Aqua Park FAQ

• Are innertubes available?

  Yes! We provide innertubes free of charge for all guests using the Lazy River. You’ll find them lined up right at the Lazy River entrance. Tubes come in a variety of sizes to comfortably fit different ages and body types. If you’re unsure which tube is best for you, feel free to ask a lifeguard on duty—they’re happy to help!

  Please note: Innertubes are for use in the Lazy River only.

• Are lifejackets provided?

  Yes! Lifejackets are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, with sizes ranging from infant to adult. You can pick one up in the breezeway as you enter the waterpark.

  Guests are also welcome to bring their own U.S. Coast Guard–approved lifejackets or flotation devices. Please note that non–USCG-approved flotation devices are not permitted in the waterpark. For details on what is allowed, see the FAQ: “Can I bring water wings or other flotation devices into the Aqua Park?”

• Are there changing rooms, showers, and lockers available?

  Yes! Collinsville Aqua Park offers convenient showers and changing facilities located at the front of the waterpark. You’ll also find a family restroom near the entrance and single-stall restrooms in the back of the park. All restrooms are equipped with baby-changing stations for your convenience.

  Lockers are available for free, but guests must bring their own lock or locks can be purchased in the gift shop. Please remember to remove your lock at the end of each day—any locks left on after closing will be removed by waterpark staff.

• Are towels provided?

  Towels are not provided, so please plan to bring your own. If you forget, you can purchase a towel in our gift shop (while supplies last).

• As a Season Pass Holder, can I bring a guest during Season Pass Holder time?

  Yes you can! Guests are welcome to come in with you during pass holder time—just use one of your guest passes and make sure they enter with you. If you do not have a guest pass to use, your guest will have to wait until 12pm to purchase daily admission.

• Can I bring food or drinks into the Aqua Park?

  No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the waterpark, with the following exceptions:

  • Factory-sealed water bottles

  • Baby food or formula

  • Medically required food items for special dietary needs (proof of need required)

  Please note that coolers are not permitted inside the park.
  A full concession stand is available with food and drink options for purchase.

• Can I bring water wings or other flotation devices into the Aqua Park?

  

• Can I enter the waterpark early?

  Early entry is reserved for season passholders and guests who are registered for our morning programs. All other guests may enter at regular opening time.

• Can I host a birthday party at the Aqua Park?

  Yes! Birthday parties can be hosted during regular operating hours, but they must be scheduled in advance through us. Visit our website to view package details and submit a date request.

  Please note: Parties without a reservation cannot be accommodated.

• Can I re-enter the park if I leave?

  Yes! You may re-enter the waterpark as long as you present both your same-day receipt and wristband.

• Can I wear shoes in the park?

  We recommend wearing comfortable sandals or aqua shoes while walking throughout the waterpark. However, shoes of any kind—including water shoes—are not allowed on any of our slides.

  We do not recommend wearing street shoes. Shoes with wheels are not permitted; wheels must be removed or fully retracted before entering the park.

  Please note: Socks may not be worn in the water.

• Can outside tables and chairs or pop-up canopies be brought into the Aquatic facilities?

  No, the waterpark is not able to handle any additional outside seating, tables or canopies. *

  Collinsville Aqua Park has three cabanas on site that can be rented.  We also have over 100 lounge chairs and sitting chairs, picnic tables, and plenty of green space that our patrons can utilize while at the waterpark.

  *Management has the right to restrict any outside items being brought into the aquatic facilities

• Do guests that choose not to swim still have to pay admission?

  Yes. All guests entering Collinsville Aqua Park are required to pay the admission fee, regardless of whether they plan to swim. Guests may exit and re-enter the park on the same day with their receipt and wristband.

• Do the aquatic facilities have lifeguards on duty?

  Yes. Certified lifeguards, trained through StarGuard Elite, are on duty at all times during operating hours as well as during any after-hours events or programs. Guests are not permitted to enter the water unless a lifeguard is on duty.

   

• Do you accept payment through Payment Apps (PayPal, Venmo, CashApp)?

  No.  All payments must go through our registration software and cannot be processed through outside applications.

• Do you have an ATM?

  We do not have an ATM on site. However, we do accept credit and debit cards for purchases. Please note there is a 2.75% processing fee on each card transaction.

• Do you have first aid personnel?

  Yes. Collinsville Aqua Park is committed to keeping our guests safe. Our certified StarGuard Elite lifeguards are trained and regularly tested in basic first aid skills. As a City of Collinsville facility, we also work closely with City EMTs and police during operating hours and special events to ensure a safe environment for all guests.

• Does Collinsville Aqua Park have adult to child ratios for groups, camps day cares?

  Yes. Collinsville Aqua Park requires the following supervision ratios:

  • 1 adult per 2 children age 2

  • 1 adult per 5 children age 3

  • 1 adult per 8 children ages 4–5

  • 1 adult per 10 children ages 6–8

  • 1 adult per 15 children ages 9+

  These ratios help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all guests.

   

   

• Does the Aqua Park accept credit cards?

  Yes! We accept credit cards for all transactions throughout the Aqua Park. Please note there is a 2.75% transaction fee on all credit card purchases.

• Does the Aqua Park offer discounts for large groups?

  Yes! Groups of 20 or more can receive a discounted entry rate Monday through Thursday. To ensure we can accommodate your group, please schedule in advance—groups without a reservation cannot be accommodated.
  View group rates and request a date on our website.

• Does the concrete get hot at the waterpark?

  Yes, the concrete can get very hot—especially on warm summer days. We do place sprinklers throughout the park to help cool the surfaces, but we strongly recommend wearing water shoes, flip-flops, or sandals while walking around.

  You may hold your shoes while going down attractions or leave them at the bottom of the slide.

• How do I properly pick and fit a life jacket for myself or my child?

  When selecting a life jacket, always follow the manufacturer’s sizing recommendations. Life jackets are sized by chest circumference, and in most models, the primary difference between sizes is the length of the adjustment straps.

  How to properly fit a life jacket:

  1. Loosen all straps before putting the jacket on.

  2. Zip or buckle the jacket closed.

  3. Start at the bottom: Tighten the lowest adjustment strap first—located below the rib cage.

     • This prevents the jacket from riding up once you’re in the water.

  4. Move upward, snugly tightening each strap along the torso.

  5. Finish by tightening the shoulder straps last.

     • Tightening shoulder straps first can cause the jacket to sit too high.

  Test the fit:
  Raise your arms overhead and have someone gently lift the shoulder straps.

  • If the jacket slides upward, retighten the bottom strap.

  • If it still rides up, try a different size or model.

  Important Safety Reminder:
  A life jacket is not a substitute for active adult supervision or swim instruction. Children who cannot swim on their own—whether or not they are wearing a personal flotation device—must be closely supervised by an undistracted adult at all times.

   

   

   

• How tall do I need to be to ride the slides?

  Our slides have specific height requirements that are strictly enforced for guest safety:

  • Large standalone blue slides (Leisure Pool): 48"

  • Large slides on Monsoon Mountain: 40"

  • Small slides on Monsoon Mountain: 36"

  Please note: Height measurements are taken at the discretion of Aqua Park staff.

• I visited the waterpark and saw the staff practicing saves and CPR. Why are they doing that during operating hours?

  To keep our guests safe, our lifeguards regularly practice their lifeguarding skills and emergency action plans through live training scenarios. The most effective way to prepare for real emergencies is to train in a realistic environment—this means practicing while patrons are present so staff can experience true-to-life conditions.

  During these drills, you may see managers placing training manikins in the water, lifeguards performing rescue responses, or hear airhorns and rapid movement from our team. These are planned exercises.

  If you witness a training scenario, the best thing you can do is stay clear of the area and allow staff to complete the drill. Your cooperation helps us ensure the highest level of safety for everyone in the park.

• If I forgot my bathing suit, do you have suits for sale?

  Yes! Our Collinsville Aqua Park gift shop is well-stocked with many items you may need to enjoy your visit. We offer a wide selection of swimwear, including men’s, women’s, women’s plus-size, juniors’, and kids’ suits. You’ll also find adult and child T-shirts, adult tank tops, hats, and visors.

  In addition to clothing, we carry a variety of essentials such as sunscreen, beach towels, waterproof phone cases, and more.

   View our website for the swim attire policy.

• Is food available for purchase at the park?

  Yes! Collinsville Aqua Park has a full concession stand offering a variety of food, beverages, and treats for guests to enjoy during their visit.

• Is smoking allowed in the park?

  No. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside Collinsville Aqua Park. Designated smoking areas are available outside the gates and away from the admissions area.

  No tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, alcohol, or drugs may be brought into the park.

  Collinsville Aqua Park reserves the right to refuse entry to any guest who appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol or who is causing a disturbance. Guests who cause a disturbance inside the park will be removed without a refund.

• Is there a charge for parking?

  Parking is free at Collinsville Aqua Park.  

• What are the behavior rules?

  Collinsville Aqua Park is a family-friendly facility, and we expect all guests to behave respectfully and safely. The following behaviors are not permitted:

  • Foul language or unruly behavior

  • Alcohol, weapons, knives, or firearms on the premises

  • Running, spitting, or throwing objects

  • Diving, pushing, dunking, or horseplay

  • Solicitation or distribution of literature on park property

  A full list of rules is available on-site, on our Facebook page, and on our website.

• What are your hours?

  Collinsville Aqua Park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

  We are open to the general public seven days a week until mid-August, when school resumes. After that, the waterpark operates on weekends only (Saturday–Sunday) through Labor Day weekend.

  General Admission Hours

  • Thursday–Saturday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

  • Sunday–Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

  • Season Pass Holders: Early entry at 11:00 am daily

  Daily Admission Cutoff

  • Ticket sales end one hour before closing.

    • Example: If closing at 7 pm → admission ends at 6 pm.

    • If closing at 6 pm → admission ends at 5 pm.

  • Admission also ends once the park reaches capacity (700 guests or staff discretion).

    • Only season pass holders may enter once capacity is reached.

  Weather & Ticket Sales

  Ticket sales cease when severe weather is in the forecast. Please review our Inclement Weather Policy for details.

  Important Notes

  Collinsville Aqua Park hours are subject to change based on:

  • Weather

  • Capacity

  • Staffing

  • Events and programming

  • Maintenance needs

  • Other unforeseen circumstances

  The City of Collinsville Parks and Recreation Department reserves the right to adjust hours as needed for the safety and betterment of guests and staff.

  If you’re planning a visit and want to confirm we’re open, please call us at (618) 346-4571. We also recommend checking the weather and making an informed decision before traveling to the waterpark.

• What constitutes residency?

  A resident is someone who lives within and pays taxes to the City of Collinsville.

  To verify your residency, check your tax bill or visit the appropriate county website:

  • Madison County residents: reweb1.co.madison.il.us

  • St. Clair County residents: stclairil.devnetwedge.com

  If “City of Collinsville” appears under Taxing Bodies on your tax bill, you are considered a City of Collinsville resident. If it does not appear, you are not considered a resident.

• What happens if I get separated from my child?

  If your child becomes lost, please go directly to the Guest Services office or notify the nearest staff member immediately. We have a specific Emergency Action Plan in place for this type of situation, and the sooner our team is alerted, the quicker we can respond.

  Our staff will promptly activate the protocol to locate your child. While we understand this can be a frightening experience, we ask that you remain calm and allow our team to do their job so we can reunite you as quickly and safely as possible.

• What is the age limit to attend the waterpark by yourself?

  Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 17 years old. 

  Children must be 13 years or older to enter the waterpark without an adult.

  Adults must always accompany children unable to swim and children in flotation devices. 

• What is the aquatic facilities severe weather policy?

   

   

   

• What is the dress code?

   

• What is your photography and videography policy?

  

• What is your policy on diapers in the water?

  All children who are not toilet trained are required to wear all of the following while in the pool area:

  1. A disposable swim diaper

  2. Plastic pants worn over the swim diaper

  3. A swimsuit over both layers

  (See graphics below for an example.)

  Swim diapers and plastic pants are not a substitute for frequent diaper checks and bathroom breaks. Please check swim diapers often and change them away from the poolside. All diaper changes must take place in the locker room, and used diapers must be thrown away in the appropriate trash cans.

  After changing a diaper, guests should wipe down the baby-changing station and wash their hands thoroughly before returning to the waterpark.

  Health & Safety Reminder

  If you or your child is sick, has diarrhea, or has an open cut or wound, do not enter the water for the safety of other swimmers.

  In the event of a fecal accident, pools must be closed for proper sanitation.

  • Solid stool requires a temporary closure.

  • Liquid fecal contamination requires a mandatory 24-hour closure per state regulations.

  Parents, please remind non-diapered children to take regular bathroom breaks, and remember that adults are responsible for the actions of their children. If you believe your child may have an accident, please follow the swim diaper requirements.

  Swim diapers and plastic pants are available for purchase at the CAP Guest Service Office.

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• What is your refund policy?

  Collinsville Aqua Park has a no-refund policy — all sales are final. However, we understand that extenuating circumstances may arise, so refunds are granted only at the discretion of the Superintendent of Aquatics and the Director of Parks & Recreation. Refunds will never be issued in cash.

  • There are no refunds on incidental expenses such as lockers, food, admission, etc.

  • Please make sure you clearly communicate what you are purchasing, and if you qualify for discounted rates (e.g., resident, military, child/senior), be prepared to show proof at the time of purchase.

  Even if you leave early or after we re-open following inclement weather, refunds will not be provided.

  For refunds related to group reservations, birthday parties, or private rentals, please visit our website [insert specific refund link here].

  As an outdoor facility, it’s the responsibility of patrons to check the weather and make an informed decision before visiting the park.

   

• Where is Collinsville Aqua Park located?

  Collinsville Aqua Park is located in Collinsville, Illinois, right in the heart of the Metro East. Conveniently situated just off Interstates 255 and 55, the park is easy to access from anywhere in the region.

  📍 Address:
  10 Gateway Dr., Collinsville, IL 62234

• Why are the lifeguards always blowing their whistles?

  Lifeguards use whistles for a variety of reasons. Most often, a whistle is blown to get the attention of a guest who may not be following a rule or is doing something unsafe. It’s a quick way for guards to correct behavior and help keep everyone safe. As guests become more familiar with the rules, you may notice fewer whistle reminders.

  Whistles are also used during emergency situations or when a lifeguard needs to alert a manager. Each whistle pattern has a specific meaning, allowing lifeguards and supervisors to communicate quickly and effectively.

  If you hear a whistle, make it a habit to stop, look toward the lifeguard, and listen in case they need your attention.

• Why are the lifeguards in different color suits?

  Our lifeguard team wears different colors to help guests, staff, and emergency personnel quickly identify who’s who on the pool deck.

  Lifeguards – Royal Blue
  Lifeguards are our frontline team and the face of the waterpark. They’re the ones you’ll see in the stands and throughout the park actively watching the water and assisting guests.

  Head Guards – Royal Blue + Navy Hip Packs
  Head Guards wear the same royal-blue suits and visors as lifeguards, but are distinguished by their navy blue hip packs. They serve as lead guards, staying on the ground to support lifeguards, check on guests, and assist with first aid, emergency responses, and customer service needs.

  Assistant Managers & Managers – Red
  Managers and Assistant Managers wear red swimsuits and/or red collared shirts or T-shirts labeled MANAGER on the back. They carry black hip packs. In addition to behind-the-scenes responsibilities, you’ll see them throughout the park assisting guests, supporting staff, and helping keep the entire operation running smoothly.