Splash Amarillo Waterpark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Splash Amarillo Waterpark |
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|---|---|
| Location | Amarillo, Texas, United States |
| Opened | May 2000 |
| Closed | 2016 |
| Previous names | FireWater Waterpark |
| Operating season | May through August |
| Status | {{{status}}} |
| Pools | 2 pools |
| Water slides | 6 water slides |
| Website | Official website: http://www.splashamarillo.com |
Splash Amarillo Waterpark was a fun waterpark for families. It was located in Amarillo, Texas. The park first opened in May 2000. It was originally called FireWater Waterpark.
The park was built on a large area, about 13 acres. It was close to the Big Texan Steak Ranch. Splash Amarillo had many cool attractions. These included a big wave pool and a long lazy river. There was also a tall tower with six different water slides. Kids could enjoy a special pool and a play tower just for them. The park also had a gift shop, places to buy snacks, volleyball courts, and an arcade. Splash Amarillo Waterpark closed its doors in 2016. Its water slides were moved to a new park in Plainview. This new park is called Royal Splash Texas and opened in 2017.
Park History
Building the Park
Work on the waterpark began on May 7, 1999. Back then, it was known as FireWater Waterpark. Building the park cost about $3.7 million. The whole area was 21 acres, but the park itself covered 13 acres. A company from Amarillo, Missouri Valley Inc., built the park. Construction finished early, well before the park opened on May 6, 2000.
New Owners and Name
In 2002, the FireWater Waterpark faced some money problems. It had trouble paying back loans used to build the park. Because of these issues, the park had to go through a legal process called bankruptcy. This meant it needed to reorganize its finances.
In May 2003, the waterpark reopened with new owners and new management. It was given a new name: Splash Amarillo. This fresh start helped the park continue to entertain visitors.
A Fire at the Park
In July 2009, a fire broke out inside one of the park's buildings. This building held lockers, changing rooms, restrooms, a snack stand, and a maintenance room. More than 200 people had to leave the park safely. Witnesses said a water heater started the fire.
The fire caused a lot of damage, costing over $70,000. The flames spread from the first floor up to the attic. The park president, Paul Johnson, said the building was not insured. By June 2011, the building was fixed and open again for park guests.
