River Oaks is a great option for golfers looking for a public course that is easy, accessible and welcoming. The staff is exceptional and the course condition has improved tremendously since new ownership took over.
I would say there are a few things holding it back. The first is the lack of a driving range, the second is the condition of some of the tee boxes (4 and 13), and third is condition of some greens. As a member I feel the value is very very good. Getting a prime time tee times is very easy and I am able to play pretty much any time I'd like as long as I'm booking a day or two ahead.
This course also host very few events and it is open and bookable most days.
For what you pay it is an tremendous value, but is still lacking in some areas. It's great to walk and to cart and you can get around the course in less than 4 hours doing both.