Riverton City Park

Riverton City Park is a true oasis of tranquility in the heart of Riverton. Spanning 10 acres, this picturesque space in the USA is often called an "oasis in the desert" of Wyoming thanks to its lush greenery and shady avenues.

Riverton City Park offers guests well-maintained walking trails, vast lawns, and cozy relaxation areas. It is an ideal spot for those looking to escape the city bustle for a moment, watch local birds, or have a family picnic in the fresh air under the shade of majestic trees.

One of the most recognizable features of this place is its legendary “Rocket Slide”, which has remained a favorite attraction for young visitors for several decades. High ratings and warm reviews confirm that the park is equally valued by tourists seeking peace and locals for whom it has become a center of community life.

To plan your visit to this green space, it is useful to know the exact coordinates and ways to contact the administration. The park is managed by city services, which monitor its landscaping and cleanliness.

Everyone will find something to their liking in this green corner. You can enjoy leisurely strolls along well-maintained paths or play active games on the open fields—the area is perfect for soccer or frisbee. For those who prefer a quiet rest, picnic tables are provided where you can dine outdoors surrounded by nature.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity for bird watching, as many species are drawn to the park's dense vegetation. Children will be delighted by the modern playgrounds, and in the summer months, a visit to the city pool is a must, where you can not only swim but also watch local sports teams practice.

The park also serves as a venue for various community events and festivals. If you are lucky enough to be here on a holiday, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the local community. For those seeking solitude, there is always a cozy bench in the shade of trees, ideal for reading a book or simply contemplating the landscape.

The park is located at 901 E Fremont Ave, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the central part of the city. If you are traveling by private or rental car, the easiest way is to take Fremont Avenue—one of the main transport arteries. For those coming from neighboring cities like Lander or Dubois, it is most convenient to use highway US-26/WY-789.

Guests arriving from afar can use Riverton Regional Airport (RIW), which is just a 10-minute drive from the park area. Since Riverton is a small city, public transport here is limited, so a taxi or car will be the most practical choice.

For locals and tourists who prefer eco-friendly ways of getting around, the park is open to pedestrians and cyclists. Free parking is provided on-site, making the visit as comfortable as possible for those planning to spend several hours here.

The history of this place began in 1909 thanks to the initiative of E.H. Ryan, the city's second mayor. A 10-acre plot of land on the eastern edge of Main Street was purchased for just $600. In those days, the territory looked rugged: it was heavily covered in sagebrush and enclosed by barbed wire to protect future plantings from stray livestock.

The park's establishment was not easy—early attempts to plant trees failed due to a lack of an irrigation system. The turning point came in 1917–1918 when the city actively took up landscaping: the soil was fertilized with hundreds of loads of manure, and during World War I, local children even grew vegetables here to support the front. In the 1920s, wells were drilled in the park, and it finally transformed into a shady garden.

In 1922, one of the first campsites for auto tourists traveling to Yellowstone opened here. Travelers were attracted by the modern conveniences of the time: electricity, gas, and water. Over time, the park acquired concrete light poles and became a venue for popular baseball games, cementing its status as the main community hub.

The legendary “Rocket Slide” holds a special place in the hearts of citizens—a three-story rocket-shaped slide that has become a symbol of the park for many generations. When city authorities proposed building a road through the park in 1954, residents protested, successfully defending this unique space and preserving it for future visitors.

To simply stroll through the shady alleys and see the area, an average visitor will need about 1 hour. If you plan to have a picnic on one of the green lawns or are traveling with children who will surely want to spend time on the playgrounds, you should budget 2–3 hours for your visit.

During the summer period, when the city pool is operating, or during community festivals and holidays, a visit may last for half a day. The park offers enough opportunities for a relaxed stay, allowing guests to take their time and enjoy nature.

Riverton City Park is open to visitors 24 hours a day, every day. This allows guests to plan their visit at any convenient time—whether it's an early morning workout in the fresh air or an evening stroll under the streetlights.

Since access to the grounds is free throughout the week, including weekends and holidays, visitors do not need to worry about strict schedules. However, to clarify the operating hours of specific facilities, such as the pool or event venues, it is recommended to check the city's official website.

A visit to the park can easily be combined with a walk to other interesting city spots located in the immediate vicinity. This is a great way to experience the local flavor and culture of Riverton.

The surroundings offer both historical landmarks and cozy spots to relax after a walk. Below are the nearest attractions that may interest a tourist: