Action Park Poconos: What to Know About the Park and Its Legacy

What Was Action Park in the Poconos

Action Park in Vernon, New Jersey, was a controversial theme park and water park active primarily from the 1970s through the early 1990s. It was known for aggressive marketing, permissive rules, and a design that prioritized thrills over traditional safety standards. The site was positioned as an adults-oriented, no-frills destination that embraced risk as part of the attraction. Over time, its reputation shifted from a local curiosity to a symbol of reckless amusement, influencing how operators and regulators think about safety in extreme and adventure-style venues.

Origins and Business Model

Founding and Location

Action Park was founded by Eugene Mulvihill and located on the grounds of the now-defunct Vernon Valley ski area in Vernon, New Jersey, within the broader Poconos region. The park leveraged existing ski infrastructure during the off-season, converting slopes and facilities into a summer attraction. This reuse of assets helped keep initial costs down while marketing the park as a unique, all-season adventure destination.

Financial Approach and Ticketing

The park operated with a low-price, high-volume model, keeping ticket costs minimal compared with polished competitors. Concessions and attractions generated additional revenue, while alcohol sales supported adult-oriented visitation. This pricing approach attracted budget-focused visitors and those seeking a less curated experience, but it also limited investment in long-term maintenance and formal training protocols.

• Founded: early 1970s (exact year varies by source)
• Location: Vernon, Morris County, New Jersey, near the Poconos
• Original Concept: Adult-focused, risk-themed amusement area
• Operating Model: Low ticket price, limited staffing, permissive rules

Signature Attractions and Experiences

Action Park became infamous for attractions that emphasized speed, exposure, and minimal safety infrastructure. Slides, jumps, and water features were designed to feel dangerous rather than controlled. Staff were often poorly trained, and safety information was sparse, leading to a high incidence of minor and serious injuries. The park’s identity was closely tied to this daredevil image, which drew thrill-seekers but also intensified scrutiny from regulators and the media.

Notable Rides and Areas

Injuries, Incidents, and Public Response

Throughout its operation, Action Park regularly generated news coverage due to frequent injuries and dramatic incidents. Sprains, fractures, burns, and lacerations were common enough to become expected outcomes rather than exceptions. The park’s approach to risk—sometimes framed as entertainment—clashed with emerging safety norms in amusement and recreation. Over time, repeated incidents led to legal action, increased oversight, and lasting reputational damage.

Safety Record Highlights

• High frequency of minor injuries, including cuts and sprains
• Documented serious injuries requiring hospitalization
• Negative press and local government investigations
• Increased regulatory attention and enforcement actions

Regulatory Pressure and Changes

Ongoing incidents and sustained media attention prompted local authorities and state regulators to intervene. Fines, required safety upgrades, and temporary closures became common. The park struggled to comply with evolving standards while maintaining its signature low-cost, high-risk appeal. These pressures gradually forced operational changes, reducing the intensity of attractions and limiting certain high-danger experiences.

Closure and Site Aftermath

Action Park officially closed in the 1990s, though individual attractions were removed or repurified at different times. The site was later redeveloped for other uses, including residential and commercial projects, reflecting broader changes in the area. The closure marked the end of an era, but the park’s reputation endured in popular memory as a symbol of unchecked amusement risk.

Cultural Reputation and Lasting Influence

Long after its gates closed, Action Park remained a frequent reference in discussions about dangerous amusement venues and risk-taking in recreation. Its story is often cited in debates about regulation, liability, and the balance between excitement and safety. The park influenced how operators approach training, signage, and design, contributing to more formalized safety standards in the industry.

Key Facts at a Glance