Special Events

Tot Time Exploration

Parents, this is an exclusive opportunity to swim with your child without the big kids around. Bring your little ones and enjoy some quiet time! You’ll have access to the shallow pool, which includes 2 tunnel slides and a boat slide, play features and floatables.

This activity is restricted to children 5 years old and younger, and they must be accompanied by a patron 16 years or older at all times. Ratio is 2 children per adult and regular admission is required. Not valid with any other coupons. Tot Time will take place on Saturdays from 11:00am to 12:15pm May 30-August 8, 2026. TOT Time participants MUST exit the park at 12:15pm. Admission is Rock River Rapids Season Pass or $5 admission fee per person. Children 2 and under swim free.   

Rock River Rapids Cardboard Regatta

Join us for the Cardboard Boat Regatta! The regatta challenges the Derby community to design, build and navigate boats made entirely from corrugated cardboard and duct tape. The regatta is open to participation for teams of up to 4 people of all ages. We're excited to see your boats!  Racers are welcome to stay once the event ends. Learn more information about construction, rules and awards.

Mermaid Tales

Come make waves with mermaids! Swim with a mermaid during Tot Time and splash into Mermaid Tales Story Time at Rock River Rapids! Our friends from the Derby Public Library will provide our tales for free in the SW pavilion just outside of the waterpark. We invite you to stay and join us for Tot Time after the story from 11am-12:15pm. (RRR Season passes or $5 admission fee apply for Tot Time). 

Military Appreciation Day

We are excited to partner with McConnel AFB for a free swim day for Military personnel and their immediate family. Must show current military ID for free admission. Hosted by McConnell AFB.

Back to School Splash 6th-8th Grades

Join your middle school friends for a night of music and fun in the water. Wear your swimsuit to the bash. Please remember the USD 260 rules apply and will be enforced. Volunteer chaperones are always welcome and needed.

Pooch Pool Party

Rock River Rapids is ending the season with a doggie splash! Water chemistry will be adjusted for our different breed of swimmers. Those 16 years and older will be allowed in the water up to their thighs, but no children are allowed in the water. No aggressive dogs or females in heat will be allowed to ensure the safety of everyone attending. Watch for our contests and be ready for some four-legged fun.  

Summer Swim Meets

Rock River Rapids is pleased to host summer swim meets for Derby Swim Club. During their meets the lap pool will be closed; however the rest of the park is filled with adventure waiting for you. Park admission is $5 after 5pm. Please note the diving boards, drop slides, climbing walls, floatables, and basketball goals will not be available for use.

Lap Swimming

Swimmers can either purchase a season pass or pay the daily admission fee. Saturday lap swim drop-in fee is $5 and will be required to exit the park and pay a regular admission fee if they wish to swim during regular hours of operation (12:30pm-7:00pm).