RiverLakes Ranch at The Links at RiverLakes Ranch

The Links at RiverLakes Ranch occupies land in Bakersfield, in California's Central Valley, where Ron Fream designed a course that takes advantage of the region's flat agricultural terrain and reliable sunshine. Fream, known for his work across Asia and the western United States, created a layout that incorporates water features and strategic bunkering to define holes across what is otherwise gently rolling ground. The course serves a residential community on Bakersfield's northern edge, where the Sierra Nevada foothills rise in the distance to the east.

The routing makes use of several lakes and interconnected waterways that come into play on multiple holes, giving the course its name and providing visual definition in a landscape that lacks significant natural elevation change. Fream's design emphasizes playability for a range of skill levels while requiring thoughtful course management around the water hazards. The fairways are typically generous, but approach shots demand accuracy given the frequency of water near greens and the strategic placement of greenside bunkers.

RiverLakes Ranch functions as a semi-private facility, offering both member and public access in a market where daily-fee golf remains important to the local economy. The Central Valley's warm, dry climate allows for year-round play, and the course attracts golfers from Bakersfield and surrounding communities who seek a well-maintained layout with modern amenities. The clubhouse provides standard dining and event services typical of courses serving both residential and visiting players.