'This Is So Exciting:' Experienced Kayaker Weighs In On Tulsa’s New Wave Park

Tulsans got to check out the new Wave Park on the river over the weekend during the city's “Big Dam Party.”

While several people hit the water and tested it out, the park recommends using boats or rafts made for strong rapids.

Over Labor Day weekend, many people made their way out for the opening of the city's newest attraction, the Tulsa Wave Park. While some made sure to give it a spin, others wanted to see it before getting in the water.

"I would encourage people to first come out and check it out like I am, and then let's have fun. That's why we're here, that's why we spent all this money," said Jim Carrington, an experienced kayaker.

Although Carrington considers himself experienced, he had concerns about parts of the flume.

"It's interesting how you can see loops in the water that I didn't know were there. I haven't figured out how you get back to the top, and things like this are extremely scary, but if you have the right skill, I assume that's what you want," he said.

Zink Lake and the Tulsa Wave Park have rules, including no swimming or wading, a recommendation to wear life jackets, and a recommendation that parents watch their kids. Signs also indicate there are no lifeguards on duty, and people are advised to enter the water at their own risk.

"It's intended to be interesting for kayaks; it's not intended for wading or swimming, it's really not. And there's a pretty good drop-off, and there is a current, so let's take the kids somewhere else," Carrington said.

Whether you were there for a walk on the paths or a trip down the flume, Carrington hopes everyone gets a chance to enjoy the Tulsa Wave Park.

"I mean, this is new to Tulsa, this is so exciting. Let's make sure we all treat it with respect, right? Let's have fun, but treat it with respect, and I think it's going to be fantastic," he said.

Related Coverage:

1. Tulsa's River West Park Welcomes Back Raft Race After 5-Year Hiatus
2. 'This Whole Place Is Special:' Tulsans Ready To Celebrate At The Big Dam Party
3. Big Dam Party In Tulsa: Parade, Music, And Giant Duck Highlight Labor Day Festivities
4. 'Totally Love It:' Tulsa's Big Dam Party Draws Crowds TO Zink Lake
5. Tulsa's Great Raft Race Returns To Arkansas River: 'It WAs A Lot Of Fun'