Killens Pond Waterpark Opens Bigger Pool for 2026

State of DE - Killens Pond Waterpark in Felton, Delaware is kicking off its 2026 season with a brand new main pool that is bigger, better and ready for a crowd.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced the opening of the new pool, which at 13,242 square feet is nearly 48 percent larger than the old one. The rectangular shape gives lifeguards a clearer view across the water and helps circulation run 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 is open to all ages. It features zero entry for easy walk in, two spray features, a series of lily pads and a maximum depth of five feet. Two new water features include a Tall Pine Bucket Shower and a pipe spray.

The waterpark is not just for the little ones. Young children still have the popular tot area with bubblers, ground water jets, small slides and a poolside waterplay system. Older kids and adults can take on two speed slides and two spiral slides.

Construction on the pool and pumps was handled by Keller Brother at a cost of about $4.8 million. The total project cost came in at around $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."

The waterpark opens Saturday, May 23 and runs through Labor Day on September 7. Prices stay the same as last season, with one change: children under one year old are now free.

Two daily sessions are available from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The park will be open weekends only from Memorial Day through mid June, then seven days a week through mid August.

Mark your calendars for two theme nights on July 10 and August 10. The fan favorite "Puppies in the Pool" event returns on September 7.

Beyond the waterpark, Killens Pond State Park offers camping, hiking, fishing, boating, a nature center and much more across its 1,488 acres. Coupon books and group rates are available. For details, visit destateparks.com/waterpark.