Portage Park Pool (Outdoor) — Attraction in Jefferson Township

There is no shallow end pool you immediately enter 4ft of water which isn’t great if you have younger children who can’t swim and want to just kind of hangout in the water. The water is absolutely freezing. The splash pad is more fun for them but there is always a wait because they are usually at capacity since it is smaller. If you decide to leave to use the bathroom some lifeguards will let you back in others will require you to lose your spot and wait in line again. I suggest arriving as soon as open swim starts because once it ends everyone is required to get out and wait in line again for the next open swim 15 min later. I also suggest bringing a lock if you have a bag. Bathrooms are disgusting and there are only two stalls. To get to the changing area you go through a long hallway and all stalls are outside. Majority of people do not use them and instead just stand there and change or try to use a bathroom stall. They do seem to be fully staffed, however, each life guard does seem to have...

I've been there twice this season and a lot has changed. Due to Covid they are restricting capacity. 100 people are allowed in the main pool and 30 people are allowed in the baby pool. The diving pool has water in it but it hasn't been open on either of my visits. They call a rest break every hour and everyone must get out and get in line again if they want to keep on swimming. There is always a long line. It's still free and you don't need to show an ID. The 18+ sunbathing deck is closed off and all lounge chairs have been removed. Lounging is strongly discouraged in order to allow more patrons into the pool. Bags are allowed and they aren't spraying you down with a hose when you enter like they did a few years ago. They have lockers on site so bring a lock if you are concerned about...

Nice main pool, max depth less than 6', but issues with changing areas. Temperature of water can be chilly at times. Stone age bathrooms and showers. Besides an outdoor bench, no place to sit and change at Mens. Women's has one handicap stall to sit and change. Lockers are available just bring your own lock. NO BAGS allowed on pool deck. You will be asked to leave your things elsewhere. Towels, hats, water bottles, (no pool toys) except dumbbells and flip flops/water shoes allowed. Entry Gates monitored at all times. Note: multiple diving boards and dive platforms available in adjoining...