Families in Sussex County will soon have a new outdoor attraction as construction begins on a splash zone at Trap Pond State Park, set to open in 2026, according to the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
Officials announced that ground has officially been broken on the 5,000-square-foot Cypress Splash Zone, which will feature four separate water play areas tailored to different age groups.
DNREC says one of the zones will be dedicated to inclusive play for children of all abilities and their families according to a news article by WBOC.
The development will also include an entry station, restrooms and a first aid station to support year-round park visitors.
Park representatives noted that the new splash zone will be easily accessible from the Bald Cypress Nature Center parking lot.
Funding for the project comes from a mix of sources, including a 2022 Economic Development Administration grant, State of Delaware bond bill appropriations, and a $1.5 million contribution by Sussex County in 2024.
According to DNREC, the Cypress Splash Zone is expected to open by mid-summer 2026.
This development reflects the growing investment in family-friendly outdoor recreation infrastructure, a trend that continues to support park tourism and drive campground visitation in nearby RV and outdoor hospitality businesses.