Pioneer Waterland and Dry Fun Park in Ohio has officially reopened its gates, welcoming families and fun-seekers to experience a summer of unforgettable memories. Under new ownership and with significant upgrades, this beloved park is ready to reclaim its title as a premier destination for family entertainment.
A group of local Chardon entrepreneurs, passionate about revitalizing community spaces, purchased Pioneer Waterland in 2014 and have since embarked on a mission to restore and enhance the park’s offerings. David Browne, one of the seven new owners, shared their vision: “We want to bring it back to the way it was back in the late ’80s, early ’90s,” emphasizing the goal to recapture the park’s former glory as a top-tier family destination.
Dan Sammons, another owner, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Pioneer Waterland is being brought back to life.” This revival includes extensive renovations and exciting new additions designed to appeal to visitors of all ages.
One notable enhancement is the return of the arcade, a classic amusement park staple. Equipped with brand-new games, pool tables, and air hockey, the arcade provides a perfect indoor escape and adds to the park’s dry fun attractions. Recognizing the importance of sports and activities, the owners have also invested in five new batting cages, aiming to attract local Little League teams for practice sessions and family fun.
For those seeking relaxation and comfort, new cabanas have been introduced. These provide shaded retreats for families, allowing parents to unwind while keeping a watchful eye on their children enjoying the pools. Speaking of pools, the deep end of the park’s massive 2.5-million-gallon swimming pool, fed by a natural artisan spring, has been reopened, offering swimmers depths exceeding eight feet.
Water enthusiasts will be thrilled to experience the refurbished speed slides. These iconic attractions have undergone a complete transformation, featuring refinished and resurfaced slides, a fresh gel coat, and a vibrant lime green and neon yellow paint job. Browne highlighted the improvements: “Before, they were full of bolts and rough on the back. We eliminated the bolts. So now they’re faster than ever and smoother than ever.” Beyond the speed slides, popular attractions like the Lazy River, sand volleyball courts, paddleboats, and updated bathrooms and gift shop have all received significant attention and upgrades.
Understanding the needs of modern visitors, Pioneer Waterland has expanded its concession offerings to include beer and wine for adults. Looking ahead, the park is actively working to reopen its camping area, complete with full water and electric hookups, further enhancing its appeal as a multi-day destination.
Pioneer Waterland Ohio is also positioning itself as an ideal venue for corporate events and gatherings. With 16 pavilions available for rent, including premium options with beverage service, the park offers a unique and fun setting for company picnics and functions. The owners are keen to welcome back the local community, with Sammons expressing the hope, “We’d like to see people from Geauga start coming back.”
Visually, the park has been brightened up with fresh paint, murals, and colorful fences, creating an inviting and cheerful atmosphere. Pioneer Waterland and Dry Fun Park is not just reopening; it’s being reborn as a revitalized destination, ready to provide exceptional family fun for years to come.
