Facilities

Waterworks Park is a result of a project completed by the Board of Water (Pueblo Water) to remove the dangerous Southside Diversion Dam that was located below City Park along the Arkansas River. With the completion of Waterworks Park, it allows the Arkansas River to become fully navigable from below the Pueblo Dam to near Runyon Lake at Moffat St.

Parking/Access: You can park near Ballfield #1 (The Hole) by the Blake Harris Skate Park on the northern side of City Park. There is a steep concrete sidewalk path to Waterworks Park. Access is also available from the west from the Arkansas River Trail by the Nature Center Rd/11th St. Parking Lot Trailhead, or Nature Wildlife Discovery Center-River Campus and also the east from Wildhorse Creek Trailhead.

Water is unpredictable and adventures on the river come with inherent risk. Before entering the water, know your limits as a water-sport participant. This includes considering the depth of the water and the speed in which it flows. 

Safety First! Know Before You Go

• There is no lifeguard on duty. Enter water at your own risk.
• Wear proper safety equipment (PFD) at all times.
• When the river runs high—particularly during spring mountain run-off or following heavy storms—there can be unforeseen hazards in the water.
• Off leash dogs are prohibited. 
• Share the river. Everyone is here to have fun and enjoy the water.
• Know the weather and plan accordingly. If you hear thunder or see lightning, leave the water immediately.
• Never bring glass to the river and clean up trash before leaving the park. 
• Write your name and phone number on your float. If you and your float become separated, this helps responders verify if someone is missing or in need of help. 
• The water is cold and high flows can be unsafe. If you are caught in high or swift water, take the safety position and move toward the shore. To get into the safety position, get to your back, cradle your safety vest with a slight bend at waist and try to keep your toes out of the water with your feet pointing downstream. 

In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.