In 1979, a new theme park opened up in Vernon, NJ, on the grounds of the former Great Gorge Ski Resort. At the time it opened, it made history because the “water section” of the park — Waterworld — was one of the first modern American water parks. As a result, thrill-seekers would come from all over the Tri-State area — New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut — to try the rides and get the “theme park” experience first-hand.