At the Stowe Family YMCA, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the fun! That’s why our new Water Park was designed with accessibility in mind—so all members of our community can splash, relax, and play with ease and confidence.

Accessible Features Include:

• Zero-depth entry for smooth, gradual access into the water

• ADA-compliant chair lift to assist individuals with mobility needs

• Accessible locker rooms with private changing areas

• Wide, smooth walkways for easy navigation with wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers

We’re committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming space for all. If you have specific accessibility questions or needs, we’re happy to help—please contact us in advance so we can ensure your visit is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

Everything you need for a safe, fun, and refreshing day under the sun—right here at the Stowe Family YMCA Water Park!

All children under the age of 15 years must complete a swim test before getting in the pool. After testing, they are required to get their designated color band from a lifeguard before entering the pool. This helps our lifeguards quickly identify each child’s swim ability and ensure their safety.

ASSESMENT
To pass the swim assessment, participants must continuously complete the following without assistance or resting:

• Float: Swimmer must demonstrate a horizontal floating position on their back
  • 🟡 8-10 seconds floating and then stand up to regain a vertical position
  • 🟢 11-15 seconds floating and roll to front and start to swim
• Swim: Swimmer must demonstrate a freestyle stroke unassisted without stopping to rest
  • 🟡 15 feet in length
  • 🟢 25 feet in length
• Plunge & Tread: Swimmer must jump into the water and resurface and tread water maintaining a vertical position with face above water
  • 🟡 60 seconds
  • 🟢 90 seconds

Lifeguards have the authority to make the final decision on whether a swimmer passes or does not pass the swim test.

MARK
Swimmers who complete the swim test will be given a color band based on their performance:

• 🟡 Yellow Band – Access to the shallow end and water slides
• 🟢 Green Band – Access to all areas of the pool

PROTECT

Supervision Requirements for Children and Non-Swimmers

• All swimmers under 12 years of age must have active adult supervision in the pool area, unless they are participating in a YMCA-led program.

• All non-swimmers are required to have a parent or guardian in the water and within arm’s reach at all times—even if they are wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device.

Water Park Access: Guests & Nationwide Members

We’re excited to welcome members and their guests to the Stowe Family YMCA Water Park! 

Please review the access guidelines below:

• Monday–Friday:
  
  Gaston County Family YMCA members, Nationwide YMCA members, and guests of YMCA members are welcome.

  • Guests are welcome Monday–Friday:
    - With a YMCA member: $10/person*
    - Without a member: $20/person*

    *Guest rates include children 2 years and up. 

  • Photo ID is required for all guests age 16 and older

• Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays:
  Access is limited to Gaston County Family YMCA members only.
  Guests and Nationwide members are not permitted on weekends or holidays.

We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize member access during peak times and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all members and guests, the following floatation devices and toys are permitted in the aquatic facility:

Permitted Floatation Devices & Toys

• Coast Guard-approved lifejackets
• Coast Guard-approved Puddle jumpers
• Coast Guard-approved FLOATATION AIDS
• Dive sticks/rings
• Small, soft pool toys

Permitted Flotation Examples

Prohibited Floatation Devices & Toys

• Pool floats or lounge floats
• Swim rings or inflatable tubes
• Water wings (arm floaties)
• Water guns
• Pool Noodles
• Boogie boards or wave riders

Prohibited Floatation Examples

ADDITIONAL TOYS AND EQUIPMENT MUST BE APPROVED BY LIFEGUARDS OR AQUATICS DIRECTOR.

The YMCA requires immediate closure of all pools, both indoor and outdoor, in the event that lightning or thunder is present in or around the area.

Pools will remain closed until 30 minutes past the last visible lightning strike or episode of thunder.

ADULTS SHOULD NOT SWIM ALONE

CHILDREN SHOULD NOT USE THE SWIMMING POOL WITHOUT ADULT SUPERVISION

• Lifeguards have the final decision in all matters concerning your safety in and around the pool.

• Swimming without a lifeguard present is prohibited.

• Proper swimming attire must be worn at all times – no cut off shorts or t-shirts.

• Swim diapers are required for non-toilet trained children.

• Food or drink may not be consumed within 5 ft of the pool.

• All floatation devices must be US Coast Guard approved with parental accompaniment in the water. No air-inflatables.

• Glass items are not permitted in the pool area or locker rooms.

• Horseplay of any kind will not be tolerated. Hanging on the lane lines, float lines or starting blocks will not be permitted.

• No chewing gum allowed in the pool area or locker rooms.

• Children must pass the swim assessment to access the deep end or use of the slides.

• Diving only where permitted. Enter the water face forward.

• Use of the diving blocks is prohibited.

• To keep the pool deck free of hazards, please put all toys and water exercise equipment away after use.

• Breath-holding activities are not permitted in Y pools.

• Walk at all times.

• YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.

WATER SLIDE RULES

• Ride at your own risk.

• Maximum Operational load is one person (300lbs).

• No double riding or parents with small children.

• Participants must pass the swim assessment to use the slide.

• No swimming allowed in the landing area.

• No stopping on or blocking the slide.

• Adults may not catch other participants coming off the slide.

• Participants must slide feet first on their bottoms or backs.

• Floatation Devices, toys or other swim accessories are not allowed on the slide.

• Participants must wait for a signal from the staff to go.

• Exit the landing area quickly and orderly.

• Failure to follow the rules and instructions can lead to serious injuries and removal from the facility.

CAUTION: For safety reasons pregnant women and persons with heart conditions or back trouble should not ride the slide.

Our highly trained YMCA lifeguards are always on duty to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Certified in lifesaving techniques, water rescue, and first aid, they are prepared and ready to respond—so you can relax and have fun with peace of mind. Every YMCA employee is thoroughly vetted, qualified, caring, and CPR/AED/ First Aid Certified.

Interested in becoming a lifeguard with the YMCA or getting your certification? Learn more about our Lifeguard Certification Courses.

HOW TO GET STARTED

1. Complete our Party Request Form to get started on your reservation.
2. After the interest form is submitted a YMCA Party coordinator will contact the host within 2 business days to secure the date and discuss event details. 
3. $50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure the event date.

Complete our Request Form to Get Started

Explore all our birthday party options at the Stowe Family YMCA. There’s something for everyone!