Honor Award

Prophetstown State Park Aquatic Center for Indiana Department of Natural Resources

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The project to construct a family aquatic center at Prophetstown was intended to expand recreational opportunities at one of the newest state parks in Indiana. The overall 2,000+ acre park, located at the confluence of the Tippecanoe River and the Wabash River, includes extensive oak savannah and prairie restoration, a historic farmstead, native American exhibits, camping, trails, and access to the Tippecanoe River and wetland features, but is continuing to expand facilities to enhance the user experience.

  

 

 

 

 

 

Incorporating an engaging aquatic facility into the open prairie landscape aesthetic without being garish was a key project goal. Initially designed for an approximate bather load of 700, with a plan for expansion to 1,200; components include a zero-depth leisure pool, water spray features, a large interactive water dumping feature, open water play, body and tube slides, a lazy river with adventure channel, lawn areas for sunbathing, lawn volleyball, deck area, wireless access for guests, bathhouse building, and concessions. Other features include a pool mechanical building, new access road, bike paths connected to the park trail network, parking lot, perimeter fencing, and landscaping that carries through the “prairie” theme of the park.

Subdued colors, utilization of natural materials, and thoughtful placement within the existing topography were points of emphasis. Views to and from the aquatic complex were planned to minimize views of parked cars and the impact on the park aesthetic.

The new aquatic center opened in 2013 and allows both new and returning park visitors the ability to cool off and have fun at the new facility.