Texas Public Pool Council honors the City of Temple for excellence in safety, service, and family-friendly recreation
TEMPLE, TX (January 20, 2026) — For the second year in a row, Lions Junction Family Water Park has been recognized as the Texas Public Pool Council (TPPC) Water Park of the Year, earning the 2025 honor for its continued excellence in operations, safety, guest experience, innovation, and community impact.
The TPPC Water Park of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding public water park in Texas that demonstrates excellence in operations, safety, guest experience, innovation, and community impact. This award is presented to a facility that consistently exceeds industry standards while providing a safe, welcoming, and memorable aquatic experience for visitors of all ages.
Facilities considered for this recognition exemplify best practices in aquatic management, including comprehensive staff training, proactive maintenance and water quality management, effective risk management strategies, and exceptional customer service. Award recipients also demonstrate a strong commitment to creativity, continuous improvement, and responsiveness to community needs.
"Receiving the Texas Public Pool Council Water Park of the Year Award is an incredible honor and a true reflection of the dedication, professionalism, and passion of our aquatics team. This recognition highlights the City of Temple’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality, and innovative recreational experiences for our community. Our staff works tirelessly to create a welcoming environment where families can make lasting memories, and this award belongs to every team member who shows up each day with pride and purpose."
Claryce Free, Aquatics Program Manager
In addition to its popular attractions, Lions Junction Family Water Park offers a wide range of programming designed to serve the community year-round, including swim lessons for children of all skill levels. The park also hosts seasonal events and specialty programs such as water walking sessions, family-focused activities, and community celebrations. Together, these offerings reinforce Lions Junction’s commitment to providing accessible, engaging, and high-quality aquatic experiences for residents of all ages.
For more information about Lions Junction Family Water Park, including hours, programs, and upcoming events, visit templeparks.com/aquatics.