Splash Park, Dog Park Opens Next Month At Yunker Farm

MOKENA, IL -- A Splash Park and Dog Park, the newest amenities at Yunker Farm in Mokena, should be open by mid-June according to a Mokena Park District official.

“We hoped to have them open by the end of May but there have been a couple of little delays. They should both be open probably by mid June,” said Mike Selep, executive director of the Mokena Park District. Selep says both the new amenities are expected to be immensely popular with both Mokena residents and visitors.

“Families in the area are really excited about this,” Selep said of the Splash Park. “It is one of those things in which it doesn’t matter someone’s ability in the water. They can enjoy the splash pad and it’s something the whole family can enjoy. A nice amenity.”

Even before it opens, its popularity is apparent. More than 600 Mokena families have taken advantage of the free yearly passes the Park District is offering local residents until June 4.

The splash pad will be connected to a new barn structure in which attendees will pass through on their way to the splash pad. Its public hours will be in the mornings and afternoons, but private parties will be available in the evenings.

The dog park will include two separate sections, one area for larger dogs and another for smaller ones. Residents can purchase a yearly pass to the park for $5.

The cost is $15 for non-residents. Dogs entering the park will need to have their shots updated and owners must adhere to a variety of other rules and regulations.

“People really do like to have a spot where they can let their dogs off the leash and have a place where they can socialize with each other,” Selep said. “This is something the community has wanted for quite some time.”

Another addition to Yunker Farm this summer will be a “band shell,” which will host concerts.

“We’ll have a spot that’s built in and ready for entertainment,” Selep said.

Two concerts have already been booked at the new space: ‘Identity Crisis’ on June 8 and ‘The Stingrays’ on July 9.

Yunker Farm is not the only Park District property receiving improvements this year, however.

Right across the street, an expansion at The Oaks will include a new gymnasium and multi-purpose room. That will be ready by the fall, Selep said.