Oklahoma’s best golf courses combine championship-level design, historic significance, and top-tier facilities.
If you're looking for standout courses that deliver both challenge and experience, these five are the ones to know—keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what sets each one apart.
Southern Hills Country Club (Tulsa): Tradition Meets Tournament-Caliber Precision
Southern Hills Country Club isn’t just a golf course—it’s a landmark in the world of championship golf.
With a blend of rich history and modern refinement, it remains one of the most respected private clubs in the country and a prime example of enduring course architecture done right.
A Legacy Shaped by Master Architects
The original design, completed in 1936 by Perry Maxwell, is the foundation of Southern Hills’ reputation.
Known for using the natural terrain to shape strategic, flowing layouts, Maxwell’s work at Southern Hills took full advantage of Tulsa’s rolling landscape.
His vision created a course that rewards thoughtful shot-making and punishes imprecision—not through artificial obstacles, but through the land itself.
In 2019, renowned architect Gil Hanse completed a restoration that brought Maxwell’s original ideas back into sharper focus.
Hanse removed trees to reopen strategic sightlines, reshaped bunkers to reflect the original style, and enhanced green complexes to bring out subtle slopes and runoffs.
The goal wasn’t to modernize—it was to revive.
The result is a layout that feels timeless but plays to today’s competitive standards.
Ranked Among the World’s Best
Southern Hills is consistently ranked among the top 100 courses worldwide, and for good reason.
Its reputation extends far beyond Oklahoma thanks to its demanding yet fair test of skill.
At par 71 and stretching to 7,481 yards, the course offers challenges for every club in the bag.
Creeks run through multiple holes, influencing strategy off the tee and on approaches, while the terrain itself creates natural movement and complexity across fairways and greens.
Its course rating of 78.2 and slope of 142 reflect the level of difficulty, especially when set up for professional play.
But unlike many championship courses, Southern Hills also offers everyday playability—precision matters more than sheer distance.
Home of Major Championships
Few courses in the U.S. have hosted more high-level tournaments.
Southern Hills has been the site of 17 major championships, including four PGA Championships, three U.S. Opens, and most recently the 2022 PGA Championship.
It’s a course built for the spotlight, one that regularly tests the best players in the world and holds up under pressure.
This championship pedigree also makes it a key destination for corporate and sporting events, drawing attention from across the country and bringing prestige to any hosted event.
Facilities That Match the Course
The experience at Southern Hills extends well beyond the 18th green.
Members have access to a wide range of high-end facilities that support both recreation and wellness:
- Tennis Facilities: 12 courts in total, including six indoor courts that allow year-round play.
- Golf Performance Center: A state-of-the-art facility equipped for swing analysis, instruction, and training.
- Health & Wellness Center: Full-service amenities focused on physical fitness and recovery.
- Pool Complex: A resort-style setup perfect for families and social events.
- Outdoor Dining Venues: Scenic views of the course pair with upscale food and drink service.
Why It Stands Out
Southern Hills isn’t just a golf course—it’s a complete environment for serious golfers, tournament professionals, and members seeking an elevated club experience.
The careful balance between historical reverence and contemporary playability, combined with best-in-class facilities, is what keeps Southern Hills at the top of every ranking—and why it remains the standard against which other Oklahoma courses are measured.
Oak Tree National (Edmond): A Pete Dye Challenge at Its Finest
If you’re looking for a course that demands accuracy, patience, and nerve, Oak Tree National is built for it.
This private course in Edmond is a pure test of golf—designed with intent, structured for difficulty, and respected on both national and professional levels.
Built to Push the Limits of Precision
Designed by the legendary Pete Dye in 1976, Oak Tree National was never meant to be forgiving.
From the first tee shot to the final putt, it tests players with a layout that prioritizes precision over power.
Narrow fairways force disciplined shot placement, while deep bunkers and thick rough wait to punish misses.
Significant elevation changes add another layer of complexity, affecting everything from club selection to ball flight.
Even visually, the course applies pressure.
Dye’s design elements—sharp angles, cross bunkering, and deceptive sightlines—are meant to unsettle, and they succeed.
It’s not tricked up, but it doesn’t hide its teeth either.
The numbers reflect that intent.
With a course rating of 79.3 and a slope of 155, Oak Tree National ranks among the most difficult courses in the country.
It’s not built for casual play—it’s built to challenge players who know how to manage their game.
A Proven Championship Stage
Oak Tree’s reputation isn’t theoretical—it’s earned through hosting major events.
The course was the site of the 1988 PGA Championship and the 2014 U.S. Senior Open, two events that highlighted its capacity to hold up under professional tournament conditions.
In both cases, even elite players were forced to strategize carefully and respect the layout.
Hosting these types of events isn’t just about prestige—it’s also a signal to serious golfers and potential members that the course has been vetted by the best in the sport.
The Signature Fifth: Strategy Over Strength
One of Oak Tree’s defining holes is the par-5 fifth. At 592 yards, it’s long but not overwhelming in raw distance.
What makes it memorable is the decision-making it forces.
Water hazards come into play in multiple spots, especially around the landing zones.
Aggressive players may attempt to reach in two, but doing so requires navigating narrow lines and water carries.
More conservative play may feel safer but adds strokes if execution isn’t sharp.
It’s a perfect representation of Dye’s philosophy—strategy over brute force, with no shortcuts to scoring well.
Training Ground for the Committed Golfer
What supports Oak Tree National’s on-course intensity is its commitment to preparation.
The club features some of the best teaching and practice facilities in the region.
These include a practice range with target greens, a short-game area that mirrors on-course conditions, and access to instructors who’ve worked with top amateur and professional players.
For golfers looking to sharpen specific parts of their game—or for those preparing for high-level competition—this is a place where focused improvement happens daily.
Why Serious Golfers Choose Oak Tree
Oak Tree National isn’t a casual weekend course—it’s where you go when you want to push yourself and play at the highest level.
The architecture demands total focus, the facilities are built to support that level of effort, and the course's tournament history only strengthens its reputation.
For players who respect the game and want a layout that challenges them every time they tee it up, Oak Tree delivers exactly that.
Karsten Creek Golf Club (Stillwater): OSU’s Golfer Development Hub
Karsten Creek isn’t just a golf course—it’s a foundational part of one of college golf’s most successful programs.
Tied directly to Oklahoma State University, the course is designed to sharpen the skills of elite players while offering a striking experience for visitors who manage to gain access.
Designed for Growth, Not Just Play
Tom Fazio, one of the most respected names in modern course architecture, designed Karsten Creek in 1994 with a specific mission in mind: develop championship-caliber golfers.
This isn’t a course built for casual strolls or quick rounds.
Every hole requires intention. Fazio’s layout demands precision off the tee, thoughtful club selection, and the ability to manage varying lies and stances.
It’s a course where shot discipline is key—not just for success, but to avoid big numbers.
That focus on development has paid off.
The course has played a direct role in shaping many PGA Tour players who came through Oklahoma State’s program.
For visitors and aspiring golfers, Karsten Creek offers a glimpse into the kind of environment where world-class talent is forged.
Beauty That Bites Back
A big part of the course’s challenge and character comes from its natural setting.
Routed through native oak trees and wrapped around Lake Louise, Karsten Creek offers plenty of visual appeal—but don’t let the views fool you.
The natural terrain creates uneven lies and tight approaches, especially around the tree-lined corridors.
The lake comes into play on multiple holes, most notably the par-3 11th, where players face a 209-yard shot over water from an elevated tee.
It’s a moment that captures the course’s essence: bold, scenic, and demanding.
The overall layout stretches 7,095 yards, playing to a par of 72.
A course rating of 74.8 and a slope of 142 underline that while it’s playable, it’s not forgiving—especially in the wind, which can sweep through the property without warning.
Access That Balances Prestige and Inclusion
Karsten Creek is technically public, but access is limited—by design.
This hybrid model creates a unique sense of exclusivity without the full barrier of a private membership.
It’s a destination that feels high-end and purpose-driven, where tee times are reserved for those who are serious about the game or connected to the Oklahoma State community.
That limited access, combined with a refined golf culture, makes Karsten Creek a different kind of public course—one where you can feel the quiet intensity of a private club without the usual gatekeeping.
Backed by a Winning Tradition
What sets Karsten Creek apart even further is its institutional backing.
As the home course for Oklahoma State University’s men’s and women’s golf teams, it’s not just a facility—it’s a training ground.
The course is part of a legacy that includes multiple NCAA championships and a long list of professional tour alumni.
That connection shows up in everything from course maintenance to the seriousness with which rounds are played.
It’s a place where expectations are high, and the environment reflects that.
Why Karsten Creek Leaves an Impression
For golfers who value strategy, precision, and a connection to elite performance, Karsten Creek stands out.
It’s more than just a well-designed course—it’s an ecosystem for growth.
The combination of Fazio’s disciplined layout, a scenic but demanding setting, and its role in shaping future champions makes it one of the most meaningful golf experiences in Oklahoma, whether you’re chasing low scores or simply looking to play where excellence is the standard.
Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club (Norman): Classic Roots, Modern Execution
Tucked into the University of Oklahoma’s campus landscape, Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club blends classic golf architecture with modern updates to create a course that’s both challenging and accessible.
It’s a unique mix of collegiate heritage, thoughtful renovation, and public availability—making it one of the most versatile courses in the state.
A Heritage-Driven Layout With a Modern Touch
The original course, designed by Perry Maxwell in 1951, laid the groundwork for what would become a respected regional destination.
Known for his subtle use of natural landforms and strategic green complexes, Maxwell’s influence gave Jimmie Austin its early identity: a course that rewards smart play over raw power.
In 1996, Bob Cupp stepped in to renovate the course with a focus on modernization while preserving its original feel.
The result is a layout that keeps pace with today’s equipment and expectations without losing the character that made it memorable.
Cupp refined bunker placements, improved drainage and turf conditions, and enhanced playability across multiple skill levels—all while respecting Maxwell’s architectural vision.
Designed to Challenge Thoughtful Golf
What makes Jimmie Austin stand out isn’t just its historical pedigree—it’s the playing experience.
The course spans 7,452 yards from the back tees, playing to a par of 72.
With a course rating of 77.9 and a slope of 142, it provides a legitimate challenge even for experienced players.
Tree-lined fairways create visual tightness and demand disciplined tee shots, while strategically placed bunkers force players to consider more than just distance.
You’ll often find yourself thinking two or three shots ahead, especially on holes where angles into the green make all the difference.
Despite its toughness from the back, the course is impressively flexible.
With five sets of tees—including family and combo options—it can scale to match nearly any level of player, from juniors to scratch golfers.
That accessibility is rare on courses this refined.
Shangri-La Golf Club, Resort & Marina (Afton): Scenic Resort Golf on Grand Lake
Set on the shores of Grand Lake’s Monkey Island, Shangri-La Golf Club, Resort & Marina delivers more than just golf—it’s a full-service resort experience with a layout that balances playability, scenery, and variety.
Whether you’re planning a getaway, corporate retreat, or competitive weekend round, this destination course is designed to accommodate it all.
A Versatile Layout Across Three Championship Nines
One of Shangri-La’s defining features is its 27-hole setup, divided into three distinct nine-hole courses: Legends, Heritage, and Champions.
Each offers a slightly different personality, allowing you to mix and match to create an 18-hole round that feels fresh every time.
The diversity in layout also means the course can accommodate players of all skill levels without sacrificing challenge or engagement.
At just over 7,000 yards when configured to its full 18-hole length, the course is approachable for casual players while still offering strategic interest for seasoned golfers.
Fairways are generous in spots but tighten at key landing areas, and well-positioned bunkers require players to think carefully about approach angles.
Elevation shifts and water views enhance both the look and the shot selection, creating a dynamic experience throughout the round.
The Battlefield: Not Your Typical Par-3 Course
A standout feature of Shangri-La is The Battlefield, an 18-hole par-3 course that goes far beyond the typical short-game layout.
These aren’t pitch-and-putt holes.
Each one is a full-length par 3, with real elevation change—over 100 feet in places—and strategically designed greens and surrounds.
This makes it not only a fun change of pace, but also a true test of short-iron precision and mental focus.
It’s an ideal setting for quick, competitive rounds or for sharpening skills in a setting that mimics pressure situations without requiring four hours to complete.
Practice Facilities That Mimic the Real Thing
For golfers who like to prep with purpose, Shangri-La’s practice complex is worth noting.
Designed to replicate real course conditions, the facility includes a driving range with target greens, a short-game area with varied turf and bunker styles, and putting greens that roll true to what you’ll find on the course.
Whether you’re warming up for a round or working on specifics, you’re not just hitting balls—you’re practicing with intention.
This kind of thoughtful facility design makes Shangri-La especially appealing to corporate groups or events focused on player development or casual competition.
Amenities That Elevate the Experience
What ties it all together is the resort itself.
The 13,000-square-foot clubhouse anchors the experience, offering dining, locker rooms, event space, and pro shop access all in one location.
Outdoor patios and indoor seating provide panoramic views of Grand Lake, and the service is geared toward creating a relaxed but high-quality atmosphere.
Beyond golf, the full resort includes marina access, lodging, dining, and a range of non-golf activities—making it a great fit for group travel, family outings, or business events where not everyone plays.
The location on Monkey Island ensures that lake views and fresh air are always part of the package.
Why Shangri-La is a Must-Play Destination
Shangri-La stands out because it checks multiple boxes without compromise.
You get a well-maintained and thoughtfully designed course, flexible layout options, standout practice areas, and the full support of a resort environment.
Whether you’re planning a competitive trip or a relaxing escape with a few rounds built in, it delivers one of the most complete golf experiences in Oklahoma—and does so in a setting that feels like a true getaway.
Public Access With Private-Level Quality
Although it serves as the home course for the University of Oklahoma golf teams, Jimmie Austin maintains public access—though tee times can be limited based on university use and events.
This makes it one of the few top-tier courses in the state where non-members can experience elite-level play without a private club commitment.
Even better, it’s been recognized by Golf Digest as one of the most affordable courses offering top-quality conditions.
That balance of cost and course quality is hard to find, especially on a course with this much design credibility and institutional support.
A Course With Something for Everyone
Whether you’re a competitive player looking for a fair but demanding round, or a casual golfer searching for a polished layout that won’t break the bank, Jimmie Austin offers the kind of versatility that makes it worth the trip.
With university resources backing course maintenance and ongoing improvements, conditions stay consistently high.
At the same time, the layout never overwhelms newer players thanks to thoughtful tee placement and generous fairway widths on shorter sets.
Why Jimmie Austin Delivers Long-Term Value
What separates Jimmie Austin from many courses in its category is how well it bridges the gap between tradition and evolution.
It stays rooted in classic design while remaining playable and relevant for modern golfers.
That blend—along with a price point that makes return visits realistic—gives it lasting value, both as a course to experience and one to revisit.
For anyone exploring Oklahoma golf beyond the obvious private clubs, Jimmie Austin should be near the top of the list.
Conclusion
Oklahoma offers a diverse lineup of golf experiences, from elite private clubs to scenic resort courses.
Each of these five stands out for its design quality, unique character, and overall playability.
Whether you're planning a round, a trip, or something more strategic, these are the courses worth your attention.
