Rip Rap vs River Rock
Side-by-side comparison of Rip Rap and River Rock to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Large, heavy, angular stones ranging from 6 to 24+ inches used primarily for erosion control. Rip rap protects shorelines, stream banks, bridge abutments, and steep slopes from water erosion. The heavy weight and interlocking shape resist displacement by flowing water and wave action.
Naturally rounded stones smoothed by water erosion. Available in sizes from 1 to 5+ inches. River rock adds a polished, natural look to any landscape and is prized for its smooth texture and visual appeal.
Common Uses
Rip Rap
- ✓ Shoreline protection
- ✓ Stream bank stabilization
- ✓ Bridge abutments
- ✓ Steep slope stabilization
- ✓ Culvert outlets
- ✓ Retaining wall faces
River Rock
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Dry creek beds
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Decorative borders
- ✓ Erosion control
- ✓ Pond and water features
Pros & Cons
Rip Rap
- + Extremely effective at preventing water erosion
- + Heavy weight resists displacement by water
- + Long-lasting — lasts decades with no maintenance
- + Angular shape interlocks for stability
- + Natural appearance blends with waterside environments
- − Very heavy — requires heavy equipment to place
- − Expensive for large projects
- − Not suitable for foot traffic
- − Requires engineering design for major installations
- − Limited decorative appeal
River Rock
- + Beautiful, natural appearance
- + Extremely durable and long-lasting
- + Heavy enough to resist displacement
- + No sharp edges
- + Low maintenance
- − More expensive than crushed stone
- − Heavy and difficult to move
- − Not suitable for walking surfaces
- − Cannot be compacted
- − Limited use for structural applications
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Rip Rap | River Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $35 – $80 | $40 – $100 |
| Per cubic yard | $45 – $100 | $45 – $120 |
Sizes & Colors
Rip Rap
Large angular stones typically 6-24 inches in diameter, though some applications use stones up to 36 inches or larger. Weight ranges from 25 to 500+ pounds per stone. Colors vary by source quarry — typically gray, blue-gray, tan, or brown. Sold by the ton rather than by the yard.
River Rock
River rock comes in a wide range of sizes: small (1"–2"), medium (2"–3"), large (3"–5"), and boulders (5"+). Natural colors include gray, brown, tan, white, black, and multi-colored blends. Mexican beach pebbles offer polished black and gray options.
Published February 11, 2026
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