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Day Tripping to ROLLING HILLS WATER PARK

Great fun just outside the county

By Autumn J. Moricz June 14, 2024

Rolling Hills Water Park is located at 7660 Stony Creek Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197.

This water park can be found within the Rolling Hills County Park, part of the Washtenaw County Parks system.

This is an amazing water park with many options for all ages. My kids range in age from 13-23 and we have been going since my youngest was just 3 years old! From early on it was a great fit for our little ones. The Activity Pool is popular with younger children (and their parents) due to its zero-depth entry, gentle bubbler, geysers, a waterfall and a kiddie slide for children under 45" tall.

Life jackets are provided, but I recommend bringing one if your little one has a favorite that is most comfortable for them.

Whether you enjoy a calm float down the lazy river, the thrill of the highest water slide or the excitement and anticipation of a big wave in the wave pool you will find your fun at Rolling Hills.

With all the different options it is easy to stay all day. My family and I like to go when the park opens and hit the wave pool right away. It is a family favorite in our house.

  • Water Slides: The park features five water slides, including speed slide for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
  • Lazy River: A perfect place to float and relax, the lazy river is a popular feature among visitors looking for a more laid-back experience. (Check out their website for information on FITNESS WALKS in the lazy river)
  • Wave Pool: This pool generates waves, simulating the feeling of being in the ocean. It’s a fun spot for both kids and adults.
  • Zero-depth Entry Pools: These pools are designed to mimic a beach-like setting where the water gradually deepens from the edge, making it especially safe for children and less experienced swimmers.
  • Splash Pad: An area designed for little ones, the splash pad offers various interactive elements that spray, squirt, or dump water.
  • Dry Playground: For those who want a break from the water, there’s a dry playground available.
  • Small Child-Friendly Features: The park offers several features designed specifically for small children, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable time.
  • Sun Deck with Lounge Chairs: When you’re ready to take a break from all the water activities, the sun deck is a great spot to lounge, sunbathe, or just watch the action.
  • Spray Grounds: Another fun water-based feature, the spray grounds, are areas where water shoots up from the ground or falls from structures above.



Food

Water park concessions are offered. MENU

The concessions stand accepts cash or credit card (Visa/MasterCard/Discover) for payment.

All food must be consumed in the concessions area.  No food or drink (other than bottled water) is permitted on the pool deck or grass areas.  

Other than bottled water,  guests are not allowed to bring food or beverages into the water park. The only exception is baby food or bottles for infants. You can exit the water park, get a hand stamp for same day re-entry, and eat your food brought from home at a picnic area outside the park.

We often bring fruit and sandwiches to eat, but a stop at the concessions for a snack is not out of the question.

Prices

*It is recommended you purchase tickets ONLINE, in advance. 

Rolling Hills Park is part of the Washtenaw County Park system. It charges a $6 vehicle entry fee for county residents and a $10 fee for non-residents. An annual vehicle pass costs $30 (county resident)/$45 (non-resident).

The following are the ticket prices for Rolling Hills Water Park:

  • $11 for residents
  • $13 for non-residents
  • Children under the age of 36 inches are always free!

Vehicle Admission

Washtenaw County Resident

Daily - $6

Annual - $30


Non-Resident

Daily - $10

Annual - $45

IMPORTANT INFO TO Know Before you Go

Hours of Operation

The park is open from 11 am to 7 pm every day during the summer season, typically from late May to early September.

Online water park tickets are now available for purchase at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org. Online ticket holders can skip the line at admissions, opt to add your vehicle admission to your purchase, and will automatically be counted in capacity numbers for the date of their visit.


FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO THEIR WEBSITE: ROLLING HILLS WATER PARK

When you are done with water for the day or want to start your day on dry land check out the county park that surrounds Rolling Hills Water Park.

Rolling Hills County Park: Right next to the water park, this expansive nature park offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, disc golf, and more. This could especially be practical if you visit the water park in the morning and over lunch. In the afternoon you still have plenty of time to go hiking in the Rolling Hills County Park.


Some even make this into a weekend away or an overnight trip to the area. Check out these fun things to do.

  • Ann Arbor: This bustling university town is known for its culinary scene, tech hubs, and a walkable downtown filled with arts and culture. It’s located about 13.7km from the park.
  • University of Michigan Museum of Art: Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this museum. It boasts an expansive collection and is open from 11:00-20:00.
  • Depot Town: This historic neighborhood in Ypsilanti is filled with unique, locally-owned businesses, offering visitors a chance to explore and shop.
  • Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum and Michigan Firehouse Museum: These museums offer a glimpse into the history of the automotive industry and firefighting respectively.