Photo courtesy Roaring Springs
Roaring Springs
Meridian, Idaho
Aquatic designer: Aquatic Development Group
General contractor: Russell Corporation
Pool/spa/saterfeature contractor: Aquatic Development Group
Some of The best waterparks not only provide fun and thrills but reflect on the local area. Roaring Springs is no exception here, and its expansion only enhanced its ability to live up to Idaho’s nickname, the Gem State.
The operators of the Meridian, Idaho, waterpark wanted an update that would present new experiences to its patrons.
The combination of refurbished features and brand-new additions fosters both a wide range of fun activities and a deeper appreciation for Idaho’s natural beauty and agriculture.
Gem of a park
Among the rides, attractions and amenities is Camp IdaH2O, an 8,000-square foot interactive, multi-level structure with 100 play features.
Taking center stage is a potato-themed dump bucket, honoring the state’s most famous agricultural commodities. Tippin’ Tater splashes 650 gallons of water every 4 minutes.
An 8-inch-deep lagoon surrounds Camp IdaH2O. Interactive elements include a water cannon, spray zones and climbing nets. Each feature was meant to represent Idaho’s natural beauty and wildlife, and to connect children with the state’s environment and history.
The team also refashioned a pre-existing pool into Critter Crossing, a 3,200-foot activity pool with forest-themed floating features and water basketball. Children 42 inches in height and under can balance across the floating features, fostering multiple skill-based activities throughout.
The overall aesthetic theme was inspired by the things the team loves about the Northwest, from wildlife to wild rivers.
In addition to Idaho’s lead crop, designers wanted to pay tribute to something else for which it is famous — world-class rafting. It has more miles of river than any other state in the Lower 48. So the team developed Idaho’s first action river, called Class 5 Canyon after the highest level of river-rafting classification. Patrons can use kickboards to ride the waves that run through the 14,250-square foot water body.
Rockwork lines the river’s banks, inspired by the deep canyons of the Idaho’s Snake River, which runs near the waterpark. Rocks from a local ranch are incorporated into the theming.
To integrate the new area into the existing park, the designers ensured that access points of the new section aligned with the established circulation. The play structure was designed to create a visual connection with the park, with the potato bucket as a focal point to attract guests. Future expansion is expected, so the team placed pedestrian walkways, support amenities such as restrooms and food and beverage stations, and mechanical areas to accommodate service expansion for new zones.
SUPPLIERS:
Rides/play structure: Proslide Technology
