Splish Splash: Cooling Off in DFW

Three blue water slides with yellow supports curve down into a swimming pool under a partly cloudy sky; palm trees are visible in the background.

Dallas/Fort Worth summers aren’t for the faint of heart. It is not uncommon to see triple-digit temperatures in July and August, and humidity is generally pretty high. Spending time outdoors can be tough, especially if you aren’t near water. Luckily for North Texans and visitors, the DFW area has a myriad of fantastic pools and splash pads to keep you cool and happy on otherwise sticky days in the metroplex. Even better? These community pools and water parks have a lower entry price than traditional water parks so you can save your cash for other adventures.  Grab your suit- let’s get splashing!

Dallas-area pools

  • Plano: The Texas Pool. This crowd favorite (it’s shaped like Texas!) has been around for 65 years and counting. With slides, a volleyball net and more, this is one fun spot for the whole family. 
  • Plano: Jack Carter Pool. This city-owned pool has a ton of amenities for the whole family to get excited about. Body slides, a lazy river, a flow rider and more await those who are looking for adventurous fun in the sun. 
  • Dallas: Lake Highlands North Aquatic Center. This spot boasts a toddler pool for the littles as well as a bigger area for older kids that includes two water slides as well as a climbing wall. Even better? Plenty of shady spots for caregivers to relax while the kids play. 
  • Little Elm: The Cove at the Lakefront. Skip the sunblock and head to this indoor facility that is fun for the whole family for the whole day. Adults are just $20 on weekdays, and there are lots of fun activities here, including slides, a lazy river, a climbing wall and more. 

Fort Worth-area outdoor pools

  • Arlington: Randol Mill Aquatic Center. Kids will love to climb around the cute frog in the toddler area at this pool, and adults can enjoy everything from the lazy river to the shaded seating area. Get ready for a good time! 
  • Fort Worth: Forest Park Pool. Family-friendly with eight 50-meter lanes, Forest Park Pool is a Fort Worth gem perfect for swimming laps or splashing with friends. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
  • Fort Worth: Burger’s Lake. This Fort Worth staple has been around for 97 years and is spring-fed. With high dives, slides, a beach area and more, this water park lets you bring in your own food and only costs $20 per person. 
  • Grapevine: Dove Waterpark. Perfect for the whole family, this Grapevine pool has a zero-depth entry for littles and a diving board for bigger kids plus lots in between! Two slides and a lilypad crossing round out the fun available at this north Fort Worth spot. 

DFW area lodging

Ready to book a getaway to DFW so you can splash, relax and explore? The Vineyards Campgrounds and Cabins in Grapevine is the perfect spot in DFW to enjoy the simple things. Located on Grapevine Lake, The Vineyards offers beautiful views, lodging options and a central-to-DFW location so you can access all the fun North Texas has to offer. Happy travels!