Bozeman Splash Pad is Now Open at Story Mill Park

Summary: Bozeman's first splash pad is now open! The free, locally themed water play area is finally open at Story Mill Park. 

When is the Bozeman splash pad open?

The Bozeman splash pad is open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 am. Just a heads up,  it can be closed due to weather, maintenance or other operational concerns.

Where Will the Bozeman Splash Pad Be Located?

The new splash pad will be located at Story Mill Community Park, one of Bozeman’s largest and most-used public parks.

Location: Story Mill Community Park
Address: 698 Bridger Drive
Opening date: June 26, 2026 
 

The City has also noted that the east parking lot at Story Mill Community Park opened in Fall 2025, which should help support access to the park as new features, including the splash pad, draw in more visitors to the park.

What Will the Bozeman Splash Pad Include?

The splash pad has been part of the long-term vision for Story Mill Community Park for years. It was included in the original park master plan, but was not built when the park first opened in 2019.

The design features spraying cattails and reeds plus smaller rock and log features, all chosen to fit the themes already going on at Story Mill, per the City's park planning team. It's a water play area inspired by the natural features found in the Gallatin Valley.

Can You Reserve the Bozeman Splash Pad?

No. According to the City of Bozeman, the splash pad will not be reservable for events, camps, parties, private use, or individual reservations. That means it will function as a public park amenity, not a reservable party venue.

Splash Pad Rules and Safety Information

The City has already published several rules for the splash pad. A few key things to know:

• The splash pad may close at any time due to weather, maintenance, or other operational concerns.
• Use of the splash pad is prohibited outside posted hours.
• Adults are responsible for supervising children.
• The City’s page states that there will be no lifeguard or attendant on duty.
• Appropriate footwear is recommended.
• The water should not be consumed.

• Children who are not toilet-trained must wear a swim diaper covered by waterproof pants with elasticized openings.

   

The City also prohibits alcohol, tobacco products, food, gum, glass, rough play, bikes, skates, skateboards, animals, soap, shampoo, detergent, and other items or behaviors that could create safety or sanitation issues.

Why This Matters for Bozeman Families

This might seem like a small park feature, but for local families, it fills a real gap. Bozeman summers are beautiful, but they can also be hot, busy, and expensive. A free public splash pad gives families another place to cool off without needing a pool membership, a full-day outing, or a drive out of town.

Story Mill Community Park already has playgrounds, trails, open space, climbing boulders, picnic areas, and access to the larger Story Mill area. Adding a splash pad makes it even more useful for families with younger kids.