Riverview Golf and Country Club: Nearly 80 Years of Riverside Tradition and Modern Family Fun in Redding
- Rex Ballard
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Sacramento River in Redding, California, the Riverview Golf and Country Club remains Shasta County's only private, member-owned gem of a golf course. Founded in 1947, this North State landmark has grown from a nine-hole pioneer course into a full 18-hole championship layout with tennis and pickleball courts, a heated swimming pool, fitness center, river-view dining, and so much more. As it approaches its 80th anniversary, the club continues to blend rich history with welcoming, family-oriented amenities and standout membership promotions.
With its current “No Initiation Fee with 1-Year Commitment” offer and a brand-new Afternoon Golf option, Riverview is more accessible than ever for golfers and social members alike.
A Humble Beginning: The Vision of Henry and Irene Rother
The club’s story begins in 1945–1946, shortly after Shasta Dam tamed the Sacramento River. Redding businessman Henry Rother and his wife Irene purchased the 850-acre Graf Ranch. Henry personally cleared rock, scrub pine, and oaks to build a nine-hole course by hand. Irene, admiring the sweeping river vista from a hilltop, named it “Riverview.”
In March 1947, Rother offered the property for sale or lease. A group of 28 members from the old Redding Golf and Country Club—led by Dr. Ralph Sheppard, George Bruce, Bill Craig, Henry Rother, Hal Hopkins, Sam Breslauer, and Laurence J. Kennedy Sr.—formed an organizing committee. On April 30, 1947, they incorporated as a nonprofit.
The club officially opened to members on May 10, 1947, with 235 charter members. Henry and Irene Rother signed over the deed on May 16. Early highlights included the first pro, Johnny Perelli, Ladies’ Day on Wednesdays, and weekend buffets.
Our Story - Riverview Golf & Country Club - (Photograph: Archival view of early club life at Riverview, captured from the official “Our Story” timeline – Source: riverviewgolf.net/our-story.)
Expansion and Evolution: From Nine to Eighteen Holes
By 1956, surging membership prompted expansion to 18 holes. Architect Ben Harmon provided guidance; Duke Davis financed the project; pro Ed Loustalot oversaw construction with member volunteers. The team leveled sand dunes, relocated loam, dredged a lake near the seventh tee, and built a flood-control dyke. The new par-72 course opened for play in spring 1958 and was formally dedicated that fall during a Home-and-Home tournament with Rogue Valley Country Club in Medford, Oregon.
Subsequent upgrades included a new pro shop (1971), cart paths (1989–1990), and ongoing course improvements. Today, the 6,610-yard layout winds through mature oaks with stunning river vistas, hosting the Redding Pro-Am, club championships, and women’s and men’s events. Kyle Hansen is in charge of Golf Operations. He and his staff keep the course in great condition. The course includes a full driving range, a putting green, and short-game practice areas. Golf instruction is available, and in the Summer months, they operate a kids camp that introduces the game to the Club's future members.
The Club now boasts what many say is the very best banquet and event space available in Shasta County. Featuring stunning elevated views of the River with seating for up to 500 guests. These facilities are available for public booking. Morgan Cook leads a team of chefs and waitstaff who can host everything from the most elegant of weddings to comfy family reunions. The fully equipped kitchen can turn out fantastic meals, whether for Club members dining in the restaurant or for large banquets. Contact Morgan Cook at (530)224-2253 ext. 8011 to plan your next event.
Membership: Welcoming New Options to Fit Every Budget (Updated 2026)
Riverview’s proprietary, member-owned model continues to offer outstanding value. As of March 2026, the club highlights its new Afternoon Golf membership and an ongoing “No Initiation Fee with 1-Year Commitment” promotion across most categories. All golf memberships include unlimited play (with time restrictions on some), driving range, practice facilities, pool, tennis/pickleball courts, fitness center, and access to the river-view restaurant (most carry a $150 quarterly food & beverage minimum).
Current programs (monthly dues; subject to confirmation with the club):
Membership Type | Monthly Dues (2026) | Key Benefits & Notes |
Afternoon Golf (Ind/Family) | $275 (Ind) / $340 (Family) | Unlimited golf after noon; new flagship offering; full facilities |
Full Family Golf | $585 | Unlimited golf for spouse + kids <18 (college/military <26); proprietary |
Individual Golf | $458 | Full access; family social privileges |
Corporate Golf | $585 (primary) + $458/$342 tiers | Business flexibility; minimum 3 employees |
Junior Executive (under 40) | $342 | Full access; limited to 50; non-proprietary |
Out-of-Town | $1,380/year | Up to 24 rounds; for residents >40 miles away |
Sports/Social | $155 | Pool, tennis/pickleball, fitness, range; 1 discounted round/month |
Corporate Social | $107/employee (3–7 people) | Social facilities + limited golf rounds |
Introductory Savings (limited time): Full Family – $100/mo off Year 1, $50/mo off Year 2; Individual – $60/mo off Year 1, $30/mo off Year 2.
For the latest rates or to tour, contact Amy Dendas, the Membership Director at (530) 224-2255 ext. 8010 or visit riverviewgolf.net/become-a-member. The club strongly encourages inquiries while the no-initiation-fee offer remains active.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
From Henry Rother’s hand-built fairways to today’s vibrant mix of golf, pickleball, family events, and riverfront dining, Riverview Golf and Country Club embodies Redding’s enduring community spirit. As the club prepares to celebrate 80 years, its doors—and fairways—are more inviting than ever.
For more information, visit riverviewgolf.net, follow on Facebook @golfriverview or Instagram @riverviewgolfcountryclub, or stop by 4200 Bechelli Lane. Riverview isn’t just a club—it’s home on the river.
