Red Oaks Waterpark Tickets, Discounts & Metro Detroit Family Day Plan
Red Oaks Waterpark in Madison Heights is a practical summer waterpark for Metro Detroit families who want a wave-action pool, river ride, waterslide, splash pad, picnic-style food flexibility and free parking without driving to a large theme park. It is especially useful for Oakland County families because residents receive a discounted ticket rate with proof of residency.
This 2026 guide explains Red Oaks Waterpark tickets, hours, discounts, rides, map, rules, what to pack, when to arrive, where to sit, toddler and teen planning, food rules, re-entry, and how to avoid getting turned away on a sold-out summer day.
Official Source Check Before You Buy
This page is an independent family-planning guide, not the official Oakland County Parks website. Use it to understand the trip, then confirm the latest 2026 opening day, hours, ticket prices, discount rules, capacity updates, weather changes, group policies and park rules directly with Oakland County Parks.
Red Oaks Waterpark 2026 Start Here Before Buying
Red Oaks Waterpark is a county-operated waterpark, not a giant vacation resort. That is a good thing for local families because the visit can be simpler: buy tickets, park free, bring food, choose a base spot, and spend the day rotating between the wave pool, River Ride, splash pad and waterslide. But because it can sell out and the schedule can vary during the season, you still need to plan ahead.
Answer These Before You Pay
Plain Metro Detroit family answer:
Red Oaks is best for families who want a manageable local waterpark day with a wave pool, lazy-river-style ride, splash pad and picnic flexibility. Buy tickets early on hot weekends, bring proof of residency if you live in Oakland County, and arrive before peak afternoon crowds if shade and chairs matter.
Red Oaks Waterpark Tickets, Prices and Discounts 2026 Planning Guide
Official 2026 ticket prices may not be published until the season information is posted. The important rules are already clear: tickets are available online or at the waterpark up to three days in advance, same-day online sales stop at 2 p.m., on-site sales stop one hour before closing, and the park can sell out.
| Ticket / Price Topic | Official Planning Detail | Best For | What to Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online tickets | Available up to three days in advance when operating | Hot weekends, school breaks, busy days | Buy early to reduce sellout risk. |
| Same-day online sales | Stop at 2 p.m. for same-day admission | Families deciding in the morning | Do not wait until late afternoon to buy online. |
| On-site ticket sales | Stop one hour before park closing | Flexible local visits | Call/check availability first on busy days. |
| Oakland County discount | Residents receive a discounted ticket rate with photo ID showing residency | Oakland County families | Bring a valid photo ID with your Oakland County address. |
| Infants 0–23 months | Need a free child entry ticket | Families with babies/toddlers | Add the free infant ticket instead of assuming no ticket is needed. |
| Season pass | Red Oaks does not currently offer a season pass | Visitors comparing repeat visits | Use daily tickets unless official policy changes. |
What about 2026 discounts?
The main discount to understand is the Oakland County resident discount. Oakland County residents help fund the park system through millage support, so residents receive a lower ticket rate when they show a photo ID with Oakland County residency. If you live outside Oakland County, plan for the regular nonresident rate once 2026 prices are posted.
Does Red Oaks have a season pass?
No. Official waterpark FAQ information says Red Oaks Waterpark does not currently offer a season pass. If your family wants to visit many times in one summer, you should still compare the total cost of multiple daily tickets, but do not promise readers a season-pass option unless Oakland County Parks changes the policy.
Smart ticket tip:
On a hot Metro Detroit weekend, buy early. Red Oaks has sold out in the past, and once the waterpark is sold out, no more tickets for that day are sold.
How to Buy Red Oaks Waterpark Tickets Step-by-Step
The most important step is checking the official season schedule first. If the 2026 schedule has not been posted yet, wait for the late-spring update rather than using an old calendar.
Open the official Red Oaks Waterpark page
Start with the official Oakland County Parks Red Oaks Waterpark page. This is where current season information, ticket links, rules and maps are most reliable.
Check the current schedule
Days and times vary throughout the season. Confirm your exact date before promising kids a waterpark day.
Choose your date
Tickets are available up to three days in advance when the park is operating. If your date matters, do not wait until the gate.
Add everyone entering
Everyone entering needs a ticket. Infants ages 0–23 months need a free child entry ticket.
Use the Oakland County resident discount if eligible
Bring photo ID showing Oakland County residency. Without proof, you may not receive the resident rate.
Save your confirmation
Screenshot tickets, confirmation emails and QR codes before leaving home. This helps if the entry area is busy.
Arrive early on busy days
Even with tickets, early arrival helps with parking, chairs, shade, lockers, splash pad space and first rides.
Red Oaks Waterpark Hours 2026 What to Know Before Planning
As of the latest official county information checked, Red Oaks Waterpark is closed for the off-season and visitors are told to check in late spring for 2026 opening information. That means any fixed 2026 hours should be verified directly with Oakland County Parks before publishing or driving.
Before the season opens
Check the official page in late spring. Do not rely on last year’s calendar for 2026 planning.
During summer
Hours can vary by date, staffing, weather, attendance and end-of-season adjustments. Confirm the schedule for your exact day.
Weather and heat
Very hot days can create sellout demand, while storms can change the feel of the visit. Check updates before leaving.
Best arrival advice:
For first-time families, arrive close to opening on a hot weekend. You will have a better shot at chairs, shade, lockers, a relaxed splash pad base and shorter first-slide waits.
Should You Visit Red Oaks for Half Day or Full Day? Real Decision Guide
Red Oaks is manageable enough for a half-day visit, but it can also fill a full summer day if your group uses the wave pool, River Ride, splash pad, waterslide and picnic breaks. Your best plan depends on kids’ ages, weather, ticket cost and how close you live.
2–3 hour visit
Best for local families, toddlers, after-work plans or families who only want splash pad and wave pool time.
Half day
Best for younger kids, grandparents, heat-sensitive visitors and families bringing lunch or dinner as a simple picnic.
Full day
Best for first-time visitors, bigger kids, mixed-age groups and families that want wave pool, waterslide, River Ride and splash pad time.
Choose another day
Pick another date if tickets are sold out, storms are likely, your group will arrive very late, or you need a guaranteed shaded base.
Best Red Oaks Waterpark Plan by Visitor Type Pick Your Family Style
Oakland County local
Bring photo ID for the resident discount. Buy tickets early on hot days and use Red Oaks as an easy summer cooling-off spot.
Metro Detroit day visitor
Check ticket availability before driving. Free parking helps, but sellouts can still happen on high-demand summer days.
Family with toddlers
Use SplashTown, shaded breaks, stroller storage awareness, swim diapers and short water sessions. Infants need a free child entry ticket.
Bigger kids and slide riders
Check the 43-inch triple-flume waterslide requirement before promising slide time. Use the wave pool and River Ride as backups.
Grandparents and non-riders
Choose a base near shade, restrooms and family areas. Remember that everyone entering needs a ticket, even if they do not swim.
Schools and nonprofit groups
Red Oaks offers group reservations for nonprofit and government groups like schools and summer camps, but not public birthday party packages.
Where to Sit Inside Red Oaks Waterpark Base Spot Strategy
Because outside chairs are not allowed and provided chairs are first-come, first-served, your seating plan matters. Arrive early if you need shade or a comfortable spot for kids and grandparents.
Near SplashTown
Best for toddlers and younger kids. It reduces walking and makes supervision easier around the children’s splash pad.
Near the wave-action pool
Best for mixed groups because it gives everyone a big landmark. Remember the waves run for 10 minutes and rest for 10 minutes.
Near River Ride
Best for families that want calmer floating time between the splash pad, wave pool and slide.
Locker-first strategy
Best if you carry phones, wallets, keys or dry clothes. Lockers are available for a nominal single-use fee.
Picnic strategy
Best for families bringing meals or snacks. Food is allowed, but glass and alcohol are not.
Wind-aware setup
Red Oaks is in an open area that can experience strong winds. Lightweight items and pack-and-plays should be secured safely without staking into the ground.
Real Family Timeline for Red Oaks Waterpark A Day That Works
Before leaving home
Check current schedule, buy tickets, screenshot confirmation, pack swimsuits, sunscreen, food, water, towels, ID for resident discount and proper swimwear.
Arrival and entry
Park free, enter with tickets ready, ask about lockers, choose a base spot and show Oakland County ID if using the resident discount.
First water block
Let bigger kids use the waterslide early if they meet the height rule. Younger kids can start at SplashTown before it gets busy.
Wave pool and River Ride reset
Use the wave-action pool and heated River Ride to slow down after the first excitement. Watch weaker swimmers closely.
Picnic break
Eat before everyone is exhausted. Bringing food is allowed, but keep glass and alcohol out of the park.
Afternoon plan
Rotate adults between splash pad, wave pool and slide supervision. Use life jackets for weak swimmers where appropriate.
Exit or re-entry
If you leave and plan to return, get the unique wristband at the main entrance and keep it undamaged for re-entry.
Red Oaks Waterpark Rides and Attractions What Families Can Expect
Red Oaks Waterpark is family-focused. Official descriptions list a wave-action pool, triple-flume waterslide, River Ride and SplashTown children’s splash pad with 52 interactive water features, including a water play climber with slides and a dumping bucket. The wave pool and River Ride are heated.
Wave-action pool
The waves run for 10 minutes and then rest for 10 minutes. It is a good central attraction for mixed-age families.
Triple-flume waterslide
The triple-flume waterslide has a 43-inch height requirement. Measure kids before promising slide rides.
River Ride
A calmer floating-style attraction and a useful reset area between the splash pad, slide and wave pool.
SplashTown
Best for younger kids, with 52 interactive water features, a water play climber, slides and dumping bucket.
Heated water features
The wave pool and River Ride are both heated, which helps on cooler summer days.
Picnic area
Food is allowed, making Red Oaks easier for families trying to avoid buying every snack inside the park.
Lockers
Keyed lockers are available for valuables for a nominal single-use fee.
Free parking
There is no parking fee, but carpooling is encouraged to reduce overflow parking pressure on busy days.
Red Oaks Waterpark Rules That Matter Before You Pack
Food is allowed
You may bring your own lunch, dinner or snacks. Glass containers and alcohol are not allowed.
No outside chairs
Because deck space is limited, chairs are provided first-come, first-served. Guests are asked to share chairs when not using them.
No beach umbrellas
Beach umbrellas are not allowed because of high winds. Handheld umbrellas may be used but must be closed and stowed when not in hand.
No toys or inflatables
Water toys, inflatable toys and inflatable swim aids are not allowed. U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are allowed.
Proper swimwear required
Street clothes are not proper swimming attire. Wear clean, lightweight swimming garments that do not restrict swimming.
Kids attending alone
Red Oaks recommends children not attend unaccompanied, but those at least 12 may be allowed if parents/guardians deem them responsible.
Red Oaks Real Cost Planning Beyond the Ticket
Red Oaks can be a good-value family day because parking is free and outside food is allowed. The real cost depends on ticket prices, resident status, lockers, food you bring, gas and how many people enter.
| Cost Item | Why It Matters | Money-Saving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Admission tickets | Everyone entering needs a ticket | Buy early and use the resident discount if eligible. |
| Infant entry | Infants 0–23 months need a free child entry ticket | Add the free ticket during the purchase process. |
| Parking | No parking fee is charged | Carpool on busy days to reduce overflow parking stress. |
| Food | Food is allowed, but glass/alcohol are not | Pack a simple picnic and plenty of water. |
| Locker | Useful for phones, wallets, keys and dry items | Bring only what you need so one small locker may work. |
What to Pack for Red Oaks Waterpark Family Checklist
Bring for everyone
- Swimsuits that meet proper swimwear rules
- Towels and dry clothes
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Water bottles
- Ticket confirmation and ID
Bring for kids
- Swim diapers if needed
- U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket if used
- Bright swimsuit for easy spotting
- Hat or cover-up for breaks
- Snack or picnic food
- Stroller if needed, with space awareness
Do not bring
- Glass containers
- Alcohol
- Outside chairs
- Beach umbrellas
- Water toys or inflatables
- Street clothes for swimming
Red Oaks vs Other Metro Detroit Water Options How to Choose
Red Oaks is best when you want a local waterpark day with a real wave pool, river ride, splash pad, waterslide and picnic flexibility. It may not be the best choice if your family wants huge thrill rides, a hotel waterpark, or a season-pass model.
| Option | Best For | Choose Another Option If |
|---|---|---|
| Red Oaks Waterpark | Oakland County families, wave pool, River Ride, splash pad, picnic-style day | You need a season pass or large resort-style thrill park. |
| Local splash pad | Toddlers, short visits, free or low-cost cooling off | Older kids want a slide, wave pool and river ride. |
| Hotel indoor waterpark | Bad weather, overnight stay, winter trips | You want an outdoor local summer park with picnic food. |
| Large amusement waterpark | Thrill rides and full vacation-style trips | You want a simpler, closer, county-operated family waterpark. |
Helpful Video: Oakland County Parks Waterpark Preview
This video is included to help families preview the Oakland County waterpark style before visiting. Use it for visual planning only. Current Red Oaks tickets, hours, discounts and rules must be confirmed on the official Oakland County Parks website.
If this embed changes, replace it with a current official Oakland County Parks Red Oaks Waterpark video or a recent high-quality park preview.
Red Oaks Waterpark Map and Directions Madison Heights, Michigan
Red Oaks Waterpark is located at 1455 E. Thirteen Mile Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071. It is a convenient summer waterpark for Madison Heights, Royal Oak, Troy, Warren, Hazel Park, Ferndale, Clawson, Southfield and other Metro Detroit families. Use the map below for planning, then open your navigation app before leaving so you can check traffic and arrival time.
Red Oaks Waterpark Mistakes Avoid These Before You Go
Waiting too long to buy tickets
Red Oaks can sell out. Tickets are available up to three days in advance, and once the park sells out, no more tickets are sold for that day.
Forgetting everyone needs a ticket
Everyone entering must purchase a ticket. Infants 0–23 months need a free child entry ticket.
Not bringing resident ID
Oakland County residents need photo ID showing residency to receive the resident discount.
Promising the slide to shorter kids
The triple-flume waterslide has a 43-inch height requirement. Measure kids before promising slide rides.
Packing chairs, toys or inflatables
Outside chairs, water toys, inflatable toys and inflatable swim aids are not allowed.
Bringing glass or alcohol
Food is allowed, but glass containers and alcohol are prohibited.
Final Red Oaks Waterpark Checklist Before You Buy
- Check the official Oakland County Parks page for 2026 opening information.
- Confirm current hours for your exact visit date.
- Buy tickets up to three days in advance if your date matters.
- Remember online same-day ticket sales stop at 2 p.m.
- Count every person entering, including non-swimmers.
- Add a free infant child entry ticket for ages 0–23 months.
- Bring Oakland County photo ID if using the resident discount.
- Measure children for the 43-inch waterslide rule.
- Pack food, but leave glass, alcohol, chairs, toys and inflatables at home.
- Bring sunscreen, water, towels and proper swimwear.
Independent guide notice:
This article is an independent planning guide for families and is not the official Oakland County Parks website. Red Oaks Waterpark tickets, hours, prices, resident discounts, rules, attraction operations and capacity policies can change. Always confirm current details on the official Oakland County Parks website before buying or traveling.
Red Oaks Waterpark FAQ Tickets, Hours, Discounts and Rides
Where is Red Oaks Waterpark located?
Red Oaks Waterpark is located at 1455 E. Thirteen Mile Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071.
When does Red Oaks Waterpark open in 2026?
Oakland County Parks says the waterpark is currently closed and visitors should check in late spring for 2026 opening information. Always confirm the official schedule before planning your visit.
How do I buy Red Oaks Waterpark tickets?
Tickets are available online or at the waterpark up to three days in advance when the park is operating. Online same-day ticket sales stop at 2 p.m., and on-site ticket sales stop one hour before closing.
Can Red Oaks Waterpark sell out?
Yes. Official FAQ information says Red Oaks has sold out several times in past seasons. Once the park is sold out, no more tickets are sold for that day.
Does everyone need a Red Oaks Waterpark ticket?
Yes. Everyone entering the waterpark must purchase a ticket, even if they do not plan to swim. Infants ages 0–23 months need a free child entry ticket.
Does Red Oaks Waterpark offer an Oakland County resident discount?
Yes. Oakland County residents receive a discounted ticket rate because residents support the park system through millage funding. A photo ID showing Oakland County residency is required.
Does Red Oaks Waterpark have a season pass?
No. Official FAQ information says Red Oaks Waterpark does not currently offer a season pass.
What rides does Red Oaks Waterpark have?
Red Oaks Waterpark offers a wave-action pool, triple-flume waterslide, River Ride and SplashTown children’s splash pad with 52 interactive water features, including a play climber with slides and a dumping bucket.
How tall do you need to be for the Red Oaks waterslide?
The triple-flume waterslide has a 43-inch height requirement. A height stick is located at the entrance of the attraction.
Can I bring food to Red Oaks Waterpark?
Yes. Guests may bring lunch, dinner or snacks. Glass containers and alcohol are not allowed.
Can I bring chairs or beach umbrellas?
No outside chairs are allowed because deck space is limited. Beach umbrellas are also not allowed due to wind concerns. Provided chairs are first-come, first-served.
Does Red Oaks Waterpark have free parking?
Yes. Red Oaks Waterpark does not charge a fee to park, though guests are encouraged to carpool to reduce the need for overflow parking.
Can I leave Red Oaks Waterpark and come back the same day?
Yes. A staff member at the main entrance will fit you with a unique wristband before you exit. The wristband must remain undamaged for re-entry.
Are the pools heated at Red Oaks Waterpark?
Yes. Official information says the wave pool and River Ride are both heated.