Deer Park Expands Swim Programs Across Two Aquatic Centers This Summer

Deer Park Parks and Recreation opened registration this week for summer swim sessions at the Deer Park Aquatic Center on Lakeside Drive and the Oakwood Pool on Birch Street.

The push comes as local wellness groups report steady demand for low-impact group exercise amid rising summer temperatures. City data from the previous season showed pool visits climbed 18 percent between June and August, with families and older adults filling most weekday slots. Officials point to the active wellness culture in Deer Park as the driver, where residents already use trails along the riverfront and group classes at the community center on Main Street.

Two venues, multiple age groups

The Deer Park Aquatic Center runs a learn-to-swim program for children ages 4 to 10 on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, while Oakwood Pool hosts aqua aerobics for adults 55 and older on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons. Both locations also schedule family swim times on weekends, with lanes reserved for lap swimmers from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. daily. The Parks and Recreation office at 850 Elm Street handles all sign-ups and keeps separate wait lists for each age bracket.

Program fees start at $35 for a four-week block for residents, with non-residents paying $50. Last year 1,450 people completed at least one session across the two pools, according to the department’s June 2025 report. Equipment such as kickboards and noodles is supplied at no extra charge.

How to join

Residents can register online through the city website or in person at the Elm Street office before July 20. Spots fill on a first-come basis, and staff recommend checking the calendar for any weather-related changes. Those new to the programs can attend a free orientation at either pool on July 12.