Best Golf Courses in Nevada

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

If there’s a state in the Lower 48 where the romance of the Cowboy still lives on, it’s Nevada.  Sure, the Silver State is best known for the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas, but there’s oh so much more to discover in this vast state. 

As remote and desolate many parts of Nevada are, there’s some great golf waiting to be discovered.  I’ve spent some time in Nevada with my clubs, and so has one of our writers.  Together, with the continued help of our readership, we’ve compiled a list of the best courses anyone can play.

Saddle up little buddy, we’re going on a ride.

If you’re seeking an unforgettable golfing challenge in Nevada, the Wolf Course at Paiute Las Vegas Golf Resort is a must-visit destination. This renowned course, designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, is considered the best at the resort and the longest in Nevada.

The Wolf Course offers a unique desert layout that promises a truly challenging and exciting trip. Its reputation as one of the most difficult courses in the area makes it particularly appealing to seasoned players.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Wolf Course is its ability to cater to golfers of all abilities. With five sets of tee boxes, players of varying skill levels can enjoy a round at this exceptional course. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the Wolf Course ensures an enjoyable and memorable golfing experience. This versatility is one of the reasons why the Wolf Course at Paiute Las Vegas Golf Resort isn’t to be missed.

With its association with the PGA Tour Champions and the option to play from the back tees, the Wolf Course promises an unparalleled test of skill and strategy. It’s no wonder that it’s considered a must-play for any avid golfer visiting Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

Nestled 15 miles south of the vibrant Las Vegas Strip, Rio Secco Golf Club stands as a premier public course, offering golfers a truly remarkable and challenging experience.

Here are some reasons why Rio Secco Golf Club is a must-visit:

• Designed by Rees Jones, the course features dramatic elevation changes and offers a challenging round for golfers of all abilities.
• Home to Butch Harmon, one of the world’s leading golf instructors, the club provides top-notch facilities and instruction.
• The course is known for its penalizing missed shots, making it a true test of skill and strategy.
• Rio Secco Golf Club’s stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding desert landscape add to the overall experience.
• Recognized by Golf Digest, this course has garnered acclaim and is a favorite among golf enthusiasts, including professional golfer Phil Mickelson.

With its stunning design, challenging layout, and renowned instruction, Rio Secco Golf Club is a top choice for those seeking an exceptional golfing experience near the Las Vegas Strip.

 

 

With its breathtaking natural backdrop of hills and canyons, Falcon Ridge Golf Club offers golfers an unforgettable experience in Mesquite, located 90 miles east of Las Vegas. The course, designed by Kelby Hughes and Cresent Hardy, takes advantage of the natural terrain, providing a remarkable golfing experience with elevation changes of hundreds of feet on some holes. Falcon Ridge Golf Club’s strategic design and incredible views make it a must-visit course, offering a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities.

The course features five sets of tees, catering to players of varying skill levels. The layout is known for its unique design and natural features, making it both challenging and visually stunning. Falcon Ridge Golf Club’s location amidst the desert landscape provides a captivating terrain as golfers navigate the course, adding to the overall experience.

If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for an exceptional and memorable round of golf in Nevada, Falcon Ridge Golf Club is a top choice. Its setting, design, and overall experience place it among the best courses in the region, alongside other renowned courses like Wolf Creek Golf, Coyote Springs, and those designed by legendary architects like Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and Bobby Weed.

 

   

Situated in the alpine paradise of Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course offers golfers a pristine mountain golf experience amidst elegant Ponderosa pine trees. The course, designed by renowned architects Rees Jones, Tom Fazio, and Raymond Floyd, boasts smaller greens that are well protected, providing a challenging yet rewarding game for golf enthusiasts.

As you tee off, the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe creates a picturesque setting that elevates the entire experience. The course’s strategic layout and breathtaking views make it one of the best golf experiences in the country.

Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course isn’t just a place to play golf; it’s an escape into nature’s beauty, where every swing is accompanied by the soothing sounds of the surrounding landscape.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this remarkable golfing adventure in Nevada.

• The breathtaking backdrop of Lake Tahoe elevates the golfing experience.
• Designed by renowned architects Rees Jones, Tom Fazio, and Raymond Floyd.
• Smaller greens and a strategic layout provide a challenging yet rewarding game.
• Set amidst elegant Ponderosa pine trees, offering a serene and picturesque environment.
• Considered one of the best golf experiences in the country.

Located just a short drive from Las Vegas, Mountain Falls Golf Club offers an enjoyable and reasonably testing golfing experience that’s highly recommended for golfers of all levels. This club is one of the best values in Nevada, known for its generous fairways and accommodating sets of tee boxes suitable for various skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, this public course provides a remarkable golfing experience. The staff at Mountain Falls Golf Club are renowned for their knowledge and exceptional service, enhancing the overall visit. The practice facilities are well-maintained and offer an excellent space to work on your game.

The course’s layout and conditions make it a top choice for golfers seeking an affordable yet rewarding round. The club’s balance of playability and challenge ensures that it remains a highly recommended side trip for those visiting the area. If you’re looking for a memorable golfing experience in Nevada, Mountain Falls Golf Club should be at the top of your list.

After experiencing the enjoyable and accommodating Mountain Falls Golf Club, your next golfing adventure in Nevada should lead you to the visually stunning and challenging Wolf Creek Golf Club.

Here’s why you should consider playing at this remarkable course:

• Designed by Rees Jones, Wolf Creek Golf Club offers a masterfully crafted layout that takes full advantage of the natural terrain, providing a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
• The course features pristine white sand bunkers strategically placed throughout, adding both beauty and challenge to your game.
• As the longest course in Nevada, Wolf Creek Golf Club presents a formidable challenge to golfers of all abilities, with five sets of tee boxes catering to various skill levels.
• Situated above Mesquite Airport, the course offers breathtaking panoramic views of the desert landscape, creating a truly awe-inspiring backdrop for your round.
• Renowned for its difficulty and beauty, Wolf Creek Golf Club is widely considered one of the best courses in Nevada, attracting golfers from across the country seeking an exceptional golfing experience.

 

When planning your next golfing excursion in Nevada, the challenging yet enjoyable Coyote Springs Golf Club promises a remarkable and picturesque experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Located just a short drive from Las Vegas, this Tom Fazio-designed golf course offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic design.

The course features strategically placed lakes that come into play on several holes, adding both visual appeal and an extra layer of challenge to your game. Coyote Springs Golf Club is known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, providing a top-notch golfing experience for players of all abilities.

The surrounding desert landscape creates a stunning backdrop for your round, making it an unforgettable experience for any golfer.

With a variety of tee boxes available, the course can be tailored to suit every level of golfer, ensuring an enjoyable yet challenging round for all.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Las Vegas, Coyote Springs Golf Club is a must-play destination for any golf enthusiast looking to test their skills in a breathtaking setting.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Dayton, Nevada, the Dayton Valley Golf Club offers golfers a remarkable and challenging experience in a stunning natural setting. The course, designed by Arnold Palmer, features five sets of tee boxes to accommodate golfers of all abilities. Its unique layout showcases stunning views and includes challenging holes that weave through hills and canyons, providing an unforgettable golfing experience.

Dayton Valley Golf Club is highly acclaimed and known for providing everything golfers need for a great day on the course. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this course offers a unique experience in Northern Nevada.

• Experience the stunning natural beauty of the course, with its rolling hills and breathtaking canyons.
• Challenge yourself with the variety of tee box options, ensuring a great game for all skill levels.
• Enjoy the acclaimed design by Arnold Palmer, offering a perfect blend of playability and challenge.
• Immerse yourself in the rich golfing history of the course, which has been crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.
• Take advantage of the well-equipped facilities and amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day of golf.

Located in Henderson, Nevada, Desert Willow Golf Club offers golfers stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. This golf course is renowned for its challenging layout and well-maintained conditions, providing an exceptional golfing experience in the Silver State.

Desert Willow Golf Club caters to golfers of all skill levels with its five sets of tee boxes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the course regardless of their expertise. The club also boasts excellent amenities, including a pro shop and a clubhouse, adding to the overall appeal of this club.

With its prime location in the Las Vegas area, Desert Willow Golf Club provides a calming backdrop for a memorable round of golf. The combination of the stunning scenery and the well-designed course makes it one of the best courses in Nevada. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Las Vegas, this golf course is a standout choice for those seeking a challenging and visually captivating golfing experience.

 

If you’re a golf enthusiast seeking a unique and memorable golfing experience in Nevada, the Royal Links Golf Club offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to play iconic British Open holes inspired by legendary courses. Situated in Las Vegas, this golf course replicates holes from 11 British Open rotation courses, including those from St. Andrews, Royal Troon, and Carnoustie. The design of the course aims to provide an authentic British links golf experience, making it a must-visit for golfers of all abilities.

With sets of tees, the course caters to players looking for varying levels of challenge. Here’s what you can expect at Royal Links Golf Club:

• Experience the thrill of playing iconic British Open holes in the heart of Las Vegas.
• Test your skills on holes inspired by legendary courses like St. Andrews and Royal Troon.
• Enjoy a unique golfing experience that captures the essence of British links golf.
• Take on the challenge of holes replicated from 11 different British Open rotation courses.
• Immerse yourself in the history and tradition of the British Open while playing at Royal Links Golf Club.

For a golfing adventure that pays homage to the rich heritage of British Open courses, Royal Links Golf Club is the place to be.

 

Conclusion

Nevada is home to much more than the bright lights and bad habits of Las Vegas.  In fact, the state’s golf courses are as diverse as its geography.

Whether you’re looking for a warm round in the arroyos of the southern desert, or an experience under bright blue skies surrounded by peaks covered in snow, it can be found in Nevada.  I love this state and can’t wait to get back.

Thank you to everyone that contributed their thoughts to this article.  If you have additional insight you’d like to add, we’d love to hear from you in the comments.