Waterford Oaks County Park has been one of the most popular destinations in the Oakland County Parks (OCP) system since the 1970s and the home of many iconic attractions like Waterford Oaks Waterpark. 

However, due to the steep decline in ticket sales that has occurred since the popular raft ride was removed in 2019, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to pause operations and the Waterford Oaks Wave Pool did not open for the 2025 season. 

Why this decision was made

Unfortunately, the park has experienced significant disinvestment and deterioration over the years due to insufficient funding to keep pace with major maintenance and improvement needs. 

We know that many people love the Waterford Oaks Wave Pool and many have treasured memories from its heyday as a fully functioning waterpark with fun and exciting features. However, average sales during the past three years are down approximately 80 percent from peak levels, while the costs associated with operating the facility have skyrocketed.

Despite record heat this past summer, the Wave Pool had the smallest number of visitors in nearly 50 years of operation.

Moving forward

Voter approval of the millage proposal in November 2024 opened the door to make major investments that will begin a wonderful new chapter for Waterford Oaks and the many people who love to visit.

As we move toward a decision in the upcoming months about the future plans for the facility and its site, we are undertaking a thorough analysis of the current and future aquatic recreation needs of the community. Preliminary plans have been developed to consider options such as rebuilding a waterpark with modern features, renovations to operate primarily as a public pool or adapting the site for non-aquatic recreation uses. We want to be sure that whatever option is chosen meets the needs of the public and is financially sustainable to maintain and operate in the long term. In the coming months, an updated improvement plan will be developed.

In the meantime, Waterford Oaks County Park is still open and serving the community with exciting new improvements coming in 2026.

Construction is underway on a new multimillion dollar universally accessible play area called “Cattail Cove,” featuring new pickleball courts, an adult jungle gym and a pavilion/restroom building.      

About

Waterford Oaks’ tropical wave pool features palm trees, bubbler fountains near the shore and children’s playground with interactive activities. Other amenities include a bathhouse with showers and lockers, lounge chairs, tubes, and picnic spots with grills.