Best Golf Courses in Wisconsin

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

I’ve only been in Wisconsin once.  It happened to be in the middle of November on the Frozen Tundra in Green Bay for Packers Game.  At that moment, golf was the furthest thing from my mind.  I was more concerned about my beloved Packers winning and trying to get warm as soon as possible. 

It wasn’t until years later, after starting Golfer’s Authority, that I began learning about the great golf in the Badger State.  In talking with our many readers, it sure sounds like I need to make a golf trip to Wisconsin sometime soon.  Trust me, it’s at the top of my list.  I just might wait until it warms up a bit before I do.

I polled our proud Wisconsinite readers and used their input to come up with a list of the top ten public courses in the state which I’ve listed below.

If you’re seeking a challenging and visually stunning golf experience in Wisconsin Dells, look no further than Wild Rock Golf Club. Nestled in the picturesque Wisconsin Dells, this course, designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, offers a unique golfing adventure.

Featuring drastic elevation changes, Wild Rock Golf Club provides a challenging yet scenic environment that will test your skills while mesmerizing you with its beauty.

Considered one of the most underrated courses in Wisconsin, Wild Rock Golf Club is renowned for its variety of hole designs, incorporating natural rock formations that add an extra layer of challenge and visual appeal to the game. The course’s design provides a truly memorable golfing experience, making it a standout among the best golf courses in Wisconsin.

Wild Rock Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast looking to test their abilities on a course that seamlessly merges the natural landscape with a masterfully designed golfing experience. Whether you’re a local or visiting Wisconsin, this course promises an unforgettable and rewarding round of golf.

 

Nestled in the heart of Verona, Wisconsin, the University Ridge Golf Course offers golf enthusiasts a challenging and well-maintained experience. When you step onto the University Ridge course, you can expect nothing less than an exceptional golfing experience.

Here’s why:

1. Designed by a Master: University Ridge Golf Course was designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones, Jr., ensuring that every hole offers a unique and thought-provoking challenge.
2. Home of Champions: As the home of the University of Wisconsin golf teams, this course has seen the development of some of the finest golf talents, adding to its allure and prestige.
3. Scenic Beauty: The course offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, immersing you in the natural beauty of Wisconsin while you enjoy a round of golf.

University Ridge isn’t just a golf course; it’s a testament to the rich tradition of Wisconsin golf. Whether you’re a local enthusiast or a visitor, this course is open to public play, inviting you to test your skills on a course that has seen the rise of champions.

Located in the picturesque woodlands of Iola, Wisconsin, Glacier Wood Golf Club offers golfers a scenic and challenging course experience. The well-maintained layout provides stunning views of the surrounding woodlands and lakes, creating a serene backdrop for a day on the green. The course’s unique and memorable hole designs offer an engaging and diverse playing experience for golfers of all levels, making it a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional round of golf.

Crafted by renowned architects, this championship-level course at Glacier Wood Golf Club provides an excellent test of skill while showcasing the natural beauty of Wisconsin. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, the carefully designed course offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all. The club’s commitment to maintaining high standards ensures that every visit is met with top-notch conditions and hospitality.

For those planning a golfing getaway, Glacier Wood Golf Club is a fantastic addition to any itinerary, especially when combined with other notable courses like the Sand Valley Golf Resort. As a public course, Glacier Wood Golf Club welcomes all golf enthusiasts to revel in the splendor of Wisconsin’s golfing landscape.

After experiencing the scenic and challenging course at Glacier Wood Golf Club in Iola, Wisconsin, golf enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the picturesque and engaging Brown County Golf Course.

This renowned course offers a delightful mix of stunning views and unique hole designs, making it a must-play for any golf enthusiast. The well-maintained fairways and greens provide an excellent playing surface, adding to the overall enjoyment of the game.

The challenging layout of the course ensures that players of all levels will find themselves tested, while the scenic beauty of the surroundings adds an extra dimension to the golfing experience. The course at Brown County Golf Course is known for its memorable hole designs, each offering a different and exciting challenge.

This makes it a top choice for those seeking a truly engaging and unique round of golf. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Brown County Golf Course is an essential stop for anyone looking to experience some of the best golf that Wisconsin has to offer.

With its stunning lake views and challenging links-style layouts, Deer Valley Golf Course offers an exciting and picturesque setting for golfers to test their skills.

The course’s well-maintained fairways and greens ensure a high-quality playing surface, adding to the overall golfing experience. Designed by renowned architects, the layout features unique and memorable hole designs, contributing to a distinctive and enjoyable round of golf.

Deer Valley Golf Course’s prestige is further elevated by its association with Whistling Straits, a nearby golf course designed by legendary architect Pete Dye and host to multiple major championships including the PGA Championship. This connection underscores the course’s commitment to offering a world-class golfing experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging game or simply looking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Wisconsin, Deer Valley Golf Course promises an unforgettable day on the links.

Nestled amidst the picturesque Wisconsin landscape, Clifton Highlands Golf Course beckons golf enthusiasts with its challenging yet captivating layout and stunning panoramic views. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking for a memorable round, Clifton Highlands Golf Course has something for everyone.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Challenging Layout: The course offers a challenging yet fair layout, with well-maintained fairways and greens that provide the perfect setting for an enjoyable round of golf.
2. Unique Hole Designs: Golfers can look forward to encountering unique and memorable hole designs that add an extra layer of excitement to their game.
3. Stunning Panoramic Views: Situated in the heart of Wisconsin, Clifton Highlands Golf Course provides breathtaking views that make it a top golf destination in the state.

With its reputation as a must-visit for golfers seeking a challenging links-style layout, Clifton Highlands Golf Course stands out as one of the top golf courses in Wisconsin. Whether you’re there to test your skills or simply take in the natural beauty, this course promises an unforgettable experience.

You’ll discover a picturesque 18-hole course offering stunning views of the Northwoods and a warm, welcoming atmosphere at St. Germain Golf Club. Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, this golf course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. The well-maintained and challenging course is known for its unique hole designs that provide an exciting game for players of all levels. As you tee off, you’ll be surrounded by scenic woodlands and rolling fairways, creating a serene and captivating golfing experience.

St. Germain Golf Club prides itself on providing a relaxing environment for golfers to enjoy their game. The friendly and inviting atmosphere adds to the overall appeal of this course. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the club offers a memorable golfing experience with its beautiful landscape and variety of hole designs. The Northwoods backdrop adds to the allure of the course, making it a standout destination for golfers seeking a balance of challenge and natural beauty.

When in Wisconsin, make sure to add St. Germain Golf Club to your list of must-play courses.

The picturesque and challenging St. Germain Golf Club gives way to another legendary golfing experience at The Links Course at Lawsonia, designed and built in the 1930s, offering a contrasting experience to the Woodlands Course.

The Links Course at Lawsonia is a revered gem among the Golf Courses of Lawsonia, offering golfers a truly exceptional experience. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Elevated Green Complexes: The course features elevated green complexes, providing a unique and challenging golf experience. It demands precision and strategic play, making each hole a thrilling adventure.
2. Legendary Status: Considered the most legendary public course in the state, The Links Course at Lawsonia offers stunning lake views and a well-maintained layout. It has stood the test of time, captivating golfers for over 90 years.
3. Challenging Layout: Known for its challenging links-style layout and unique, memorable hole designs, the course attracts golfers seeking a quality golf experience. Designed by William Langford and Theodore Moreau, it continues to be a top choice for those desiring mastery.

The Links Course at Lawsonia promises an unforgettable golfing journey, where every swing is met with breathtaking views and a test of skill.

With its challenging and meticulously maintained course, Timber Ridge Golf Club offers golfers a unique and rewarding experience in the stunning natural surroundings of Wisconsin.

Situated amidst beautiful lake views, Timber Ridge Golf Club is renowned for its well-designed holes that promise a memorable experience for golf enthusiasts.

The championship course boasts a challenging and rewarding links-style layout, making it a must-visit for those seeking a top-rated golfing experience in Wisconsin.

The club’s commitment to immaculate maintenance ensures that every round played here is of the highest quality.

From the moment you step onto the first tee, you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds the course, creating an immersive and enchanting golfing experience.

Timber Ridge Golf Club stands as a testament to the exceptional golf courses Wisconsin has to offer, and its reputation for providing a challenging yet enjoyable game makes it a standout destination for golfers looking to test their skills in a picturesque setting.

If you’re familiar with the Sheboygan area, you know there’s no shortage of good golf to be found.  Between Whistling Straits and Black Wolf Run, there’s plenty of premium golf to be found at a hefty price.

One of the area’s best kept secrets, however, is the Bull at Pinehurst Farms. 

Risk and reward holes are crafted through naturally occurring marshes, rivers, and woodlands. 

The only course designed by Jack Nicklaus in Wisconsin, The Bull features expansive fairways, penal waste areas, and large, undulating greens. 

This is a big golf course.  For that reason, our readers suggest playing the appropriate set of tees for your ability.

Don’t forget to make time to take full advantage of the course’s extensive practice facility.  A large range with plenty of targets and ample short game areas are the perfect place to work on your game.

Conclusion

I can’t wait to get back to Wisconsin when the temperatures are warmer and the ground isn’t frozen.  Based on all the feedback we received from our readers, golf is not something to be taken lightly in this state. 

Unfortunately, we only had room for ten courses on our list but, it’s more than evident there’s plenty of great golf courses to satisfy just about any appetite. 

Now that winter is here to stay, I’ll be relegated to my couch watching the Green and Gold.  In the meantime, if you have any further insight about golf in Wisconsin, please let us know in the comments below.  Thanks for reading.