One of the most common questions we hear from camp directors is: "Which Water Blob® size is right for my camp?" It's a great question—and one that deserves a thoughtful answer. The right size makes the difference between a good waterfront attraction and an unforgettable camp experience that campers talk about for years.
After 40+ years and thousands of installations across camps nationwide, we've learned exactly which factors matter when choosing your Water Blob® size. This guide will help you make the perfect choice for your camp.
Quick Answer: The Size Decision Guide
If you're in a hurry, here's the quick version:
- 25ft Water Blob® - Perfect for younger campers (ages 7-10), smaller waterfronts, family camps, or those wanting a gentler introduction to blob launching
- 30ft Water Blob® - The most popular choice for camps with mixed ages (8-14), offering great launches without being too intimidating
- 35ft Water Blob® - Ideal for camps with older campers (12+) or those wanting more dramatic launches while maintaining safety
- 40ft Water Blob® - Maximum thrill for teen-focused camps, high-adventure programs, or those wanting the most spectacular launches possible
Now, let's dive deeper into the factors that should guide your decision.
Understanding How Water Blob® Actually Works
Before we talk about sizing, it's important to understand proper Water Blob® usage for safety:
Water Blob® is designed for 2 people at a time: One person sits on the end of the blob while another person jumps onto the opposite end, launching the seated person into the air. This is the safe, proper way to use a Water Blob®—and it's the way that creates those spectacular launches you see in photos and videos.
This means that all Water Blob® sizes have the same throughput—they accommodate two campers at once, regardless of whether it's a 25ft or 40ft model. So size isn't about getting more campers through faster. It's about choosing the right experience for your campers' age, skill level, and your camp's adventure philosophy.
Factor 1: Launch Height and "Wow Factor"
This is the primary difference between sizes: larger blobs create higher, more dramatic launches.
The Physics of Launch Height
When a jumper lands on one end of the Water Blob®, they compress the water-filled bladder, displacing water that propels the seated person upward. Larger blobs displace more water, creating more lift. Here's what to expect:
- 25ft: Produces exciting 6-10 foot launches—perfect for introducing younger campers to the thrill without overwhelming them
- 30ft: Generates impressive 8-12 foot launches that get the whole waterfront watching and cheering
- 35ft: Creates spectacular 10-15 foot launches that become the stories campers tell all year
- 40ft: Delivers maximum height launches (12-18+ feet) that campers remember for a lifetime
Important Note: Launch height also depends on the jumper's weight and technique. A heavier counselor jumping will always create a bigger launch than a smaller camper, regardless of blob size. This is actually a safety feature—it means you can adjust the intensity by choosing appropriate jumpers.
Marketing and Enrollment Impact
Your Water Blob® isn't just a waterfront activity—it's one of your most powerful marketing tools.
Those spectacular launch photos and videos? They end up on your website, in your camp brochures, and all over social media. They're what prospective campers and parents see when choosing between camps. Camps consistently tell us that Water Blob® content is their most-shared and most-engaged social media content.
A larger, more impressive Water Blob® can literally help you stand out from competing programs and attract enrollment.
Factor 2: Camper Age and Intimidation Factor
One of the most important—and often overlooked—factors in choosing your Water Blob® size is the age and temperament of your campers.
Younger Campers (Ages 7-10)
For camps serving primarily younger children, a 25ft or 30ft Water Blob® often provides the perfect introduction. The launches are exciting without being scary, and smaller campers don't feel as intimidated.
We've heard from many camps that younger kids are more willing to try a smaller blob first, and once they conquer it, they're ready for bigger challenges. If most of your campers are in this age range, don't feel pressured to "go big"—the 25ft or 30ft will be plenty thrilling for them.
Middle Age Range (Ages 10-14)
This is the sweet spot where the 30ft or 35ft really shines. These campers want excitement and bragging rights, but they also appreciate having some control over the intensity (through choosing appropriate jumping partners).
The 30ft is the most popular size across all camps for good reason—it hits that perfect balance of thrilling without being intimidating for this core camp demographic.
Older Teens (Ages 14-17)
Older teens need more thrill to stay engaged. They've seen the viral Water Blob® videos online, and they want to experience those dramatic launches themselves. For teen-focused camps, the 35ft or 40ft creates the level of excitement that keeps older campers talking about your camp long after summer ends.
Mixed Age Camps
If you serve a wide age range, the 30ft is usually your best bet. It's exciting enough for older kids while not being too scary for younger campers. You can also adjust the experience by pairing campers thoughtfully—smaller jumpers for younger blob-sitters, heavier jumpers for older campers wanting bigger launches.
Factor 3: Available Water Space
Before you fall in love with the idea of a massive 40ft Water Blob®, make sure your waterfront can accommodate it safely.
Minimum Space Requirements
Here's the clear water area you need for safe operation:
- 25ft: Minimum 40ft x 60ft clear water area (no obstructions like docks, rocks, or shallow zones)
- 30ft: Minimum 50ft x 70ft clear water area
- 35ft: Minimum 60ft x 80ft clear water area
- 40ft: Minimum 70ft x 90ft clear water area
Pro Tip: Add an extra 15-20 feet of clearance beyond these minimums if possible. It provides a safer buffer zone and accounts for wind drift and varying launch trajectories.
Water Depth Considerations
All Water Blob® sizes require a minimum water depth of 8-10 feet for safe launching. The landing zone should maintain this depth for at least 30 feet from the blob in all directions.
If your waterfront has varying depths, you'll need to position the blob in the deepest section—which might limit your size options depending on your specific layout.
Factor 4: Budget and Long-Term Value
A Water Blob® is an investment that typically lasts 10-15+ years with proper care. Smart camp directors think beyond just the purchase price.
Initial Investment
While exact pricing varies (and you should check current prices here), here's what you need to know:
- The 30ft offers the best balance of performance and value—it's the most popular size for a reason
- Stepping up from 25ft to 30ft gives you significantly more launch height and "wow factor" for a modest price increase
- The jump from 30ft to 35ft represents a bigger investment but delivers noticeably more dramatic launches
- The 40ft is premium pricing for premium performance—best for camps where maximum thrill is a priority
Cost Per Camper Over Time
Consider this: A Water Blob® lasting 12 years, used 10 weeks per summer, serving 100 campers per week equals 12,000 camper experiences. When you break down the cost per experience, even the 40ft becomes incredibly affordable compared to the memories it creates.
Return on Investment
Many camps find that their Water Blob® pays for itself through:
- Increased enrollment: Camps with impressive waterfront attractions can justify higher fees or attract more campers
- Extended camper retention: Campers who have spectacular experiences come back year after year
- Word-of-mouth marketing: Water Blob® stories generate organic referrals from satisfied families
- Social media content: Those dramatic launch videos are marketing gold
Shipping Considerations
Practical detail: The 25ft and 30ft Weekender models ship via UPS, which is generally faster and less expensive. The 35ft and 40ft models ship via freight, requiring loading dock or forklift access. Not a deal-breaker, but factor it into your planning timeline and budget.
Factor 5: Your Camp's Philosophy and Brand
Your Water Blob® size should align with your camp's overall adventure philosophy and brand identity.
High-Adventure, Thrill-Focused Camps
If your camp emphasizes pushing boundaries, conquering fears, and adrenaline-pumping activities, the 35ft or 40ft Water Blob® reinforces that brand. It becomes your signature waterfront attraction that embodies your camp's adventurous spirit.
Traditional, Multi-Activity Camps
If your camp offers diverse programming where the Water Blob® is one of many activities (not THE centerpiece), a 25ft or 30ft might be perfect. It's exciting and memorable without overshadowing your other programs.
Family-Oriented or Faith-Based Camps
Camps prioritizing community, inclusivity, and ensuring every camper feels successful often prefer the 25ft or 30ft. These sizes are less intimidating, making it easier for all campers—regardless of confidence level—to participate and feel accomplished.
Specialty Teen or Leadership Camps
Programs focused on older teens or leadership development benefit from the 35ft or 40ft. Older campers need more challenge to stay engaged, and conquering an impressive Water Blob® becomes a metaphor for overcoming other challenges in life.
Real Camp Scenarios: Which Size is Right?
Let's look at specific scenarios to help you decide:
Scenario 1: Small Family Camp
Camp Profile: 40-60 guests per week, ages 5-12, family-oriented, limited waterfront space
Best Choice: 25ft Water Blob®
Why: Perfect size for younger children and families. Less intimidating for hesitant kids, fits smaller waterfront areas, and the price point works for camps with tighter budgets. Parents appreciate that their younger children can safely enjoy it.
Scenario 2: Traditional Summer Camp
Camp Profile: 100-150 campers, ages 8-14, diverse programming, moderate waterfront
Best Choice: 30ft Water Blob®
Why: The goldilocks size—exciting for the full age range without being scary for younger campers. Provides great launches that make for fantastic photos and stories. Most versatile option for mixed-age camps.
Scenario 3: High-Adventure Teen Camp
Camp Profile: 80-120 campers, ages 13-17, adventure-focused, extensive waterfront
Best Choice: 35ft or 40ft Water Blob®
Why: Teens need serious thrill to stay engaged. The dramatic launches become camp legends. Perfect for a program that's all about pushing limits and creating epic stories.
Scenario 4: Christian or Faith-Based Camp
Camp Profile: 80-120 campers, ages 10-16, balanced programming, waterfront important but not the sole focus
Best Choice: 30ft Water Blob®
Why: Provides exciting experiences without dominating the program. Accessible to most campers regardless of confidence level. Great value for camps balancing multiple program priorities.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Choosing Based Only on Budget
The cheapest option isn't always the best value. If you serve older campers and buy a 25ft to save money, they might find it underwhelming. Consider the long-term value and impact on camper satisfaction.
Mistake #2: Going Too Big Too Fast
If your campers are primarily younger (under 11), don't feel pressured to buy the biggest blob. A 40ft might actually intimidate kids who would have loved a 25ft or 30ft. Match the size to your actual camper demographics.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Space Constraints
Measure your waterfront carefully. A too-large blob in a cramped space creates safety concerns and prevents proper use. Better to have a smaller blob that operates safely than a larger one that can't be positioned correctly.
Mistake #4: Not Considering Your Overall Program
Your Water Blob® should fit your camp's identity. A massive, intense blob might not align with a gentle, nurturing camp philosophy—and vice versa. Choose the size that reinforces who you are as a camp.
Making Your Final Decision
Still not sure? Here's our recommended decision process:
- List your constraints: Budget, space, water depth—these are your hard limits
- Know your campers: What's their average age? What's their adventure/confidence level?
- Define your priority: Accessibility for all? Maximum thrill? Marketing impact?
- Check the specs: Compare all sizes and pricing to see what fits
- When in doubt, ask: We're happy to discuss your specific situation—we've done this thousands of times
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right Water Blob® size is about matching the product to your campers, your space, and your camp's identity.
For most traditional camps with mixed ages (8-14), the 30ft Water Blob® is the perfect choice—exciting enough to be memorable, accessible enough for most campers, and priced to deliver great value.
For camps with younger children or limited space, the 25ft provides plenty of thrills in a less intimidating, more manageable package.
For teen-focused or high-adventure programs wanting maximum impact, the 35ft or 40ft delivers the dramatic launches that become legendary camp stories.
There's no universal "right" answer—only the right answer for YOUR camp. Consider your campers' ages and confidence levels, your available space, your budget, and your camp's overall identity. The perfect Water Blob® for you is the one that creates unforgettable memories for your specific campers.