Beat the Heat: 8 Splash Pads Around San Antonio Recommended by Our Foster Families
Though June was milder than normal for the San Antonio area, July promises 100+ degree summer days. What do you do when your kids are stir crazy, but outside feels like you're on the surface of the sun? You find a splash pad – and we've got the inside scoop on the best ones around.
We asked our foster families for their recommendations for the best splash pads in and around San Antonio, and this is what they said. From free community gems to special needs-friendly destinations, these spots will keep your kiddos cool and happy all summer long.
1. Emmitt Park - Community Bible Church
Location: San Antonio
Cost: Free
Website: https://www.communitybible.com/emmittpark
Emmitt Park at Community Bible Church San Antonio is named for the founding pastor of CBC, Robert Emmitt, who loves this city and its people. CBC created this park as a true gift to the whole community, hosting events, worship nights, and tons of kid-friendly fun throughout the year.
What makes it special: This isn't just a splash pad – it's a complete family destination. Whether you're meeting up for a playdate, shooting hoops, or enjoying a quiet picnic, there's something for everyone. The park features a splash pad, playground, picnic areas, basketball pavilion, sand volleyball courts, and three pickleball courts – all open to the public with no reservations required.
Foster family tip: The variety of activities means siblings of different ages can all find something fun to do, and the free admission makes it budget-friendly for larger families.
Emmitt Park, photo by Powers | Goolsby Architects
2. Northview Splashpad - Universal City
Location: Universal City (off Pat Booker)
Cost: Free
Season: Open through October
Website: https://www.universalcitytexas.gov/1072/Northview-Park-and-Splashpad
Perfect for Northeast San Antonio families, this splash pad is a showstopper with something exciting for every age group. Toddlers will delight in the gentle spray of water jets, families can enjoy dodging the bursts from a towering 23-foot spider (yes, you read that right!), and teens can conquer the thrill of the Superwave!
The stats: Spanning 4,000 square feet with 16 exciting water features, there's endless fun for everyone to enjoy. The variety means you won't hear "I'm bored" anytime soon.
Foster family tip: The age-appropriate zones make it ideal for mixed-age groups, and the late-season operation through October means you can enjoy it well into fall.
3. Pearsall Park Splashpad - Southside San Antonio
Location: Southside San Antonio
Cost: Free
Size: 500-acre park
Website: https://www.sa.gov/Directory/Departments/Parks/Parks-Facilities/Parks/Directory/Pearsall-Park
This massive 500-acre park on the Southside offers plenty of space to roam and explore. The splash pad is a great addition to what's already a fantastic park system, though parents should come prepared for the sun.
What to bring: Long-sleeve swim shirts, plenty of sunscreen, and maybe a pop-up canopy if you're planning to stay for a while. The limited shade means you'll want to be proactive about sun protection, but the open space gives kids plenty of room to run around when they're not splashing.
Foster family tip: The large park area means less crowding and more space for kids who might need room to decompress or take breaks from the water play.
4. Hemisfair Park - Downtown San Antonio
Location: Downtown San Antonio
Cost: Free
Bonus: Home to the Tower of the Americas
Website: https://hemisfair.org/play/
Hemisfair Park isn't just home to that iconic Tower of the Americas in the downtown skyline – it's also home to a giant picnic lawn, multiple playgrounds, natural springs, splash pads, dedicated toddler play areas, and so much more. Making a trip downtown? This is your perfect pit stop to cool off and let the kids burn some energy.
What makes it special: The combination of history, nature, and modern amenities creates a unique experience. Kids can splash, play, and explore while parents enjoy the downtown atmosphere and beautiful green spaces.
Foster family tip: The variety of play areas and quiet spaces makes it great for children with different sensory needs and energy levels.
Hemisfair Park, photo by Visit San Antonio
5. Morgan's Wonderland - Northeast San Antonio
Location: Northeast San Antonio
Cost: Admission required (children with disabilities or under 2 get in free)
Website: https://morganswonderland.org/
Morgan's Wonderland is truly a love letter to children with disabilities. Created by a father who saw his daughter wanting to play but facing barriers, this theme park was designed to be a safe, accessible place where every child can experience joy and inclusion.
Special accommodations: The park goes above and beyond with accessibility features, sensory-friendly options, and trained staff who understand the needs of children with disabilities. While there is a cost of admission, children with disabilities and those under 2 get in free.
Foster family tip: If you're caring for children with special needs, this park offers experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. The staff training and thoughtful design make it a stress-free environment for families.
6. The Park at The Pearl - Downtown San Antonio
Location: Downtown (Pearl District)
Cost: Free
Weekend bonus: Farmers Market with fresh local foods
Website: https://atpearl.com/
Another downtown gem, The Pearl offers a perfect blend of family fun and community culture. They host the well-known weekend farmers market where you can pick up fresh, locally grown food, plus regular entertainment, dining options, and of course, their splash pad called Gustav's Geysers.
The full experience: Visit with friends at the outdoor seating area on the Plaza, enjoy entertainment in the Pearl Park Pavilion, and let children play in the Parkito playground or splash in Gustav's Geysers. The Pearl frequently hosts free events at various locations throughout the property and features seasonal offerings in their public spaces year-round.
Foster family tip: Very busy on weekends due to the farmers market, but that also means lots of family-friendly energy and activities. Consider weekday visits for a calmer experience.
Splash pad at The Pearl
7. Bulverde Community Park - Comal County
Location: Bulverde (Comal County)
Cost: Free
Website: https://www.bulverdepark.com/
Here's a perfect option for Comal County foster families who want to escape the city hustle. Bulverde Community Park offers a more relaxed, small-town atmosphere while still providing great amenities for families.
What's available: Music in the park events, a community garden, peaceful walking trails, and of course, the splash pad. The smaller community feel means less crowding and a more intimate experience.
Foster family tip: Great for children who might feel overwhelmed by larger, busier parks. The walking trails also provide a nice option for older kids or caregivers who want to stay active.
8. Fischer Park - New Braunfels (A Family Favorite!)
Location: New Braunfels (Comal County)
Cost: Free
Eco-friendly bonus: Water recycling system
Website: https://newbraunfels.gov/3379/Fischer-Park
Our final entry is a Comal County favorite that consistently gets rave reviews from our foster families. Fischer Park in New Braunfels offers a perfect blend of fun and environmental responsibility.
What makes it special: The splash pad features a variety of interactive water toys that spray, spout, mist, and pour, providing entertainment for children of all ages. But here's the cool part – water from the splash pad is captured in the fishing ponds and reused for park irrigation, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Foster family tip: The environmental education aspect provides a great opportunity to talk with kids about conservation and taking care of our planet.
Fischer Park, photo by the city of New Braunfels
Final Tips for Foster Families:
Always bring extra towels, sunscreen, and water
Consider bringing snacks and a cooler for longer visits
Check operating hours and seasonal schedules before heading out
Many parks have restrooms and changing areas, but facilities vary
Don't forget to have fun and make memories!
Whether you're in San Antonio, New Braunfels, or any of the surrounding communities, these splash pads offer great options to keep kids happy, cool, and active all summer long. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy making some splash-tastic memories with your foster families!