Discover Riverside (Belcamp), MD – Your Next Home Awaits

Welcome to Riverside (also commonly called Belcamp), Maryland — a quiet, appealing community tucked into Harford County with easy access to major roadways, established neighborhoods, and growing amenities. I’m Leigh Kaminsky, your local real estate expert at BelAirRealtor.com, and this page is dedicated to helping you get to know what it’s like to live in Riverside.

About Riverside / Belcamp

Riverside is a census-designated place in Harford County, Maryland, with a 2020 population of 7,021. The names “Riverside” and “Belcamp” are often used interchangeably (the U.S. Postal Service accepts both for ZIP code 21017). The more historic “Belcamp” name reflects the area south of US-40, while the broader Riverside CDP extends north of Route 40.

Geographically, Riverside is bounded to the north by MD Route 7 (Philadelphia Road) and to the south by US Route 40 (Pulaski Highway). The community stretches west to the Bush River and James Run, and east toward Grays Run. Through the heart of the area runs MD Route 543 (Riverside Parkway), connecting to I-95 at Exit 80. That connectivity is a big asset: you’re only about 30 miles from Baltimore and roughly 45 miles from Wilmington, DE via I-95. Bel Air, the Harford County seat, lies approximately 8 miles northwest via MD 543.

A Glimpse into History

Riverside’s history is often tied to the old Bata Shoe Company factory that once operated along the Bush River in Belcamp. In the mid-20th century, the Bata plant employed around 3,000 workers and included company housing, a hotel, even a movie theater for employees. As industry changed, much of that complex was demolished by the early 2000s, and the site now hosts modern office, light industrial, and business park developments.

Beyond that, Riverside fits into the broader story of Harford County, which was formally carved from Baltimore County in 1774 and named for Henry Harford. The region developed over centuries with agriculture, waterways, and trade routes, and later suburban growth as people sought homes beyond the core cities.

Why People Choose Riverside

Riverside offers a blend of suburban calm, convenience, and potential. Here are a few of the most compelling draws:

• Strong Location & Commute Options: With direct access to I-95, MD 543, and Route 40, Riverside is ideal for professionals working in Baltimore, northern Maryland, or even commuting toward Delaware.
• Affordability and Variety: Properties in Riverside range from townhomes and condos to traditional single-family homes, with many built in the last two decades. You’ll also occasionally find waterfront or near-river properties.
• Quiet Neighborhood Feel: The area retains a low-key, friendly character—residents often cite a peaceful environment and a sense of connection. One longtime resident says, “I moved here for the slower pace, and I’ve come to love being close to nature yet minutes from everything I need.”
• Access to Nature & Outdoor Amenities: Though in a suburban setting, Riverside is near open spaces, waterways, and conservation areas. Even though the Harford Glen Environmental Education Center lies further into the county, it adds to the region’s appeal for nature lovers.
• Business & Economic Growth: The business parks and industrial zones in Riverside attract companies and jobs locally, reducing the need for long commutes for some.

Education & Schooling in Riverside / Belcamp

Riverside (Belcamp) is served by Harford County Public Schools (HCPS), which educates around 38,000–39,000 students across 55 schools. HCPS consistently ranks among the higher-performing school systems in Maryland, and operates a range of academic, specialty, and career-technical programs.

Within the immediate area:

• Church Creek Elementary School (PK–5): Located on Church Creek Road in Belcamp, this public elementary school is part of HCPS.
• Middle and High Schools: Students in Riverside may feed into various middle and high schools across Harford County depending on their address and HCPS assignments. Schools like Edgewood Middle, Bel Air Middle, and Patterson Mill Middle are among those in the district list. For high school, Harford Technical High School is a standout option—a magnet public school offering strong technical and academic programs across numerous trades and specialties.
• Non-Public & Specialized Options: The High Road School of Harford County serves grades 1–12 with a focus on individualized education, and is located nearby. The Arrow Center for Education (Riverside) is another specialized program in the area.

Disclaimer: School boundaries, feeder patterns, and program availability are subject to change. It’s essential that prospective buyers or residents verify current school assignments and enrollment policies with Harford County Public Schools or local school offices.

Living in Riverside: Local Amenities & Lifestyle

While not a large urban center, Riverside offers enough local amenities to meet everyday needs. There are grocery stores, convenience shops, restaurants, and service businesses. Restaurants range from casual fare to more traditional pub-style and national chains.

Because of its role as a connector community (linking Route 40 to I-95), Riverside has several commercial corridors, hotels, gas stations, and business parks. For recreation, residents enjoy proximity to conservation areas and open land. For instance, Bynum Run Conservation Area, a short drive away, offers natural trails, quiet settings, and green space.

Real Estate Snapshot

In Riverside and Belcamp, you’ll find a mix of housing styles: modern townhomes, detached single-family homes, and occasional waterfront or near-river properties. Many of the homes were built within the last 20–30 years, making upkeep more manageable. Traditional architectural styles—Colonial, Georgian, and variations—are common.

Price ranges tend to be more affordable relative to many parts of Maryland, which draws interest from people seeking a balance between cost, access, and quality of life. Because Riverside is established but still evolving, new development and infill opportunities exist—both for buyers and investors.

Contact Leigh to Explore Riverside Listings

If Riverside seems like a fit for your next chapter, I’d be honored to guide you. I can send you tailored listings, arrange showings, and help you navigate the nuances of this region.

Riverside
Homes for Sale

This content is currently unavailable. Please check back later or contact the site's support team for more information.