Best Public Golf Courses in North Dakota

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

Years ago, I told my wife I wanted to take our family on a summer vacation across the upper plains states.  She gave me a quizzical look like I was kind of crazy.  She asked my why, and I responded that I thought it would be good for the kids to see a part of the country that they probably wouldn’t otherwise.  She still didn’t get it. . .

I asked her what words she thought of when I mentioned North Dakota.  She said “cold”.  Then she added “wind”.  Clearly my sales tactics weren’t working.

To make a long story short, I finally convinced the family to hop in the car and take this vacation.  And we had a most memorable time exploring historic sites, taking in small town culture and hospitality, and outdoor recreation. 

As you might imagine, I brought my golf clubs and found a few afternoons to slip away and take in some of the state’s courses. 

I was so impressed I thought the state deserved some recognition in the form of a course guide.  So, along with the help of our northern readers, I’ve compiled a list.

Hawktree Golf Club beckons golf enthusiasts with its picturesque, environmentally sustainable layout in Bismarck, North Dakota. This club prides itself on being one of the best public golf courses in North Dakota, offering an open layout with links style features. What sets Hawktree apart is its emphasis on environmental sustainability, irrigating only 80 acres of turf. This commitment to conservation not only provides a unique golfing experience but also showcases the club’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the area.

The 18th hole at Hawktree Golf Club presents a particularly formidable challenge, with a long par 5 and an uphill battle. Factor in the unpredictable winds, and you have a true test of skill and strategy. The course takes full advantage of Bismarck’s stunning landscape, offering golfers a visually captivating and mentally stimulating experience.

It’s no wonder that Hawktree Golf Club is highly regarded by golfers and has earned its reputation as the top public golf course in North Dakota. If you’re seeking a memorable round of golf in a breathtaking setting, Hawktree Golf Club is a must-visit destination.

Situated on bluffs above Lake Sakakawea, The Links of North Dakota offers a captivating golfing experience that emphasizes natural contours and ground play. The course has earned the top spot as the #1 course in North Dakota by Golfweek, and it’s easy to see why.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Strategic Design: The course features 85 strategically placed bunkers that will challenge your game and reward strategic play.
• Accommodations: The facility offers full hookup RV sites and top-notch cabins for accommodation, making it convenient for golf enthusiasts to enjoy an extended stay.

The Links of North Dakota caters to golfers of all skill levels, providing five sets of tees with yardage ranging from 5,249 to 7,092 yards. Additionally, the original soil was preserved during construction, ensuring an authentic golfing experience that connects you with the natural landscape.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, The Links of North Dakota promises an unforgettable golfing adventure in the heart of North Dakota.

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Heart River, Heart River Golf Course offers golfers a captivating blend of rolling hills and wooded terrain, creating a unique and challenging golfing experience. Owned and operated by Dickinson’s Parks and Recreation Department, this North Dakota public course provides a welcoming atmosphere for casual rounds.

The course’s front nine features expansive, rolling hills and open fairways, while the back nine is encompassed by wooded areas, demanding accuracy and strategy. The picturesque setting along the Heart River adds to the challenge and beauty of the course, making it a standout in North Dakota.

Heart River Golf Course is renowned for its combination of rolling and wooded terrain, offering golfers a diverse and engaging game. Additionally, the course provides multiple tee options, ensuring an inclusive experience for players of varying skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Heart River Golf Course promises a memorable and enjoyable round in the heart of North Dakota’s natural beauty.

After experiencing the captivating blend of rolling hills and wooded terrain at Heart River Golf Course, golf enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the challenging winds and expansive green complexes of Kings Walk Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer. When you step onto Kings Walk, you’ll encounter a golfing experience designed to challenge players of all skill levels.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Challenging Layout: Kings Walk offers a roomy layout from tee to green but is known to face challenging winds. The course’s expansive green complexes feature tricky hole locations, providing an exciting challenge for golfers.
• Unique Design: The course mimics the style of courses in Ireland and Scotland, providing a unique and memorable golfing experience.
• Amenities: After a round of golf, take advantage of the Eagles Crest Bar and Grill, offering a great place for food and drinks. The course also features picturesque water hazards that add to the challenge and beauty of the landscape.

Get ready to test your skills while enjoying the stunning surroundings at Kings Walk Golf Course.

You’ll find Edgewood Public Golf Course in Fargo, North Dakota, offering a traditional design with narrow fairways and small greens, demanding accuracy and challenging even the best ball strikers. This course is a favorite among locals, known for its unique and challenging layout.

Managed by the city of Fargo, it provides a welcoming atmosphere along with specific challenges that make for an enjoyable golfing experience. The course isn’t only affordable but also offers quality amenities, making it a popular choice for golf enthusiasts.

The narrow fairways and small greens demand precision and strategy, adding an element of excitement to every round. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Fargo, Edgewood Public Golf Course is a must-visit for those seeking a traditional yet challenging golfing experience. It’s a course where players can test their skills and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of North Dakota.

If you’re looking for a public golf course that combines affordability, quality, and a challenging design, Edgewood Public Golf Course is the perfect choice.

Located in the vibrant Fargo metro area, Rose Creek Public Golf Course offers golfers a challenging and rewarding experience on its well-regarded 18-hole layout. If you’re planning a visit, here’s what you can expect:

• Scenic Views: The course is known for its picturesque surroundings, with well-maintained fairways and greens that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.
• Wildlife Encounters: Golfers often spot deer and various bird species, adding to the tranquil ambiance of the course.
• Construction Update: Currently, the course is reduced to 11 holes due to ongoing construction. However, once the renovations are complete, golfers can look forward to experiencing the full 18-hole course.

Rose Creek Golf Course is a top choice for golf enthusiasts in North Dakota. As you prepare for your round at this esteemed establishment, be sure to equip yourself with the best golf equipment to enhance your game. Whether it’s selecting the right clubs or ensuring you have comfortable, high-performance attire, the right gear can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

As you continue your exploration of golf courses in North Dakota, the scenic and challenging Mandan Municipal Golf Course awaits, offering a delightful 18-hole layout that’s sure to captivate golf enthusiasts of all levels. Situated in Mandan, North Dakota, this public golf course boasts lush fairways, well-maintained greens, and a variety of obstacles and hazards that provide a satisfying challenge for golfers. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, the course’s multiple tee options cater to different skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all. Additionally, the presence of a practice area allows golfers to hone their skills before taking on the course.

Mandan Municipal Golf Course’s serene setting and beautiful views make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable golfing experience. The welcoming atmosphere and accommodating layout create an environment where golfers can relax and enjoy the game. With its combination of natural beauty, challenging layout, and opportunities for skill improvement, this North Dakota golf course has earned a strong public profile as a top choice for golf enthusiasts.

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Mandan, North Dakota, Prairie West Golf Course offers an invigorating and challenging setting for golf enthusiasts of all levels.

As you step onto the course, you’ll be greeted by rolling fairways that seamlessly blend with the natural terrain, providing a visually stunning and dynamic playing field.

The undulating landscape presents golfers with strategic challenges, requiring thoughtful club selection and precise shot execution.

Breathtaking views of the surrounding prairies and distant horizons create a serene and immersive golfing experience.

Prairie West Golf Course in Mandan, North Dakota, isn’t just a golf course; it’s an opportunity to test your skills against nature’s beauty.

With well-maintained facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, this public course provides an excellent golfing experience for players of all abilities.

Whether you’re navigating the hazards or reveling in the natural beauty, Prairie West Golf Course promises an unforgettable round in the heart of North Dakota.

Set against the backdrop of South Heart, North Dakota, Pheasant Country Golf Course beckons golfers with its picturesque 18-hole layout and serene ambiance. This course, located in the heart of North Dakota, offers an exciting and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. The well-designed layout provides a variety of obstacles and hazards that will test your skills and make for an exhilarating round of golf.

The beautiful and serene setting adds to the overall appeal of the course, creating a truly enjoyable experience for any golfer. Pheasant Country Golf Course boasts well-maintained facilities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, and locker rooms, ensuring that your golfing experience is convenient and comfortable.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a new challenge or a beginner wanting to enjoy the beauty of North Dakota while playing a round of golf, this course has something to offer for everyone. With its attention to detail and commitment to providing a top-notch golfing experience, Pheasant Country Golf Course stands out as one of the premier courses in North Dakota.

Leaving the captivating allure of Pheasant Country Golf Course behind, golf enthusiasts are drawn to the charm and strategic design of Medicine Hole Golf Course, a standout creation by North Dakota native Jim Engh.

When you step onto the Medicine Hole Golf Course, you’ll find yourself immersed in a golfing experience that takes strategic play to a whole new level. Here’s what you can expect:

• Strategic Design: Despite being shorter in length, the course requires strategic play for position, with plenty of bunkers and penalty areas strategically placed to test your skills.
• The greens are highly praised as some of the best in the state, demanding precision and finesse with every putt.
• The staff’s friendly and welcoming attitude adds to the overall experience, ensuring that every visit is met with warmth and hospitality.

Medicine Hole Golf Course in North Dakota is more than just a round of golf; it’s a test of skill and precision, coupled with a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. If you’re ready for a golfing challenge that’s worth the trip, Medicine Hole Golf Course awaits.

Conclusion

You might not think of North Dakota as a premier golf destination, and that’s understandable.  But I’m here to tell you there’s no shortage of great golf to be found.

There’s no denying that you’re looking at some hours on the road to get from one place to another, but that’s part of the fun in my book.

I can’t wait to get back to North Dakota.  Believe it or not, neither can my wife and kids.

Thanks to all of you North Dakotans that made this course guide possible.  May you stay warm this winter and keep it in the short stuff come spring.