<p>Riparian vegetation plays a crucial role in regulating the physicochemical and ecological quality of freshwater ecosystems. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures and land-use changes have led to widespread degradation and loss of riparian vegetation, threatening water quality and ecosystem health. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the potential of riparian vegetation to improve surface water quality through pollutant mitigation, nutrient retention, and sediment control. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering the years 2005–2025. The search focused on three major concepts: riparian vegetation, water quality, and pollutant or nutrient mitigation, using relevant keywords and Boolean combinations. Studies were thematically analyzed across five domains: effects of vegetation removal, benefits of vegetation enhancement, types and effectiveness of riparian vegetation, major challenges to conservation and restoration, and practical management solutions. Findings indicate that riparian vegetation reduces nutrient and sediment loads, stabilizes stream banks, moderates water temperature, and enhances aquatic habitat quality. Nonetheless, challenges such as land-use conflicts, limited policy enforcement, and inadequate restoration practices persist. The review underscores the importance of integrating riparian vegetation management into watershed planning and policy frameworks to sustain freshwater ecosystem integrity and improve water quality in human-modified landscapes.</p>