About Riverside Golf Courses
Fully renovated in 2023, Riverside is a golf course for the whole family. Located just four miles south of downtown San Antonio, it features an 18-hole championship layout and a unique 9-hole Par 3 course. The San Antonio River splits the front and back nine, adding a scenic touch to this historic south-side course, which has been a beloved fixture of San Antonio for decades.
Riverside's front nine opened in 1929, making it one of the city’s oldest golf courses. In 1968, 11 holes were added to complete the 18-hole layout, with the existing back nine finalized in 1974. Because the two sides were developed in different eras, each offers a distinct experience: the front nine has tree-lined fairways that penalize errant tee shots, while the back nine is more open, offering plenty of birdie opportunities.
The first hole is a challenging par 5 that tempts golfers to "go for it in two," but stately oak trees guarding the green demand both accuracy and length. Overall, the course is forgiving and enjoyable for beginners while still providing a fun challenge for more seasoned players.
The 9-hole Par 3 course, affectionately known as "The Teddy Bear," is a fantastic place to sharpen your short game. Named in honor of Teddy Roosevelt, who trained on this site with the Rough Riders in 1898, the Par 3 course features holes ranging from 80 to 120 yards, winding through large trees with small, undulating greens that test your wedge skills.
DID YOU KNOW?
Before becoming Vice President and eventually President, Teddy Roosevelt came to San Antonio in 1898 to train with the U.S. 1st Volunteer Cavalry, the “Rough Riders,” who gained fame during the Battle of San Juan Hill in the Spanish-American War. Riverside Golf Course sits on the very site where Roosevelt and his Rough Riders prepared for battle, adding a rich historical element to your round of golf.