About Rooster Run Golf Club
Rooster Run has one of the more honest value propositions in North Bay golf: a proper 18-hole layout designed by Fred Bliss, opened in 1997, that plays 6,931 yards from the tips and has enough water to make accuracy matter, all at green fees that rarely break $75. It doesn't have vineyard views or ocean backdrops — it's a flat-to-gently-rolling stretch of southern Sonoma County terrain with wetland corridors, mature trees, and a routing that rewards golfers who think before they swing. For what it costs, it consistently delivers.
Water comes into play on most holes here, which is both the course's signature feature and its main scoring threat. The wetland areas are genuine hazards — not decorative ponds you can comfortably carry — and the course routing uses them cleverly enough that straight hitters have clear routes to the green while the aggressive line usually flirts with trouble. The greens are large and relatively receptive, which helps pace of play and makes the course approachable for a wide range of handicaps. Weekend rounds tend to move efficiently thanks to well-managed tee sheet spacing.
Petaluma is about 35 miles north of the Golden Gate, and Rooster Run sits on the east side of town off Washington Street. It's a legitimate day-trip destination for Bay Area golfers who want a round beyond the immediate SF courses, and it works particularly well as a first stop on a Sonoma or Napa golf weekend before hitting Wine Country proper. The range is properly lit for evening sessions, and the pro shop staff know their regulars by name — which is a good sign about any golf facility.
⛳ 18-Hole Course🎯 Par 72🏌️ Driving Range🛒 Pro Shop🍽️ Grill & Bar💧 Water Features📱 Online Booking✅ Open to Public
🏌️ Local Tips & Insider Advice
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Lay up on the water holes — seriously
First-timers often look at the yardage book and think they can carry the wetland hazards on certain holes. The carries are longer than they look, and the penalty areas are not forgiving. Play the safe line at least the first time around.
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Book weekday mornings for the best pace of play
Rooster Run gets busy on weekend afternoons, particularly in summer. Weekday morning rounds move at a proper pace and the conditioning is freshest.
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It's a natural first stop on a Sonoma golf trip
If you're heading north for a wine country weekend, Rooster Run is a practical Friday afternoon option — close to Highway 101, easy booking, good golf. Play here, then head further into Sonoma County or Napa the next morning.
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The driving range is worth arriving early for
The range is one of the better facilities in the North Bay — properly maintained turf bays, quality balls, enough room to work through a full bag warmup. Give yourself 30 minutes before your tee time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the green fee at Rooster Run Golf Club?
Green fees range from $40 to $75 depending on day, time, and season. Weekday rates start around $40; weekend morning prime-time slots approach $75. Twilight rates (typically after 2pm) offer meaningful discounts.
Where is Rooster Run Golf Club?
Rooster Run is located at 2301 E Washington St in Petaluma, California — on the east side of town just off Highway 101. It's approximately 35 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge and about 45 miles south of downtown Santa Rosa.
Who designed Rooster Run Golf Club?
Rooster Run was designed by Fred Bliss and opened in 1997. Bliss also designed several other well-regarded Northern California public courses during the 1990s golf boom.
Is Rooster Run Golf Club good for high handicappers?
Yes — the course has generous fairway widths on most holes and large, receptive greens. The water hazards add challenge but the layout generally provides a bailout option on most holes. It's a solid choice for recreational golfers who want a real course experience without excessive difficulty.
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