Kamloops, BC — July 2025: Riverside Park is more than a scenic stretch along the Thompson River. During a recent visit, it became clear that this park serves as a vital hub for recreation, culture, and community connection. Open trails, riverside activities, playgrounds, and picnic areas make it a space where residents of all ages come together, reflecting the city’s community spirit. The park’s layout emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and enjoyment, making it a destination for both daily visitors and tourists exploring Kamloops.

Walking through the park, you notice the careful blend of natural beauty and urban planning. Tall trees provide shade over picnic areas, while benches and rest stops are placed strategically along walking paths. The river adds a calming backdrop, and the park’s design encourages people to linger, socialize, and participate in community activities.

Who Visits the Park — and Why?

On any given day, Riverside Park welcomes a diverse group of people. From early morning walkers and joggers to families with young children, the park accommodates a wide range of interests. Teens gather for summer music events or casual meetups, while tourists explore the riverside trails and enjoy the views. The park also attracts hobbyists, such as photographers and bird watchers, who appreciate the natural beauty and quiet corners.

• Seniors enjoying morning walks
• Families having picnics under the shade
• Teens attending summer events
• Tourists exploring riverside activities

Residents often describe Riverside Park as a place to recharge and reconnect. “This is where we come to relax after a busy week,” one visitor said. The atmosphere is peaceful yet lively, with laughter from children, the murmur of conversations, and occasional sounds from river activities creating a welcoming environment for everyone.

Resident Perspective: Alisha on Riverside Park

“The primary audio element in this story is an interview with Alisha, a local resident who regularly visits Riverside Park. The goal of including this audio is to provide a human perspective that complements the photos and written content, allowing the audience to hear firsthand why the park is such an important community space. Alisha shares her experiences of spending time at the park, from family picnics to relaxing along the river, highlighting both recreational opportunities and the sense of connection the park fosters among residents. To enhance the immersive experience, the audio is accompanied by ambient sounds recorded on-site, including birds chirping, water flowing, and distant laughter from park visitors. These sounds provide context, convey the park’s lively yet peaceful atmosphere, and create a sense of being present in the space. The interview and ambient sounds together aim to engage listeners emotionally, illustrating the park’s role in community life, accessibility, and cultural importance. This audio element encourages the audience to connect personally with Riverside Park beyond what can be conveyed through text and images alone.”

“Walking along the river is so peaceful, especially early in the morning.”

Recreation and River Activities

Riverside Park offers a balanced mix of relaxation and active recreation. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy leisurely walks along the river. Water sports are also popular, with kayaks, paddle boats, and other rental equipment available for families and adventure-seekers alike. The park hosts seasonal events, such as charity walks and cultural performances, which bring the community together and encourage participation in outdoor activities.

• Visitors swim and sunbathe along the riverbank
• Kayaks and paddle boats are available for water sports
• Events and programs encourage outdoor activity and engagement

Children and Family Engagement

The park’s design ensures it is welcoming for children and families. Play areas include slides, climbing structures, and splash zones that keep children engaged while parents relax nearby. Families often spend hours in these areas, enjoying the blend of safety, fun, and natural beauty. The variety of playground equipment and shaded seating makes the park suitable for children of all ages, creating a safe and lively environment.

• Play areas with slides and climbing structures
• Splash zones and water features for energetic play
• Safe, shaded seating for supervising adults

Accessibility and Urban Design

Riverside Park demonstrates thoughtful urban planning and inclusive design. Wide, paved trails allow easy access for people with mobility devices or strollers. Shaded seating areas and multilingual signage cater to diverse visitors, while clean, well-maintained spaces ensure safety and comfort. The 2023 community survey shows over 75% of residents rated the park as “excellent,” highlighting its accessibility, cleanliness, and welcoming environment.

The park also incorporates sustainable landscaping practices. Native plants reduce water usage and create natural habitats for birds and small wildlife. Benches and picnic areas are strategically placed to provide rest spots while preserving open areas for larger gatherings, ensuring that the park remains both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

Riverside Park is more than a public green space — it is a reflection of Kamloops’ civic identity. By blending nature, recreation, and community engagement, it provides a space where residents connect, relax, and celebrate their city. Every tree-lined path, water activity, and playful laugh tells the story of a community that values inclusion, joy, and shared experiences.

All photos and audio captured by Anuk Malasinghe, July 2025.