? It’s right next to the Dave Clark Trail if you want to sneak in a walk after the water fun.
Riverfront Park – Splash Pad in Salem, OR
200 Water St NE, Salem, OR
Hours: 10am–8pm daily (mid-June through Labor Day)
This one’s a whole experience. Salem’s Riverfront Park has a big splash pad right by the iconic carousel, plus a playground, open fields, and river views. It’s busy on weekends, but totally worth it for a full afternoon of family fun.
Riverfront Commemorative Park – Splash Pad in Corvallis, OR
2 NW 1st St, Corvallis, OR
Hours: 11am–7pm daily (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
This one’s easy to miss, but so fun. The splash fountain is right along the downtown riverfront in Corvallis—grab ice cream at Sky High or a treat from Tried & True Coffee and let the kids run through the water. Bonus: there’s a shaded amphitheater and grassy area nearby for a chill summer picnic.
Wildwood Splash Park – Aumsville, OR
North 5th St, Aumsville, OR
Hours: Daily until dusk (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
Aumsville’s hidden gem! This is a small-town splash pad that delivers big-time summer joy. It’s fenced, shaded, and has nearby bathrooms and picnic tables. If you’re already heading through Aumsville—or want to escape the busier Salem parks—it’s a perfect stop.
💧 Paid Water Play Options
COOL! Pool at Swanson Park – Albany, OR
705 Railroad St SE, Albany, OR
Admission required; seasonal hours vary
This outdoor pool has a built-in splash and play area for little ones. It’s a great choice if you want something a little more structured than a splash pad—but still want to avoid the chaos of a full aquatic center.
Osborn Aquatic Center – Corvallis, OR
1940 NW Highland Dr, Corvallis, OR
Admission required; open for summer drop-ins
This place is awesome if your kids love water slides and a bit more adventure. Osborn has a splash play zone, lazy river, and a big pool for older kids. It’s a splurge—but a good one.
👒 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re trying to burn off post-nap wiggles, cool down on a hot afternoon, or just soak up the season before the rain returns—these splash pads near Albany, Oregon are all tried-and-true local favorites. I love that so many of them are free and easy to get to, whether you’re staying close to home in Albany or up for a little drive.
If you’ve got a favorite splash pad I missed, let me know!
Want to see more local kid-friendly adventures? Click here for my favorite playgrounds in Albany, Oregon »
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