Courier Avenue and Geneva Avenue | |
Virtual Tour: click here |
Open Dawn to Dusk
Quick Clicks
Picnic Pavilion Rentals
Dog Park
Skate Park
Fast Facts
Park Type: Community Park
Acreage: 43.4
Park/Facility Code: RBCP
Restrooms: Vault and Porta-Potty
Trails: 2.08 miles
Regional trail access to the Fox River Trail and Illinois Prairie Path.
Have you heard of the nationally-trending ‘park prescription’ programs?
Doctors are prescribing a dose of nature and a walk in the park to better one’s health. Walking can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen your bones and muscles, increase your flexibility, and lower your blood pressure/cholesterol, to name a few. Walking also eases stress, helps you sleep better and can improve your mental well-being. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes. Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. For a trail map: click here
Activities
- Baseball/Softball – Reservations Required/Rental Fee Applicable
- Basketball – Open Play/Free Use*
- Fishing – Open Play/Free Use*
State fishing licensing and regulations apply in all Park District waterways. - Tennis – Open Play/Free Use*
*Available on a first come, first served basis. Park District programs and rentals have priority for use. This amenity is not to be used for organized team practice or play.
Amenities
- Basketball
- Bench Seating
- Creek/Pond/River Access
- Dog Park
- Fishing
- Multi-use Fields
- Native Plantings
- Parking Lot
- Picnic Shelter
- Picnic Tables
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Skate Park
- Softball
- Tennis Court
- Trails
History
When the State of Illinois Department of Corrections decided to close its Youth Detention Center at this site in 2002, the St. Charles Park District, along with the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, banded together with the residents of the River Bend Community Group to create a community park and maximize the land’s potential for improved aesthetics and usability.
In 2007, the Kane County Forest Preserve District acquired these 45.8 acres as part of a successful referendum and, with funding from a Community Development Block Grant, demolished existing buildings and cleared the land. Now a blank canvas, collaboration ensued led by the St. Charles Park District with involvement from the River Bend Community Group. Development plans were driven by the goal of optimizing the space and meeting the diverse needs of the community. To make the plans a reality, the Park District received a state-funded Open Space Land Acquisition and Development Grant. Construction of the park’s amenities and landscaping began in 2009 and was completed in 2012.
River Bend Community Park represents much more than a dynamic recreation area and nature preserve. It is a testament to public appeal, government responsiveness and community partnerships working together to achieve a goal and surpassing expectation. Thanks to the expertise, resources and creativity of the St. Charles Park District, Kane County Forest Preserve District, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and River Bend Community Group, the park you enjoy today will continue enhancing life in this community for years to come.