Riverbend Park

For those of us in Arkansas who live for outdoor adventure and tranquil escapes, finding that perfect riverside retreat is a true delight. Nestled along the banks of the beautiful Spring River in Hardy, Riverbend Park stands out as a prime destination that perfectly blends natural beauty with convenient amenities. More than just a place to set up camp, Riverbend Park offers a vibrant atmosphere for families, friends, and solo travelers eager to immerse themselves in the unique charm of the Ozarks and the refreshing waters of the Spring River. This comprehensive overview is crafted for local Arkansans, highlighting what makes Riverbend Park an exceptional choice for your next memorable outdoor experience.

Riverbend Park is renowned for its idyllic location, providing "77 sites on 3/4 of a mile of riverfront set on 15+ acres of expertly maintained grounds." It’s a place where "Fishing, campfires, tubing, and over 60 species of birds" await, promising a truly immersive natural experience. Whether you're seeking a thrilling float trip down the Spring River, a peaceful afternoon fishing from the banks, or simply a relaxed evening by a campfire, Riverbend Park caters to all. The park prides itself on being "warm and welcoming to all campers," with "friendly and helpful" staff who ensure a pleasant stay. It’s an "oasis of relaxation" where you can "arrive and feel as though the virtual getaway from reality" has begun, making it a beloved spot for those who call Arkansas home.

Riverbend Park is perfectly situated on Bluff Rd, Hardy, AR 72542, USA. This address places it directly along the Spring River, one of Arkansas's most beloved and dependable waterways. Hardy, a charming town in Sharp County, is famous for its historic downtown area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and quaint local culture. The campground is within easy walking distance of historic downtown Hardy, providing convenient access to shops, restaurants, and local attractions, meaning you can easily explore the town without needing to drive.

For Arkansans, reaching Riverbend Park is straightforward. Hardy is accessible via major state highways, making it a manageable drive from larger cities like Little Rock, Jonesboro, or Fayetteville. The park's location off the main road by "3/4 of a mile" contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, offering a sense of seclusion while still being well-connected. Its position on the Spring River means direct river access is a key highlight, providing unparalleled convenience for launching float trips or simply enjoying the water. This combination of natural seclusion and easy access to both the river and town amenities makes Riverbend Park an ideal and highly convenient destination for locals.

Riverbend Park is designed to provide a comprehensive and comfortable camping experience, offering a wide array of services and amenities that cater to various needs and preferences:

• Campsites: The park offers 77 well-maintained sites spread across 15+ acres of riverfront property, including:
  • RV Sites: 30 RV sites with water & electric hookups (30 amp, with 50 amp sites also available). These are gravel, level lots capable of accommodating up to 45' Class A motorhomes.
  • Pop-up/Tent Sites: 4 sites with water & electric hookups for pop-up campers or tents.
  • Primitive Sites: 7 primitive sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience.
  • Seasonal Sites: 35 seasonal sites, with river-side options for long-term stays.
  • Full RV Hookups: All RV sites feature full hookups including electrical, city water, and sewer.
• Restroom & Shower Facilities: Separate men's and women's restrooms and showers are available. These are described as "well-maintained," "spacious," "very clean," and "recently re-painted upgraded." Showers are coin-operated (quarters only) and feature clear roof panels for natural light.
• Camp Store: An on-site camp store is available, stocked with basic camping and floating supplies, ensuring you have essentials readily at hand. It is staffed during busy times and accessible via office staff as needed.
• River & Beach Access: Direct access to the Spring River with a "nice 'private' beach" and a rope swing. There's also a picnic area along the bend of the river. Stair access river portage is available for easy tubing exit.
• Swimming Pool: An in-ground swimming pool is open daily from mid-June to mid-September (weather permitting) for campground guests only. It is described as having "maintained grass and water" for a "best experience." No lifeguard is on duty, so adult supervision for children is required.
• Playground Area: Includes a sandbox and swing set, providing entertainment for kids.
• Recreational Activities: Horseshoe pits are available. The park's confluence with the New Haven River also provides "amazing fishing (both fly and casting)."
• Grounds & Road Maintenance: Grounds staff continuously maintain the property, ensuring "freshly cut" grass and well-kept roads.
• WiFi: Available on-site for guest convenience.
• Firewood: Available for purchase on-site.
• Garbage Pickup: Offered on Mondays for RV lots.
• Community Boat Launch: Easy access to the river for launching watercraft.
• Office Staffing: Full staffing of the office during open hours for assistance.

Riverbend Park distinguishes itself with a range of features and highlights that enhance the overall camping and recreational experience:

• Premier Riverfront Location: Its setting along "3/4 of a mile of riverfront" on the Spring River is its most significant highlight. The river is renowned as Arkansas's "most dependable natural stream" due to Mammoth Spring's constant flow of 58-degree water, ensuring consistent levels year-round for floating and fishing.
• Diverse Water Activities: Offering fantastic tubing options, including "lazy river trips" and "whitewater areas," alongside excellent fishing opportunities for trout and walleye. Canoeing and kayaking are also highly popular, with sections suitable for all skill levels.
• Private Beach & Rope Swing: A unique feature is the "nice 'private' beach" on the New Haven River within the property, complete with a rope swing, providing a dedicated area for swimming and relaxation.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The emphasis on "expertly maintained grounds," "freshly cut" before stays, and "very clean" and "spacious" bathhouses with daily cleaning schedules, highlights the park's commitment to guest comfort and satisfaction.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With an in-ground pool, playground area (sandbox, swing set), and horseshoe pits, the park is designed to entertain guests of all ages, creating a "fun-oriented for the whole family" atmosphere.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural riverside environment attracts "over 60 species of birds," making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and connecting with nature.
• Proximity to Historic Hardy: The park's close location to downtown Historic Hardy allows guests to easily walk and explore the "tiny mecca for craft and antique shopping," local restaurants, and events, adding cultural enrichment to their outdoor stay.
• Gated Community & Security: For those considering long-term or seasonal stays, Riverbend Park operates as a gated community with "police patrol," offering enhanced security and peace of mind.
• Friendly Staff & Community: Reviews consistently mention "friendly and helpful" staff and "very friendly" park neighbors, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The park also holds "several events throughout the year" for lot owners.

For more information, reservations, or specific inquiries about Riverbend Park in Hardy, AR, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Bluff Rd, Hardy, AR 72542, USA

While a direct general phone number for the entire Riverbend Park campground isn't widely listed, the associated River Bend Property Owners Association provides contacts that might be useful for inquiries: Office Manager: (870) 819-7757, Park Manager: (870) 897-7275. For official details or to inquire about bookings, it is always recommended to seek out the most direct contact method, possibly through the property owners association's website, if available, or by searching for "Rivers Bend Camping" as sometimes slight name variations occur in public listings.

Given the popularity of the Spring River, especially for floating and fishing, it is highly advisable to call ahead or check for a direct booking portal (if available) to secure your preferred site, especially during peak season or for specific events.

Riverbend Park in Hardy stands as an ideal destination for Arkansans seeking a premier outdoor experience right in their home state. Its unparalleled location directly on the Spring River, with its consistent flow and excellent conditions for tubing, fishing, and paddling, positions it as a top choice for water enthusiasts. The convenience of a "private beach" with a rope swing and easy river access from many sites adds a unique appeal that sets it apart.

For families, the park offers a well-rounded experience with a swimming pool, playground, and ample space for kids to explore. The meticulous maintenance of the grounds and facilities, including "very clean" and "spacious" bathhouses, ensures a comfortable and worry-free stay. Furthermore, the ability to walk to historic downtown Hardy provides a cultural dimension to the outdoor adventure, allowing locals to enjoy both nature and the charm of a historic Arkansas town. Riverbend Park is more than just a campground; it’s a vibrant, well-equipped community that fosters relaxation, adventure, and cherished memories amidst the stunning beauty of the Arkansas Ozarks. It truly offers an "oasis of relaxation" that's perfect for a local getaway.