Riverwood Golf Club

By
Tim Clarke
June 1, 2026
6 min read
Discover the prestigious community of Riverwood Golf Club in Clayton, NC. Experience upscale suburban living. Join us today!
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Riverwood Golf Club neighborhood in Clayton, NC

Tucked away just outside Raleigh in Clayton, North Carolina lies the prestigious Riverwood Golf Club. This championship golf course community offers residents a luxury lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. While Riverwood Golf Club and Riverwood Athletic Club share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Both communities are located in the prestigious Riverwood development, offering residents a luxurious living experience surrounded by natural beauty and top-notch amenities.

Riverwood Golf Club, as the name suggests, is centered around a world-class 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned architect Tom Jackson. This community is a golfer's paradise, with a state-of-the-art clubhouse, pro shop, and dining facilities catering to the golfing lifestyle.

On the other hand, Riverwood Athletic Club is geared towards active individuals and families who prioritize fitness and recreational activities. While it does not have a golf course, it has an impressive array of amenities, including tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center, and walking trails, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an active and healthy lifestyle.

Riverwood Golf Club Overview

While not a master-planned community, there are neighborhoods of luxury homes surrounding the course taking advantage of the scenic views and amenities.

History and Development

Riverwood Golf Club is a prestigious golf course community that has been carefully developed over the past two decades. Situated on the banks of the Neuse River, this neighborhood offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. The community was thoughtfully planned to preserve the area's rich history and natural landscapes, while providing residents with a luxurious living experience.

Riverwood Golf Club first opened its gates in 1997 after being designed by acclaimed golf course architect David Postlethwait. The 27-hole layout features dramatic elevation changes and meandering fairways along the Neuse River. The course has been ranked as one of the top designs in North Carolina, playing between 4,700 to 7,200 yards. Riverwood has hosted several high-profile amateur tournaments over the years.

Home Sizes and Lot Sizes

Riverwood Golf Club features a diverse range of home sizes and lot sizes to cater to various lifestyles and preferences. From spacious single-family homes to low-maintenance townhomes and condominiums, there's something for everyone in this community. The average home size ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet, with lot sizes varying from 0.25 to 1 acre, ensuring ample space for outdoor living and privacy.

Builders in the Community

Riverwood Golf Club has attracted some of the most reputable builders in the region, including One27Design, Fleming Homes, Fred Smith Company, Solid Rock Construction, Cumberland Homes, Perfect Image Construction, Exquisite Homes, and Riverside Custom Builders. These builders are known for their commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and attention to detail, ensuring that every home in the community is a masterpiece.

Riverwood Golf Club's Amenities

As a semi-private club, Riverwood Golf Club offers several membership options. Members enjoy unlimited golf, practice facilities, club storage, and access to member-only tournaments and events. The clubhouse features a full-service pro shop, locker rooms, and dining room with scenic views. Instruction from PGA professionals, clinics, and weekly leagues are also available.

Community Lifestyle

Riverwood Golf Club offers a truly exceptional lifestyle for its residents. The centerpiece of the community is the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by renowned architect Tom Jackson. The course features challenging layouts, pristine fairways, and breathtaking views, making it a golfer's paradise. Additionally, the community has a state-of-the-art clubhouse, complete with dining facilities, a pro shop, and a fitness center.

Outdoor Spaces and Recreational Amenities

Beyond the golf course, Riverwood Golf Club provides a wealth of outdoor spaces and recreational amenities for residents to enjoy. The community features walking trails, parks, and playgrounds, perfect for families with children. There are also tennis courts, swimming pools, and a community center where residents can gather for social events and activities.

Public and Private Schools

Riverwood Golf Club is served by the highly regarded Johnston County Public School System, which includes several excellent elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. Additionally, there are several private school options nearby, such as Neuse Christian Academy and Clayton Christian School, providing families with a wide range of educational choices.

Top Local Restaurants near Riverwood Golf Club

The Riverwood Golf Club community is surrounded by a variety of excellent dining options. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the area include Mannino's Bistro, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere, and The Butcher's Market, a local favorite for its high-quality meats and delicious sandwiches. Other notable mentions include Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q, a beloved local chain serving up classic Southern barbecue, and Flip'n Egg, a popular breakfast and brunch spot.

Shopping and Entertainment near Riverwood Golf Club

Residents of Riverwood Golf Club have easy access to a variety of shopping and entertainment options. The nearby Renaissance Park Shopping Center offers a diverse range of retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. Additionally, the charming downtown area of Clayton provides a unique shopping experience with its locally owned boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries.

Riverwood Golf Club's Location Overview

Situated just 20 minutes from Raleigh, residents can easily access urban amenities while coming home to peaceful surroundings.

Highway Access

Riverwood Golf Club is conveniently located near major highways, making it easy to navigate the Raleigh-Durham area. The community is just a short drive from Interstate 40, providing direct access to Raleigh, Durham, and the Research Triangle Park (RTP). Additionally, Interstate 95 and US-70 are easily accessible, connecting residents to other parts of North Carolina and beyond.

Commute Times and Suggested Routes

The location of Riverwood Golf Club offers excellent commuting options for residents. The community is approximately:

  • 25 miles (30-40 minute drive) from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
  • 25 miles (30-40 minute drive) from Downtown Durham
  • 20 miles (25-35 minute drive) from Downtown Raleigh
  • 15 miles (20-30 minute drive) from Research Triangle Park (RTP)

For commuters heading to RDU Airport, the recommended route is to take I-40 West towards Raleigh and follow the airport signs. For those commuting to Downtown Durham, taking I-40 East is the most direct route. Residents traveling to Downtown Raleigh can take either I-40 West or US-70 West, depending on their preferred route and traffic conditions. Finally, for those working in RTP, taking I-40 West and exiting at NC-147 is the most convenient option.

Conclusion - Tim Clarke's Expert Advice

As the founder of the Tim M. Clarke Team, one of the top real estate teams in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area of North Carolina, I highly recommend considering Riverwood Golf Club for your next home purchase. This community offers a truly exceptional lifestyle, combining luxury living with a wealth of amenities and a prime location.

If you're looking to buy in Riverwood Golf Club, I suggest taking the time to explore the community thoroughly. Attend open houses, visit the clubhouse, and even play a round of golf on the course to get a feel for the atmosphere. Additionally, consider your long-term goals and lifestyle preferences, as this community caters to a wide range of needs, from active retirees to growing families.

For current residents considering selling their homes, now is an excellent time to take advantage of the strong real estate market in the Raleigh-Durham area. With my team's expertise in pricing strategies and marketing techniques, we can ensure that your home receives maximum exposure and fetches the best possible price.

Lastly, if you're a resident looking to enhance your lifestyle in Riverwood Golf Club, I recommend getting involved in the community's social events and activities. Join the golf club, participate in the fitness classes, or attend the neighborhood gatherings – these are excellent ways to connect with your neighbors and truly embrace the community spirit.

Whether you're a prospective buyer, a current resident, or simply exploring your options, I invite you to reach out to me and my team. We are dedicated to providing honest, transparent guidance throughout the real estate process, ensuring that your needs and goals are our top priority. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards your dream home in Riverwood Golf Club.

Drive Times and Routes from Riverwood Golf Club

Compare the airport, RTP, downtowns, and the three closest major hospitals.

DestinationTimeDistanceSuggested route
Local downtown
Downtown Clayton12 min5 miCharleston Drive and Payton Drive
Regional destinations
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)Open live directions ↗46 min34.1 miPritchard Road and Smithfield Road
Research Triangle Park (RTP)Open live directions ↗48 min35.1 miSmithfield Road and I 87; US 64; US 264
Downtown RaleighOpen live directions ↗25 min16.4 miPritchard Road and Smithfield Road
Downtown DurhamOpen live directions ↗56 min42.4 miSmithfield Road and I 540
Downtown Chapel HillOpen live directions ↗66 min46.7 miSmithfield Road and I 87; US 64; US 264
Major hospitals
WakeMed Raleigh CampusOpen live directions ↗25 min15.6 miPritchard Road and Smithfield Road
Duke Raleigh HospitalOpen live directions ↗27 min17.9 miPritchard Road and Smithfield Road
WakeMed North HospitalOpen live directions ↗32 min22.6 miPritchard Road and Smithfield Road

Approximate baseline values without live traffic, calculated August 18, 2026. Time of day, construction, and weather can change the trip. Open a destination for current directions. Route data: © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Everyday Services and Amenities Near Riverwood Golf Club

These reference points turn “nearby” into a useful measure: the baseline route to the closest mapped grocery store, park, library, college or university, fire station, and shopping center.

GroceryFood Lion

4 min · 1.2 mi · Open live route ↗

Approximate values without live traffic, calculated August 18, 2026. Verify access and services before relying on them. Data: © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Streets in Riverwood Golf Club

Explore the streets of Riverwood Golf Club:

  • Trantham Trail
  • Riverwood Drive
  • Raymond Drive
  • Stevens Creek Drive
  • Evington Drive
  • Feezer Court
  • Linwood Lane
  • Marcellus Way
  • Crissie Court
  • York Lane
  • Peddler Mill Way

Frequently Asked Questions About Riverwood Golf Club

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Active Listings

Note: If you're not seeing any listings, there are currently no available homes in this community.

Tim M. Clarke

About the author

18 years as a Realtor in the Research Triangle, Tim seeks to transform the Raleigh-Durham real estate scene through a progressive, people-centered approach prioritizing trust & transparency.

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