River Rock Landscaping: The Natural Way to Add Beauty and Durability to Your Yard

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your outdoor space with a timeless, low-maintenance, and visually stunning material, river rock landscaping might be exactly what your yard needs.

These smooth, rounded stones bring both beauty and durability to any landscape design. Whether you’re creating a decorative dry riverbed, enhancing a water feature, or replacing grass for a sustainable xeriscape, river rock offers a perfect blend of form and function.

Wondering where to buy river rock near me? At Kilgore Landscape Center, we provide high-quality decorative rock products that help Utah homeowners and contractors transform ordinary landscapes into something extraordinary.

What Is River Rock?

River rock is a naturally rounded stone that’s been shaped and smoothed by water and time. These stones come in a range of earthy colors, from soft grays and tans to warm browns, reds, and whites. They are available in many sizes, typically from ¾” up to several inches in diameter.

The stones’ smooth surfaces and organic tones make them an ideal decorative material for almost any landscape style, from rustic to modern. And beyond their visual appeal, river rocks are known for their durability and versatility; qualities that make them an effective Utah landscaping hack.

The Benefits of River Rock Landscaping

1. Low Maintenance Beauty

Unlike organic materials like bark or mulch, river rocks don't decompose or fade over time. Once installed, they provide long-lasting coverage that requires almost no upkeep. You won’t need to replace or refresh them seasonally, which makes them a smart, cost-effective solution for busy homeowners and commercial properties alike.

2. Excellent Drainage and Erosion Control

River rock is a practical choice for areas prone to standing water or soil erosion. The gaps between the stones allow water to flow through easily, reducing runoff and improving drainage.

That’s why you’ll often see river rock used in dry creek beds, around downspouts, or along slopes — it helps guide water where you want it to go while maintaining a clean, natural look.

3. Durable and Long-Lasting

Utah’s weather can be tough on landscapes; from hot, dry summers to freezing winter conditions. River rock holds up beautifully year after year. It won’t wash away, fade, or break down, making it an especially durable choice for walkways, ground cover, or high-traffic areas.

4. Weed Control Made Easy

When installed with a heavy-duty weed barrier fabric, river rock provides excellent weed suppression. It blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, reducing growth and keeping your landscaping looking clean and well-maintained.

5. Natural Aesthetic Appeal

The organic textures and colors of river rock blend beautifully with plants, trees, and other natural materials. Whether you’re going for a rugged mountain vibe, a peaceful desert garden, or a sleek modern yard, river rock adds depth, contrast, and natural beauty that ties your whole design together.

6. Environmentally Friendly

Because river rock is a natural, non-toxic material that doesn’t require dyes or chemicals, it’s an environmentally friendly choice. According to the Utah Division of Water Resources, it can also help conserve water — perfect for Utah homeowners embracing xeriscaping or other drought-tolerant landscaping designs.

Popular Uses for River Rock

One of the reasons river rock landscaping is so popular is its incredible versatility. Here are just a few creative ways to use river rock around your yard or property:

1. Dry River Beds

Design a stunning dry riverbed that mimics the look of a natural stream. It’s both decorative and functional, helping manage drainage while adding movement and texture to your landscape.

2. Pathways and Walkways

River rocks make for attractive and durable garden paths. Combine it with stepping stones or flagstone for a rustic, natural look that’s comfortable underfoot.

3. Ground Cover

Grass or mulch can be replaced with river rock to reduce maintenance and water use. It’s a great solution for areas where grass struggles to grow, like shaded zones, slopes, or hot, sunny spots.

4. Water Features and Ponds

The smooth texture of river rock makes it ideal for fountains, ponds, or waterfalls. When wet, the stones’ colors deepen and shine, creating a serene, natural ambiance.

5. Tree Rings and Flower Beds

Use river rock to define garden beds, tree bases, or planters. It adds structure and contrast while preventing soil erosion and keeping weeds at bay.

6. Decorative Accents

River rock looks beautiful alongside larger boulders, flagstone, or pavers. Use it as a border or filler between hardscape elements for a polished, professional finish.

Installation Tips for River Rock Landscaping

To get the most out of your river rock, proper installation is key. Here’s how to achieve lasting results:

1. Prepare the Area:
   Clear weeds, debris, and existing vegetation. Grade the surface to ensure proper drainage.
   
   

2. Install Weed Fabric:
   Lay down a heavy-duty landscape fabric before placing your rock. This step greatly reduces weed growth and keeps the rock from sinking into the soil.
   
   

3. Choose the Right Depth:
   For most applications, install river rock at a depth of 2–3 inches. For dry riverbeds or larger stones, go a bit deeper — around 4–6 inches for best coverage and stability.
   
   

4. Use the Right Equipment:
   For large projects, a skid steer loader can make moving and spreading rock much faster. Use rakes and shovels to even out the surface and achieve a clean, natural finish.
   
   

5. Edge for Definition:
   Install metal, concrete, or stone edging to keep river rock in place and maintain crisp boundaries between rock and other materials like mulch or turf.
   
   

Why Buy River Rock from Kilgore Landscape Center?

At Kilgore Landscape Center at Asphalt Materials, we’ve been serving the Salt Lake Valley and Wasatch Front since 1975, providing Utah homeowners and contractors with high-quality materials and trusted expertise.

As a locally owned and privately operated business, we’re proud to provide personalized service, honest pricing, and decades of experience helping customers bring their landscape visions to life. If you’re wondering, “where can I buy river rock?” we’re here to help.

Visit Kilgore Landscape Center in West Jordan

Ready to add natural beauty and lasting durability to your yard with river rock landscaping? Visit our West Jordan location or give us a call at 801-561-4231 to explore our selection of decorative river rock and other landscaping products. 

Wondering how much river rock do I need? Our knowledgeable team can help you choose the right rock size and amount for your project, explain best installation practices, and even arrange delivery straight to your home or job site.