Riverbend exists to assist churches and individuals in carrying out the Great Commission through Summer Camps, Conferences, Retreats and Special Events in which groups, families, and individuals participate.  Riverbend specializes in providing a place for  groups to step away from day-to-day life and spend time with God, His Creation and each other.  Our first priority is to honor and glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in and through the programs and operations of Riverbend.  We want to meet the needs of our guests by striving for excellence in service, facilities, and programs.

Riverbend Retreat Center, formerly known as Tarrant Baptist Encampment, was begun in 1967. God laid it on the heart of the late J.T. Stevens to donate 70 acres of land near Glen Rose, Texas to the TarrantBaptist Association for an encampment site. The Association purchased an additional 70 acres adjoining the Steven's property. Soon the encampment was underway on 140 acres of secluded woodland of which 5,000 feet fronts the Brazos River. An additional 19 acres was purchased in 2004.  In 1995, the name was changed to Riverbend Retreat Center in order to reflect the outdoor environment, to emphasize the retreat season ministry, and to promote the ministry to groups outside the Tarrant Baptist Association.

Riverbend's ministry has grown serving over 25,000 guests in camps, retreats, and special events annually.  Over 75% of our groups are return guests.