Oregon. Home to evergreen forests, hipsters, and, thankfully for us duffers, some pretty decent public golf courses. If you’re looking for a place to play a round of two, Oregon’s public golf offerings are more than satisfying.
So, let’s tee off and explore the spots where you can swing to your heart’s content without selling your soul for a membership fee.
10. Gearhart Golf Links
Location: 1157 N Marion Ave, Gearhart
Gearhart Golf Links isn’t just any golf course; it’s the oldest one in Oregon and claims to be the oldest west of the Mississippi, dating back to 1892. This place was a golf course before it was cool, back when they probably played with wooden clubs and gutta-percha balls.
Imagine playing on a course that’s been around since Grover Cleveland was president. That’s some serious history. The course started with just three holes strewn across the sand dunes, but now, it’s grown into a full 18-hole course.
And don’t let the old age fool you; it’s been well maintained. The greens are nice, the layout is fun, and it’s suitable for golfers of all levels. Low handicappers can strut their stuff, while the rest of us mere mortals can still enjoy a round without wanting to hurl our clubs into the Pacific.
The best part? You can enjoy the course while the unpredictable coastal weather keeps you guessing. One minute you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re being blasted by a salty sea breeze, or drenched in a sudden downpour.
9. Crosswater Golf Course
Location: 17600 Canoe Camp Dr, Bend
Nestled in Sunriver, just southwest of Bend, this place is the real deal for golf aficionados who don’t mind a bit of nature with their game. First off, let’s talk about the sheer size of this place. The course stretches out to a whopping 7,683 yards. If you’re planning to walk it, pack a lunch—or maybe a small tent.
The elevation here sits at around 4,160 feet, so if the game doesn’t take your breath away, the thin air might. Designed by Robert E. Cupp, Crosswater is a par-72 course that doesn’t just thread through the landscape—it commands it.
The fairways and greens are covered in bent grass, which is as fancy as it sounds and just as high maintenance. Speaking of maintenance, the course is part of a 274-acre heathland-style property, which basically means you’re golfing in what feels like a well-manicured wilderness.
8. Brasada Canyons
Location: 16550 SW Brasada Canyons Dr, Powell Butte
Designed by Jim Hardy and Oregon’s own Peter Jacobsen, this 18-hole, semi-private course is all about exclusivity, but it does offer arrangements for the public. No two holes are alike, so if you’re into variety and unpredictability, this place has got you covered.
And those views—oh, they love to talk about the views. “Best 18 views in Central Oregon,” some visitors say. Now, don’t even get me started on the amenities. This isn’t just about the golf. Oh no, Brasada Ranch, where the course is located, is a full-blown resort.
We’re talking luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and all the bells and whistles. It’s family-friendly, too. And again, it’s semi-private. So while they might let the occasional outsider in, it’s really all about keeping it exclusive.
7. Black Butte Ranch (Glaze Meadow)
Location: 13525 Ponderosa Ln, Sisters
This place is surrounded by the kind of natural beauty that makes you wonder if you’ve somehow stumbled into a postcard. Towering Ponderosa pines, snow-capped mountains, and meadows that stretch out forever. Absolutely gorgeous. Now, onto the golf course itself.
Glaze Meadow is the one where your golfing skills go to either shine like a diamond or crash and burn spectacularly. Designed by the genius architect John Fought, this course has undergone some major facelifts.
They decided to modernize it while keeping that “classic” feel. Playing here is like entering a love-hate relationship. The layout? It’s a rollercoaster. The fairways look wide enough to land a small aircraft, but don’t be fooled – they’ve got more twists and turns than a soap opera. And the bunkers? Let’s just say they’re strategically placed to catch your ball more often than not. It’s almost like they have a magnetic pull.
6. Aspen Lakes Golf Course
Location: 16900 Aspen Lakes Dr, Sisters
Nestled in the charming little town of Sisters, this golf course is the epitome of Central Oregon’s beauty – think stunning mountain views, lush fairways, and those famous red bunkers. First off, let’s talk about those red sand bunkers.
These are made from crushed volcanic rock, giving the course its signature look. And if you hit your ball into one, consider it a free geology lesson. The course itself is public, which means you don’t have to be a fancy member to play. Just show up, pay your fee, and try not to lose your ball in the picturesque water hazards or the towering Ponderosa pines.
The fairways are pretty generous, so you can whip out your driver without too much fear, but there are enough strategic elements – like water hazards and those devilish red bunkers – to keep things interesting. Aspen Lakes boasts bentgrass tees, greens, and fairways, which, if you’re not a grass aficionado, just means it’s pretty darn nice to play on.
The greens are smooth, the fairways are lush, and you might even feel a bit fancy walking around. Oh, and the views. Because the Cascade Mountains are right there, looming majestically in the background. If you’re visiting, you might want to check out the pro shop and the Brand 33 Restaurant.
The pro shop has all the gear you forgot to bring, and the restaurant offers some decent grub with a side of stunning views.
5. Bandon Crossings Golf Course
Location: 87530 Dew Valley Ln, Bandon
Located in Bandon, Oregon, this course isn’t just the “other” golf course in town; it’s like the indie band that your cooler friends know about before they sell out and go mainstream. First, the setting. Imagine the Oregon coast—foggy, dramatic, and moody, like a brooding teenager’s diary.
Now, plop a golf course right in the middle of that. Bandon Crossings is a perfect blend of open meadows, forested areas, and, of course, the obligatory coastal winds that will make sure your ball never goes exactly where you want it to.
The layout of Bandon Crossings is a treat. Designed by Dan Hixson, it’s got all the trappings of a classic course but with enough quirks to keep you on your toes. You’ll find yourself navigating through 18 holes of pure, unadulterated golf madness.
There are elevated tees, which are just great for reminding you how far your ball can actually go astray. One of the standout features of Bandon Crossings is its variety. Each hole feels unique, almost as if they were designed by different personalities of the same split mind. One moment, you’re in a lush, green field that’s very forgiving, and the next, you’re in a narrow forested area. Exciting course nonetheless.
4. Salishan Golf Links
Location: Golf Pro Shop, 7755 US-101, Gleneden Beach
If you’re looking for a golfing experience that blends the serenity of nature with the challenge of a Scottish links-style course, then Salishan might just be your cup of tea. Located in Gleneden Beach, Oregon, this 18-hole regulation course stretches out over 6,501 yards with a par-71 layout.
The course was restored in 2004 under the watchful eye of Oregon golf legend Peter Jacobsen and his design firm, Jacobsen-Hardy Golf Design. They’ve done a bang-up job of preserving the natural beauty and integrating it with the course layout.
So, if you mess up your swing, at least you can blame it on the distracting gorgeous scenery. Now, let’s talk about the course itself. Each hole is a unique challenge, and by “unique challenge,” I mean it’s uniquely challenging to keep your ball out of the woods or the water. The fairways are narrow, the rough is rougher, and the greens sometimes seem like they have a mind of their own.
3. The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club – North Course
Location: 4805 SW 229th Ave, Aloha
This course is located in Aloha, Oregon, and is designed by Bob Cupp. He’s got some serious accolades under his belt, and the North Course is one of his babies. If you’re into names like Crosswater and Pumpkin Ridge, then you know the drill. The Reserve operates on this unique rotating format. What does that mean?
Essentially, it’s like a custody arrangement for golfers. One day, you’re on the North Course, the next you’re on the South. Now, let’s talk about the cost. It’s not exactly cheap, but hey, quality comes at a price. And the course delivers – it’s pristine, challenging, and beautifully designed.
The North Course itself? Well, it’s a blend of open spaces and strategic hazards. You’ll encounter water features, sand traps, and the occasional deer. And let’s not forget the amenities. The clubhouse is swanky with a capital S. It overlooks a creek and a vineyard. There’s a restaurant nearby, so when you get tired of golfing, you can sit down, relax, and have a nice meal.
2. Pronghorn Club – Jack Nicklaus Signature Course
Location: 65765 Pronghorn Club Dr, Bend
This is the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in Oregon. The legend himself graced us with his design prowess, and the result is as grand as you’d expect. If you’re thinking you’re just going to tee off and leisurely stroll through a nicely mowed lawn, think again.
his place is the OG of “desert-style” golf courses in the area. Imagine playing a round of golf where every hole feels like it’s daring you to mess up. You’ve got the Cascade Mountains peeking over your shoulder, Smith Rock in the distance, and enough buttes. This 7,460-yard beast is a par 72, so bring your A-game.
The layout is a mix of short and long holes, just to keep you on your toes. If you’re into packages, Pronghorn offers a “Nick + Fazio Package.” This isn’t your typical BOGO deal. No, this is a stay-and-play where you get a round on both the Nicklaus and the Fazio-designed courses. It’s basically a way to test your mental fortitude twice over and see if you can make it through.
1. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
Location: 57744 Round Lake Rd, Bandon
Brandon Dunes is a golf heaven right along the Pacific Ocean, sporting five different courses and a par-3 course. If you’re into golf, this is pretty much paradise. The courses are designed to fit naturally with the landscape, meaning you get some amazing views and a good challenge.
It’s not the easiest place to play, but the scenery more than makes up for it. The courses really make you feel like you’re part of the environment, not just playing on a field someone plopped down. As for accommodations, Bandon Dunes offers a variety of options.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a single room or a multi-bedroom cottage, they’ve got you covered. The style is comfortable and laid-back, giving you a nice place to relax after a day on the greens. The dining options here are pretty diverse, too.
There are several restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual pubs to more upscale spots. The food is good, and the views from the dining areas are spectacular. Eating while looking out over the ocean is a real treat. Now, the weather.
It’s Oregon, so expect a mix. You might get some beautiful sunny days but also be prepared for wind and rain. It’s part of the charm. Make sure to pack accordingly because the weather can change pretty quickly.
Concluding Thoughts
Well, there you have it—Oregon’s crème de la crème of public golf courses where the greens are as lush as the state’s famous forests, and the fees don’t require a second mortgage.
If you’re a seasoned pro or just someone who likes to hit things with a stick, these courses offer a little slice of golfing paradise without the elitist vibe.