Riverside Park

Along the upper Texas coastline rests a treasured woodsy cove nestled along the Colorado River. A best kept secret among coastal Texans, outdoor lovers, and nature enthusiasts, Riverside Park is a rare gem comfortably hidden from plain sight, and yet instantly becomes a country favorite for those who venture upon her banks. Originally created in 1990 through a partnership between the City of Bay City and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the park closed in August 2017 after sustaining damage from Hurricane Harvey and was completely rebuilt, reopening in July 2020. Today, Riverside Park is known for its serene landscapes, bustling wildlife, and adventurous outdoor activities, all held within a safe regional park filled to the brim with convenient amenities.

Nature's Gift of Tranquility

Experience 100 acres of spacious natural scenery, including shimmery Colorado River waterfronts and robust coastal forests with mass grottos of live oak, pecan, and hackberry trees. Dense forest canopies provide pleasant shading for sunny days and a plentiful home to its lively animal family. Spot a quietly observant white tail deer, a trailing bobcat, and even a roguish fox or raccoon roaming throughout the grounds.

Wide open spaces surrounded by lush greenery, thick forests, and cool river breezes create a pristine setting for bright mornings, tranquil afternoons, and cozy nights at Riverside Park. No matter the season, or length of time enjoyed in this peaceful oasis, visitors will find summer bliss, winter retreat, and even just a simply, serene day outdoors spent with family within this immersive, natural haven.

Bountiful Outdoor Activities

From leisurely outdoor relaxation to energetic outdoor activities, Riverside Park has the best of both worlds. Break out your binoculars and take to the mile stretch of trail for seasoned birdwatching with over 180 species for your viewing pleasure. Cast a line into the Colorado River to enjoy hearty fishing for redfish, speckled trout, and catfish. Be sure to fire up your catch of the day on one of the many BBQ pits available.

For those eager to flex their sea legs, you'll find a convenient concrete boat, kayak, and canoe launch with parking along its Colorado River banks. Easily rent a kayak and all necessary equipment ($9 per half hour, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) using the self-service rental company Rent.Fun, located at the park — download the Rent.Fun app to create an account and begin your kayaking excursion. Paddlers can head about 4 miles upriver to the Bay City Dam for a 2–4 hour round trip, or 13 miles downriver to the FM 521 launch for an all-day or one-way trip; either route offers a chance to spot caracaras, nesting bald eagles, sandpipers, spoonbills, and other wading birds along the way. Kayak rentals are first-come, first-served and available only to registered guests of Riverside Park.

After the ride down its flowing waters, explore the land by foot on one of its beautiful hiking trails. Following an invigorating hike, head a short 3 miles down the road to Bay City and spend some time in civilization as you choose from a variety of dining options and local shopping to enhance your stay. Play a round of golf at the neighboring Rio Colorado Golf Course or take a short drive to lounge around at Matagorda Beach. With plenty of space to pitch a tent for the day or park your ride for overnight stays, you will find nature's bounty of outdoor activities at Riverside Park.

Convenient Park Amenities

Riverside Park offers a plethora of safe, convenient, and affordable camping amenities for travelers during their visit. Campsites and parking include 40 full-hookup RV spaces, 34 water/electric campsites, a Ranger Station, hot showers, clean restrooms, and an on-site laundromat.

Outdoor recreational amenities include a safe launch for boats, kayaks, and canoes with parking, picnic areas, two group pavilions, fitness trails, river fishing, birdwatching, and the neighboring Rio Colorado Golf Course. Travel 3 miles for Bay City's local restaurants, shopping, and businesses.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations can be made online, at the Riverside Park Office (open daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.), or at the Parks and Recreation Office at 1209 10th Street (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.). Day-use entry is $10 per car, with a $100 yearly pass also available; overnight camping rates vary by site type, starting around $30–$45 in deposits plus nightly, weekly, or monthly rates depending on hookups. Gift certificates and yearly passes also make popular gifts for outdoor-loving friends and family.

Riverside Park is located at 7330 FM 2668, Bay City, TX 77414. For more information, call the park directly at 979-245-0340 (daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.) or the Parks and Recreation Office at 979-323-1660 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.).

Please visit the Riverside Park official website for more details and information.