If you were planning to pack the kids into the car and head over to Fairmount Park for a day at the Red Lion Splash Park, I have some news that’s gonna bum you out. Honestly, it’s a bit of a local tragedy for York County families. The splash pad is officially done. It's not just "closed for the season" or "under maintenance" anymore.
The Borough of Red Lion made the tough call recently to shut it down for good. After 13 years of serving as a humid-summer sanctuary, the facility simply hit a wall that no amount of chlorine or duct tape could fix.
The Real Reason Behind the Closure
Most people think parks close because of lack of interest. That wasn't the case here. People loved this place. Families used to drive in from Harrisburg and even Maryland just to use those sixteen water features. Ironically, that’s exactly what killed it.
The high volume of foot traffic—combined with the brutal Pennsylvania freeze-thaw cycles—basically pulverized the infrastructure.
Why money didn't solve it
Borough Manager Michelle Poole was pretty transparent about the numbers, and they’re honestly eye-watering for a small town.
- Surface repairs: Estimated at $150,000.
- Operational costs: Roughly $15,000 for just three months of summer.
- The "Big Dig": Replacing the whole thing would have cost nearly $800,000.
The concrete was cracking, which meant bacteria (like E. coli) could hide in the fissures where the scrubbers couldn't reach. Last year, the park had to shut down multiple times because the water tests kept failing. When a pump failed twice in one season at five grand a pop, the council realized they were just throwing good money after bad. It’s a bummer, but it makes sense.
Fairmount Park is Still a Vibe
Don’t delete the destination from your GPS just yet. While the Red Lion Splash Park is a ghost of summers past, Fairmount Park itself is still very much alive. It sits at the highest point in Red Lion and is actually the second-highest inhabited point in all of York County. The views from the top, especially near the community war memorial, are actually kind of incredible.
You've still got:
- The Stone Pavilion: It’s that big, secluded-feeling spot you can rent for like $50 if you’re a resident.
- The Playground: It’s big, though locals often complain about the mulch (wear closed-toe shoes, seriously).
- The Walking Trails: These connect directly to the local library and the high school.
What's Coming Next?
The Borough isn't just leaving a concrete hole in the ground. They’ve been holding public meetings to figure out what should replace the splash pad.
Pickleball is the word on everyone’s lips lately. It’s cheap to maintain and serves the "all ages" demographic that the town is pivoting toward. Others are pushing for a skate park or even just a massive, upgraded lounge area with hammocks. Basically, the town wants something that doesn't require a $15,000-a-quarter water bill to keep running.
Tips for your next visit
If you’re heading to 108 Boundary Ave anytime soon, keep these things in mind:
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable: The park is on a hill and catches a lot of direct light.
- Check the Pavilion Schedule: If you’re planning a birthday, you’ve got to book through the Red Lion Recreation office because the spots near the old splash pad fill up fast.
- Footwear: Since the water features are gone, the "slippery surface" warnings are less of an issue, but the playground mulch is still a menace for sandals.
It’s definitely the end of an era for the Red Lion Splash Park. It was a local staple that defined a decade of childhoods in York County. But as the town looks toward more sustainable options, Fairmount Park is likely to remain a go-to spot—just with a little less splashing and maybe a lot more pickleball.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the Red Lion Recreation website for the latest survey if you want to vote on the replacement project.
- Pivot your water plans to nearby alternatives like the Alameda Waterpark in Butler if you're looking for a full-scale pool day, or stick to local creeks for a free cool-down.
- Visit the Kaltreider-Benfer Library right next to the park for a "books and park" combo day that doesn't require a swimsuit.