Do parents (not riding) accompanying their young children have to pay?

Yes they do

Yes

Unfortunately yes you do.

Yep

Everyone over 2 years old has to have a ticket or use a "buddy pass" of a season pass holder to enter the park.

Yes you have to pay to enter the park. I will give you good advice its alot more cheaper to buy season passes so you can enjoy the water park down the road too.

I believe everyone has to have a ticket