What is a Splashpark and how does it work?

Splashparks—also known as zero-depth water play areas—have become one of the most comprehensive leisure solutions for children in public spaces, hotels, and campsites. These are water play areas without any depth: accessible, safe, and highly interactive spaces where children can play, get wet, and explore water in a dynamic and creative way.

In Splashparks, water emerges from jets embedded in the ground or from vertical features, eliminating the need for pools or immersion areas. This allows for the creation of leisure spaces tailored to different age groups and user profiles, while eliminating the risks associated with traditional aquatic environments.

How does a Splashpark work?
A Splashpark operates using a hydraulic system that pumps water from a balancing tank through various play features or interactive elements. The water is then collected by a perimeter drainage system, filtered, and recirculated—ensuring optimized water usage and sanitary safety.

Thanks to manual activators or motion sensors, the system only operates when users are present, reducing energy consumption and avoiding unnecessary continuous operation. The surface is designed with non-slip flooring and no standing water, making the area a safe and accessible play solution.

5 reasons why a Splashpark is a smart choice

Water efficiency and responsible resource use
Splashparks are designed to reuse water through a closed recirculation system. They can recover up to 90–95% of the water used, making them a far more efficient alternative to conventional aquatic facilities.
Accessibility and inclusive play
With no water depth, Splashparks are accessible to children of all ages and to people with reduced mobility. Play features are spaced to allow for free movement and to encourage participation by all users.
Safety first
Splashparks eliminate the risks linked to immersion and deep-water zones. Their slip-resistant surface, sensor-activated features, and water treatment systems create a safe and controlled play environment.
Age-appropriate play and developmental value
Each project is designed with differentiated zones according to children’s developmental stages. From gentle features for toddlers to more dynamic and challenging structures for older children, the layout encourages shared and age-appropriate use.
Custom design adapted to each setting
Every Splashpark is designed from scratch—there’s no standard catalogue. Projects are tailored to the space and user profile, resulting in environments that reflect the identity of the location, encourage free play, and contribute to the urban or touristic value of the site.

Can a children’s pool be converted into a Splashpark?
Yes—and in fact, it’s one of the most common transformations for municipalities or facilities looking to reduce maintenance costs and increase efficiency. A Splashpark can be installed over an existing pool structure, reusing the filtration system and balancing tank, which minimizes civil works.

The result: a safer space that requires less supervision, has lower operational costs, and is more accessible to all types of users.

A versatile solution for public spaces, hotels, or campsites
At ISABA, we’ve been designing and building Splashparks for over 35 years for municipalities, hotels, and campsites across Spain. We approach each project holistically—from concept and design to manufacturing and installation—ensuring regulatory compliance and simplified long-term maintenance.

A Splashpark is more than just a play space. It’s a tool to attract visitors, foster social interaction, improve climatic comfort in urban areas, and enhance the user experience in any kind of facility.

Want to know more about designing a tailored Splashpark?
Explore our completed projects or get in touch. We’ll help you transform your water area into a safer, more efficient, and more stimulating experience.