Your Guide to Splash Pads, Pools & Water Fun in the Twin Counties

Summer is officially here, and with temperatures rising across Eastern North Carolina, families are looking for ways to stay cool while making memories close to home. Fortunately, Nash and Edgecombe counties offer several affordable options for outdoor fun, whether you're looking to splash, swim, ride a historic train, or simply spend a day enjoying the sunshine.

From community pools and splash pads to one of Rocky Mount's most beloved summer attractions, here's your guide to cooling off in the Twin Counties this season.

Sunset Park Amusement Center | Rocky Mount

A summer tradition for generations, Sunset Park remains one of Rocky Mount's most popular family destinations.

Located on 25 acres along the Tar River, Sunset Park offers far more than just water activities. Families can enjoy the Spray Play Water Park, a historic miniature train, antique carousel, bug kiddie ride, playgrounds, sports courts, picnic shelters, and concessions featuring ice cream, snow cones, and other summertime favorites.

One of the park's most unique attractions is its miniature train, originally purchased by the Rocky Mount Jaycees in 1952. The train continues to delight visitors more than 70 years later.

📍 1550 River Drive, Rocky Mount

💲 Admission to the Amusement Center is $5 per person and includes unlimited access to the spray park, train, carousel, and bug ride.

🕐 Summer Hours: Monday–Saturday: 1 PM – 7 PM Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM

Denton Street Pool | Rocky Mount

Looking for a traditional swimming pool experience? Denton Street Pool has been a summer favorite for Rocky Mount families for years.

Operated by Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation, the pool offers public swim sessions, swim lessons, and a safe environment for children and families to enjoy throughout the summer months.

📍 1111 North Denton Street, Rocky Mount

Glover Park Splash Pad | Nashville

One of Nash County's newest summer attractions, the Glover Park Splash Pad has quickly become a favorite spot for families looking to cool off.

Located in downtown Nashville, the splash pad provides a free and accessible option for children to enjoy water play during the hot summer months while parents enjoy the nearby park amenities.

📍 174 J W Glover Memorial, Loyd Park Dr, Nashville

💲 Free Admission

Harrison Family YMCA | Rocky Mount

Looking for a way to stay active and cool off regardless of the weather? The Harrison Family YMCA offers an indoor swimming pool that provides year-round opportunities for recreation, exercise, and family fun.

The YMCA's aquatic facilities serve swimmers of all ages and skill levels through a variety of programs and open swim opportunities. Whether you're introducing a child to the water, participating in a fitness class, or simply looking for an indoor activity on a rainy summer afternoon, the YMCA offers a welcoming environment for the entire family.

📍 804 Stone Park Court, Rocky Mount

For membership information, day passes, and swim schedules, contact the Harrison Family YMCA.

Tarboro Community Pool | Tarboro

For families in Edgecombe County, the Tarboro Community Pool offers a fun and affordable way to beat the summer heat.

The facility includes a large swimming pool, diving area, children's swimming opportunities, swim lessons, and public swim sessions throughout the season.

📍 Recreation Park, Tarboro

More Summer Fun in the Twin Counties

Not every summer adventure requires a pool.

Consider adding these local favorites to your family's summer bucket list:

🚣 Kayak or canoe the Tar River

🥾 Explore the walking trails at City Lake Park

🎣 Spend an afternoon fishing at local parks and river access points

🍦 Grab a sweet treat from Scoops on Main

⚾ Catch a Tarboro River Bandits baseball game

🌳 Enjoy a picnic at one of the many parks throughout Nash and Edgecombe counties

Make a Splash This Summer

Whether you're riding the historic train at Sunset Park, cooling off at Nashville's splash pad, taking a swim at Denton Street Pool, or spending the day at Tarboro Community Pool, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy summer without leaving the Twin Counties.

Pack the sunscreen, grab a towel, and make the most of everything Nash and Edgecombe counties have to offer this summer!