It typically operated from March to September of each year, opening six days a week but only during the evening on weeknights.

In 1973, it had 13 rides and was acquired by the Dean family, who renamed the park to its current name.

On September 12, 2022, The Dean Family announced that Joyland would not reopen and the park will be auctioned on October 27, 2022, if an interested party, with a viable offer, is not found by October 1, 2022.

On October 21, 2022, it was announced that buyers Jim and Kai Evans along with Daryl and Stephanie Holland would reopen the park for the 2023 season.

Much of the midway has water sprayers overhead to mist guests, which increases guest comfort in Lubbock's hot, dry climate.