Riverside Bible Conference

Nestled in the serene landscape of Amherst, WI, Riverside Bible Conference is more than just a campground; it's a dedicated facility offering a unique blend of spiritual growth, community building, and engaging outdoor recreation. For Wisconsin locals seeking a tranquil retreat, a vibrant setting for family gatherings, or a supportive environment for youth and adult programs, Riverside provides a distinct and meaningful experience. Since 1934, it has been a place where people of all ages can gather to grow and share in their faith, fostering connections that last a lifetime.

While its primary mission is biblically based education and spiritual development, Riverside Bible Conference also operates as a versatile rental facility, opening its beautiful grounds and comprehensive amenities to various groups. This means that whether you're planning a family reunion, a church retreat, a pastoral gathering, or even just seeking a quiet place for reflection, Riverside offers a welcoming and inspiring setting. The emphasis on "quiet inspiration away from the hustle and bustle" resonates deeply with those looking to escape the demands of daily life and immerse themselves in a peaceful environment.

The positive sentiment from past visitors, such as the family who rented a building and "spent a lot of time out on the little island on the river" and loved the "disc golf course," highlights the diverse appeal of the property. It demonstrates that Riverside successfully combines its core mission with recreational opportunities that enhance the overall experience for all guests, regardless of their primary purpose for visiting. This blend of purpose and leisure makes Riverside Bible Conference a truly special destination in Central Wisconsin.

Riverside Bible Conference is beautifully situated at 6355 County Rd DD, Amherst, WI 54406, USA. This address places it in the charming village of Amherst, a community known for its picturesque rural setting and agricultural heritage in Portage County, Central Wisconsin. The location offers a peaceful escape, yet remains accessible for visitors from across the state.

Amherst is well-connected by local and state roads, making the journey to Riverside Bible Conference straightforward for most. County Road DD provides direct access to the facility, while its proximity to State Highway 10 and other regional routes ensures convenient travel from larger urban centers in Wisconsin. For example, cities like Stevens Point are just a short drive away, offering additional amenities, services, and transportation hubs. This accessibility means that while the conference center offers a serene and secluded feel, it is not isolated from necessary conveniences.

The surrounding Central Wisconsin area is rich in natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Amherst itself boasts a welcoming small-town atmosphere, with local shops and services that cater to daily needs. The Plover River, which flows through or near the property, adds to the scenic appeal and offers opportunities for quiet contemplation, fishing, or simply enjoying the riverside environment, as noted by a visitor who loved spending time on the "little island on the river."

Beyond Amherst, the wider region provides a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore numerous lakes for boating and fishing, discover hiking and biking trails in nearby state parks and forests, or venture to larger communities for cultural events and entertainment. The agricultural landscape of Portage County also offers a unique charm, particularly during harvest seasons. This blend of tranquil rural scenery and accessible regional attractions makes the location of Riverside Bible Conference ideal for both quiet retreats and more active gatherings.

Riverside Bible Conference offers a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to accommodate various groups, from family reunions to formal retreats and youth camps. Their offerings prioritize comfort, functionality, and a supportive environment for their guests.

• Diverse Accommodation Options: Riverside boasts a variety of lodging, capable of sleeping up to 150 people during three seasons and up to 60 people in winterized buildings year-round. This includes:

  • Cabins/Bunkhouses: Multiple cabins (e.g., David, Joseph, ABC, Bethany, Dining Hall Dorms, Hope Village Cabins, Tree Houses) offering various capacities with bunk beds, some with private entrances and/or attached bathrooms.
  • Retreat Centers: Specialized buildings like Haven of Hope, Hebron Retreat Center, and Johnson Retreat Center, which often include private bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, and private or shared bathrooms, suitable for smaller groups or families.
  • Platform Tents: For a more rustic experience, some areas offer platform tents.

• Dining Hall & Commercial Kitchen: A large dining hall is available, equipped with a state-certified, fully equipped industrial kitchen, capable of serving large groups. This is ideal for catered events or groups who wish to prepare their own meals.

• Meeting and Conference Spaces: Numerous buildings offer open meeting spaces, perfect for conference workshops, presentations, or group gatherings. Facilities often include projectors, computers, and sound systems.

• Recreational Amenities: A range of activity areas are provided for leisure and group engagement, including:

  • A covered recreational pavilion with a stone fireplace.
  • Basketball court.
  • Volleyball court.
  • Disc golf course.
  • Ball field.

• RV & Tent Camping Space: In addition to cabins and buildings, Riverside offers "additional space for RV's or tent camping," catering to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Unique Natural Features: An island connected by a bridge with a fire pit and gazebo, along with "beautiful grounds and peaceful places by the river," enhance the natural appeal and provide unique spots for relaxation and gathering.

• Seasonal Programming: While primarily a rental facility, Riverside also runs its own biblically based programs, including summer camps for various age groups (e.g., Jr High, Sr High, Young Adult Adventure), family camps, and retreats (e.g., Harvest Family Camp, Women's Day), which visitors can inquire about participating in.

These extensive services make Riverside Bible Conference a highly versatile and well-equipped venue for a multitude of purposes in Central Wisconsin.

Riverside Bible Conference is rich with features and highlights that distinguish it as a premier retreat and recreational destination in Central Wisconsin. These aspects contribute to both its functional versatility and its unique charm.

• Expansive 40-Acre Property: The sheer size of the property allows for a wide range of activities and provides a sense of spaciousness and natural immersion. This large acreage supports diverse facilities and offers ample room for exploration and relaxation.

• Riverside Setting with Private Island: A truly unique highlight is the property's direct access to the Plover River, including a "little island on the river" accessible by a bridge. This island, complete with a fire pit and gazebo, offers an idyllic and secluded spot for gatherings, reflection, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water.

• Dedicated Disc Golf Course: As highlighted by a satisfied visitor, Riverside features a disc golf course. This popular and engaging activity provides built-in recreation for groups, encouraging outdoor play and friendly competition amidst the scenic grounds.

• Versatile Rental Facilities: Beyond its own programs, Riverside actively promotes its "Full Camp Grounds" for rent, making it an ideal venue for family reunions, church/pastoral retreats, school outings, and other large gatherings. This flexibility is a significant feature for organizations seeking a well-equipped private space.

• Comprehensive Recreational Amenities: In addition to disc golf, the conference center provides a variety of activity areas, including a covered recreational pavilion with a stone fireplace, basketball court, volleyball court, and a ball field. These diverse options ensure entertainment and engagement for all ages and interests.

• Variety of Accommodations: With options ranging from rustic bunkhouses and platform tents to more comfortable retreat centers with private bathrooms and kitchens (some even winterized), Riverside can cater to different comfort levels and group sizes, ensuring a suitable stay for everyone.

• LIFT Program: For college-age young adults, the LIFT (Leaders in Further Training) program is a standout feature. As described by a former participant, it's a transformative "summer internship" focused on spiritual growth, leadership development, and serving within the camp's summer programs. This highlights Riverside's commitment to ministry and developing future leaders.

• Peaceful and Inspiring Atmosphere: Overriding all other features is the pervasive sense of "quiet inspiration" and peace that the conference center cultivates. This makes it an ideal environment for spiritual contemplation, focused learning, and genuine relaxation away from everyday distractions.

These features collectively define Riverside Bible Conference as a multifaceted destination that combines natural beauty, robust amenities, and a purposeful atmosphere for enriching experiences in Central Wisconsin.

As a non-profit, biblically based conference center, Riverside Bible Conference typically operates differently from commercial campgrounds regarding "promotions" or "special offers." Their focus is on providing a cost-compassionate experience and value through their mission and facilities, rather than traditional discounts. However, there are aspects that could be considered beneficial "offers" for various user groups:

• "Cost-Compassionate" Experience: Riverside explicitly states it offers a "Biblically based, cost-compassionate, small camp experience." This implies that their pricing for programs and rentals is designed to be affordable and accessible, rather than maximizing profit. This inherent affordability is a continuous "promotion" for those seeking value.

• Group Rental Rates: For organizations, families, or churches looking to rent the "Full Camp Grounds" or specific buildings, Riverside offers group rates. The "promotional" aspect here is the ability to accommodate large groups economically with extensive facilities, which might be more cost-effective than booking individual accommodations elsewhere. Inquiring directly for a custom quote based on group size, dates, and facility needs is essential.

• LIFT Program Benefits: The LIFT (Leaders in Further Training) program, as highlighted by a former participant, is a significant "offer" for college-age young adults. This is a tuition-free summer internship that provides room and board, a fixed weekly payment, and the opportunity to raise additional financial support. This comprehensive program is a substantial benefit for participants seeking spiritual and leadership development.

• Seasonal Camp Pricing: For their various youth and family camps, Riverside offers specific pricing per program. While not a "discount," their commitment to being "cost-compassionate" suggests these rates are designed to be competitive and accessible for families wishing to send their children to a faith-based camp. Information on specific camp dates and rates would be available directly from them.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rental fees, program costs, and any specific terms for booking, it is highly recommended to contact Riverside Bible Conference directly. Their team will be able to provide detailed quotes and discuss how their cost-compassionate approach can benefit your group or individual needs.

To learn more about the diverse offerings at Riverside Bible Conference, inquire about renting their facilities, or register for one of their enriching programs, please use the following contact details:

Address: 6355 County Rd DD, Amherst, WI 54406, USA

Phone: (715) 824-3198

Mobile Phone: +1 715-824-3198

The dedicated staff at Riverside Bible Conference are available to answer your questions, help you check availability for rentals, provide details on their various camp programs, and assist you in planning your visit to this unique Central Wisconsin destination.

For residents across Wisconsin, Riverside Bible Conference in Amherst offers a uniquely suitable destination for a multitude of purposes, extending far beyond the typical campground experience. Its blend of extensive facilities, a strong community focus, and a serene natural setting makes it an ideal choice for various local needs.

Firstly, for families and churches, Riverside is a fantastic resource for retreats and reunions. The ability to rent entire buildings or sections of the "Full Camp Grounds," complete with dining halls and numerous activity areas, provides a tailored and comprehensive solution for gatherings of all sizes. The positive review from a family who rented a building and enjoyed the "little island on the river" and the disc golf course perfectly illustrates its suitability for creating lasting family memories.

Secondly, for parents seeking enriching summer experiences for their children or young adults, Riverside's long-standing tradition of biblically based camps and the impactful LIFT program offer invaluable opportunities for spiritual growth, leadership development, and building strong relationships. The "cost-compassionate" approach ensures these programs are accessible to many Wisconsin families.

Lastly, for anyone in Wisconsin simply looking for a quiet escape, the 40-acre property with its peaceful riverside setting offers a perfect sanctuary from the demands of everyday life. Whether it’s for quiet reflection, enjoying the disc golf course, or simply being surrounded by nature, Riverside provides an environment conducive to rest and rejuvenation. Its accessible Central Wisconsin location further enhances its appeal, allowing for convenient travel from various parts of the state. Riverside Bible Conference is more than just a place to visit; it’s a community asset that fosters growth, connection, and cherished experiences for all who pass through its gates.