Rivers Bend Family Resort

**A Jewel on Shoal Creek: Introducing Rivers Bend Family Resort in Joplin, Missouri**

For Missouri residents and visitors seeking a unique blend of outdoor relaxation, comprehensive lodging, and exceptional dining, **Rivers Bend Family Resort** is a standout destination. Located on the picturesque **Shoal Creek** on the edge of Joplin, this family-owned and operated 27-acre property has quickly become a local favorite. It offers a multifaceted experience that caters to campers, event-goers, and diners alike, ensuring a memorable escape that feels both secluded and conveniently close to city amenities.

The philosophy driving Rivers Bend is simple: to create a safe, relaxing, and fun environment where families and friends can make lasting memories. Unlike typical campgrounds, Rivers Bend elevates the experience by integrating a **full-service restaurant** with its lodging options. This combination allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of nature—with a natural spring running through the property—alongside the convenience of on-site dining, live entertainment, and specialized event hosting. While guests should note the potential for site wetness during heavy rain, as mentioned in customer feedback, the staff's commitment to guest comfort, including accommodating upgrades when necessary, highlights the personal touch of this family-run resort. Whether you're parking a large RV, renting a cozy creekside cabin, or just stopping by for dinner on the deck overlooking the water, Rivers Bend offers a unique "stay-and-play" model perfect for the Ozarks region.

**Location and Accessibility**

Rivers Bend Family Resort is ideally located at **4041 Hwy NN, Joplin, MO 64804, USA**.

Its positioning offers the best of both worlds: a quiet, natural setting along Shoal Creek while remaining incredibly accessible to Joplin, a major Southwest Missouri hub. The resort is just a few minutes off **Interstate 44** and is within a short drive—approximately 10 minutes—of the heart of Joplin, including major health facilities like Mercy Hospital. This convenience makes it an excellent base for visiting family, working in the city, or restocking supplies. The resort spans 27 acres, offering ample space for the various accommodations and recreational areas. Access is straightforward via Highway NN, and the property is designed to welcome RVs of various sizes, with some sites accommodating vehicles up to 75 feet long. The picturesque setting along Shoal Creek and a natural spring running through the property provides the scenic backdrop that defines the resort’s atmosphere.

**Services Offered**

The resort offers a diverse range of lodging and unique hospitality services designed for comprehensive comfort.

• **RV Sites:** Approximately 25 RV hookup sites are available, including **full hookup** (water, sewer, electric) and **water/electric only** sites, with options for **30-amp and 50-amp** service.
• **Cabin Rentals:** Offers six beautifully remodeled nightly cabins, including **Beach Cabanas** and **Creekside Cottages** with varying amenities (some with full kitchens/AC/heat; some with shared bathhouse access).
• **Tent Camping:** Provides designated areas for tent camping, including both **primitive** and **electric tent sites**, with a special area called "Tent Island" accessible by footbridge.
• **Full-Service Restaurant:** The **Rivers Bend Family Restaurant** is located on-site, serving lunch and dinner with a menu featuring American cuisine, burgers, and popular local favorites (closed on Tuesdays; check website for seasonal hours).
• **Bathhouse:** Clean bathhouse facilities with restrooms and showers are available for all guests, particularly those in tent sites and cottages without private facilities.
• **Mobile Dump Service:** Guests can use the on-site dump station for free, or pay a small fee for a convenient **mobile tank emptying service** at their RV site.
• **Pet-Friendly:** The campground is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their dogs (fees and rules apply).

**Features / Highlights**

Rivers Bend is renowned for its unique features that elevate it beyond a standard campground, focusing on dining, atmosphere, and recreation.

• **Creekside Dining:** The on-site restaurant features **indoor and outdoor deck seating** that overlooks the beautiful Shoal Creek, providing a unique and relaxing dining atmosphere.
• **Igloo Dining Experience:** A beloved seasonal tradition, the resort offers **heated igloos** on the patio for a cozy, unique winter dining experience, often reserved for special occasions.
• **Live Music:** The restaurant frequently hosts **live music** on weekends, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
• **Disc Golf Course:** A **9-hole disc golf course** is available on the property's expansive 27 acres, free for guests and accessible via day pass for visitors.
• **Water Recreation:** Guests have access to **Shoal Creek** for activities like fishing and playing in the water. **Kayaking** is also a popular activity in the creek area.
• **Nature and Wildlife:** The property is home to a natural spring and is known for wildlife viewing, with deer, eagles, and turtles often spotted.
• **Event Space:** The resort can be rented out for **special events, parties, and group gatherings**, making it a versatile venue.
• **Playground:** A kid-friendly **play area** is available, particularly near the Tent Island area, for families with young children.

**Contact Information**

For reservations, igloo bookings, or inquiries about the current status of the restaurant and campsite availability, contact the resort directly.

• **Address:** 4041 Hwy NN, Joplin, MO 64804, USA
• **Phone:** (417) 499-2921 (Primary Resort Contact)
• **Mobile Phone:** +1 417-499-2921

**What Is Worth Choosing Rivers Bend Family Resort**

Choosing **Rivers Bend Family Resort** is highly recommended for the Missouri traveler seeking a **full-service, amenity-rich destination** that doesn't sacrifice natural beauty. It is emphatically worth choosing for those who want a stay where high-quality **on-site dining (including the unique igloo option and live music)** is integrated with their camping or cabin rental experience. Unlike many campgrounds that offer basic dining, Rivers Bend provides a genuine, highly-praised restaurant experience.

The variety of lodging—from **full hookup RV sites to renovated cabins and secluded tent spots**—caters to every style of traveler. The combination of its convenient location near Joplin, the tranquil Shoal Creek setting, and features like disc golf and creek access provides exceptional value. While guests should be mindful of potential wet conditions after heavy rains, the overall consensus is that the friendly, courteous staff and the unique ambiance make Rivers Bend a standout choice for an all-in-one family getaway in Southwest Missouri.