Adding water results in less floury biscuits, larger foam dinosaurs, and slides that won't give a shirtless cousin friction burn. Douse yourself in smooth-moving good times with today's Groupon: for $6, you get a general water-park admission ticket to Emerald Lake RV Resort & Water Park in Puslinch (a $12 value, including HST).

Guests take a dip in Emerald Lake's 5-acre, chlorine-free quarry lake, which receives water naturally from surrounding springs and reflects the images of on-duty lifeguards. Visitors of all ages frolic in the water park's main swimming area, leap from high and low diving platforms, and safely reenact famous luge drag races while hurtling down a 200-foot waterslide. Aquatic adventures unfold on the play area’s rock-climbing wall, oversized inflatable buoy, rolling log, and a catapult-clad water trampoline. A sprawling, lakeside children's pool rinses little ones with gentle fountain jets, and a rubber-floored splash pad hosts flights of frolicking fancy amid sprinklers and a mushroom fountain. Life jackets are required for all water activities and may be rented for $25; visitors are also welcome to bring life jackets from home.

Punch spheres at 18 regulation sand-volleyball courts, and assess aim at several basketball courts scatted throughout the park. Sandy beaches are ripe for strolling, and the snack bar’s treats reinvigorate tired splash muscles. Paddleboat rentals render a romantic ride and almost fulfill lifelong dreams of pedalling a rickshaw across the sea. Guests can lounge at tables in the picnic areas or rent pavilions for family reunions and company functions, though pets and alcohol are not allowed on the premises. Emerald Lake also hosts a wide range of family events in the water park and recreation centre.