Oklahoma might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of golf, but this vibrant state has some hidden gems when it comes to golf courses. From challenging layouts to scenic beauty, Oklahoma’s top golf courses have something to offer every golfer.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 golf courses in Oklahoma, each with its unique characteristics and charm.
Top 10 Golf Courses in Oklahoma
Below are the top 10 golf courses in Oklahoma:
- Southern Hills Country Club (Tulsa)
- Oak Tree National (Edmond)
- Karsten Creek Golf Club (Stillwater)
- Tulsa Country Club (Tulsa)
- Gaillardia Country Club (Oklahoma City)
- Oak Tree Country Club (Edmond)
- The Patriot Golf Club (Owasso)
- Forest Ridge Golf Club (Broken Arrow)
- The Territory Golf and Country Club (Duncan)
- Shangri-La Golf Club (Monkey Island)
Let’s get into the details of each of these amazing golf courses now.
1. Southern Hills Country Club (Tulsa)
Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa is not just a golf course; it’s a legendary institution in the world of golf. This course has a rich history of hosting multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship, and the U.S. Women’s Open. Golf legends like Ben Hogan, Tiger Woods, and Jack Nicklaus have graced the fairways of Southern Hills.
The layout of Southern Hills is a masterpiece of golf course architecture. The fairways wind through tall trees, and the greens are meticulously maintained, making it a visual delight. What sets Southern Hills apart is its challenging design. Golfers have to navigate tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens. The course’s difficulty makes it a true test of skill, even for the most seasoned golfers.
The clubhouse at Southern Hills is a symbol of elegance and class, providing golfers with a comfortable and inviting place to relax before or after their round. It’s not just a golf course; it’s a golfing experience of a lifetime.
2. Oak Tree National (Edmond)
Oak Tree National, located in Edmond, Oklahoma, is another gem in the state’s golfing crown. This challenging course has earned its reputation by hosting prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Senior Open and other professional events.
Oak Tree National is known for its demanding layout. The fairways are often narrow and lined with mature trees, requiring precision off the tee. The greens are well-guarded by bunkers and water hazards, adding an extra layer of complexity to the game. The course’s immaculate conditioning ensures that golfers are met with a pristine playing surface every time they tee off.
What sets Oak Tree National apart is the constant need for strategic shot-making. Golfers must carefully plan their shots to avoid trouble and achieve a favorable position on the greens. This course will test every aspect of your game, from your driving accuracy to your short game finesse.
3. Karsten Creek Golf Club (Stillwater)
Karsten Creek Golf Club in Stillwater, Oklahoma, offers a golfing experience deeply intertwined with nature. It serves as the home course for the Oklahoma State University golf team, and its setting in rolling hills and dense forests makes it a picturesque golfing destination.
Karsten Creek boasts a challenging layout that’s designed to provide a true test of golfing skill. The course features elevation changes, water features, and strategic bunkering that require precision and strategy. Every hole offers a unique challenge, keeping the game fresh and exciting for golfers of all skill levels.
What truly makes Karsten Creek special is the breathtaking natural setting. As you navigate the course, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and undulating terrain, creating a tranquil and immersive golfing experience. The beauty of the landscape enhances the game, making it not only challenging but also visually stunning.
4. Tulsa Country Club (Tulsa)
Tulsa Country Club in Tulsa boasts a rich history, making it one of the oldest golf courses in the state. It offers a classic golf experience with a touch of modern sophistication. The course recently underwent renovations, ensuring it maintains its historic charm while providing golfers with modern amenities and improved playing conditions.
One of the standout features of Tulsa Country Club is its strategic bunkering. The placement of bunkers throughout the course requires golfers to think strategically about their shots, adding an exciting layer of challenge to the game. The undulating greens further test a player’s putting skills, as they require precision and finesse.
The clubhouse at Tulsa Country Club is a warm and inviting space, offering golfers a place to relax and socialize before or after their rounds. The combination of tradition and modernity at this club makes it a beloved golfing destination in Oklahoma.
5. Gaillardia Country Club (Oklahoma City)
Gaillardia Country Club, located in Oklahoma City, is the epitome of luxury and elegance. This upscale club provides golfers with a unique blend of scenic beauty and challenging play. The moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted with well-manicured fairways, pristine water features, and impeccable landscaping.
The course at Gaillardia is known for its lush fairways and picturesque views. Water hazards come into play on several holes, adding to the course’s strategic complexity. The landscape is carefully designed to provide a harmonious balance between the natural beauty of Oklahoma and the challenges of golf.
What sets Gaillardia apart is the overall experience it offers. The clubhouse exudes sophistication and offers exceptional amenities, from fine dining to top-notch services. Golfing at Gaillardia is not just about the game; it’s a complete and luxurious experience.
6. Oak Tree Country Club (Edmond)
Oak Tree Country Club in Edmond stands out with its dual-course setup. It features both the East and West courses, each offering a distinct golfing experience.
The East Course at Oak Tree Country Club is renowned for being a regular stop for professional qualifiers. Aspiring tour players flock to this course, hoping to hone their skills and qualify for major tournaments. The East Course features challenging holes and requires golfers to bring their A-game.
On the other hand, the West Course at Oak Tree provides an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels. This course showcases scenic beauty and well-designed holes. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing and visually appealing round of golf.
The clubhouse at Oak Tree Country Club complements the golfing experience. It offers a welcoming atmosphere for golfers to unwind and share their golfing tales. With its two distinct courses, Oak Tree provides a well-rounded golfing experience catering to a wide range of players.
7. The Patriot Golf Club (Owasso)
The Patriot Golf Club in Owasso is a relatively newer addition to the top golf courses in Oklahoma. What makes it stand out is its unique links-style layout and a strong patriotic theme. As soon as you step onto the course, you’ll be struck by the sense of national pride that permeates the entire golfing experience.
The links-style layout at The Patriot is a departure from the more traditional designs of many other Oklahoma golf courses. It features rolling fairways, firm and fast greens, and strategic bunkering, mirroring the challenging conditions often found on classic Scottish courses. The course’s layout and conditions provide a refreshing and different golfing experience for those looking to test their skills in a unique setting.
The Patriot Golf Club is not just about the game; it’s about honoring the nation’s heritage. The course, clubhouse, and even the events hosted here often have a strong patriotic theme. Golfers who visit The Patriot experience not only a great round of golf but also a deep connection to their country’s history.
8. Forest Ridge Golf Club (Broken Arrow)
Forest Ridge Golf Club, located in Broken Arrow, is a public course that boasts the feel of a private club. This course is all about providing a high-quality golfing experience while maintaining accessibility for golfers of all levels.
One of the standout features of Forest Ridge is its lush fairways and well-manicured greens. The course is carefully maintained to offer an enjoyable and visually pleasing round of golf. The layout features a balance of challenges and playability, making it an excellent destination for both beginners and experienced golfers.
Despite being a public course, Forest Ridge offers a private club atmosphere. The clubhouse and facilities provide a comfortable and upscale environment for golfers to relax, dine, and socialize. It’s a place where golf enthusiasts can enjoy a premium experience without the exclusive price tag.
9. The Territory Golf and Country Club (Duncan)
The Territory Golf and Country Club in Duncan offers a golfing experience that is often described as both beautiful and challenging. The course is renowned for its meticulously manicured fairways, elevated tees, rolling terrain, and strategically placed water features.
The Territory provides golfers with a visually stunning backdrop for their rounds. The natural beauty of the landscape, combined with the course’s design, offers a serene yet thrilling golfing experience. The course’s layout features undulating fairways and tricky greens, making it a favorite for golfers seeking both beauty and challenge.
While The Territory Golf and Country Club is known for its difficulty, it also offers a sense of accomplishment for those who conquer its challenging holes. Golfers often leave with memories of breathtaking views and a feeling of having played one of the state’s hidden gems.
10. Shangri-La Golf Club (Monkey Island)
Shangri-La Golf Club on Monkey Island is a picturesque golfing destination that’s set on the shores of Grand Lake. The course offers stunning views of the lake and an enjoyable golfing experience for players of all levels.
What truly sets Shangri-La apart is its stunning setting. As you play the course, you’ll be treated to breathtaking lake views and lush greenery. The well-designed holes are not only challenging but also integrated seamlessly into the natural landscape, providing a harmonious blend of beauty and playability.
The golf club at Shangri-La offers excellent amenities, including a clubhouse with dining options, making it an ideal place for a complete golfing getaway. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking for a memorable round in a beautiful setting, Shangri-La Golf Club is a must-visit destination in Oklahoma.
Conclusion
Oklahoma is home to a diverse range of golf courses, each offering its unique charm and challenges. Whether you’re a professional golfer or a weekend enthusiast, these top 10 golf courses in Oklahoma provide an array of options for you to explore. From historic courses like Tulsa Country Club to the picturesque Shangri-La Golf Club, there’s a golfing experience for everyone in the Sooner State.
Leave a Reply