If you're looking for great public golf courses near Dallas, you'll find a mix of historic charm, modern layouts, and scenic views, all within a range of prices.
Here are five of the best options: Stevens Park, Texas Star, Cowboys Golf Club, Cedar Crest, and Bear Creek Golf Club.
Keep reading for a more detailed look at what makes each course unique.
Stevens Park Golf Course: Classic Charm with Modern Playability
Stevens Park Golf Course offers a perfect blend of history and modern design, making it a popular choice for golfers of all skill levels.
Located just minutes from downtown Dallas, this course has maintained its classic charm since opening in 1922, while recent renovations have enhanced its playability and appeal to today’s golfers.
Overview
Stevens Park is one of Dallas’ oldest golf courses, originally designed in 1922.
Its history is one of the factors that draws golfers to the course, providing a sense of nostalgia and tradition.
In recent years, the course underwent a major renovation, allowing it to keep its vintage feel while adding modern touches to improve playability and challenge.
This delicate balance between old and new makes Stevens Park a standout among public courses, as it maintains its character while offering a well-rounded golfing experience that meets current standards.
What Makes It Stand Out
One of the biggest draws of Stevens Park is its location, sitting just six miles from downtown Dallas.
This proximity makes it an incredibly convenient option for local golfers as well as visitors staying in or near the city.
The scenic views of the Dallas skyline from various points on the course add to the overall experience, making a round here not only enjoyable for the game but also visually pleasing.
The tree-lined fairways give the course a natural beauty while also presenting challenges for golfers.
The trees strategically line the course, requiring accuracy in shot placement while maintaining a friendly layout for players of all skill levels.
The rolling terrain and well-placed hazards ensure that each round feels fresh and engaging, no matter how many times you've played.
Price and Booking Tips
One of the appealing aspects of Stevens Park is its affordability.
Weekend green fees range from $50 to $70, making it a great value, especially given the quality of the course and its prime location.
For a round that offers such scenic views and a historic atmosphere, this price point is a bargain compared to other courses of similar caliber.
However, Stevens Park is incredibly popular, so booking a tee time in advance is highly recommended.
This is especially important on weekends and during peak seasons when the course tends to fill up quickly.
The course’s popularity also means that last-minute walk-on spots may be hard to come by, so planning ahead is key to securing a spot.
Ideal For
Stevens Park is an ideal course for golfers who want a high-quality yet affordable round in a convenient location.
The combination of its historic charm, modern enhancements, and beautiful setting makes it an excellent choice for players who appreciate both the tradition of the game and the comforts of modern design.
Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Dallas, Stevens Park offers a scenic, challenging, and accessible golf experience that suits both casual players and more seasoned golfers.
Texas Star Golf Course: Private Course Feel at Public Rates
Texas Star Golf Course in Euless, TX, is renowned for offering a luxurious “private course” experience at public course rates.
With its pristine conditions, challenging layout, and exceptional amenities, it’s a favorite among golfers looking for quality without paying premium prices.
Located about 27 minutes from downtown Dallas, Texas Star provides easy access to a top-tier golfing experience.
Overview
Texas Star offers the experience of a private golf club without the hefty membership fees.
The course is nestled in the city of Euless, creating a tranquil, secluded atmosphere that makes you feel far from the city’s hustle, even though it’s just a short drive from Dallas.
Known for its rolling fairways, scenic water features, and overall challenging yet enjoyable layout, Texas Star attracts golfers of all levels.
The well-kept grounds and peaceful environment help it stand out among other public courses, giving it that “private club” allure.
What Golfers Love
Golfers frequently praise Texas Star for its beautifully maintained greens and a layout that mixes straightforward holes with more challenging ones.
The course is meticulously cared for, with lush fairways and smooth greens that offer a consistent, high-quality playing experience year-round.
Texas Star’s design also provides an interesting variety of holes, from easier shots to ones requiring more precision, keeping golfers engaged throughout the round.
Additionally, the natural beauty of the course is a major selling point.
The rolling hills, mature trees, and scenic water features not only enhance the aesthetics but also add complexity to the game.
This well-thought-out layout creates a balance that appeals to both casual players and seasoned golfers seeking a more challenging round.
Food and Amenities
Texas Star is known for more than just its excellent golfing conditions; it also offers outstanding amenities, making it a great destination for a full-day experience.
The clubhouse features a restaurant that serves high-quality food, elevating the post-round dining experience.
This makes it a great option even for non-golfers who may want to enjoy a meal while overlooking the course.
The restaurant is often highlighted as one of the top amenities, with golfers raving about both the food and the service.
Beyond the restaurant, the course provides a variety of services aimed at ensuring a premium experience, from well-stocked pro shops to helpful staff who maintain a smooth operation.
Whether you’re there for a leisurely round or to play competitively, Texas Star delivers a complete package.
Price Range
For a course of its quality, Texas Star offers an affordable golfing experience.
Weekday rates start at $57, making it accessible to most golfers.
On weekends, rates increase to $77, but even at this price, it offers great value considering the private-club feel and high level of service provided.
Given the conditions and amenities, these rates are quite reasonable compared to many other courses of similar caliber.
Ideal For
Texas Star is perfect for golfers who want to experience the feel of a high-end private course without paying an exorbitant amount.
Its beautiful layout, well-maintained conditions, and excellent amenities make it appealing to those seeking a premium golfing experience on a public course budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for a challenging round or a casual golfer who wants to enjoy a well-kept course, Texas Star delivers in every aspect.
Its proximity to Dallas and overall value make it a top choice for both locals and visitors alike.
Cowboys Golf Club: A Luxurious, NFL-Themed Experience
Cowboys Golf Club in Grapevine, TX, offers a unique blend of luxury and NFL-themed excitement, making it one of the most distinctive public golf courses in the country.
As the world’s only NFL-themed golf club, it is packed with Dallas Cowboys memorabilia and delivers a high-end experience designed by Jeffrey Brauer, all just a short drive from Dallas.
Overview
Cowboys Golf Club stands out not only for its association with the Dallas Cowboys but also for its design and overall atmosphere.
The course was designed by renowned golf architect Jeffrey Brauer and incorporates the essence of professional football into the golfing experience.
Dallas Cowboys fans will enjoy the themed elements, from the memorabilia displayed throughout the club to the fact that each hole has a unique tie to the Cowboys franchise.
This NFL theme makes it a must-visit for both sports fans and golfers who are seeking something out of the ordinary.
The combination of the thematic experience and top-tier golfing facilities has made this course a popular destination for those looking to combine their love for sports with a premium round of golf.
Course Layout and Features
The course itself is no less impressive than its thematic elements.
Spanning 7,017 yards, Cowboys Golf Club offers a challenging yet enjoyable layout that caters to golfers of all skill levels.
The course features strategically placed water hazards and bunkers that require precise shot-making and strategy, especially for more seasoned players.
However, it remains accessible enough for less experienced golfers to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
Its well-manicured fairways and greens, along with the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, ensure a memorable experience.
Each hole has its own unique character, with some requiring careful navigation of water hazards while others test your skill with well-placed bunkers.
The layout keeps players engaged from start to finish, offering plenty of variety and opportunities for creative play.
This balance between challenge and accessibility ensures that all players, from casual golfers to more serious enthusiasts, will find something to love about Cowboys Golf Club.
Luxury Elements
Cowboys Golf Club sets itself apart by offering a luxurious all-inclusive experience.
The green fees, which are priced at over $200, include more than just access to the course.
Golfers can enjoy unlimited food and beverages throughout their round, adding an extra layer of convenience and indulgence to their day.
This high-end feature elevates the experience beyond just a round of golf, creating a full-day adventure that includes premium dining and drinks as part of the package.
In addition to the food and drinks, the club offers top-notch facilities, including a well-stocked pro shop, modern locker rooms, and attentive service from the staff.
Everything about Cowboys Golf Club is designed to make golfers feel like they are part of something exclusive, from the moment they arrive until they leave.
Why It’s Worth the Price
While the green fees are higher than what you might find at other public courses, Cowboys Golf Club justifies the cost by delivering a comprehensive luxury experience.
The fee covers everything, from unlimited food and beverages to the thrill of playing on a beautifully maintained course with ties to an iconic NFL team.
For those who appreciate the combination of entertainment, sport, and comfort, this course offers value that extends beyond the game itself.
The high level of convenience—being able to enjoy meals and drinks without worrying about additional costs—makes it a hassle-free day out.
The overall ambiance, service, and attention to detail provide golfers with a premium, all-inclusive experience that is hard to find at other public courses.
Ideal For
Cowboys Golf Club is ideal for golfers who are looking for more than just a round of golf. It’s perfect for those who want a high-end, all-inclusive experience in a unique setting.
Sports fans, particularly Dallas Cowboys supporters, will find the NFL theme adds an extra layer of excitement to their day.
It’s also great for out-of-town visitors looking to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that combines luxury, entertainment, and challenging golf in one package.
If you’re someone who values a top-tier experience and are willing to invest in a memorable day of golf, Cowboys Golf Club is the place to go.
Cedar Crest Golf Course: Historic Course with a Legacy
Cedar Crest Golf Course is a true gem in the Dallas area, offering golfers a chance to play on a course rich in history and designed by one of the most influential golf architects, A.W. Tillinghast.
Its unique combination of historical significance and well-maintained facilities makes it a must-visit for golfers of all skill levels who appreciate the tradition of the game.
Overview
Cedar Crest Golf Course, designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast in 1919, is one of the most historically significant public courses in Texas.
Tillinghast, known for his work on iconic courses like Winged Foot and Baltusrol, brought his signature style to Cedar Crest, creating a course that balances beauty and challenge.
The layout has stood the test of time, and today, golfers can still experience many of the original design elements while enjoying the modern updates that keep the course competitive and engaging.
With its rolling fairways, elevation changes, and strategic bunkering, Cedar Crest offers a classic golf experience that appeals to both novices and experienced players alike.
Historic Significance
One of the most important aspects of Cedar Crest is its deep-rooted history in the game of golf.
It played host to the 1927 PGA Championship, one of the major tournaments in the sport, won by Walter Hagen.
This event helped solidify Cedar Crest’s place in golfing history, making it a course of national relevance, not just a local favorite.
The course has been a cornerstone of the Dallas golfing community for decades, and many players come here not only for the game but also for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of golf’s greatest figures.
For history enthusiasts, playing at Cedar Crest feels like stepping back into a significant era of American golf.
Course Highlights
Cedar Crest's layout is a par-70, which ensures a relatively approachable game for players of all levels while still providing enough of a challenge for those looking to test their skills.
The course features a blend of long and short holes, with well-manicured fairways and greens that are consistently praised by golfers.
The course's design incorporates natural elevation changes and scenic views, adding a layer of complexity to the game without being overly punishing.
Its strategic bunkers and well-placed water hazards require thoughtful shot planning, but overall, the course maintains a balance that keeps it friendly to beginners while still providing enough to keep more experienced golfers engaged.
The fairways and greens are known for being well-kept year-round, which contributes to the pleasurable playing experience at Cedar Crest.
Whether you're looking for a casual weekend round or a more competitive game, Cedar Crest's layout offers something for everyone.
Price and Accessibility
Cedar Crest stands out for its affordability, especially considering the historical value and quality of the course.
Compared to other public courses in the area, Cedar Crest offers a classic golf experience at a price point that is accessible to most golfers.
This affordability makes it a popular option for both locals and visitors who want to experience a piece of golf history without breaking the bank.
Because of its central location in Dallas and its reputation as a historic course, it’s advisable to book your tee time in advance, especially on weekends when the course can become quite busy.
However, its accessibility and reasonable green fees make it a go-to destination for golfers seeking value and tradition.
Ideal For
Cedar Crest is perfect for golfers who appreciate the history of the game and want to play on a course with deep roots in the sport’s legacy.
It’s also ideal for players seeking a balanced, approachable course that provides an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a golf enthusiast looking to play on a historic course or simply someone who wants a well-rounded and affordable golfing experience, Cedar Crest delivers on all fronts.
The combination of history, accessibility, and well-maintained conditions makes it a standout choice in the Dallas area.
Bear Creek Golf Club: A Convenient and Challenging Option
Bear Creek Golf Club, located near Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, offers golfers a unique combination of convenience and challenge.
With two distinct 18-hole courses, it’s an excellent choice for both travelers looking for a quick round and locals seeking variety in their golfing experience.
Overview
Bear Creek Golf Club is ideally situated for those looking to squeeze in a round of golf before or after a flight, or for local golfers who want easy access to a quality course.
Being located near one of the busiest airports in the country, the club attracts a mix of travelers and locals.
Its proximity to the airport makes it perfect for business travelers or those passing through Dallas who want to enjoy a quick game without having to travel far from their accommodations.
The club’s layout and amenities ensure that while it’s convenient, it doesn’t sacrifice on quality, offering a top-notch experience that caters to all types of golfers.
Layout and Course Design
One of Bear Creek’s most notable features is the fact that it has two 18-hole courses—East and West—each offering a distinct golfing experience.
The East Course is known for its tree-lined fairways and water hazards, providing a more traditional and scenic golfing experience that requires precision and strategy.
In contrast, the West Course is more open, with a focus on challenging bunkers and elevation changes that test players’ shot-making abilities.
This diversity in layout makes Bear Creek a fantastic option for those who want a different experience each time they play.
Both courses are well-maintained, with fairways and greens that are consistently kept in great condition.
Whether you prefer the tighter, more strategic East Course or the open, rolling terrain of the West Course, Bear Creek ensures that players have a fun and varied golfing experience.
The availability of two distinct courses also means less crowding, making it easier to find a tee time and play at a comfortable pace.
Green Fees and Value
For the quality and variety offered at Bear Creek, the green fees provide excellent value.
Rates typically range from $60 to $90, depending on the time of the week and season.
Given that you have access to two different 18-hole courses, this price range is a bargain compared to many other courses of similar caliber in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Both courses are kept in great condition, and the price reflects the attention to detail in course maintenance.
Bear Creek also offers discounts for local residents, early bird specials, and package deals for frequent golfers, which makes it even more attractive for those who want to play regularly without spending too much.
For travelers, the competitive pricing makes it an excellent stop during a layover or business trip, providing a well-rounded experience at a reasonable cost.
Ideal For
Bear Creek Golf Club is an ideal choice for travelers who need a convenient, high-quality course near the airport, but it’s also a great option for locals who are looking for variety in their rounds.
With two distinct courses that provide different challenges, it offers golfers the chance to switch things up and enjoy a fresh experience each time they visit.
Whether you’re in town for a day or live nearby, Bear Creek delivers a well-maintained, challenging, and enjoyable golfing experience with the added benefit of convenience.
This combination of accessibility, value, and variety makes Bear Creek a must-play for golfers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, especially those seeking a balance between challenge and convenience.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive round or a casual game before catching a flight, Bear Creek is a fantastic option.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Public Golf Course Near Dallas
When selecting a public golf course in the Dallas area, there are several key factors to weigh, including location, layout, pricing, and ease of booking.
Understanding these elements can help you choose a course that fits your skill level, budget, and convenience, ensuring you get the most out of your golfing experience.
Location and Proximity
One of the first things to consider is the location of the golf course, especially in relation to where you’re staying or living.
Proximity to downtown Dallas or other nearby areas can make a big difference, particularly if you’re looking for a quick and convenient round.
Courses like Stevens Park, located just six miles from downtown, are perfect for those who want a scenic course close to the city center.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to travel a bit farther, courses like Texas Star in Euless or Bear Creek near the airport offer a slightly more removed, tranquil setting.
For travelers, accessibility from major highways or the airport can also be a determining factor.
Bear Creek Golf Club, for example, is a prime choice for those flying in or out of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, allowing you to enjoy a round of golf without deviating too far from your travel route.
Course Difficulty and Layout
It’s important to select a course that matches your skill level.
Some courses offer more of a challenge with water hazards, tight fairways, and strategic bunkering, while others are designed to be more forgiving and accessible to beginners.
For instance, Cowboys Golf Club is known for its challenging layout, with water hazards and well-placed bunkers that demand accuracy and skill.
On the other hand, Cedar Crest’s par-70 layout provides a more balanced experience that is enjoyable for golfers of varying skill levels without being overly difficult.
Beyond difficulty, the layout and features of the course can greatly enhance your playing experience.
Scenic views, tree-lined fairways, and well-maintained greens can make a significant difference.
Stevens Park, for example, offers beautiful views of the Dallas skyline, while Texas Star boasts lush greens and natural beauty, providing a relaxing yet engaging round.
Cost and Value
Budget is another major factor to consider.
Green fees can vary widely depending on the course, so it’s important to weigh the cost against the value offered.
For example, Stevens Park offers affordable weekend rates between $50 and $70, which is a great value for a course with such a rich history and excellent conditions.
In contrast, Cowboys Golf Club charges over $200, but that fee includes unlimited food and beverages, which adds significant value to the overall experience.
In addition to green fees, you may want to consider whether the course offers any additional perks, such as food and drink options, access to practice facilities, or discounted rates for locals.
Texas Star, for instance, is known for its excellent on-site dining, making it a great spot to spend the whole day.
Availability and Ease of Booking
Finally, consider how easy it is to book a tee time.
Some courses, particularly the more popular ones, require booking well in advance.
Stevens Park, for example, is highly popular due to its combination of affordability and scenery, so booking early is recommended, especially on weekends.
Similarly, Cowboys Golf Club, due to its unique theme and luxurious experience, often fills up quickly, requiring advance reservations.
On the other hand, courses like Bear Creek, with two separate 18-hole layouts, may offer more availability, reducing wait times and the need for far-in-advance booking.
Always check the course’s booking policies, and if it’s a last-minute round you’re after, look for courses that cater to walk-ins or have more flexible scheduling options.
Conclusion
Choosing the right public golf course near Dallas comes down to balancing location, layout, cost, and ease of booking.
With options like Stevens Park, Texas Star, Cowboys Golf Club, Cedar Crest, and Bear Creek, there’s something for every golfer’s preferences and budget.
No matter what you’re looking for, these courses offer great value and memorable experiences.
