Looking for a scenic, well-maintained course that offers a fun challenge without being overwhelming? Redwood Canyon Golf Course in Castro Valley just might be your next favorite spot. Tucked away in the rolling hills of the East Bay, this 18-hole public course has been a local favorite since it opened in 1966. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just getting into the game, Redwood Canyon offers a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere with stunning views and a layout that keeps things interesting without being too punishing.

It’s easy to overlook this course if you're not familiar with the area, but once you find it — nestled in the top right corner of the Anthony Chabot Regional Park map — you’ll wonder why it’s not on your regular rotation. With a yardage of 5,801 and a par of 71, it’s a course that feels fair, not too long, but still keeps your focus sharp. The dramatic mountain views, aspen forests, wildflower meadows, and sage-covered hills make every round feel a little more special.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a member or a pro to enjoy it. Redwood Canyon Golf Course is part of the East Bay Regional Park District, which means it's open to the public and well-maintained by a team that clearly takes pride in what they do. Plus, tee times are easy to book and flexible, making it a go-to option for weekend rounds or mid-week practice sessions.

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Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Location and History
• Course Layout and Features
• Planning Your Visit
• Tips for Playing Redwood Canyon
• Frequently Asked Questions

Location and History

Redwood Canyon Golf Course sits at 17007 Redwood Road in Castro Valley — a quiet, scenic part of the Bay Area that’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the trip. It’s part of the larger Anthony Chabot Regional Park, which offers plenty of hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation options nearby. So if you’re looking to combine a round of golf with some fresh air and nature, this is a great place to do it.

Since opening its fairways in 1966, Redwood Canyon has become a staple for local golfers who appreciate a course that’s both welcoming and challenging. It’s not the longest track you’ll ever play, but with its elevation changes and occasional tricky pin placements, it keeps things engaging. The course has also benefited from being part of the East Bay Regional Park District, which helps ensure it stays in top condition year-round.

Course Layout and Features

Redwood Canyon’s layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain, weaving through rolling hills and offering some pretty spectacular vistas. It’s a par 71 that measures just under 5,800 yards from the back tees, making it a good fit for players of varying skill levels. The course has a lighted driving range, so you can work on your long game even after the sun starts to dip behind the hills.

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One of the standout features of Redwood Canyon is the way it blends into its surroundings. You’ll find yourself playing through aspen forests, past wildflower meadows, and with mountain views from several greens. It’s a peaceful setting, and you’ll often hear more birds than traffic while you’re out there. The greens are well-kept and the bunkers are in good shape, which helps maintain a level of play that feels both fair and rewarding.

It also has a nice mix of holes — some are short and tight, others open up with more space, so you’ll need to use different clubs and strategies throughout the round. There’s a practice putting green too, so if you want to work on your short game before teeing off, you’ve got the space to do it.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Redwood Canyon Golf Course, there are a few things to know ahead of time to make your experience as smooth as possible. First off, tee times can be booked up to seven days in advance without a reservation fee, and Canyon Club members get the option to book up to eight days ahead. If you’re part of a group or want to plan further in advance, reservations are available up to 21 days out, which is handy if you’re coordinating a weekend outing with friends.

You can check for available tee times online and set your preferences for days, time ranges, and number of players. If you’d like, you can even sign up to get a notification when a time opens up that matches your preferences — which is super helpful if you’re flexible with your schedule.

As for the course itself, dress code and etiquette are pretty standard. Collared shirts are typically required, and soft spikes are preferred. The pro shop is a good place to grab last-minute supplies, and they usually have a friendly staff who can answer any questions you might have about the course layout or local rules.

Tips for Playing Redwood Canyon

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re planning your round at Redwood Canyon:

• Bring layers: The East Bay can get pretty breezy, especially in the late afternoon. A light jacket or windbreaker can make a big difference once the sun starts to go down.
• Use the driving range: The lighted range is a great way to warm up, especially if you haven’t played in a while. It’s also a nice option for evening practice sessions.
• Walk the course: While carts are available, walking gives you a better feel for the terrain and helps you appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
• Watch your approach shots on elevated greens: A few of the greens are raised, so it’s easy to come up short if you’re not careful. Take an extra club or two when approaching these.
• Take in the scenery: Seriously, the views are worth a pause or two. It’s not every day you get to play golf surrounded by aspen trees and wildflowers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a tee time in advance at Redwood Canyon?

Yes, you can book tee times up to 7 days in advance without a reservation fee. Canyon Club members can book up to 8 days ahead. You can also make reservations up to 21 days in advance if you're booking for a larger group or special event.

Is Redwood Canyon Golf Course open to the public?

Absolutely. Redwood Canyon is a public golf course operated by the East Bay Regional Park District. It’s open to all players, whether you're a local or just visiting the area.

Are there practice facilities available?

Yes, the course features a lighted driving range and a practice putting green. These are great resources for warming up before your round or working on your game after work.

Learn more about golf courses in the Bay Area on our site, and link to this page Redwood Canyon Golf Course for more detailed info and tee time availability.