Map showing campground location near Smithville, Texas

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Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park

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Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park sits at the back of a city-managed recreation complex in Smithville, Texas, reached by a gravel road through the grounds. Sites include a parking pad, electric and water hookups, a picnic table, and a grill, with shared bathroom facilities at the center of the campground. The Colorado River runs along one edge of the park, giving anglers and paddlers direct access to the water. Reservations require a phone call to the City Recreation Center during weekday business hours; there is no on-site office. Campers wanting a more developed setting nearby can consider Buescher State Park Campground or browse campgrounds around Smithville for additional comparisons.

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Map & DirectionsVernon L Richards Riverbend Park is located in Texas near Smithville

Public Campground

Address

107 Highway 71 W
Smithville, TX 78957

Coordinates

30.02145781 N
97.14298882 W

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Excellent Coverage
Verified by 4 users
Last on 7/27/26
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Some Coverage
Verified by 1 user
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Excellent Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Tent Cabin
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Water Hookups
Pull-Through Sites
30 Amp Hookups
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

44 min from Austin, TX
1 hr 18 min from College Station, TX
1 hr 29 min from Victoria, TX
1 hr 29 min from Killeen, TX

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park

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out of 5

2 Reviews

Richard G.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 21, 2020

Overnight camping

We arrived around 11:30 pm to the park and was stopped by a very helpful officer that explained to us the park was closed, but helped us get a spot anyways and directions. Got to the spot and it was more than I expected for a camp site (electricity, fire ring pit, table, Barbque pit, and trash cans with bags). We set up tent quickly, made a fire, and had a great time with the kids!

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Troy W.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2018

Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park + Family Fun + Colorado River + Rodeo!

I came across this campground while searching on thedyrt. I had not previously heard about this park, so I decided to check it out. The park is operated by the City of Smithville. There is not a park office on the grounds to accept reservations or fees for camping. To reserve a campsite, call the City Recreation Center at 512-237-3282x7 Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 4:30pm.

There are a number or recreational facilities at the park such as a playground, baseball field and frisbee golf course. The Colorado River runs along one side of the park and offers opportunities for paddling and fishing. One of the most unique features is that there are rodeo facilities on the grounds. The rodeo events only occur during certain times of the year, so check the park's website and calendar.

The campground area is at the very back of the grounds down a gravel road. The park is primarily designed to host RVs, but they do allow tent camping. Each site has a parking pad, water and electric hookup, picnic table and grill. There are bathroom facilities in the center of the campground.

Compared to some of the other parks in the area such as Bastrop State Park, Buescher State Park and Lake Bastop South Shore Park, this city park is a little bit rough around the edges. The reservation system, or lack of an onsite office, is a bit baffling. But if you're looking to witness a rodeo, this might just be your only option.

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Month of VisitJune

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Vernon Richards Riverbend Park in Smithville, TX?

Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park offers campsites with electricity, barbecue pits, fire rings, picnic tables, and trash cans. The campground is operated by the City of Smithville and provides essential amenities for a comfortable outdoor experience. For camping reservations, you'll need to contact the city directly as there is no park office on the grounds to handle reservations or fee collection. The park provides a good balance of facilities while maintaining a natural setting along the river.

What activities are available in the Vernon L Richards Nature Preserve area?

The Vernon L Richards Nature Preserve area offers outdoor recreation opportunities centered around its riverfront location. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography. The natural setting provides a peaceful environment for relaxing outdoors and connecting with nature. The preserve likely features walking trails and river access points. For more specific information about seasonal activities, trail maps, or special programs, contact the City of Smithville parks department which manages this nature area.

How do I access Vernon Richards Riverbend Park from Smithville?

Vernon Richards Riverbend Park is located in Smithville, Texas, and operated by the City of Smithville. The park doesn't have an on-site office, so be prepared to follow posted instructions upon arrival. If arriving after hours, you might encounter security personnel who can assist with directions to your campsite. For specific driving directions from Smithville's center, contact the City of Smithville parks department before your trip as they manage access to the park.

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