8ft tables: 96″ L x 30″ W x 29″ H
6ft tables: 72″ L x 30″ W x 29″ H
Cocktail tables: 31.25″W x 31.25″D x 43.75″H
Picnic table: 96″W x 28.5″D x 30″ H
Special Events
Want to make your event unforgettable! River Bend Nature Center is the ideal place to have your event! RBNC has several outdoor venues for rent, including the Forest Ceremony Site, the Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion, the J.S. Bridwell Terrace, and the Rotary North Library. All of these facilities provide unique accommodations for weddings, receptions, dinners, family picnics, corporate meetings, and numerous other occasions.
For more information, call us at 940-767-0843 or email us info@riverbendnaturecenter.org
Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion
The Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion is a 7,000 sq. ft. outdoor covered area overlooking 15 acres of bottomland forest. With cathedral-like ceilings and a breathtaking view, there are many reasons why this is our most popular venue. Amenities include restrooms, electricity, Wi-Fi, and wind guards. Seats approximately 500+.
J. S. Bridwell Terrace
The J.S. Bridwell Terrace is a spacious uncovered area that’s planted with native vegetation. Amenities include electricity and Wi-Fi. Seats approximately 200+.
Forest Ceremony Site
The Forest Ceremony Site is a brand new event site in the heart of our Bottom Land Forest Trail. Seats approximately 130+.
Rotary North Library
This functional space can be converted into a bridal or groom prep room. Amenities include pull down blinds, tables, Wi-Fi, and chairs.
Pricing
Monday- Thursday- $300 for 4 hours, $75 per add. hour
Friday- $1,000 for 12 hours, $125 per add. hour
Saturday- $1,600 for 12 hours, $125 per add. hour
Sunday- $900 for 12 hours, $125 per add. hour
A $300 deposit is required to book a date on the calendar. For availability check out our rental calendar by clicking here. To book a tour please call 940-767-0843 and ask for Samantha or Jennica.
Price includes rental of the Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion, J.S. Bridwell Terrace, Forest Ceremony Site, and Rotary North Library. It also includes 5 6ft rectangle tables, 4 8ft rectangle tables, 15 60-in round tables, 6 31-in cocktail tables, 145 white folding chairs, 16 aluminum picnic tables, 44 black chairs, and security for your event.
RBNC also has PA sound system available for rent at an additional fee of $75.
Additional Information
Printable Pavilion and Terrace Dimensions
Check out our rental calendar by clicking here.
Rental Brochure
FAQ
What are the table dimensions?
Do you have on-site parking?
Yes, we have parking in front of the facility, and a spacious un-paved lot across the street. You can also use the parking lot down the hill after 5 pm on weekdays, and anytime on weekends.
How much is the deposit?
$300. There is a $10 non-refundable convenience fee if you pay with a credit card. The deposit does not go towards the cost of your rental. If you meet the terms of your contract it will be sent back to you after your event.
Do we have to make an appointment to book?
Yes, and a completed contract with a deposit is required to set your date on our calendar. Call Erika at 940-767-0843 and we’ll set something up with you.
When would be a good time for us to come by and take a tour?
We’re open 7 days a week, M-F 9-5 p.m., Sat. 9-4 p.m., and Sun 12-4 p.m. If you would like a guided tour please give us a call at 940-767-0843 and we can schedule an appointment during the week M-F 10-6 pm. Regardless of when you visit, there is no admission when you come to look at the facility for a rental, just tell the employee in the gift shop why you are here.
Does the facility include tables and chairs?
Yes! Price includes rental of the Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion, J.S. Bridwell Terrace, Forest Ceremony Site, and Rotary North Library. It also includes 5 6ft rectangle tables, 4 8ft rectangle tables, 15 60-in round tables, 6 31-in cocktail tables, 145 white folding chairs, 16 aluminum picnic tables, 44 black chairs, and security for your event.
RBNC also has PA sound system available for rent at an additional fee of $75.
However, you can bring in whatever you would like. If you rent tables and chairs from an outside source they can only be dropped off or delivered during your rental time and have to be removed at the end of your rental time unless other arrangements are made in advance.
Does RBNC have a catering policy?
RBNC does not have a catering policy. You’re allowed to bring in whatever you would like. However, there is no on-site kitchen. If you choose to use an outside company/vendor, they are required to provide RBNC with a certificate of insurance.
Does the rental time include set up and take down?
Yes, it does. Each rental has a minimum rental time. You won’t have access to the facility until your rental time begins, and it has to be cleaned and vacated by the end of the scheduled rental.
How far in advance can you book?
We book a year in advance. For example, if you wanted May 11th, 2018, you couldn’t book that date until May 11th, 2017.
When are the venues available?
7 days a week. River Bend cannot be rented starting the third weekend of November through December. River Bend will be decorated for its annual fundraiser, ElectriCritters, and the decorations may not be changed, altered, or removed for any reason.
River Bend will not be rented on Easter, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Is alcohol allowed?
Definitely! If alcohol is present, it must be served by a TABC certified bartender. RBNC required a current TABC training certificate from anyone serving alcohol.
Can you rent the Forest Ceremony Site or the Terrace by itself?
Unfortunately no. These facilities do not have restrooms, so we rent them in conjunction with facilities that do. Rental of the Elizabeth Prothro Pavilion includes the use of the J.S. Bridwell Terrace, Forest Ceremony Site, and the Rotary North Library.
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