Top 10 Golf Courses in Texas
Howdy, y’all! If you’re a golf enthusiast in the Lone Star State, you know that Texas has some of the best golf courses in the country. From the rolling hills of Austin to the salty sea air of Corpus Christi, there’s a course for every level of golfer in Texas. As a Texan and avid golfer myself, I’ve had the pleasure of playing at many of the courses in the state. In this article, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and opinions on the top 10 golf courses in Texas.
Curiosities, Statistics, and Interesting Information
- There are over 1,000 golf courses in Texas
- Texas has the second-highest number of golf courses in the US, after Florida
- The highest-rated golf course in Texas is Whispering Pines Golf Club, located in Trinity
- The oldest golf course in Texas is Brackenridge Park Golf Course, located in San Antonio and opened in 1916
- Many famous golfers, including Ben Hogan and Lee Trevino, hail from Texas
- The average high temperature during peak golf season (October to April) in Texas is in the mid-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit
1. Whispering Pines Golf Club
Located in Trinity, Texas, Whispering Pines Golf Club is the highest-rated golf course in the state. It’s a private course, so you’ll need to know a member to play, but it’s worth it if you can get on. The course was designed by Chet Williams and opened in 2000. It’s known for its beautiful pine trees, rolling hills, and challenging greens.
2. Colonial Country Club
Located in Fort Worth, Colonial Country Club has hosted the annual Charles Schwab Challenge since 1946. The course was designed by John Bredemus and Perry Maxwell and opened in 1936. It’s known for its iconic clubhouse and the Horrible Horseshoe, a series of three difficult holes.
3. Pine Dunes Resort and Golf Club
Located in Frankston, Texas, Pine Dunes Resort and Golf Club is a hidden gem in East Texas. The course was designed by Jay Morrish and opened in 2001. It’s known for its beautiful pine trees and sandy terrain, which makes for great links-style golf.
4. Barton Creek Resort
Located in Austin, Barton Creek Resort has four championship courses designed by some of the biggest names in golf, including Tom Fazio and Arnold Palmer. The courses range from beginner-friendly to challenging, and the resort has plenty of amenities for non-golfers as well.
5. TPC San Antonio
Located in San Antonio, TPC San Antonio has two championship courses designed by Pete Dye and Greg Norman. The courses are known for their scenic views of the Texas Hill Country and challenging layouts.
6. TPC Craig Ranch
Located in McKinney, Texas, TPC Craig Ranch is a championship course designed by Tom Weiskopf. It’s known for its challenging greens and beautiful water features.
7. The Rawls Course
Located in Lubbock, Texas, The Rawls Course is a championship course designed by Tom Doak. It’s known for its links-style layout and challenging bunkers.
8. Wolfdancer Golf Club
Located in Cedar Creek, Texas, Wolfdancer Golf Club is a championship course designed by Arthur Hills. It’s known for its scenic views of the Texas countryside and challenging greens.
9. Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
Located in Austin, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa has four courses designed by Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, and Ben Crenshaw. The courses range from beginner-friendly to challenging, and the resort has plenty of amenities for non-golfers as well.
10. Palmilla Beach Golf Club
Located in Port Aransas, Texas, Palmilla Beach Golf Club is a links-style course designed by Arnold Palmer. It’s known for its views of the Gulf of Mexico and challenging winds.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to play golf in Texas?
The best time of year to play golf in Texas is from October to April, when the temperatures are mild and the humidity is low.
Are there any public golf courses on this list?
Yes, Pine Dunes Resort and Golf Club and Palmilla Beach Golf Club are both public courses.
What is the most challenging course on this list?
Whispering Pines Golf Club and TPC San Antonio are both known for their challenging layouts.
Do any of these courses have accommodations for overnight stays?
Yes, Barton Creek Resort and Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa both offer accommodations for overnight stays.
What is the dress code for these courses?
The dress code varies by course, but most require collared shirts and golf shoes. Be sure to check the course’s website or call ahead to confirm the dress code.
Are there any famous golfers who have played at these courses?
Many famous golfers have played at these courses, including Ben Hogan, Lee Trevino, and Jordan Spieth.