Travel
Splash, learn, and explore all summer in Seoul’s northeast parks
Haps Magazine Korea
July 25, 2025
(Image: Seoul Metropolitan Government)
As summer temperatures soar, Dream Forest in Gangbuk-gu is turning into a vibrant escape for families.
In celebration of the summer vacation season, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has opened seven children’s water play areas across three major parks in the city’s northeast — Dream Forest, Seoul Changpowon, and Jungnang Camping Forest — all available through August 14.
Located in one of Seoul’s largest parks, Dream Forest offers a range of water features in front of its “Imagination Art Museum,” including a giant water bucket, jumping fountains, and the popular Mirror Pond, which allows toddlers and young children to safely wade through shallow waters. Parents and children can cool off together by crossing playful water pathways or dancing through misty spray fountains.
At Jungnang Camping Forest, families can enjoy an array of water attractions like water tunnels, palm tree buckets, and more, while relaxing or playing on its wide grassy lawns with bubbles, games, and picnic fun. This park is especially popular for multi-generational visits.
The newest water play zone is in Seoul Changpowon, a nature-themed ecological park near Dobongsan Station. This site offers a uniquely designed environment inspired by irises and medicinal plants, complete with a foot water park, sand play area, spray fountains, and a barefoot red clay trail. Designed as a four-season flower garden, it provides a one-of-a-kind nature experience in the heart of the city.
All water playgrounds operate five times daily from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., with each session lasting 40 minutes. In addition, scenic water features like waterfalls and ponds are also active from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., making these parks perfect for a refreshing day out. Facilities close every Monday for maintenance, and operations may be adjusted in case of severe weather or air quality alerts.
Safety is a top priority, with on-site lifeguards, shaded rest areas, and changing facilities provided at every location. All water used is carefully monitored and filtered for cleanliness and child safety.
Beyond splashing around, Dream Forest and Jungnang Camping Forest also offer a diverse lineup of 22 special summer vacation programs including nighttime insect exploration tours, nature walks, cultural workshops, and wellness classes. These are tailored to help children connect with nature while having fun. Some require pre-registration through the Seoul Public Service Reservation platform, while others are open for on-site participation.
Inside Dream Forest Art Center, families can take part in gardening classes, kids’ garden school, and plant consultations. These hands-on nature experiences are hosted at the Garden Culture Healing Center, which also features a self-serve café and scenic rest areas overlooking the forest.
Also running until September 9 is the interactive exhibition “Rolling Ball Museum”, held in the Art Center’s Dream Gallery.
This science-themed show invites visitors to observe marbles moving through various mechanical courses — a unique experience blending physics and fun. The exhibit is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., except Mondays.
Tickets are ₩13,000 for adults, ₩16,000 for young children, and ₩18,000 for students, with group bookings available via www.rollingball.co.kr.