Since 1961
A Course with Deep Roots
Nestled between the Clackamas and Willamette Rivers in Gladstone, this land has been home to a golf course since 1961, when it opened as Rivergreens, an 18-hole par-3 course. In 1989, as apartments were developed along its edges, the course was redesigned into the 9-hole layout golfers play today.
1996
A Vision Takes Shape
In 1996, founder Duncan Campbell and his wife Cindy saw something more than a golf course — they saw an opportunity. Their vision: a place dedicated to children, where kids could learn and play golf while building character and making healthy choices. That vision became The Children’s Course — a full public golf course, open and welcoming to golfers of every age and skill level, with youth development at its heart.
Open to All
A Course for Everyone
While our roots and our mission are grounded in youth development, The Children’s Course has always been a public course — open to families, casual golfers, leagues, and anyone looking for a welcoming round. Supporting kids and welcoming every golfer aren’t separate missions here; they go hand in hand.
Our Partnership
Partnering with First Tee
As the course grew, it partnered with the national First Tee organization, aligning on a shared vision: expanding access to the game for young people in our community. That partnership has grown into something bigger — The Children’s Course now serves as the chapter headquarters for First Tee – Oregon, the hub for an organization reaching youth ages 5–18 statewide.
Beyond Gladstone, First Tee – Oregon programs run at various green grass facilities in Portland and beyond, extend into schools, and partner with community organizations across the state. What started as one course’s commitment to kids has become a growing statewide network — and it’s still expanding.
A Non-Profit With Purpose
The Children’s Course operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, sustained by private donations from foundations, corporations, and individuals. Every round played and every dollar given helps fund First Tee – Oregon’s youth programs — turning a day on the course into an investment in the next generation.
