Sad news for theme park history lovers: Clementon Park and Splash World, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, has announced its permanent closure following the end of its 2026 operating season. The New Jersey park shared the bittersweet news via social media on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

A Park With Deep Roots

Clementon Park and Splash World first opened its gates way back in 1907 as Clementon Lake Park in Clementon, New Jersey. That makes it one of just over a dozen remaining trolley parks still standing in the United States — a rare and cherished piece of American amusement park history. The park operated under independent ownership for several decades before being sold in 2011 and later put up for auction in 2021. It was then purchased by IB Parks & Entertainment, which successfully opened the park for the 2021 season and kept it running for five years.

The Closure Announcement

On Wednesday, the park took to Facebook to thank its community and confirm the difficult decision to close. Their heartfelt message read:

As we close out our 2026 season, we want to sincerely thank our guests, Season Passholders, team members and community for being part of another summer at Clementon Park & Splash World.

After five memorable years, we are saddened to announce that we have made the difficult decision to close the park and plan to offer the park for sale.

It has been a privilege to care for a place that has meant so much to generations of families. We are hopeful that we will find a buyer who shares our love for Clementon Park and will carry its history and legacy forward.

Additional details regarding the sale will be shared as they become available.

Thank you for the memories, the support and five wonderful seasons. We are truly grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.

Looking Ahead: Could a New Chapter Be on the Horizon?

While the closure is certainly a loss, the park's owners are holding out hope that the right buyer will step in and carry the 119-year-old destination forward. On the park's official website, the owners expressed their optimism, writing:

Five seasons. Countless memories and a future filled with possibility.

Clementon Park has brought generations together through summer days, first rides, big splashes and family traditions. We welcome serious inquiries from those who see the opportunity to build upon that legacy and shape what comes next.

For now, Clementon Park and Splash World is not scheduled to operate under new ownership in 2027. The park is being offered for sale, and additional details about that process will be shared as they become available.

Did you ever visit Clementon Park and Splash World? We'd love to hear your memories in the comments below!