Riverside Correctional Facility – Philadelphia, PA

About Riverside Correctional Facility

The Riverside Correctional Facility (RCF) is a key detention center within the Philadelphia Department of Prisons system. Located on the State Road correctional campus in Northeast Philadelphia, RCF opened in 2004 to replace the outdated women’s wing of the House of Correction. While it was designed and operates primarily as the county’s intake and housing facility for female inmates (both pretrial and sentenced), it also houses specific populations of community-custody male inmates following departmental reorganizations. The modern facility is equipped with educational classrooms, a gymnasium, and comprehensive medical and behavioral health units to support rehabilitation and reentry.

Visitation and Communication

The Philadelphia Department of Prisons encourages contact with family but enforces strict visitation protocols. All visits must be scheduled in advance; walk-ins are not permitted. The facility utilizes a scheduling system where appointments must be made between 48 hours and 7 days prior to the visit. In addition to limited in-person visitation, video visitation is available and often the primary method for staying in touch. Inmates also have access to phone services and mail correspondence.

Security and Entry Rules

RCF is a maximum-security environment. Visitors are subject to rigorous security screening, including metal detectors and searches. Valid government-issued photo identification is mandatory for every adult visitor. Strict dress codes are enforced: revealing clothing, shorts, tank tops, and graphic tees are prohibited. Cell phones and electronic devices are strictly banned inside the facility and must be left in a vehicle or a locker in the lobby. 🏛️👮‍♀️🔒📞📝🛂🚫📱