Rules and Guidelines
General
- Children ages 12 and under must be accompanied at all times by a guardian age 16 or older.
- Smoking and electronic cigarettes/e-cigarettes/vapor cigarettes are not permitted on our property.
- Guests must wear shirts and shoes when not on the pool deck or in the water park. This attire is required in the lobby and other common areas of the facility.
- Guests must refrain from littering and should use provided trash receptacles.
- For the safety and convenience of all our guests, adults and children must refrain from swimming when sick.
- Bus parking is available in the lower lot at MeadowView Convention Center.
- Running, horseplay, profane language or loitering is prohibited.
- No inappropriate touching or extreme public displays of affection will be permitted.
*Lifeguards are authorized to enforce all safety rules and facility policies posted or otherwise approved by facility management.
Locker Room Use
- We highly recommend all Kingsport Aquatic Center lockers have locks if in use. Visitors will need to provide their own locks to secure their personal property in the locker rooms. Locks may be purchased at the front desk.
- Lockers are for daily use only. Locks shall be removed by the close of business daily. Remaining locks will be forcibly removed by the Aquatic Center Staff. City of Kingsport shall not be responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings.
- All items must be stored in a locker or taken out onto the pool deck or balcony. Kingsport Aquatic Center will not be responsible for items left unattended on benches or on the locker room floors.
- Children ages six and older must use appropriate locker room, or one of the family changing rooms.
- No food, drinks, gum, or glass allowed in locker room.
- Management may, at its discretion, open and search any locker on suspicion of illegal substances or firearms.
- Running, horseplay, profane language or loitering is prohibited.
- Shower before entering pool area.
- Report any inappropriate behavior to manager on duty.
Food and Drink Guidelines
- No outside food or drink is permitted at the Kingsport Aquatic Center.
- Empty, refillable water bottles are allowed and may be filled at any of the KAC’s free water stations or fountains. Additionally, the Oasis concession stand will provide free ice and water.
- Guests may leave snacks in the car to take a break from swimming to eat, then re-enter the park.
- The KAC allows baby formula and baby food. Please do not bring glass-packaged food and make sure all formula/food is clearly labeled for babies. Guests may bring nursing water to mix formula, but otherwise water falls under guidelines 1 and 2 above. Please take advantage of our free water stations, water fountains or water available at the Oasis to mix baby formula.
Pool Use Guidelines
- All patrons entering pool facility must pay admission fee. Lifeguards are responsible for all patrons in and out of the water.
- Any person with an infectious disease; nasal or ear discharge; exposed sub-skin tissue; or wearing a bandage may not use this pool.
- APPROPRIATE swimming attire is required. No t-shirts or cut-offs in lieu of bathing suits.
- Children ages 3 and under must be within arms’ reach of a parent or supervising patron of 16 years of age or older while in the pool. Children ages 12 and under must be accompanied at all times by a supervising patron 16 years of age or older while using pools.
- Swimmers must shower before entering pool.
- The use of profanity is prohibited.
- Unnecessary roughness; pushing; backward jumping or diving; horseplay; shoulder rides; and running are prohibited. Piggy-backing is permitted by responsible adults with small children.
- The general public is not allowed to teach any swim lessons or coaching sessions in the pools. To rent lane space for lessons or coaching, please contact Madison Gump at (423)343-9767 or madisongump@kingsporttn.gov.
- No outside food or drink is allowed in the facility unless in conjunction with a private rental. A variety of concessions is available on-site.
- No food, drinks, gum, glass or smoking, including e-cigarettes, on pool deck. Food and drink are permitted in designated areas only.
- Personal flotation devices must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved. Wearer must remain in shallow water under direct adult supervision (within arm’s reach).
- Inner tubes are designated for the Lazy River only. USCG approved flotation devices are available for use throughout the park. Any questions concerning these matters should be directed to the Pool Manager on Duty.
- Diving is only permitted in designated areas 6ft 6in deep or greater.
- The appropriate use of personal toys and play items during recreational swim periods is determined by the Pool Manager on Duty. Throwing or tossing any objects, including kickboards, is prohibited. Kickboards are for classes or adult lap swim only.
- Use of masks, fins and snorkels are permitted only in lap swim area, provided they are being used appropriately. Self-contained breathing devices are not permitted except under supervision of a scuba instructor.
- Lap swimming is permitted in designated areas only. Please observe lane signage. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injuries.
- Prolonged underwater distance swimming is prohibited.
- Management will not be responsible for lost or stolen articles. Personal undergarments left at the facility will be discarded.
- Obey lifeguard instructions. Repeat violators may be ejected from the premises.
- Physically challenged individuals may request pool staff assistance when using chair lift and the aquatic wheelchairs.
- Street shoes are discouraged on the pool deck.
- Immediately report any injuries or incidents to pool staff.
Lap Swim Guidelines
More than one swimmer can use the lap lanes at any given time. When lanes must be shared, follow these guidelines to ensure safety and courtesy.
- Observe lane signage. When lap swim space is limited, circle swimming is recommended.
- Notify swimmer(s) when entering the lane.
- When circle swimming, swim on the right side of the lane in a counter-clockwise direction, staying near the lane rope.
- When passing, notify swimmers with a tap on the foot and pass in the middle of the lane. If you are continually passing or being passed, move to the next appropriate lane.
- Refer to the lap lane schedule regarding lap swim availability.
- Recommended maximum swimmers pare lane for lap swim is four (4) for short course (25 yards) or eight (8) for long course (50 meters). Please refer any inquiries to the head lifeguard or pool manager on duty.
Diving Board Rules
- Only one person at a time on the board.
- Only one bounce allowed on the board.
- After water entry please swim to the ladder to exit the water.
- No flotation devices or goggles allowed on the diving board.
- Entry into water from end of board only.
- No swimming in the deep end while diving is occurring.
Water Slide Rules
- All riders must be at least 48 inches tall. (For safety reasons, riders must be at least six inches taller than the water depth in the pool at the end of the slides, which is 42 inches. Those shorter than 48 inches may enjoy the smaller slides in the pool’s play structure.)
- Maximum rider weight is 300 pounds.
- WARNING: Water depth is 3 feet 6 inches.
- Non-swimmers are not permitted.
- All riders must ride feet-first while lying on their back with arms crossed across their chest. Do not go down the slide head-first. Do not sit up while riding the slide.
- Riders must enter the slide in a sitting position and wait for instructions from the lifeguard stationed at the slide starter tub.
- Do not propel yourself into the ride.
- Only one rider at a time. Absolutely no trains or chains of riders are permitted.
- No running, standing, kneeling, rotating, tumbling or stopping in the flume. Arms and hands must remain inside the flume at all times. Riders should remain in proper riding position until forward movement is terminated. At no time should the rider attempt to stand up while on the slide prior to coming to a complete stop in the splash-out area.
- No tubes, mats or life jackets are permitted on the water slide.
- No combs or foreign objects are allowed in pockets and no jewelry can be worn while riding the slide. No cut-off jeans or swimwear with exposed zippers, buckles, rivets or metal ornamentation; only approved swimsuits are allowed.
- The line should form on the deck with one rider on each landing and one rider in the starter tub. Wait until landing area is clear before entering.
- Riders must be in good health. Elderly persons, those suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure epilepsy or persons using prescription medication should consult their physician before using the slides. Individuals with medical conditions including, but not limited to, pregnancy, heart or back problems should not ride.
- Do not use slide while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- No diving from the slide.
- Leave the plunge pool promptly after entering.
- Rider assumes all risk of injury due to misuse of the slide or failure to follow these rules.
- WARNING: Failure to follow rules can result in serious injury.
Lily Pad Crossing Rules
- A swim test is required for use of structure. Participants must be able to swim 20 yards unassisted without stopping or touching the bottom. Lifeguards will administer the swim test and provide a wristband to successful swimmers.
- All individuals must be tall enough to reach the yellow rope without jumping or help from another person. If you are not tall enough to reach the rope without assistance or jumping you will not be allowed to go onto the lily pads.
- Only one person at a time is allowed on the lily pads.
- Floatation devices are not permitted.
- Feet must stay on the lily pads at all times.
- Swim directly to the nearest pool ladder after exiting the structure.
- Only one swimmer at a time in the drop zone.
- Please follow lifeguard instructions at all times.
Commando Aqua Run Inflatable Attraction Rules
- A swim test required for use of structure. Participants must be able to swim 20 yards unassisted without stopping or touching the bottom. Lifeguards will administer swim test and provide a wristband to successful swimmers.
- Please follow lifeguard instructions at all times.
- No running onto the structure.
- No swimming underneath the structure.
- No pushing others off the structure.
- Feet-first entry into the water from the slide exit is required.
- Swim directly to the nearest pool ladder after exiting the structure.
- A maximum of six (6) users are allowed to progress through the aqua run at any given time.
- Please refrain from wearing any sharp objects such as rings, other jewelry or locker keys to avoid damage to the structure.
AquaClimb Rules
- A swim test required for use of structure. Participants must be able to swim 20 yards unassisted without stopping or touching the bottom. Lifeguards will administer swim test and provide a wristband to successful swimmers.
- Please follow lifeguard instructions at all times.
- Only one climber at a time on each wall.
- Only one swimmer at a time in the Drop Zone.
- No Diving. Feet first entries only.
- Flotation devices are not permitted.
- Swim directly to the nearest pool ladder after exiting the structure.
Inclement Weather Policy
- The opening of the facility may be delayed due to weather conditions. The Kingsport Aquatic Center reserves the right to suspend admissions sales when storms are nearby.
- All conditions listed may lead to the closure of the outdoor facility/pools.
- Air Temperature
- The air temperature must be at least 67 degrees by the scheduled opening time.
- Opening may be delayed until a 67-degree temperature is reached.
- Rain
- After opening, the Kingsport Aquatic Center will stay open during light rain.
- Exceptions include: the rain prohibits the lifeguards from being able to see the bottom of the pool.
- Severe Weather*
1. Thunder: If thunder is heard, then the pool will be closed immediately, and all pool patrons will be cleared from the pools for 30 minutes. The pool will remain closed until 30 minutes after the last indication of thunder. *
2. Lightning: If lightning is sighted, the pool will be closed immediately, and all pool patrons will be cleared from the pools and deck spaces for 30 minutes. The pool and deck spaces will remain closed until 30 minutes after the last indication of lightning. * - Closure: Outdoor Pools may close for the day if the following conditions exist:
1. If heavy, steady rain precludes lifeguard visibility.
2. If thunder or lightning persists for more than 2 hours.
3. If thunder or lightning exists within 1 hour of closing.
4. If the air temperature is less than 67 degrees.
- Air Temperature
- Indoor Pools Policy during Severe Storms*
1. Thunder and Lightning: If lightning and thunder are directly overhead, the pools will be cleared and remain closed until the storm is ½ mile away for 30 minutes.
2. Closure: Indoor pools may close if the following conditions exist.
1. If thunder or lightning exists within 1 hour of closing.
*As recommended by the American Red Cross Advisory Council (ACFASP Advisory) and NOAA
- Tornado Warning
- The pool will be closed immediately until 30 minutes after the last warning.
- No refunds will be issued due to the rain.
- Guests requesting a rain check MUST have been in the park for less than 2 hours to receive a rain check.
- During half-price admission hours, a half-price pass will be issued.
- Guests MUST present their day-of daily admissions receipts for all individuals wanting to receive a rain check.
- Guests requesting a rain check MUST have been in the park for less than 2 hours to receive a rain check.
Please check our Facebook/Instagram and website for up-to-date information. All closings will be communicated through the website and/or social media. Signs will also be posted at the front gate of the closed facility.
To read the full Weather Policy, click here.
General Information
Where is the Kingsport Aquatic Center located?
The Kingsport Aquatic Center is located at 1820 Meadowview Parkway in Kingsport, Tennessee.
What is the Kingsport Aquatic Center’s phone number?
Our front desk number is 423-343-9758. Someone will take your call during our normal operating hours.
What are the Kingsport Aquatic Center’s hours?
For hours of operation, click here. Operating hours may change on holidays.
Where can I find upcoming pool closures?
For upcoming pool closures, visit our hours page. You can also follow our Facebook and Instagram for timely updates.
Can I reserve the pool for a private party?
Yes. The Kingsport Aquatic Center’s pools are available for swim meets, lane rentals and private parties. For more information, click the “Rentals” tab at the top of our website.
What forms of payment are accepted?
The Kingsport Aquatic Center accepts cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and debit cards for day passes, programming fees and other on-site purchases. Memberships are payable by automatic draft from bank account, Visa, MasterCard, Discover or debit card. We do not accept American Express.
When is the Outdoor Water Park open?
The Outdoor Water Park is open early May through Labor Day. For information about outdoor park operating hours, click here.
What are the pools’ temperatures?
The Competition Pool is 79-82° F.
The Warm Pool is 87-89° F.
The indoor recreation pool is 84.5-85° F.
Day Passes
What are admission prices?
For information about day pass rates, click here.
I’m not going to swim. Do I still need to pay?
Yes. Everyone who enters must pay because they contribute to the capacity of the facility and are still under supervision of lifeguards and staff in the event of emergency.
If I purchase a day pass, may I leave and come back?
Yes. Anyone who purchases a day pass may leave and reenter the facility on the day of the day pass purchase but will be required to have the proper wristband for reentry.
Do I get a refund if the facility closes for lightning?
No. If it appears that lightning storms are developing, staff will advise patrons as they enter so that customers may decide whether to stay or come back another time. If lightning begins after paying and entering the facility, staff will usher patrons into the indoor facility. Patrons outside are removed from the water for 30 minutes every time thunder is heard in the area. They are removed from the outdoor deck if lightning is seen. No refunds will be awarded because the indoor facility will still be open. The indoor facility will only close if the storm is heard right over the indoor facility pools.
Who is eligible for a senior discount?
Anyone age 55 or older is eligible for discounted senior rates.
Memberships
Who is included in my family membership?
A “family” for membership purposes is defined as four individuals residing in the same household, with at least one individual being 18 years or older. Photo ID may be required to verify a common address. A family membership is limited to 4 people with an additional fee for additional members of the same household.
What are the benefits I receive as a KAC member?
For the different membership levels and benefits, click here.
How do I cancel my monthly membership?
To cancel your membership, click here.
What benefits do I receive as a YMCA member?
For more information about YMCA membership benefits, please visit this page.
Season Passes
What is a season pass?
If you are only planning to visit the KAC during the summer, then this is the plan for you.
- The Season Pass entitles the user to admission to all open pools from May 1 through Labor Day.
- The Outdoor Water Park will be open daily beginning May 25 through August 2 and open weekends only in May (beginning May 18), August and September (until Labor Day), weather permitting.
- Outdoor Water Park Schedule:
- Weekends Only (Saturday and Sunday):
- May 18 – 19
- August 3 – 4, 10 – 11, 17 – 18, 24 – 25, 31
- September 1
- Open on Monday, September 2
- Open Daily:
- May 25 – August 2
- Weekends Only (Saturday and Sunday):
- Please note, the Water Park opening is weather permitting. The indoor facility will be open during most inclement weather.
- Season pass holders and KAC members will have early access to the Outdoor Water Park 30 minutes before regular opening (except Sundays and holidays).
- YMCA members will enter with the general public when the park opens.
What are season pass prices?
For information about season pass rates, click here.
Who is eligible for a Splash Pack?
You can have four people from the same household on a Splash Pack. You can add additional members within the same household for $15 per extra person.
Who is eligible for a senior discount?
Anyone age 55 or older is eligible for discounted senior rates. Click here for season pass rates.
Safety Rules and Regulations
Are lifejackets or inflatable toys allowed and does the facility provide any?
All personal flotation devices must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved. Wearers must remain in shallow water under direct adult supervision (within arm’s reach). Inner tubes are designated for the lazy river only. USCG-approved flotation devices are available for use throughout the facility. Any questions concerning pool toys should be directed to the pool manager on duty.
At what age can I leave my children alone?
Children must be 13 years or older to visit the Kingsport Aquatic Center without supervision. Children ages 12 and under must be accompanied at all times by a guardian age 16 or older.
What is the height requirement to use the water slides?
Yes. For safety reasons, patrons must be a minimum height of 48 inches to use the water slides.
Amenities and Programming
Are family changing rooms available?
Yes. There are four family changing rooms just outside the entrance to the Warm Pool. There are also family bathrooms outside at the outdoor pavilion.
Are lockers available?
Yes. Lockers are available at no charge. Kingsport Aquatic Center highly recommends using locks on all lockers. Visitors will need to provide their own locks to secure their personal property in the locker rooms. Locks may be purchased at the front desk.
Are swim diapers available for sale?
Yes. Swim diapers are available for $2.00 at the Kingsport Aquatic Center reception desk. All children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper or a cloth diaper with a tight-fitting rubber pant.
How do I register for private swim lessons?
Register for private swim lessons online or at the Kingsport Aquatic Center reception desk.
Aquatic Exercise
What is the length of the Competition Pool?
50 meters one way when setup for long course – 25 yards one way if split for short course.
When does the Competition Pool offer the short course vs. the long course for lap swimmers?
The 25-yard short course is available from mid-August through mid-April; the 50-meter long course is available from mid-April through mid-August.
How many laps make a mile?
In the Competition Pool, 33 laps in the 25-yard short course or 15 laps in 50-meter long course make one mile.
One mile in short course (25 yard) = 33 laps (down and back)
One mile in short course (25 yard) = 66 lengths (one end of the pool to another)
One mile in long course (50 meters) = 15 laps (down and back)
One mile in long course (50 meters) = 30 lengths (one end of the pool to another)