When you stay at Riverbend Campground, you’re never far from fun with everything from unrivaled natural beauty and multiple nearby attractions, there’s always something to do!

North of Riverbend Campground:

A Day in the Big City

When you’re in the mood to explore a big city, you can’t beat Seattle. Take in stunning views including the Space Needle (especially on a clear day), Chihuly Garden, or the Great Wheel.  If you feel like seeing the city from the water, consider booking a day cruise. If you’re towing kids, they’ll love the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Aquarium, or the Point Defiance Zoo  & Aquarium .  Make sure to stop by Pike Place Market.

South of Riverbend Campground:

Downtown Olympia

The Olympia Farmer’s Market is only 24 minutes away and a must-visit for anyone who loves fresh produce, local food vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The market is open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., April through October. After you’ve loaded up on local fruits, veggies, and baked goods, take a stroll down the boardwalk. You’ll find an observation tower behind Anthony’s Homeport with stunning views of the Washington State capitol building to the south and, on a clear day, the Olympic Mountains to the north, plus charming views of the marina.

Downtown Olympia boasts dozens of delicious restaurants, shops, and arts venues. A few favorite restaurants Tugboat Annies they offer a waterfront view, amazing food along with kayaking. Oyster House is a beautiful historical location that offers delicious and unique dishes.  If you have a wait, feel free to grab a drink and walk out on the pier. Anthony's Homeport Restaurant also offers waterfront views and is on the Budd Inlet adjacent to the farmer’s market. Catch a movie or a show at the historic Capitol Theater, home of the Olympia Film Society. The Washington Center for the Performing Arts welcomes dance troupes, comedians, and musical acts year-round.

Enjoy the outdoors:

Billy Frank Junior Wildlife Refuge is just 12 minutes away. This easily accessible river delta park offers four miles of trails and stunning vistas rich with birds and wildlife.  Please​ remember there are no dogs allowed (service dogs are an exception) Hours: year-round sunrise – sunset.

Mima Mounds is just 37 minutes south on I-5, these mysterious prairie formations are a sight to see. Enjoy wildflowers, butterflies, and a few easy trails around this 641-acre National Natural Landmark. Please​ remember there are no dogs allowed (service dogs are an exception)

Note: Mima Mounds hours are as follows:

• April - September 8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

• October - March 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at this site. This funding helps DNR manage these important natural areas across the state.

In the mood to for a long scenic drive and exploring?

Head to the Olympic Peninsula! The loop around the peninsula on Highway 101 is doable in a day. Plot your stopping points along the way. Port Townsend, North Hood Canal, Lake Quinault & Quinault Rain Forest, Hoh Rain Forest, and Ocean Shores.

Want to visit a big mountain?

Mount Rainier is a 14,000-foot active volcano at your backdoor. Mount Rainier has five developed areas for hiking and climbing: Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon River & Mowich. Although the level of development in these areas ranges from basic to extensive each can serve as a base for exploring the rest of the park.  Or just take in the scenery wildflower viewing this iconic 14,000-foot active volcano. Please​ remember there are no dogs allowed (service dogs are an exception).

Not feeling like leaving your camp today, but really want to take in the view feel free to enjoy Mount Rainier National Park Virtual Tour.

Looking for a little adult time gambling?

Casino’s:

Check out Red Wind Casino is only 13 minutes away offering slots, table games, COHO High Limit room, and Keno. Emerald Queen Casino  is only 30 minutes away and boasts a Vegas-style gaming floor with over 2,100 slots, more than 60 table games. Fortune Casino-Poker  13 minutes away and offers 15 table games including Hold ‘Em Poker, Dragon Bonus, High Card Flush, etc.