Best Golf Courses in Oklahoma

The state of Oklahoma is what folks on both the east and west coast refer to as “flyover country.”  We have it in our heads that it’s nothing but flat land, straight roads, corn fields, and small towns. 

I’ve spent some time in the Sooner State and so has one of our writers.  We both concur that there’s a lot more here than meets the eye and public perception suggests.  Our readers seem to agree as well.

One of the little known facts is that Oklahoma is home to some outstanding golf that’s accessible for everyone. 

Let’s have a closer look at some of the consensus picks.

One of the most underrated public courses in Oklahoma is Arrowhead State Park.

Even though the course’s design is minimalist in nature, it’s a treat to play.  Much of the course overlooks Lake Eufaula from atop a hill.  The views are stunning to say the least. 

The course is also known for being in good shape during the high season even though the maintenance staff only consists of a handful of employees.

If you’re planning on staying for a while and exploring the surrounding area, check out the RV park right next to the golf course.

 

One of the finest daily fee facilities in Tulsa is Page Belcher Golf Course.  No less than 36 holes await to be enjoyed here.

The Old Page course was built in 1977.  It occupies rolling terrain, and the greens have subtle contours that can make them tricky to read.  This track played host to the 1988 USGA Women’s Public Links Championship.

Stone Creek is the other golf course at Page Belcher.  When it opened in 1987, this track was called “One of America’s Top 50 New Public Courses.”  Exceptional shot values are coupled with expansive vistas to make Stone Creek a most memorable round.

If you have time for a couple rounds in Tulsa, you could certainly do worse than the courses at Page Belcher. 

 

 

Another course that sits in a state park is Cedar Creek.  It’s located in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains on the shores of Broken Bow Lake.  Bring your camera because the views are spectacular. 

Unlike a lot of courses in Oklahoma that are open, Cedar Creek’s fairways are lined by pine forest.  Keeping the ball in play off the tee is a must if you want to score. 

Aside from great golf, there’s oh so much more to see and do in this part of the state.

Plan on staying a while when you visit.

 

   

Designed by Tripp Davis, Patricia Island is one of the most highly touted public courses in Oklahoma. 

Situated on the shores of Grand Lake, the course features a wide variety of holes that offer plenty of risk and reward opportunity.  Choose your spots wisely.

The course is also known for being beautifully manicured as well.  The greens are especially pristine.

After your round, don’t forget to stop in at Mulligans Restaurant.  The menu is extensive, the portions healthy, and the prices fair.

An enjoyable round at a great value.

Tucked away in the distant hills north of Sand Springs, you’ll find the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge. 

From nearly every hole on the course, you’re afforded breathtaking views of the downtown Tulsa skyline. 

The course is an old-style parkland design.  However, the club’s amenities are modern.  They include a Track Man on site, state of the art practice facility, a fully stocked pro shop, and a grill that has everything you need for food or drink.

This track isn’t long.  In fact, it’s on the shorter side.  That said, you’d best think your way around and make smart decisions.  If you don’t, it could be a long day.

A complete experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Locals say Battle Creek Golf Course is always in outstanding shape.  For as much play as it gets, it continues to get rave reviews. 

Just 15 minutes from downtown Tulsa, it’s also considered one of the area’s best values.

The layout makes it way through native wetlands.  The landing areas are generous and well defined, but misses can be costly.  This is target golf – point A to point B. 

Having undergone a recent renovation that included all-new bunkers, and new routing for a number of holes, I’m betting this course more than lives up to all the hype.

 

Locals say the best option for public golf in the town of Claremore is Heritage Hills.

Even though the course isn’t long by modern standards, it’s considered a stern test.  That’s largely due to the fact that water comes into play on 15 out of 18 holes.  Sounds like your ball striking needs to be on point. 

The green complexes are challenging too.  Not only are they undulating, their surrounds can make getting up and down for par a challenge. 

One of the lesser known courses on this list, don’t overlook Heritage Hills.

Just a short drive south of Stillwater, you’ll find the Golf Club at Cimarron Trails.

Open since 1994, this Kevin Benedict design has wonderful bent grass greens and Bermuda fairways.  The course’s condition is second to none. 

Well thought out bunkers act as both a guide, and a hazard if you happen to stray offline.

Holes are spread out over 200 acres.  You’ll never feel like you’re crowded when you play here. 

Great golf at a great price.  Tough to beat.

Guymon, Oklahoma is known as a banana belt when it comes to weather in Oklahoma.  That’s one of the reasons Sunset Hills Golf Course is so popular. 

This course is user friendly which makes it fun to play for everyone. 

The environment is breathtaking as well.  The course surrounds Sunset Lake and vibrant vegetation accents bright blue summer skies.  Truly a peaceful experience.

It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to play here either.

Nothing but good things to say.  Put Sunset Hills on your list.

 

Oklahoma’s sand belt region is home to some of the most interesting topography in the country.  That means some unique golf experiences too. 

One of those courses is Boiling Springs.  Nestled along the banks of the North Canadian River, this track is what architect Jeff Blume called a “once in a lifetime canvas to work with.” 

The course is spread out over undulating sand dunes that allow each hole to exist by itself.  While it’s open in spots, oaks, black walnuts, and elms line many of the fairways.

Because this course’s design is so diverse, every facet of your game will be tested.

A round that has to be experienced to be fully understood, I recommend playing here at least once.

Conclusion

In spite of what our country’s coasties might think, there’s more to Oklahoma than wheat fields and small towns.  In fact, this state is home to some of the nicest people you’ll meet anywhere.  It’s tough to beat Midwest, downhome hospitality.

The state also boasts some great public golf. 

Like always, the input of our readers was essential in allowing this guide to come to life.  If you have more information or insight to add, let us in the comments.