5 Best Golf Courses Near Bend, OR

Bend, Oregon, is home to some of the best golf courses in the Pacific Northwest, offering diverse layouts and stunning scenery.

The top five courses near Bend are Tetherow Golf Resort, Pronghorn Club at Juniper Preserve, Crosswater Club at Sunriver Resort, Widgi Creek Golf Club, and Lost Tracks Golf Club.

Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each course unique and worth playing.

Tetherow Golf Resort

Nestled on the edge of Bend, Oregon, Tetherow Golf Resort offers a dynamic blend of Scottish links-style design and the rugged charm of the high desert.

It’s a course that challenges your strategic thinking and shot precision, making it a standout destination for golfers seeking both beauty and complexity in their game.

Course Overview

Designed by renowned architect David McLay Kidd, Tetherow is a par-72 course stretching 7,298 yards.

Kidd, known for crafting courses like Bandon Dunes, brought his signature style to Tetherow, seamlessly integrating the natural contours of Oregon’s high desert landscape.

Instead of lush, tree-lined fairways, you’ll find an open, windswept design with panoramic mountain views, firm playing surfaces, and native vegetation framing the course.

This isn’t your typical parkland course—Tetherow tests both your creativity and precision with every hole.

Key Features

What sets Tetherow apart is its distinctive layout, which blends traditional Scottish links elements with the unique features of Central Oregon’s terrain.

The firm, fast fescue fairways encourage low, running shots—ideal for golfers who can adapt to different lies and conditions.

Elevation changes throughout the course add an extra layer of strategy, as you’ll often find yourself calculating not just distance, but how the terrain will affect your shot trajectory.

The bunkers here aren’t just hazards; they’re rugged, natural obstacles that demand respect.

Strategically placed, they force you to think carefully about shot placement, especially when approaching the greens.

Speaking of greens, Tetherow’s are notably undulating and fast. Reading putts accurately is critical, as subtle breaks can send your ball veering off course.

Some players even describe certain putts as feeling like navigating a “circus”—which makes sinking a tricky putt all the more satisfying.

Rates and Accessibility

Tetherow operates on seasonal green fees, reflecting both the time of year and demand.

In early spring, you can expect rates around $130, while peak summer months see prices rise to about $290 for resort day guests.

These rates are comprehensive, covering not just your round of golf but also cart rental and access to the practice range—ideal for warming up before you hit the first tee.

While Tetherow is semi-private, the course is open to the public with advance booking, especially if you’re staying at the resort.

Tee times can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it’s wise to book well in advance, particularly if you’re planning a trip during the summer months.

Amenities and Extras

Tetherow isn’t just a golf course—it’s part of a full resort experience.

The luxury lodging options range from boutique hotel rooms to spacious vacation rentals, perfect for groups or extended stays.

After your round, you can unwind at one of the on-site dining venues, offering everything from casual bites to upscale cuisine, often with views of the Cascade Mountains.

For those looking to stay active off the course, Tetherow boasts a well-equipped fitness center and an outdoor pool, offering a refreshing way to cool down after a day in the sun.

A standout feature for golfers is the availability of Finn Scooters—electric golf scooters that add a fun, fast-paced twist to your round.

They’re available for an additional fee and offer a unique way to navigate the course with ease.

Pro Tip: Best Time of Day to Play for Optimal Conditions

For the best playing conditions at Tetherow, aim for an early morning tee time.

Mornings tend to offer calmer winds, cooler temperatures, and pristine course conditions, as the greens are freshly mowed, and the fairways are less trafficked.

Plus, you’ll get the added bonus of breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Cascade Mountains.

If you prefer afternoon rounds, be prepared for stronger winds, which can add an extra challenge—perfect for players looking to test their skills against the elements.

Pronghorn Club at Juniper Preserve

Set against the stunning backdrop of Central Oregon’s high desert landscape, Pronghorn Club at Juniper Preserve offers an exceptional golfing experience with two world-class courses.

Whether you’re seeking the challenge of a Jack Nicklaus Signature design or hoping to access the exclusive Tom Fazio Championship Course, Pronghorn delivers a blend of breathtaking scenery, strategic play, and luxury resort amenities.

Course Overview

Pronghorn features two distinctive 18-hole courses: the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, which is open to the public, and the Tom Fazio Championship Course, reserved exclusively for members and their guests.

The Nicklaus Course is a masterpiece of design, balancing playability with a strategic edge that keeps even seasoned golfers on their toes.

The Fazio Course, though more elusive for non-members, is often considered one of the most visually stunning layouts in the region, carved seamlessly into the natural high desert terrain with dramatic rock outcroppings and ancient lava formations.

Design Highlights (Nicklaus Course)

The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is a brilliant showcase of Nicklaus’s design philosophy, offering a layout that’s as mentally engaging as it is physically demanding.

The front nine presents a subtler challenge, with rolling contours and wide fairways that appear forgiving but require careful shot placement to set up optimal approaches.

As you transition to the back nine, the landscape becomes more dramatic—expect elevation changes, water hazards, and tighter landing areas that test your accuracy and course management.

One of the standout holes is the par-5 15th, often referred to as the course’s signature feature.

This serpentine hole winds through natural rock formations with risk-reward options that tempt aggressive players while punishing poorly executed shots.

A precise tee shot is critical to avoid trouble, but the real decision comes on your second shot: go for the green in two with a bold carry over water, or play it safe with a strategic layup.

Either choice demands confidence and precision.

Rates and Accessibility

The Nicklaus Course is publicly accessible, making it a rare opportunity to play a Jack Nicklaus-designed course without the need for a membership.

Tee times can be booked in advance, and while rates fluctuate based on the season and time of day, they generally reflect the course’s premium status.

To get the best value, consider booking during shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when the weather is still favorable, but demand is slightly lower.

Access to the Tom Fazio Championship Course is more exclusive, limited to members and their guests.

However, if you’re eager to experience this private gem, there are a few strategies:

  • Stay-and-Play Packages: Occasionally, the resort offers luxury accommodation packages that include limited access to the Fazio Course.
  • Networking Opportunities: If you’re traveling with someone who has a membership connection, this could open doors to a memorable round.

Resort Amenities

Beyond the golf, Pronghorn is part of the larger Juniper Preserve, a luxury resort that offers far more than just a great round.

The accommodations are upscale, with options ranging from elegant lodge suites to private villas, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

After golf, you can unwind at the world-class spa, which offers a range of treatments focused on wellness and relaxation, or take advantage of the fitness center, swimming pools, and outdoor recreation areas.

Dining options are equally impressive, with restaurants that focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative menus.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite after your round or a fine dining experience overlooking the Cascade Mountains, Pronghorn delivers.

Pro Tip: How to Make the Most of a Stay-and-Play Package

If you’re planning a golf trip to Pronghorn, a stay-and-play package is the best way to maximize your experience.

Not only do these packages often include discounted green fees and priority tee times, but they may also grant you rare access to the Tom Fazio Course, depending on the promotion.

To get the most value:

  • Book Early: Packages can sell out quickly, especially during peak golf season.
  • Play in the Shoulder Season: You’ll still enjoy excellent course conditions but with fewer crowds and better rates.
  • Pair Golf with Resort Activities: Schedule a spa treatment, explore the hiking trails, or relax by the pool to balance out your trip.

Crosswater Club at Sunriver Resort

Located within the expansive Sunriver Resort, Crosswater Club is a true gem for golfers seeking both a challenging layout and breathtaking natural surroundings.

This course isn’t just about golf; it’s about experiencing Central Oregon’s pristine beauty, with its rivers, wetlands, and mountain views woven seamlessly into the design.

Course Overview

Designed by Bob Cupp, Crosswater Club is a par-72 course stretching an impressive 7,683 yards, making it one of the longer and more demanding courses in the region.

The course is set on 600 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and high desert landscape, with the Deschutes and Little Deschutes Rivers crossing through several holes—hence the name “Crosswater.”

The design integrates natural water features into the layout, creating both strategic challenges and stunning visual appeal.

Wide fairways offer some forgiveness off the tee, but precision is key as the course narrows near the greens, where water hazards and well-placed bunkers come into play.

Key Course Features

What makes Crosswater truly stand out is how it blends strategic shot-making with natural beauty.

The water hazards are not just aesthetic elements; they’re central to the course’s design and strategy.

Many holes require careful planning to avoid the rivers that snake across fairways or guard the greens.

Even experienced players will find themselves recalculating distances, factoring in wind conditions, and choosing clubs more thoughtfully than usual.

In addition to the rivers, wetlands and native grasses line the course, creating natural boundaries that demand accuracy, especially on approach shots.

The course’s layout is both challenging and fair—there are risk-reward opportunities for aggressive players, but conservative strategies are often rewarded with safer pars.

The mountain views of the Cascades add to the serene, almost meditative quality of the course, making each hole feel like its own secluded challenge.

Accessibility

While Crosswater is primarily a private course, there is limited access for Sunriver Resort guests.

This exclusivity adds to its allure, but it also means you’ll need to plan ahead to secure a tee time.

If you’re not a member, your best option is to book a stay at Sunriver Resort, which often includes access to Crosswater as part of a golf package.

For non-members:

  • Stay-and-Play Packages: These are your golden ticket. Booking accommodations directly through the resort often includes preferred tee times at Crosswater.
  • Advanced Reservations: Tee times can fill up quickly, especially during peak golf season (late spring through early fall). Aim to book several weeks—or even months—in advance.

Reputation and Accolades

Crosswater’s reputation speaks for itself. It has been consistently ranked among “America’s 100 Greatest Courses” by Golf Digest, a testament to its challenging layout, stunning scenery, and impeccable course conditions.

The course has also hosted several prestigious tournaments, including PGA National Championships, which further cements its status as a top-tier golfing destination.

Its ability to challenge professional golfers while remaining playable for resort guests is part of what makes it special.

The course conditions are maintained to tournament standards, with fast, true-rolling greens and immaculate fairways that reflect the high level of care invested in its upkeep.

Pro Tip: How to Secure a Tee Time During Peak Season

If you’re planning to play Crosswater during the busy summer months, early planning is crucial.

Here are a few tips to improve your chances of snagging a coveted tee time:

  • Book Directly with the Resort: Packages that include lodging at Sunriver Resort often come with priority access to Crosswater tee times.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Midweek tee times tend to be less crowded than weekends, increasing your chances of availability.
  • Early Morning Rounds: These not only offer cooler temperatures and calmer conditions but also tend to have more open slots compared to late afternoon rounds.
  • Call the Pro Shop Directly: Sometimes speaking with the staff can help you find cancellations or last-minute openings that aren’t listed online.

Widgi Creek Golf Club

Tucked just outside of Bend, Oregon, Widgi Creek Golf Club offers a classic Pacific Northwest golfing experience, surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines and set against the scenic backdrop of Central Oregon’s high desert landscape.

Known for its tight fairways and strategic layout, Widgi Creek is a course where precision matters just as much as power, making it an engaging test for golfers of all skill levels.

Course Overview

Designed by Robert Muir Graves, Widgi Creek is a par-72 course that stretches 6,900 yards, offering a layout that rewards accuracy and smart course management over sheer distance.

The course is carved through dense forests of Ponderosa pines, giving it a secluded, peaceful feel while also presenting natural challenges.

Unlike wide-open desert courses, Widgi Creek’s tree-lined fairways create a sense of intimacy on each hole, where every shot feels like its own unique challenge.

The overall design balances traditional hole layouts with creative doglegs and elevation changes, ensuring variety throughout your round.

Course Characteristics

Widgi Creek is known for its tight fairways, which demand precision off the tee.

There’s little room for error, as stray drives can easily find themselves blocked by towering pines or nestled in tricky rough.

The course’s dogleg holes add another layer of complexity, requiring careful shot placement and thoughtful club selection to set up favorable angles into the greens.

While not overly long compared to modern championship courses, the design ensures that every yard is used strategically, making shot accuracy far more critical than raw distance.

The greens at Widgi Creek are consistently praised for their excellent condition.

They roll true and offer a mix of subtle and pronounced undulations, challenging your ability to read breaks accurately.

Approach shots need to be dialed in, as missing the green can leave you with tricky up-and-downs, especially from tight lies around the putting surface.

Despite the course’s challenging layout, it’s fair—rewarding well-executed shots while penalizing mistakes in a way that feels balanced rather than overly punishing.

Rates and Discounts

Widgi Creek offers competitive pricing, especially considering its quality and location near Bend.

During peak season, green fees are around $125 for 18 holes before noon, with rates dropping for afternoon and twilight rounds.

If you’re flexible with your tee time, playing later in the day can save you money while still providing a great experience, especially with the long daylight hours of Central Oregon summers.

The course also offers several discount options:

  • Twilight Rates: Reduced prices for late-afternoon rounds, perfect for casual play after work or on weekends.
  • Junior Discounts: Affordable rates for younger golfers, making Widgi Creek a family-friendly destination.
  • “Widgi Pass” Holders: Regular players can benefit from discounted rates and other perks with this membership option.

Booking in advance is recommended during peak season, but the course’s flexible pricing structure makes it accessible for both locals and visitors looking to play a quality round without breaking the bank.

Pro Tip: Best Strategies for Playing Tight Fairways Effectively

Success at Widgi Creek hinges on your ability to manage the course’s narrow fairways and strategic doglegs.

Here are a few key strategies to keep in mind:

  1. Club Down Off the Tee: Instead of reaching for the driver on every hole, consider using a fairway wood or long iron to keep the ball in play. Accuracy often trumps distance here, and a well-placed shot can set up an easier approach than a longer drive that strays offline.
  2. Play for Position, Not Just Distance: On dogleg holes, focus on hitting to the ideal spot that gives you the best angle into the green. Trying to cut corners can be tempting but risky, especially with trees lining the fairways.
  3. Stay Below the Hole: The greens can be quick, especially during the dry summer months. Leaving your approach shots below the hole gives you more uphill putts, which are easier to control.
  4. Manage Your Misses: If you’re prone to missing in a certain direction, aim slightly away from trouble areas to give yourself a margin for error. Keeping the ball in play is critical, as recovery shots from the trees can be difficult.

Lost Tracks Golf Club

Nestled on the outskirts of Bend, Oregon, Lost Tracks Golf Club offers a unique blend of natural beauty, strategic course design, and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to golfers of all skill levels.

Surrounded by national forest, the course feels secluded and peaceful, making it a perfect escape for those looking to enjoy a challenging round without the bustle of busier resort courses.

Course Overview

Designed by Brian Whitcomb, Lost Tracks is a par-72 course stretching 7,000 yards, offering a layout that balances playability with strategic demands.

The course’s name reflects its location, tucked away from the main roads, giving it a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Despite its seclusion, Lost Tracks is easily accessible from Bend, making it a favorite among both locals and visiting golfers.

The course layout takes full advantage of its natural surroundings, with holes winding through pine forests and open meadows.

The design encourages creative shot-making, allowing players to choose between aggressive lines and safer routes depending on their confidence and skill level.

It’s the kind of course where every round feels fresh, thanks to its varied hole designs and the influence of changing weather conditions.

Notable Features

One of Lost Tracks’ standout qualities is its mix of generous fairways and strategically placed doglegs, which create opportunities for risk-reward decisions throughout the round.

The fairways are wide enough to be forgiving off the tee, but poor positioning can make approach shots tricky, especially when navigating around bunkers and water hazards.

The course’s signature hole is the unforgettable par-3 16th, featuring an island green that’s accessible via a rustic wooden footbridge.

This hole is both visually striking and mentally challenging. The green is surrounded by water, demanding precision and confidence from the tee.

The approach isn’t overly long, but the psychological pressure of hitting to an island target can rattle even experienced golfers.

It’s the kind of hole you’ll remember long after your round is over, whether you stick the green or find a watery grave.

Course Conditions and Play Experience

Lost Tracks is generally praised for its thoughtful layout and the variety of challenges it presents.

The course conditions are solid, with well-maintained fairways and greens that provide true rolls.

The natural landscape adds to the experience, as you’ll often find yourself surrounded by quiet forested areas with little to no distractions.

That said, some players have noted occasional issues with pace of play, particularly during busy weekends or peak seasons.

Since the course attracts golfers of varying skill levels, rounds can sometimes stretch longer than expected.

Additionally, while the overall maintenance is good, there may be minor upkeep issues from time to time, such as uneven tee boxes or slightly patchy areas in the rough.

These factors are rarely deal-breakers but are worth keeping in mind if you prefer courses with pristine conditions year-round.

Rates and Accessibility

One of Lost Tracks’ biggest draws is its affordable pricing, especially compared to some of the more exclusive courses around Bend.

During peak season, green fees are around $95 for 18 holes before 1 PM, with rates decreasing for afternoon and twilight rounds.

This makes it an excellent option for golfers looking to enjoy a quality course without breaking the bank.

The club also offers discounts to make rounds even more accessible:

  • Junior Rates: Affordable pricing for younger golfers encourages family play and junior development.
  • “Rail Pass” Holders: Frequent players can purchase this pass to receive discounted rates, priority booking options, and occasional promotional perks.

Tee times are generally easy to secure, though it’s still a good idea to book in advance during weekends or holidays.

Pro Tip: How to Approach the Island Green with Confidence

The par-3 16th island green is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Here’s how to step up to the tee with confidence:

  1. Club Selection Is Key: Focus on accuracy over distance. Choose a club that allows you to comfortably carry the water, even if it’s one more club than you’d typically use for the yardage.
  2. Pick a Specific Target: Instead of aiming at the green as a whole, pick a precise spot—like a section of the green or a specific marker—to narrow your focus and reduce anxiety.
  3. Commit to Your Shot: The biggest mistakes happen when players second-guess themselves mid-swing. Visualize your shot, trust your swing, and commit fully.
  4. Don’t Overthink It: Treat it like any other par-3. The water adds pressure, but the fundamentals remain the same—smooth tempo, balanced finish, and focus on a clean strike.

Choosing the Right Course for You

With so many exceptional golf courses near Bend, Oregon, it can be tough to decide which one to play, especially if you’re short on time.

The right course for you will depend on your skill level, preferred playing style, budget, and how easily you can secure a tee time.

Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your golfing goals and personal preferences.

Skill Level: Which Courses Are More Forgiving vs. Challenging

If you’re a beginner or high-handicap golfer, you’ll likely enjoy courses with wider fairways, fewer forced carries, and greens that are easier to approach.

Lost Tracks Golf Club is a great option here, with generous fairways that offer some forgiveness off the tee and an enjoyable layout that isn’t overly punishing for errant shots.

For intermediate golfers, courses like Widgi Creek Golf Club offer a balanced challenge.

The tight fairways and doglegs will test your accuracy, but the course is fair, rewarding solid course management without overwhelming less experienced players.

If you’re an advanced or low-handicap golfer looking for a true test of skill, Tetherow Golf Resort and Crosswater Club at Sunriver Resort are ideal.

Tetherow’s undulating greens and rugged bunkers demand precise shot-making, while Crosswater’s length and water hazards require strategic thinking on nearly every hole.

The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Pronghorn also offers a championship-level challenge, with risk-reward holes that will keep even seasoned players engaged.

Preferred Course Style: Links-Style, Wooded, Water Features, etc.

Your preferred course style can greatly influence your enjoyment of the round.

If you love the feel of a Scottish links-style course, with firm fairways, fast greens, and a rugged, open layout, Tetherow Golf Resort is the clear choice.

Its design embraces the natural high desert terrain, creating a visually striking and strategically demanding experience.

For those who prefer a more wooded environment, Widgi Creek Golf Club delivers.

Set among towering Ponderosa pines, it offers a traditional Pacific Northwest vibe with tree-lined fairways that require accuracy and thoughtful shot placement.

If you’re drawn to courses with water features, both Crosswater Club and Pronghorn’s Nicklaus Course stand out.

Crosswater, true to its name, incorporates rivers and wetlands into its design, offering stunning scenery and challenging carries over water.

Pronghorn’s back nine features dramatic lakes and elevation changes, adding both beauty and complexity to the round.

Budget Considerations Based on Green Fees and Amenities

Your budget will play a role in choosing the right course, as green fees in Bend can range from affordable to premium, depending on the course and season.

For a budget-friendly round, Lost Tracks Golf Club offers competitive rates, with peak season green fees around $95 and additional discounts for juniors and “Rail Pass” holders.

It’s an excellent value considering the quality of the course and its unique features, like the island green on the 16th hole.

If you’re willing to spend more for a premium experience, Tetherow Golf Resort and Pronghorn Club are at the higher end of the price spectrum, with peak season rates reaching up to $290.

However, these rates often include additional amenities such as cart rentals, practice facilities, and access to luxury resort accommodations, making them ideal for a special occasion or golf getaway.

Widgi Creek Golf Club offers a middle ground, with reasonable rates around $125 during peak times and discounts for afternoon and twilight rounds.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for quality golf without the higher price tag of resort courses.

Accessibility: Public vs. Private, Resort Guest Requirements

Accessibility can be a deciding factor, especially if you’re visiting Bend for a limited time.

Lost Tracks Golf Club and Widgi Creek Golf Club are fully public, making it easy to book a tee time without any special requirements.

Tetherow Golf Resort is semi-private, but it’s open to the public with advanced reservations, and staying at the resort can provide added perks like preferred tee times.

imilarly, the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Pronghorn is open to the public, while the Tom Fazio Championship Course is private, accessible only to members and their guests—unless you secure a stay-and-play package that includes limited access.

Crosswater Club is primarily private, but resort guests at Sunriver Resort can access the course through special packages.

If you’re not a resort guest, it’s significantly harder to secure a tee time, so booking accommodations as part of your golf plans can be the key to getting on this prestigious course.

Conclusion

Bend, Oregon, offers a diverse range of golf courses, each with its own unique challenges and scenic beauty.

Whether you prefer rugged links-style layouts, tree-lined fairways, or water-rich designs, there’s a course to match your skill level and style.

Choose the one that fits your preferences, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable round.