Are you an avid golfer looking to discover the best public golf courses in Texas? Well, you’re in luck! Texas is home to a vast number of public courses, offering golfers of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy the game without the need for an expensive membership. With over 600 public courses across the state, Texas ranks fifth in the U.S. for the number of public courses. In this guide, we have compiled a list of the best public golf courses in Texas, taking into account their uniqueness, value for money, and accessibility to all golfers.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the top-rated public golf courses in Texas.
- Find affordable options for golfers of all skill levels.
- Experience the beauty of Texas while perfecting your golf game.
- Explore different regions of Texas to find your ideal golf course.
- Create lasting memories on these exceptional public courses.
Houston and East Texas Golf Courses
If you’re a beginner golfer looking for the perfect course to practice your swing, or if you’re simply in search of the best golf courses near you, Houston and East Texas have got you covered. These regions offer a variety of exceptional public golf courses that cater to all skill levels. Here are a few standout courses that you won’t want to miss:
BlackHorse Golf Club
Located in Cypress, BlackHorse Golf Club is a 36-hole complex that provides a country-club feel without the membership fees. Designed by Jim Hardy and Peter Jacobsen, this course offers well-maintained fairways and challenging greens, making it an ideal choice for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, BlackHorse is sure to provide a memorable round of golf.
Pine Dunes Resort
If you’re looking for a unique golfing experience, Pine Dunes Resort in Frankston is the perfect destination. This course is reminiscent of the Sandhills region of North Carolina, with its towering pines, true greens, and sandy turf. The breathtaking scenery combined with the challenging layout will surely make for an unforgettable round of golf.
Tempest Golf Club
Nestled among the stunning Piney Woods of East Texas, Tempest Golf Club in Gladewater offers a dramatic layout that is as visually appealing as it is challenging. With meticulously designed holes and picturesque scenery, this course provides golfers with an immersive golfing experience that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
A Complete Table of Houston and East Texas Golf Courses:
| Course Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BlackHorse Golf Club | Cypress | A 36-hole complex with well-maintained fairways and challenging greens. |
| Pine Dunes Resort | Frankston | A course reminiscent of the Sandhills region of North Carolina, with towering pines, true greens, and sandy turf. |
| Tempest Golf Club | Gladewater | A course set among the stunning Piney Woods of East Texas, featuring meticulously designed holes and picturesque scenery. |
With these incredible golf courses in Houston and East Texas, you can enjoy the game while surrounded by beautiful landscapes and challenging layouts. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or an avid golfer searching for new experiences, these courses are sure to provide you with an unforgettable round of golf. So pack your golf clubs, head out to these courses, and embark on an exciting golfing adventure in Houston and East Texas.
West Texas and the Panhandle Golf Courses
West Texas and the Panhandle region boast some of the top-rated public golf courses in Texas, offering golfers a unique and memorable playing experience. From the sprawling desert landscapes to the picturesque views of the Panhandle, these courses are renowned for their challenging layouts and stunning scenery.
Butterfield Trail Golf Club – El Paso
Designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio, Butterfield Trail Golf Club in El Paso is a true gem. This top-rated course showcases the natural beauty of the desert, with lush fairways and well-maintained greens that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Golfers can expect a challenging game that tests their skills while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Franklin Mountains.
Ross Rogers Golf Complex – Amarillo
Located in Amarillo, Ross Rogers Golf Complex is home to the Mustang course, a classic layout that has been a favorite among golfers for decades. This course offers a mix of wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and picturesque views of the Panhandle. Golfers of all skill levels will appreciate the well-maintained greens and the opportunity to experience the unique beauty of this region.
Rawls Course at Texas Tech – Lubbock
For a truly unforgettable golfing experience, head to Rawls Course at Texas Tech in Lubbock. This challenging course combines undulating terrain, strategically placed hazards, and panoramic views of the West Texas landscape. Golfers will find themselves immersed in the beauty of the region as they navigate the meticulously designed holes. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Rawls Course offers a rewarding and memorable round of golf.
| Course | Location | Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Butterfield Trail Golf Club | El Paso | Tom Fazio |
| Ross Rogers Golf Complex | Amarillo | N/A |
| Rawls Course at Texas Tech | Lubbock | N/A |
These are just a few of the remarkable golf courses in West Texas and the Panhandle. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, be sure to take advantage of these top-rated public courses and experience the beauty and challenge they have to offer.
San Antonio and South Texas Golf Courses
If you’re a senior golfer or simply looking for top-rated golf courses in Texas, San Antonio and South Texas offer a range of exceptional options. One notable course is TPC San Antonio, designed by Pete Dye. With its AT&T Oaks and AT&T Canyons courses, TPC San Antonio provides golfers with challenging layouts and beautiful scenery. The courses have hosted several professional tournaments, including the Valero Texas Open, attracting golfers from around the world.
Another top-rated course in the area is Omni Barton Creek Resort in Austin. Known for its Fazio Canyons and Fazio Foothills courses, this resort offers a unique golfing experience in the stunning Hill Country. The courses, designed by renowned golf architects, provide golfers with challenging layouts that showcase the natural beauty of the landscape.
For golfers seeking a coastal experience, The Quarry Golf Club in San Antonio is a must-visit. This course stands out with its unique layout and stunning views. The course is nestled in an old quarry, creating a memorable and picturesque setting. With its challenging holes and exceptional service, The Quarry Golf Club is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Table: San Antonio and South Texas Golf Courses
| Course | Location | Designer | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPC San Antonio – AT&T Oaks | San Antonio | Pete Dye | Challenging layout, beautiful scenery |
| TPC San Antonio – AT&T Canyons | San Antonio | Pete Dye | Scenic course, unique challenges |
| Omni Barton Creek – Fazio Canyons | Austin | Tom Fazio | Challenging layout, Hill Country views |
| Omni Barton Creek – Fazio Foothills | Austin | Tom Fazio | Breathtaking vistas, well-manicured fairways |
| The Quarry Golf Club | San Antonio | Keith Foster | Unique layout, stunning views |
Whether you’re a senior golfer looking for challenging courses or simply seeking top-rated golf experiences, San Antonio and South Texas have a range of options to suit your needs. From the championship courses at TPC San Antonio to the unique layout of The Quarry Golf Club, these courses provide golfers with memorable rounds of golf in a beautiful setting. So, grab your clubs and tee it up at one of these exceptional golf courses in Texas.
Austin and the Hill Country Golf Courses
Austin and the Hill Country region in Texas offer a remarkable selection of public golf courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find a course that suits your needs and provides a memorable golfing experience. Here are some of the top golf courses in the area:
1. Omni Barton Creek Resort: This prestigious resort features multiple courses designed by renowned architects such as Tom Fazio, Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, and Arnold Palmer. From the Coore Crenshaw course to the Palmer Lakeside course, each layout offers a unique set of challenges and breathtaking views of the Hill Country.
2. Horseshoe Bay Resort: Situated in the heart of the Hill Country, Horseshoe Bay Resort boasts two outstanding courses – the Ram Rock and Apple Rock. These courses feature dramatic elevation changes, challenging holes, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Falconhead Golf Club: Located just outside of Austin, Falconhead Golf Club is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Designed by PGA Tour Design Architects, the course offers a mix of challenging holes, well-manicured fairways, and beautiful Hill Country vistas.
Golf Courses for Beginners in Texas
If you’re new to the game or looking for a beginner-friendly course, Austin and the Hill Country have you covered:
- Jimmy Clay Golf Course: With wide fairways and forgiving rough, this municipal course in Austin is perfect for beginners looking to improve their game.
- Onion Creek Country Club: This club offers a welcoming atmosphere and a course that caters to players of all skill levels, including beginners.
- Grey Rock Golf Club: Situated in Southwest Austin, Grey Rock Golf Club features generous fairways, manageable rough, and a relaxed environment for beginners.
Whether you’re searching for a challenging course or a beginner-friendly option, Austin and the Hill Country offer a diverse selection of public golf courses that will satisfy any golfer’s needs. With their stunning scenery, well-designed layouts, and top-notch amenities, these courses are truly among the best in Texas.
North Texas Golf Courses
North Texas is home to a variety of outstanding public golf courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your game or a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round, there are affordable options available in this region of Texas. These courses offer well-maintained fairways, breathtaking views, and a variety of unique features that make for a memorable golfing experience.
Gus Wortham
Gus Wortham, located in Houston, is the oldest eighteen-hole course in the city. After recent renovations, this course has become a popular choice among golfers. With its well-manicured fairways, challenging greens, and a renewed clubhouse, Gus Wortham provides an enjoyable golfing experience for players of all levels.
Golf Club of Houston
The Golf Club of Houston, home to the Tournament Course, is another notable public course in North Texas. This renowned course has hosted the PGA Tour’s Houston Open and offers a challenging layout that will test your skills. With its lush fairways, strategic bunkers, and stunning views, the Golf Club of Houston is a must-play for any golfer visiting the region.
The Tribute
For a unique golfing experience inspired by famous Scottish links courses, The Tribute in The Colony is the place to go. This course provides golfers with a challenging round set against a beautiful backdrop. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning views of Lake Lewisville, The Tribute offers a memorable golfing experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, North Texas has affordable public golf courses that will suit your needs. These courses provide a blend of challenging holes, well-maintained facilities, and picturesque surroundings that make for an exceptional golfing experience. Get ready to tee off and enjoy the beauty of North Texas while honing your skills on some of the best public golf courses in the region.
Conclusion
Texas boasts some of the best public golf courses in the country, providing golfers of all levels with unforgettable experiences. From the picturesque courses of the Hill Country to the challenging layouts of West Texas, the Lone Star State offers a diverse range of golfing options.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or a seasoned golfer seeking new challenges, Texas has something for everyone. With over 600 public courses scattered across the state, you’re sure to find a course that suits your needs.
So, pack your clubs and get ready to tee off at one of the best public golf courses in Texas. Discover the unique landscapes, well-maintained fairways, and challenging greens that await you. Embrace the beauty and charm of the Lone Star State as you indulge in your favorite pastime.
FAQ
Are these golf courses open to the public?
Yes, all the golf courses mentioned in this guide are open to the public.
How many public golf courses are there in Texas?
Texas is home to over 600 public golf courses, ranking fifth in the U.S. for the number of public courses.
Can beginners play at these golf courses?
Absolutely! These golf courses cater to golfers of all skill levels, including beginners.
Are there any affordable options among these golf courses?
Yes, we have taken into account the value for money when compiling this list of the best public golf courses in Texas.
Do these golf courses require a membership?
No, these golf courses do not require an expensive membership. They are open to the public without the need for a membership.
Are there any unique features or layouts at these golf courses?
Each golf course in this guide has its own unique features and layouts, providing golfers with a memorable experience.
Are there any golf courses with scenic views?
Yes, many of these golf courses offer stunning views, such as the Hill Country courses and those near the coast.
Can I book tee times in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book tee times in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak times.
Are there any golf courses suitable for senior golfers?
Yes, there are golf courses in Texas that cater to senior golfers, offering a more manageable and enjoyable experience.
Can I find golf courses near my location?
Yes, these golf courses are spread across Texas, providing options for golfers in various regions of the state.
Do these golf courses offer golf lessons or clinics?
Many of these golf courses have professionals and instructors who offer golf lessons and clinics for players of all levels.