Cool off at these Colorado Springs fountains, pools and spray grounds

Summer weather is in full swing, and residents around Colorado Springs are feeling the heat.

With the projected heat wave expected to hit El Paso County this weekend, the city's spray grounds, fountains and pools make for the perfect spots to cool down with the family.

Here are some options to choose from to beat the heat:

Spray Grounds

The Deerfield Hills Community Center spray ground offers more than 50 individual spray nozzles. Operating hours are 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on every other day.

The Watering Hole at Venezia Park, another spray ground at the northeast Colorado Springs John Venezia Community Park, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Panorama Park in southeast Colorado Springs opened its Splash Pad in May, with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Each spray ground is free to use.

Fountains

One of Colorado Spring's visually striking park fountains has reopened for the season. The Julie Penrose Fountain in America the Beautiful park is open daily 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., while Uncle Wilber in Acacia Park will operate from noon to 6 p.m. The fountains are free to use.

Outdoor Pools

The Monument Valley and Wilson Ranch pools opened back in May for residents to enjoy. Both pools require a day pass purchase to use or a YMCA membership.

The Portal Pool and the Memorial park Family Center YMCA are both closed until further notice due to what the city said in a statement were "concerns around the structural integrity of the facilities."

The city said the parks department planned "further assessments" of the facilities.

All pools and fountains may close due to weather under 65 degrees Fahrenheit or inclement weather. The city recommends visiting facility websites for up-to-date information.

Lakes

Prospect Lake in Memorial Park is open year-round for fishing, paddle boarding, swimming and motorized use, according to the city. Designated swimming days in the roped off area in front of the Beach House are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. No life guards are on duty.

Quail Lake in the southwest part of the city is open to fishing, non-motorized boating and paddle boarding, but swimming is banned.

Both lakes require permits for fishing and watercraft usage.