Big Changes Ahead for River Oaks Golf Club

News Summary

River Oaks Golf Club will close on October 31, 2024, marking the end of an era as it transitions from a beloved golfing destination to a residential area with nearly 600 homes. The 27-hole course, opened in 1987 and designed by Gene Hamm, has been cherished by golfers for decades. As the redevelopment begins, the club plans to host memorable events to celebrate its legacy while the golf community adjusts to the upcoming changes.

Big Changes Ahead for River Oaks Golf Club

The scenic River Oaks Golf Club is gearing up for a monumental change as it prepares to close its doors on October 31, 2024. Golf enthusiasts may want to take one more swing at their favorite course before it transitions from a beloved golf destination to a bustling residential area.

Out with the Old, in with the New

The picturesque 27-hole golf course, known for its stunning design by famed architect Gene Hamm, has been a cherished spot for local golfers since it opened back in 1987. In 1991, the club expanded by adding the Bear nine holes, allowing even more players to enjoy a round of golf. However, as we zoom toward the end of October next year, it has been announced that this beautiful green space will soon be redeveloped into nearly 600 single-family homes.

The redevelopment comes as Chris Manning of Chris Manning Communities took over the remaining 18 holes of the club in February 2024. Since then, Manning has been busy navigating the necessary permitting and approvals with Horry County and state officials, with expectations to kick off development on 370 lots by fall. It’s a significant step that’s sparking mixed feelings among residents and avid golfers alike.

What’s Next for Golfers?

Despite the impending closure, River Oaks remains dedicated to maintaining a top-notch golfing experience until the very last day. Under the management team led by Scott Taylor, the course has kept its standards high, with enticing features like recent sodding of four greens using the Sunday ultradwarf Bermudagrass. Players can rest assured that their final rounds at this beloved club will be just as enjoyable as the many rounds they’ve played before.

River Oaks Golf Club has long been regarded for its affordable green fees, drawing players from all around. Over the years, it has also been home to a variety of charity golf tournaments, making it a significant player in supporting local causes. In fact, a major fundraiser benefiting the Folds of Honor Foundation is on the horizon, featuring 41 teams eager to hit the fairway one last time together.

To celebrate the club’s legacy, Taylor is in the works to organize memorable events and tournaments over the upcoming months, inviting players to honor their fond memories. Several staff members have been at River Oaks for over a decade, displaying a strong commitment to the course and its community as they stick around until the very end. However, local golf instructors will need to regroup and find new venues after River Oaks closes its doors.

Traffic, Development, and Growth

The transformation of River Oaks Golf Club is no solitary endeavor. It follows the earlier redevelopment of the Bear nine, which closed in September 2021 and was sold to Manning. He benefitted handsomely from this transaction, selling it to Mungo Homes for $9.5 million after acquiring it for a mere $3 million. Now, as Manning gears up to develop 220 lots on the Bear property, it sets the stage for increased demand—and traffic—on River Oaks Drive, which is slated for expansion from two to four lanes in the future.

Manning’s interest in golf course redevelopment isn’t new. He has successfully owned and revamped other golfing properties, and the ongoing high demand for land development in Horry County continues to influence his decisions. It’s a clear sign that while the golf course may be closing, a new chapter of adaptability and growth is just beginning.

Last Call for Golf Lovers

As the clock ticks down to the closure of River Oaks Golf Club, both nostalgia and excitement fill the air. While many golfers enjoy the course’s well-kept greens and fairways, the shift towards new homes opens a new chapter for the community. Get ready for some events to commemorate fond memories on the course—and be prepared for traffic to pick up as new families arrive in the area! This transformation may mark the end of a golfing era, but it also promises the beginnings of a vibrant neighborhood.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Additional Resources