Aquatic Development Group (ADG), a leading water park and recreational design, construction and manufacturing firm, has won two Leading Edge Awards at the 2025 World Waterpark Association (WWA) Show in Orlando, US.
The awards recognise the company's specialist aquatic design/build work on OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark in Oklahoma City, and Bavarian Blast Indoor Waterpark in Michigan.
The annual WWA Leading Edge Awards recognise individuals, parks, and suppliers for creativity in developing new themes, amenities, programmes, services, or operational concepts within the water attractions sector.
They also honour suppliers that have launched innovative products or services that benefit park members, their guests, and the wider industry.
ADG's recognition at the awards highlights its role in two exceptional, globally renowned water park projects.
Award-winning water parks
The OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark is a landmark destination created through collaboration, innovation, and considered design.
ADG oversaw the development of the indoor water park and the outdoor adventure lagoon as both the design/build partner and owner’s representative for the project, making a significant contribution to the project’s success through its conceptual design, engineering, manufacturing, construction, project development, and developer support service.
Through its developer support programme, the ADG team delivered comprehensive support in master planning, budgeting, and implementation to ensure that every detail contributed to the Chickasaw Nation’s overarching vision.
The company's practical, integrated approach simplified the development process and optimised long-term value for all partners and stakeholders.
With an investment of $400 million, the OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark was built to function as a key tourism and entertainment centre.
The development features an 11-storey, 404-room hotel, a two-level indoor waterpark, and an expansive outdoor adventure lagoon, accompanied by entertainment, dining, and conference facilities.
The resort officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 21 February 2025. The full outdoor lagoon opened on 24 May 2025.
At the iconic Bavarian Inn Lodge, the addition of Bavarian Blast Indoor Waterpark has turned the attraction into a year-round destination.
The 170,000-square-foot indoor water park features a fully immersive Bavarian-inspired theme with a 5,130-square-foot wave pool, a 300-foot action river, 16 water slides, family play areas, and a swim-up bar for adults.
ADG collaborated closely with the owners to turn their vision into a detailed and feasible concept plan. The company managed architectural and engineering design, specialised construction, and operational logistics to craft a visitor experience that combines entertainment and efficiency.
Designed and built by ADG, the $90 million expansion features thematic storytelling alongside a vibrant range of attractions that strengthen the resort’s character and appeal.
Celebrating outstanding achievements
The recognition of both OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark and Bavarian Blast Indoor Waterpark underscores ADG’s ongoing dedication to developing aquatic destinations that build communities, motivate guests, and foster long-term success for clients.
A spokesperson from the company says: "Aquatic Development Group extends its appreciation to the World Waterpark Association for its continued dedication to advancing and supporting the water attractions industry and congratulates all of this year’s Leading Edge Award recipients for their outstanding achievements."
Recently, ADG announced a strategic partnership with Citywave USA to accelerate deep-water standing-wave surfing across North America and the Caribbean.
