Key Facts
- Wachter closing date
- Friday, Aug. 7
- Hillside closing date
- Sunday, Aug. 9
- Elks closing date
- Sunday, Aug. 16
- Pool Pooch Party
- Saturday, Aug. 8 at Wachter
- Splash pad hours
- 10 a.m.-8 p.m. through Labor Day
Season Ending Due to Staff Schedules
Bismarck Parks and Rec has announced that the 2026 outdoor pool season will soon come to an end. The decision is tied to the seasonal workforce, as college and high school employees head back to school over the next few weeks.
The announcement affects three outdoor aquatic facilities in the Bismarck area, with closing dates spread across August. The schedule reflects the typical end-of-summer transition as students return to classes.
Closing Dates and Remaining Events
According to the announcement, Wachter Aquatic Complex will close on Friday, Aug. 7. Hillside Aquatic Complex will follow on Sunday, Aug. 9, and Elks Aquatic Center will close on Sunday, Aug. 16.
Before the final closure, Wachter will host the Pool Pooch Party on Saturday, Aug. 8. Small dogs under 30 pounds are welcome from noon to 1 p.m., and large dogs over 30 pounds will have pool access from 1 to 2 p.m.
The free splash pad at New Generations Park will remain open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day weekend, and as weather permits in early September.
| Facility | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Wachter Aquatic Complex | Friday, Aug. 7 |
| Hillside Aquatic Complex | Sunday, Aug. 9 |
| Elks Aquatic Center | Sunday, Aug. 16 |
Who Is Affected
Residents and visitors who use Bismarck's outdoor pools will see reduced options as the season winds down. Families with children may need to plan visits before the respective closing dates.
Dog owners in the Bismarck-Mandan area have a final opportunity to bring their pets to the Pool Pooch Party at Wachter on Aug. 8, with separate time slots based on dog size.
Those seeking free water recreation can still use the New Generations Park splash pad through Labor Day, extending the season for families who rely on that amenity.
What to Expect Next
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the weather remains warm into early September, the splash pad may stay open beyond Labor Day, but this is subject to conditions. The outdoor pools will not reopen until the next season, likely in 2027.
Residents may see similar closing schedules in future years if staffing patterns continue to align with the academic calendar. However, specific dates for 2027 have not been announced.
For now, pool-goers should note the closing dates and take advantage of remaining open days. The announcement suggests that the summer season is wrapping up, with school and cooler temperatures on the horizon.
Source: hot975fm.com
