"Golf got complicated when I had to
wear shoes and start thinking about what I was doing."
--Sam Snead
"Always throw clubs ahead of you.
That way you don't have to waste energy going back to pick them up."
-- Tommy Bolt
"The game was easy for me as a kid,
and I had to play a while to find out how hard it is."
-- Raymond Floyd
"Never bet with anyone you meet on
the first tee who has a deep suntan, a one iron in his bag, and squinty eyes."
-- Dave Marr
"One thing that's always available
on a golf course is advice."
-- Buddy Hackett
"It's good sportsmanship to not pick
up lost golf balls while they are still rolling."
-- Mark Twain
"Prayer never seems to work for me
on the golf course. I think this has something to do with my being a terrible
putter."
-- Rev. Billy Graham
"I know I'm getting better at golf
because I'm hitting fewer spectators."
-- Gerald R. Ford
"I don't say my golf game is bad,
but if I grew tomatoes, they'd come up sliced."
-- Miller Barber
GO
WEST
YOU GOLFERS
IF YOU ARE TRAVELING
TO OR FROM
SAN ANTONIO
ON US 90 OR I-10
WE ARE STARTING TO
LIST SOME
GOLF COURSES
HERE THAT YOU
MIGHT ENJOY
ON YOUR WAY --
LISTED BY TOWNS
Click Here for Details
US 90
Uvalde - Muni
Brackettville
(Fort Clark Springs) Del Rio
Forget it and go back to
Fort Clark Springs
Super lodging and RV park
I-10 |
Alamo Golf Club
Rating - Birdie
Green fees 
9700
Rochelle
San Antonio, Texas 78240
Yardage: Blue 5255 White 4780 Red 4151 Yellow 1831
Par: 67
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
A complete golf facility.
I nice short 18 hole golf course. The management has done a lot of work
recently, upgrading it from an executive course to a full sized layout.
Close to the Medical Center, it's perfect for you docs to sneak in a round.
If you are in town waiting for visiting hours so you can see a friend, this
is the one for you.
Two story driving range with good lighting.
There is also a new Par 3 Pitch and Putt course, perfect for sharpening up your
short game. The new par 3's longest hole is 81 yards which makes it
perfect for for beginners and youngsters.
Distance:
About 20 minutes
from downtown. Take IH 10 West. Travel about 9 miles, and Exit 560 toward
Ramsgate Street/Heubner Road. Stay on Huebner going across Fredericksburg
traveling about 2 miles to Babcock. Turn right on Babcock. Continue about 2
miles to the 6200 block, and turn left on Pembroke. Follow Pembroke until it
turns into Rochelle. You will run into Alamo Golf Club at 9700 Rochelle.
Alsatian Golf Club
Rating - Birdie
Green fee
Driving range costs $2.00 per 20-25 balls.
SOFT-SPIKES ONLY facility (no metal spikes allowed).
1339 County Road 4516
Castroville, TX 78009
Electric Carts. Range balls provided at no cost. Walking allowed but it costs the
same as to ride
Yardage: Black 6882 Blue 6325 Gold 5647 Red 4920
Rating: Black 72.3; Blue 69.6; Gold 69.6; Red 68.7
Slope: Black 127; Blue 119; Gold 109; Red 110
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: 18-hole with water in play. Front side fairly open and flat,
almost links type play. Back side is hilly and has lots of trees. Super finishing hole with a tree in center of uphill fairway.
This is a real good course with a nice snack bar. Beer only. There is a putting green,
chipping area, and a teaching professional. The staff is competent and friendly.
.PLAYERS COMMENT:
From James A.E. on 1
May 2008. I played Alsatian last week. I was told by my buddy that he
would not play there again because he and his co-worker lost too many balls.
So I had to challenge myself to make my normal 80s score on a course known
for losing golf balls. I did it! But the course was different than what my
buddy described. My buddy and his co-worker lost their balls in the deep
rough. There was no discernable rough when I played it in March of 2008. I
found my ball easily. There was no GPS so I used my hand held range finder.
The price is under $40 and the staff was very friendly. The New Clubhouse is
being built and some renovation work is being done on a couple of holes on
the front nine and sand traps are being re-dug on the back. Eliminate the
intimidation of the water holes on the front nine with your range finder or
Sky Caddie. Don’t have one? Get one! The back nine plays links style just
hit your balls away from the young or old trees. I can imagine how tough
this course is when the rough has grown in. So play it once in the early
spring or late winter when it is easier to play, then come back in the
summer time and challenge yourself. Some carts did not have ball and club
cleaners so bring your own cleaning gear. You will need to keep score
because the hole you are playing on is not marked at the tee box so the
score card will tell you the distance from your tee. Beer and Gatorade type
drinks, the clubhouse is being built so there is no kitchen or bar yet. It
was a fun course made more fun by good company.
Lodging: The Alsatian Inn is located approximately
two miles from the club. A very nice facility, it has ninety rooms, a swimming pool, and a
really good restaurant. Children under the age of fourteen stay free.
Distance: About 30 minutes from downtown on Highway
90 West to Castroville. But worth the trip.... Take Highway 90 West through
Castroville; turn right at the blinking light just past the Alsatian Inn; veer left on CR
4516. Course is 2.5 miles down on the right.
Brackenridge Municipal Golf Course
Rating - Birdie
Green fee
2315 Ave B adjacent to Brackenridge Park
San Antonio, TX 78215
Yardage: Blue 6185 White 5767 Red 5216
Rating: 66.0
Slope: 118
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: You need to play this one
for historical purposes. Besides, it's a fun, if overplayed at time. The 18-hole Bermuda
Grass course with water in play is the same one mentioned in Harvey Penick's Book. A round
of 58 stood until recently as the lowest score ever posted in a PGA Tour event. It is the
second oldest course in Texas. We gave it a birdie based on its history. The clubhouse is
a local legend and you are literally walking in the footsteps of the legends of golf.
Call (210) 226-5612 first, the San Antonio Junior Golf Association keeps this one
fairly busy.
Golfhappy Note: Since the course
has undergone renovation, I am looking for comments from local golfers who
have played there recently. Lemme know what you think,
golfhappy@sanantoniogolf.com
Distance: Two and one-half miles from downtown, about a ten minute drive.
The Bandit Golf Course
Golf Package
Rating - Eagle
Green fees:
5 Miles East of New Braunfels on FM 725
Lake McQueeney
Yardage: Black 6928, Blue 6405, White 5991, Red 5253
Rating: Black 73.6, Blue 71.2, White 69.2, Red 70.3
Slope: Black 133, Blue 124, White 122, Red 126
Par: 71
PLAYERS COMMENTS: From RS. Played The Bandit
(7/04) fairways and greens in excellent shape. Course in tip top condition.
Opened for play in November 1997, The Bandit continues to receive rave reviews from everyone who has played it. The staff is
friendly and helpful. The greens are fast and undulating. There is plenty of water and
bunkers and some holes are quite scenic. There are well placed bunkers and trees. The
eighteenth hole, called "Long Creek" is a par 5 uphill to a tight green nestled
behind a tree will make or break a round. Depending on the wind, it can be played several
different ways. You can make par, but you may end up with a triple or quad. Number
1 is called "Blind Date" and Number 2 is called "Two Much Too
Soon." You get the picture. But while a scratch player would find this course very
challenging with five sets of tee boxes this course is inviting for all
level of golfers. Golfhappy's foursome was very excited to shoot in the mid 90s from the
Whites. The last time I played the course was in super shape and the
reports I am getting from local golfers are great. This is one
of the most scenic in the area. The management is proud of the fact that
Golfweek recently
named the Bandit the #7 Public Course in Texas.
Distance: About 45 minutes from downtown. Take I-35 to New Braunfels. Exit 187 (the
Lake McQueeney exit) and turn right at the light onto FM 725. Course is about 5 miles on
the left.
Food: In the tradition of the old German settlers of the Texas Hill County, the
Bandit recently opened a bona fide grill. They are
serving hamburgers, hotdogs and a great sausage dog (with sausage from Grandzin's).
They also have fried appetizers!
Buckhorn Golf Course
Golf Package
Green Fee
Comfort, TX
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Buckhorn (7/04) is in fairly good shape but
the greens are a little rough and bumpy like most of the courses at this time of year from
the rain. At $25 for seniors, it is still a bargain. FS
Last played the third weekend of February 2001 and it was
in super shape according to my sources... a bunch of retired military hackers
ranging from 30 to 10 handicaps. Thanks to Frank H for the comments -- I
finally played The Buckhorn this weekend! It was a beautiful, but I think easy course.
Very wide open with only a couple of dog-legs as I recall, and everything else straight as
an arrow. They really could have toughen up this course a bit more, I think. The number
one hole is very nice, and I wish I had a camera with me to take a picture of the green
with that huge oak tree just behind it. The fairway and greens were in excellent
condition, and with a very affordable price, this course is like a siren that wails for me
to come back for more.
Distance: About an hour from downtown. Take I-10 West to Comfort, exit 523.
Go left on Business 87. Go four blocks and turn left on f.m. 473
Canyon Springs Golf Course
Rating Par
Golf Package
Green fee
24400 Canyon Golf Road
San Antonio TX
Yardage: Black 7,077; Gold 6,677; Blue 6,2120; Green 5,853; Red 5,234
Rating: Blue 68.4
Slope: Gold 118
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Nominated in 1998 by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine
as best new course, this one will surely please the most discriminating player. The
course is a "Must Play!" A true Hill Country Course . you need to stay on
the fairways or bring plenty of balls. Using an old farm to build on this choice
piece of Texas Real Estate, this land has been artfully transformed into what many golfers
will refer to as among the very best of what this great state has to offer. Each
hole is a separate experience, a beautiful scene completely by itself. You do not
see other fairways. Each cart is equipped with Global Positioning System, GPS,
giving you the exact distance to the pin on each hold. GPS also shows you the pin
placement on each green. It's like playing with a professional caddy who knows the
course. It's neat! With five sets of tee boxes on each hole, demanding greens, natural
hill country surroundings and magnificent limestone waterfalls on the 19th and 18th holes,
this 7077 yard course (from the tips that's right) presents a significant challenge to
event the most experienced golfers (and even those who think they are). Super golf
and homesites are available. Player comment from Pobert P. Dec 03 -- Canyon Springs: Played for the first time last month.
Beautiful course that is made very difficult if you ball tends to wander off the fairway
due to the length of the heather. There was a lot of construction that caused cart path
detours, but alas that's the price of change. I would say this is the most difficult
course I've played in years, specifically due to the 2 foot high roughs. But the
course is fabulous as are all the amenities. I will go back.
Golfhappy comment: One of the top courses in the area under new management. I hear
nothing but good comments about this upscale golf course. One of my personal top
choices to play. Golfhappy Dec 03
Distance:
About 30 minutes from downtown. Take I-281 North past 1604 to Evans road. Turn
left on Evans and go straight. Evans Road turns into Canyon Golf Road. Just
keep going straight, the entrance on on the right.
Cedar Creek Municipal Golf Course
Rating - Eagle
Green fee
8250 Vista Colina
San Antonio, TX 78255
Yardage: Blue 6650 White 6130 Red 5535
Rating: 71.3 68.9 70.8
Slope: 125 118 113
Par: 72 72 72
Golfhappy Note - Sept 07:
The
course is undergoing extensive work under the new management of The
Municipal Golf Association-San Antonio and hiring Texas A&M Grad Scott
Robertson from Crown Colony CC in Lufkin. In addition, golf course
architect John Colligan will be looking at ways to improve the course. Now,
if they can just figure out how to keep the balls from rolling into the
center and the dreaded five-hour rounds it will be a super track. Golfhappy
is looking for feedback from local players so lemme know,
golfhappy@sanantoniogolf.com
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
This ten year course is consistently rated
one of the top ten muni courses in the USA. The hill country layout is challenging for all
levels of play. Gold tees are available for scratch golfers. Some players feel that the
narrow fairways allow the ball to roll to the center, but we don't think this is evident
to most players. Ride this one... it's real hard to walk. Because of it's popularity, the
crowded course can play very slow. Go early or allow five hour rounds on really nice days.
However, it's so pretty and great to play it's worth the time.
PLAYER COMMENT Nov 1, 2007:
First let me say that while I am a
pretty avid golfer, I'm by no means a good golfer. That being said I LOVE
CEDAR CREEK! I have 4 or 5 buddies that I golf with on a fairly consistent
basis and we rarely, if ever, venture away from the beautiful confines of
Cedar Creek. Through my job I have had the opportunity to play a few “high
end” courses here in the San Antonio area as well as in Houston but for my
skill set as well as the golf course itself, Cedar Creek is head and
shoulders above any I've ever played. You mention the funneling effect of
the fairways. Truth be told that is one of the biggest attractions to
players like me and my buddies. It’s a very forgiving course in that regard
and while it may not be the most challenging for the above average golfer,
it provides “hackers” like me and my friends the perfect blend of tough
holes and opportunities for the great golf shots that keep us coming back.
Personally I hope they don’t change it too much. Jody D
Distance: Allow 30 minutes minimum from downtown. From I-10 going west,
exit Loop 1604, then go west 3 miles to the Kyle Seale Pkwy. Turn right and drive 2 miles
to the course. Watch real close for signs to clubhouse, which is on the left side of road
up a long paved road.
Fort Clark Springs Golf
Course - Brackettville
Rating - birdie
Green fees
Yardage: Back 5752 Regular 5413 Ladies 4572
Rating: 64.8
Slope: 107
Par: 70
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
Do not let the sort distance fool you,
this
tight, short, course demands well placed shots to score well. Lot's of
overhanging trees ensure that you need to keep the ball in the fairway and
many a ball is lost in the tall grass surrounding the course. One of
the great features of this course is that it offers the chance to play from
the tips and still score well. Most of the par 4s are just over 300 yards
making length fairly easy if you can stay in the middle. Hole 12 is a
tough 566 yard dogleg right that is quite challenging as the number one
handicap hole. Out of bounds stakes come into play, again keeping you in the
middle. Most of the residents have their own golf carts but rental
carts are available at the pro shop at reasonable rates. The
staff is super and the course is very affordable.
Distance: Located in
Brackettville, almost a two hour drive from San Antonio straight west on US
90. Fort Clark Springs, a gated
residential and resort community the Fort offers a short 18-hole regulation
course and a 9-hole par 3 course. The community is a haven for Winter
Texans who enjoy the mild winter climate and is hunting is popular in the
area. The Fort boasts a super RV park and numerous activities.
With Las Moras Creek running through the Fort and an abundance of deer, wild
turkey, a stable and walking trails, it's worth a stop.
Fort Sam Houston Two Golf Courses
Now Open For Public Play
The Club features two 18-hole championship golf courses,
the La Loma and the Salado Del Rio. Both course offer an excellent challenge for golfers
of all skill levels.
Rating - Eagle
Green fees 
Golf Package
San Antonio, TX 78234
La Loma Course
Yardage: Championship 6710 Regular 6260 Ladies 5348
Rating: 70.2
Slope: 117
Par: 72
Salado Del Rio Course
Yardage: Championship 6755 Regular 6278 Ladies 5435
Rating: 70.3
Slope: 117
Par: 72
Note:
Opened in 1935, the La Loma course was designed by A.W. Tillinghast. Fort Sam
Houston had the only military golf course that has hosted a PGA event. The Texas
Open was play at Fort Sam twice. The tournament was won by Gene Littler in 1956 and
the legendary Arnold Palmer in 1960.
Golfhappy's Comments:
Lot's of golfhappy's friends play these courses
almost every weekend and tell me they are in real good shape. Lot's of trees with
well placed greens, protected by sand and some water make these traditional courses a
super place to play. Varied elevations come into play. The courses are among
my my personal favorites. The personnel are very customer friendly and go out of
their way to be helpful.
Distance: The Fort Sam courses easy to get to, with
direct access from Harry Wurzbach. Take 410 to Harry Wurzbach and go South to just
past the National Cemetery.
La Cantera Golf Club and Resort
Rating - Eagle
Green fees
Golf Package
16401 La Cantera Pky
San Antonio, TX 78256
Yardage: Black 6885 Gold 6344 Blue 5954 Silver 5581 Red 4940
Rating: 72.0 69.3 67.9 66.1 67.1
Slope: 132 126 117 113 108
Par: 72 72 72 72 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Rated in the top 20 "Upscale Courses" by Golf Digest
and in the top 50 of "Courses You Can Play" by Golf Digest, the course is the
current site of the PGA Texas Open. LaCantera was
rated in the top three courses in San Antonio in 2002 by the golf experts in the San Antonio Express-News special golf edition in April 2002. It was ranked number 5 in America's Top State Courses in
1997-98. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the course was built in 1995 with lots
of hills with water in play.
PLAYERS COMMENTS: A magnificent Texas Hill
Country course, it features breathtaking views of San Antonio's skyline, Six Flags Over
Texas, natural waterfalls and fast running creeks and hills, hills, hills. The greens are
fast, good sized and undulating. White sand bunkers are abundant throughout the spread.
The beautiful views with take your breath away and the golf is so good it's hard to put
into words. Do not leave San Antonio without playing this course. Green fees will run
about ninety dollars U.S., but are worth every penny. The staff and course offer every
amenity and superb service. The course has a golf school featuring the latest in teaching
tools with top notch teaching professionals. Note: The LaCantera was tied with the Quarry as the best place
to hang around for a cool one after a round by the experts. Editors comment: We are not sure who voted or if they were the
expert golfers, but hola, it's San Antonio.
Accommodations: An upscale resort hotel is being built by the same people who
own Fiesta Texas which adjoins the course.
Distance: About 25 minutes from downtown. From San Antonio, take I-10
west. Exit onto La Cantera Pkwy and go left. The course is about a mile away on the right
side of the street.
Palmer Course at La Cantera
Rating - Hole-in-one
Ace
Green fees
17865 Babcock Road
San Antonio, TX 78255
Yardage: Blk 6926 Gold 6535 Copr 6115 Silv 5684 Jade 5066
Ratings: 74.2
72.4
70.6
69.3
65.3
Slope: 142
139
134
128
116
Par: 71
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
This course is simply one of the best in the
world. If at all possible, play the Palmer course at La Cantera. I
mean that some of the holes are so breath-taking that you have a hard time keeping a
proper pace of play... you simply want to stop and take in the view. Streams and
small waterfalls with ripples contribute to the feeling of space and tranquility.
The fairways are separated from view of each other for the most part, lending to the
beauty. OK, enough about the view. Bring your best game and lots of balls.
This is not a course that will be easily tamed, but why would you want that... it's
Texas and this is Hill County Golf at its best. A must play... even if you have to
save pennies to pay the green fee you need to play this course.
Distance:
About 25 Minutes from downtown. Take I-10 West and exit Camp
Bullis. Turn left at stop sign and drive through subdivision until you get to
Babcock. You will have several stop signs but keep going. The course is straight
ahead.
Landa Park Golf Course
Rating - Par
Green fees
340 Landa Park Drive
New Braunfels TX. 78130
6103-yard public course.
Par 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Nice, well kept layout. Lots of fun to play.
Don't park your car too close to the 18th green. It can be a blind shot over
hill and creek to a green next to the parking lot.
Distance: About 40 minutes from downtown San Antonio. Drive north on I-35 to
New Braunfels and follow the signs to Landa Park.
Note: Have the
family drop you off at the course. There are lots of things to do for the entire
family in this vacation community to keep them busy for four hours. Careful of the
deer roaming the course.
The Lynx Quail Run (was Las Palomas)
Under new management
Rating - Par
Green fees
La Vernia TX
Yardage: Black
Blue
White
Gold
7016
6307
5843
5278
RATING 72.5
69.3
67.1
70.2
SLOPE 122
115
108
117
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: A true British style Links course in the San Antonio area.
Mound, rolling terrain and DEEP coastal Bermuda rough all come into play. Trees and
water also shape your game. You really need to stay one the fairways and bring your
bump and run. They give you a play sheet before you start out, so pay attention and
follow the directions. It's worth the drive.
Distance: About 35 minutes from downtown. Take I-10
East to I-410 South and go South to Hwy 87. Go East to La Vernia, go left on FM 775 1
mile, turn right on FM 2772 and go to stop sign. Turn right on 539 and go two miles.
Maverick
Golf Course
Rating - birdie
Green Fees 
Located in Floresville, Texas
Yardage: Black 7030 White
6583, Silver 6264, Copper 5868
Rating: 72.8
Slope: 129
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
The course combines
some of the most unique play in the area with a course designed to provide
an exciting golfing experience for players of all levels. Beautiful oak
trees and meandering streams give the golf course its character, with
elevation changes, multi-tiered greens and challenging areas of forced
carry-including water features-and areas of forced lay-up in a links-style
course, especially on the front 9. The back 9 is a more traditional golf
course. .All of this combined with the Texas wind makes Maverick a
formidable challenge for even scratch golfers. It's one of the only only
true links courses in south Texas. The staff is super and the course is very
affordable. Maverick has a unique practice facility that features an aqua
range with an island green. A large putting green makes the Maverick a
super practice area.
New comment
from John H of the Iron Thong Golf
Group
http://ironthonggolf.com 13
January 2007.
Welcome to the
Maverick.
The Maverick opened December 16th, with a low course record (71) thus
far. I can say without a doubt it is one of the nicest golf clubs around
and you know it as you drive up to thru the course to the club house. This
course, although new, just looks expensive and beautiful. The clubhouse and
proshop is super nice, and the burgers are first class. After the round
enjoy a cold beer or two in their full service restaurant and bar.
Sink your mouth in one of their awesome burgers and enjoy sports of one of
their eight 50" plasma TV's. I really like this place it is just awesome for
a golf course clubhouse. They are building what looked like a conference
recreation room right next door too. WOW! This place is cool !!!!!!!!
The Driving range is awesome. You will not find another like it
anywhere in South Texas. One of the coolest aspects of this driving range
is a island green in the middle of a pond which looked to be to be 100 to
120 yards depending on the driving area. Super cool, just beautiful.
The Golf course will be one of the jewels in South Texas this year -
expect to hear a lot about it. Make no mistake this course can play tough
but offers a lot of opportunities to get birdies. The number one and number
two holes give you a good chance to get out of the gates quick, and you'll
need par or better here because the third and fourth will rock your boat.
This course can play really tough in the front with the open plains, links
style windy challenge if offers up. We had a 2 club wind when we played,
and I can see it even worse easily! Prepared to get frazzled on a windy
day.
The greens are MASSIVE. Many of the Greens are 50 yards deep - easily
a four club difference depending on flag locations. Oh, and if you like
playing out of the sand, you'll get a chance to do that too if you don't
position your shots.
All in all this course is and will be first class this year. I'm
already looking forward to playing it DRY! :) Gulp!
New comment
Dec 2007 from Dustin K: I have been playing golf at quite quite
a few courses around San Antonio and have found for the price that Maverick
Golf Club buy far is the best around. If you don't mind driving to
Floresville, it is well worth the trip. Just hope the wind is calm on the
day you tee it up.
Distance:
About 33 miles southeast of downtown San Antonio and worth the trip. Take
Rt 181 from the Southeast side of San Antonio. Located off the 181 business
loop (4th street here in the city), coming north or south off Highway 181.
The loop runs north and south, like Highway 181, and runs about 1/2 mile
west of it. The course and facilities are located in the Avalon
Subdivision.
Max Starke Park Golf Course
Rating - Par
Green fees
1400 S Guadalupe St
Seguin, TX 78155
Yardage: Back 6725 Regular 6424 Front 5733
Rating: 69.2
Slope: 112
Par: 71
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Undergoing major
construction Summer 04 - LF
18 hole Bermuda grass with mature trees. This is a good course to walk. Golfhappy
last played Starke on May 26, 2002 and has a great time. The course is lined with
nice big Oak Trees with a number of small ponds coming into play along fairways. The
greens were a little rough but are filling in nicely. Good sand in the traps
guarding the greens and fairways. A really good course for seniors (like myself) to
walk and to learn the game on. Starke has a good junior golf program. The
staff is super and the course is very affordable.
Distance: About 1 hour from downtown. Take I-10 east. When you get
to business 90 veer to the right. That is Court St. I stay on Court street
until I get to the Courthouse square and turn right. Drive straight ahead until you
see Starke Park and the course on the right. It's about a 10 minute drive after you
get to Seguin.
Mission Del Lago Municipal Golf Course
Rating - Birdie
Green fees
250 Mission Grande
San Antonio, TX 78221
Yardage: Gold 7004 Blue 6210 White 5750 Red 5301
Rating: 72.6 68.9 66.0 69.2
Slope: 127 116 112 113
Par: 72 72 72 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: 18-hole course with water in play. This latest addition to San
Antonio's excellent muni courses was built in 1989. The course has gently rolling hills
and, unlike many courses in San Antonio, can easily be walked. The greens are gently
undulating and moderately fast. Some water and dry creek beds come into play, along with
lots of bunkers.
Player comment Oct 02:
Mission del Lago: I thought this course was in very good
shape. It could have been because we had a stellar day, but the greens that day
putted perfectly. Kind of like the Bandit where you see a line and put it and you
are correct in your reads, unlike Olympia Hills which kills me. Robert P.
Player comment Oct 02: To make a long story short, had a
horrible experience with a marshall and our speed of play… while on 2 of 4
holes we were waiting behind others to play up… so horrible that we, yes, only played
4 holes… and the way we were
treated… no class at this place… of hundreds of golf courses I have played the
definitive worst service, and staff… Mike
M.
Distance:
About 25 minutes from downtown. From downtown the easiest way so you won't get lost is to
take I-37 south to Loop I-410 west. Go west and get off at the Roosevelt Ave exit and turn
left, drive 2 miles to the course, look for the clubhouse on the right side of the street.
If you know San Antonio, from downtown take Alamo to St Mary's straight south. St Mary's
turns into Roosevelt. Keep going straight, past S.E. Military, Past Loop 410, and go about
2 miles.
Olmos Basin Municipal Golf Course
Rating - Par
Green fees
7022 N McCullough Ave
San Antonio, TX 78216
Yardage: Blue 6896 White 6526 Red 5748
Rating: 70.0
Slope: 118
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: This 18 hole course is a
favorite with many locals. While the clubhouse is a little worn, the course is very well
kept and interesting to play. There is some water, lots of trees and the greens have nice
contours to them. Good drainage in front of greens, so you can play pitch and run on some
holes. This is a nice easy course to walk.
Distance: About 20 minutes from downtown. Take Hwy 281 north and
exit on Basse. Go left (west) to McCullough St, then turn right. You will see the course
and the entrance is on the right side of the street.
Olympia Hills Golf Course & Conference
Center
Rating - Par
Golf Package
Green fees:
12900 Mt. Olympus
Universal City TX 78148 (about 25 minutes from downtown San Antonio)
Yardage: Blue 6923, White 6553, Gold 6023, Green 5534
Rating: Blue 132, White 128, Gold 122, Green 128
Slope: Blue 73.4, White 71.4, Gold 68.8, Green 72.3
Par: 72
NOTE Update
Summer 2005:
Golfhappy is getting unfavoratble feedback from players who have recently
played this course. I am told that at least 6 of the greens are
almost unplayable. That's too bad because of the honors it received in
the past. Se comments below. I think that this course has
reverted to municipal management. I have lowered it's rating to a
simple Par until I get additional feedback from local golfers. LSF
This course has picked up additional honors in 2003.
According to the San Antonio Express-News Dec. 5, 2001, Olympia Hills was named to Golf
Digest magazine's list of 2001 America's Best New Courses. The magazine rated
Olympia Hills as the fourth-best new, affordable public course in America. Public courses
were rated on shot value, design variety, memorability,
aesthetics and playability. The course opened in February 2000.
PLAYERS COMMENTS: 7-04-04: According to my favorite source and a guy who
plays lots of golf... Robert S... the course is in real good shape. Golfhappy Note:
This course is very, very exciting and enhances San Antonio's reputation as a golf
destination. A unique combination of natural topography and man-made mounds and bunkers
make this a super course. Native South Texas vegetation and golf course grass seed
formulations on fairways and greens will provide state-of-the-game playing surfaces. The
views are spectacular, with several holes playing to greens well below the tees, while
other lead to a significant rise to reach the putting surface. Fairways, which on some
holes are tight, are often sloped and guarded by bunkers. The tips will not be played by
the faint hearted, but with four sets of tee boxes, the course can be enjoyed by all
levels of players. Owned by the City of Universal City. From Golfhappy's personal perspective, with all the different situations one can imagine
getting into here, I will want to return to play this one over-and-over. Although this is
a new course, this puppy has grown up and is ready to hunt!
New Comment Dec 03 from Robert P. My home
(neighborhood) course is 8 blocks from my house. The first 13 holes have some of the
best topography in San Antonio, only matched by La Cantera and the Palmer Courses. I
love this course when my drives are hitting the fairways and when they aren't I lose a lot
of balls but still love it. I played this course on the first day it opened and I
told the staff they should close the front 9 and just let people play back nine until the
front 9 grew into a little maturity. It got a bad rep at the beginning because of
the condition of greens and fairways on the front side. The number 2 and nine greens have
finally caught up with the course, though they are the hardest greens for me to read. In
the Spring my wife who hates golf, goes to this course with me to ride around and see
and smell the abundance of mountain laurel.
New Comment received Oct 4, 2000 from a reader:
I played this course this morning. This is a beautiful course with extradorinary fairways and greens. One of the nicest courses I have
played in San Antonio. I rate this course a 9 1/2.
New Comment received Nov 9, 2000 from a reader: The overseeding of greens and fairways was completed in a very
timely manner just prior to the rainy weather. The seed matured well and is presently
being cut to specification. The golf course is in immaculate condition.This course is
very, very exciting and enhances San Antonio's reputation as a golf destination.
New Comment from Golfhappy: My group played Olympia Hills the first week of November 2001 and this
course is a firm Eagle.
Distance: Driving time about 25 minutes from downtown. Go north on I-35 and take exit 173.
Turn right onto Olympia Pkwy almost as soon as you exit. Go left on Mt. Olympus to the
course.
Feature/Amenities include a Conference Center that seats 200, pro-shop, Junior Golf camp,
PGA staff, driving range and 10,000 sq. ft. short game area.
Pecan Valley Golf Club (public)
Rating - Eagle
Green fees
Golf Package
4700 Pecan Valley Dr.
San Antonio, TX 78223
Yardage: Blue 7071 White 6571 Red 5621
Rating: 71.0
Slope: 123
Par: 71
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
Under new management this course has blossomed back into the top notch
course it used to be. Golfhappy played there in June of 05 and it was
in super shape. They have either a free breakfast or lunch buffet when
you play.
Wow! What a golf course. Pecan Valley was rated in the top courses in San
Antonio in 2002 by the golf experts in the San Antonio Express-News special golf edition in April 2002. This is a must
play facility. It was already a super course with a rich tradition and was home to
the 1967, 69 and 70 Texas open. The course is rated among the top 50 public courses
by Golf Digest. New placement of greens and water up the level of play and the the
local players are raving about it. It's close to downtown and the Riverwalk and the
staff is top notch. The many mature pecan trees and natural terrain with a winding
creek make this a challenging course for any level of golfer. Pecan Valley also was chosen No.1 in the best hole category. "Pecan
Valley's No. 14 is one of the truly great par 4's in all of golf," said Brian
Gathright, director of instruction at The Academy at La Cantera. "It is a
demanding tee shot with a lake down the right side at the corner of the dogleg right.
(There are) trees on both sides. A well-placed drive down the right-center of the fairway
leaves a difficult uphill second shot to a moderately undulated green."
Pecan Valley scored again in the toughest hole rankings. The experts liked the
course's No. 2, a par-4, 453-yard nightmare. The hole is long, narrow and uphill. What
more is there to say? The staff is customer friendly
and of eagle quality. If you're in San Antonio you need to think real hard before
missing this one.
Distance: Driving time about 20 minutes from downtown. Take I-37 (Hwy 218)
south. Exit exit Southcross and go East on Southcross. After some distance you will come
to the course on your left. Entrance is marked.
The Golf Club of Texas
(public)
Rating - Eagle
Green Fee
13600 Briggs Ranch Road
San Antonio, TX 78245
Yardage: Back 7022 Middle 6467 Front
5727 Red 5626
Rating: 72.5
Slope: 135
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
The best testament one can give The Golf Club of Texas is that it hosts
some big local tournaments. The large greens and tee boxes are
some of the very best San Antonio has to offer. This is truly a high
end facility. If you have not been out to enjoy this course you really need
to. The place is all greened up and with the
unique landscaping it's just a real pretty experience with great golf.
The golf carts are outfitted with GPS which gives accurate distance to the
pin and shows the contours of the greens. This track combines Links Style
golf with Hill Country golf, giving players a taste of both types of golf.
The course is among the best that San Antonio has to
offer. The senior staff is very experienced and the service is all that you would
expect at a high-value public course. The new clubhouse is beautiful and features a
full service restaurant. After playing a round, you will really enjoy just sitting on the
porch and taking in the view.
Golfhappy's Note: Lot's of folks are under the mistaken idea that this golf course
is "too far out on 90 West." I want to correct that. If you look at driving
times at many of the courses on this page you will see distance... 25 minutes. Well, I
timed the drive from downtown to the Golf Club of Texas and it's a 20 minute drive. But
it's out in the country y'all. So you city slickers need to take a deep breath on the way
out... that's fresh air. It's ok, you'll get used to it and it's good for you. Come on,
it's only 20 minutes.
Directions: 20 Minutes from downtown. Take U.S. 90 west to Texas 211
(2 exits past loop 1604) and we on the right. From downtown take 90 west to Texas
211.
The Quarry Golf Club
Rating - Eagle
Golf Package
Green fee
444 East Basse Rd
San Antonio, TX 78209
Yardage: Pro 6740 Championship 6128 Regular 5576 Forward 4897
Rating: 72.4 69.2 66.7 67.4
Slope: 128 120 111 115
Par: 71 71 71 71
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Built in 1993, this magnificent course,
carved out of an old quarry, is rated in the top ten of "America's Top State Golf
Courses" by Golf Digest. It is in the
top 75 Upscale Courses and was rated in the top
three of public play courses in San Antonio by a panel of golf experts in the San Antonio
Express-News in April 2002.. The
views of San Antonio (especially at dusk) and the surroundings are so stunning that local
players keep going back just for the scenery. But don't lose yourself in sightseeing. You
need to concentrate on the golf. It is everything golf should be. The front nine plays
through open fields and alongside streams, giving it a decidedly links feel. There is
water which comes into the picture on a number of holes on the front.
After making the turn you
find out where it course gets its name. You play in a huge, abandoned rock quarry, with
steep walls that go up, up, up, almost 100 feet on three sides. One of the holes is called
"Escape from Alcatraz," and another is aptly named "Reload." It's not
for the faint of heart, as you will see when you tee off over a deep canyon to the fairway
on the other side. The Quarry's No. 17 (par 4, 386)
was picked as the most visually pleasing hole in San Antonio by the 2002. "It has a
breathtaking tee shot to what looks like a landing strip sandwiched between a chasm on one
side and a boulder-laden cliff on the other side," said Jim Barker, a PGA teaching
professional at The Quarry. The clubhouse has a new upscale restaurant which is fast becoming a place
to be seen by locals. The service and amenities are first class. This one must be played
while visiting San Antonio if possible. Note: The Quarry was tied with LaCantera as the best place to
hang around for a cool one after a round by the experts. Editors comment: We are not sure if these are the expert golfers,
but hey, it's San Antonio.
Distance: About 15 minutes from downtown.
Take Hwy 281 north and exit East Basse Road. The entrance to the clubhouse is on the
right.
Lodging: Lots of hotels and motels are in the area, including the famous
Riverwalk located only 15 minutes away. You may also want to investigate the Quarry's
sister course, Tapatio Springs Resort, located in the hill country just forty-five minutes
away.
For Tapatio Springs reservations, or more information, call (800) 347-7759.
The Hawk Golf Club
Rating - Birdie
Green fee -
10101 Rebecca Creek Road
Spring Branch, Texas 78070
Yardage: back 7,060, middle 6,500, front 4,200
Black
Blue Silver
Red Green
Slope: 131
126 120
113
103
Rating: 73.5 72
70.5
70.5 68.5
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
December 27, 2006 -- new update from a local golfer who I trust --
I was out here in
November and the fairways were in pretty good shape. I would rate them a 7
out of 10, it was in much better shape then it was in July when I was there.
There are 2 greens that have some kind of fungus eating away at parts of
them but as you know the greens are so big the chance of you landing behind
some of this grass (which only affects the edges of the 2 greens) is
minimal. I love this course can't beat the price, the crowd (or lack of) and
the peaceful surroundings. It’s a little far to drive but its worth it once
you get out there and relax. Just thought I would give you an update..
-- This remains as one of my favorite, most affordable,
courses...Golfhappy. This true hill country course is truly Texas friendly.
Excellent turf conditions from the lush fairways to the nice, tough greens make this is a
neat layout. My normal foursome and I keep coming back for more. The hills
give you very few level lies and you dare not get off the fairway. There is no
out-of-bounds or sand traps on this one. Just lots of rolling terrain,
100 year old
oaks, and cedar elms. You may ask how I can give this course a eagle rating without
sand. Because it's still a demanding course, the people are friendly, the price is
right and it's my page. The staff is very user-friendly and the service could not be
better. The Marshals (or Sheriffs as they are called here) keep the pace of play
moving politely. Golfhappy played the course early in 2004. We saw new cart
paths, improved tee boxes and redesigned greens. It's worth the drive. A
large, 90,000 gallon swimming pool, full service kitchen facilities with food and beverage
service, outing and party planning with catering, driving range, and putting area round
out this layout. The lovely panoramic views are free. (Note: The name
was changed from Rebecca Creek last year).
Distance:
45 minutes from downtown. Rebecca Creek is located
north of San Antonio. Take Highway 281 22 miles north of loop 1604. The course is
located 3 miles north of the blinking light in Spring Branch. Turn right at the HUGE blue
and white golf ball and go three miles. About the only
problem this course has is poor signage giving directions.
The Republic
Golf Package
Preliminary Rating - Birdie
Green fee -
Yardage: Gold 7007, Forest 6622, Blue 6147, Stone 5540, Red 5540.
Ratings: G 73.5, F 71.6, B 69.1, S 65.5, S-Women 71.9 R 66.9
Slope: G 131, F 125, B 118, S 109, S-Women 120, R 109
Par: 71
This18 hole public play course is a welcome addition to San Antonio's
Southeast side. The new facility is owned and operated by the same folks
that own and operate two other super golf courses; The Buckhorn in Comfort
and The Bandit in New Braunfels. The Republic is par-71 and measures 7,000
from the tips. But, not to worry, there are five sets of tee boxes to
accommodate all levels of player. The fairly wide fairways feature Bermuda
419 and Bermuda Tifdwarf on the very large greens are perfect for South
Texas. Sand traps come into play often making this a great course for risks
and rewards for every level of golfer. There is water to contend with on 14
holes because, like most courses in San Antonio, there is plenty of recycled
water. The course is located along Salado Creek on , the creek and other
water be a factor in the play. The Republic has received rave reviews from
all the players since it opened.
Players Comments:
5-1-06 - The Republic remains a favorite among
local golfers. I like all 3 of Foresight
Golf's courses here, Republic, Bandit and Buckhorn. This course plays
pretty good for me also with wide fairways and large and I do mean LARGE
greens. Sometimes a putter isn't enough club if your on the wrong end of a
green.
From Frank H:
Golfhappy played this course on
7-15-04. It's in great shape! From Robert P. Dec 03 -- Really good
course, especially since it's so new. I like all 3 of Foresight Golf's courses
here, Republic, Bandit and Buckhorn. This course plays
pretty good for me with wide fairways and large and I do mean LARGE greens.
Sometimes a putter isn't enough club if your on the wrong end of a green.
From Frank H: I played the
course on Aug 20, 2002 and it was simply super. The greens were outstanding and the
fairways nice and fluffy...you actually had grass to hit a decent iron shot. From Jeff L-H: Played the course on Aug
21. Really a super course, but it may have more sand than most. (Hope that you
did not find this out the hard way Jeff :-)I
played the course on Aug 20, 2002 and it was simply super. The greens were
outstanding and the fairways nice and fluffy...you actually had grass to hit
a decent iron shot. From Jeff L-H:
Played the course in Aug 03. Really a super course, but it may have more
sand than most. (Hope that you did not find this out the hard way Jeff :-)
Directions:
S.E. Military Drive
and bounded by South I-410 and W.W. White, the course is 12 minutes from
downtown San Antonio and two miles from Brooks City-Base. Take Hwy 281
(same road as I-37) south from downtown and look for the Brooks City-Base
sign. Get off at the second exit onto SE Military drive. The course is
about a mile north on your right.
Riverside Municipal Golf Course
Rating - Par
Green fees
203 McDonald
San Antonio, TX 78210
PLAYERS COMMENTS: The layout at Riverside
includes both an 18 hole regulation course and a nine hole par-3. The river comes into
play often, but both are easy walking courses, although there are not many level lies. No
carts allowed on the par-3. This is another layout within easy driving distance of
downtown. Do not forget that municipal courses tend to play slow because of the allowing
of five-somes. Yardage on 18 hole:
Yardage: Blue 6729 White 6211 Red 5730
Rating: 69.6
Slope: 123
Par: 72
Player comment Dec 03: Riverside: This was my first trip there to play the long
course as my daughter and I used to play the par 3. I enjoyed the course, though it
was probably in the worst condition of the six public courses I played. It wasn't
terrible or anything, but of these six it was last when you add in price, cart paths and
signage. Robert P.
Distance: About 20 minutes from downtown. Take St. Mary Street
south and keep going. St Mary's turns into Roosevelt Blvd. You will travel through some
older neighborhoods, but keep going. After you cross over an older bridge you will see the
course and entrance on the right side of the street.
San Pedro Driving Range Par 3
Green fee
6102 San Pedro Ave
San Antonio, TX 78216
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Par 3 course and driving range. Nice place to
practice your short game. Sand traps, putting and chipping greens. Walking only. No food
area.
Distance: Take Hwy 281 to Hildibrand exit and go left (west) to San Pedro.
Turn right. The layout is about 2 miles on the right side of street.
SilverHorn Golf Club of Texas
Rating - Eagle
Golf Package
Green fees
1100 W. Bitters Rd
San Antonio, TX 78216
Yardage: Gold 6922 Black 6333 Silver 5831 Green 5271
Rating: 73.1 70.6 68.2 66.4
Slope: 129 125 116 109
Par 72: 72 72 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Another gem in San Antonio's showcase of excellent courses.
Golfhappy played Silverhorn in July 2006 and it was super. This
18 hole Tifdwarf grass course has all the challenges
which the area is known for; creeks, rocks, and trees. The narrow fairways lead to greens
which are fast and undulating. Many of the real good local players head for this one. The amenities that
complement this course are of high quality and the staff is user friendly.
Distance: About 20 minutes from downtown. Take Hwy 281 north and exit
Bitters. Go left to Partridge Trail. Turn left and drive to the course.
Tapatio Springs Golf Course and Resort
Twenty-Seven Holes of
Golf at Tapatio Springs
Rating - Eagle
Golf Package
Johns Road West
Boerne, TX 78006
Green fees
Lakes Course 9-holes
Yardage: Gold 3128 Blue 2882 White 2679 Red 2410
Rating: 71.4 69.2 67.3 70.4
Slope: 133 128 125 127
Par: 35
Valley Course 9-holes
Yardage: Gold 3376 Blue 3232 White 3023 Red 2775
Rating: 71.7 70.2 68.5 70.2
Slope: 133 131 127 126
Par: 37
Ridge Course 9-holes
Yardage: Gold 3124 Blue 2989 White 2795 Red 2347
Rating: 70.5 68.4 66.6 67.9
Slope: 130 125 122 118
Par: 35
Lakes/Valley
Ridge/Lakes
Valley/Ridge
You can now enjoy 3
different combinations of 27 Championship holes, “The Lakes”,
“The Valley”, and “The Ridge”. Golfers of all skill levels
will enjoy the original 18 holes but players
who are looking for a special challenge will think “The Ridge” course was
made just for them.
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Golfhappy played
the Lakes and the Ridge courses on 11-25-01 and it was simply super golf. The Ridge
is a real challenge and shots must be placed almost exactly where you need them. You
might lose a couple of ball on this one but the views and golf are well worth it.
This is a new golf experience and I would not have missed it for the world. And I
shot my handicap... which is not for publication :-). Larry
Lodging : There are about 115
king size rooms and condominiums available at the resort. Built in wooded hills, wildlife
is abundant and is often seen at Tapatio Springs, especially along the fine jogging and
hiking trails. Recently named one of the top ten golf resorts in Texas by the Dallas
Morning News. The facility has all the amenities one might expect; tennis, saunas,
exercise room, game room and dining. Water attractions include an Olympic-sized swimming
pool, saunas, a Jacuzzi and fishing.
Facilities are available for
meetings and this is a first class location for a corporate off-site.
Note: This is a sister resort
and course to the Quarry in San Antonio, staffed with the same high level of attention
which drives customer satisfaction at both locations. Golf
packages are available.
Real Estate: condos and homes are available.
Distance: About 45 minutes from downtown. Take I-10
west and exit on John road. Go left at stop and drive about 4 miles.
Willow Springs Municipal Golf Course
Check out the new Cafe
at Willow ! From San Antonio Express-News 6 Sept 03
Rating - Par
Green fee
202 SBC Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78219
Yardage: Blue 7085 White 6407 Red 5792
Rating: 72.3
Slope: 121
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS:
Summer 2006 -- I am hearing that
Willow Springs is in real good shape for a muni
course. Now if the City of San Antonio would get on the ball and upgrade the
landscaping like other golf destination communities this course would be a real gem.
It's fun to play. Larry F.
From Robert P. Dec 03 --
Willow
Springs: This is one of my favorite to walk and play. I have played this
course twice in the last month and will be there again on Saturday for the Elf Louis
Scramble. My golf game is about like yours, happy in the 90's and ecstatic below
90. This course plays well into my game. Sometimes the greens get messed up with the
squirrels hiding nuts for the winter, but I like this course. I do wish the cart
paths and signage were better but it's a bargain if you walk.
Greg on 7/20/03 -- I played this course with my son last
week. I love the course. Ken in the clubhouse is also a great reason to play there, he is
very helpful and is tolerant with beginning players. Course was played by golfhappy@sanantoniogolf.com
on July 3rd. It's in great shape and is a fun course to walk... not too hilly for a
senior player. Large greens are reached by playing long, open fairways, many of which are
doglegs. Lots of water with ponds and a river in play. This is an older, but very
challenging course for all levels of player.
Distance:
About 20 minutes from downtown. Take I-35 north and exit on SCB Parkway. Turn right
and drive about 2 miles to the course on the left side of the road.
Woodlake Country Club
Rating - Eagle
Green fees
6500 Woodlake Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78244
Yardage: Championship 6691 Regular 6228 Ladies 5305
Rating: 69.4
Slope: 126
Par: 72
PLAYERS COMMENTS: Golfhappy and the "Wild Bunch" he plays with every
Sunday morning (who would kill for a quarter skin) play Woodlake a lot. Local
golfers will be happy to learn that Woodlake is now in the hands of John Clay with Joe
Valdivia joining him..
(7/04) fairways and greens very good. The first cut is a little long and you
can lose your ball fairly easy if you stray off of the fairway RS.
5/1/06 -- Golfhappy is hearing rave reviews. The course is in top-notch condition and has to be rated as one of the top courses
in San Antonio. The greens are fast and the fairways are in great shape. Plenty of water
add to add to the challenge this course provides.
Narrow fairways with some streams and ponds in play lead to small, fast, undulating greens
protected by sand bunkers. The greens are very fast and you will need your lob wedge to
hold them on approach pitch shots. The opening hole is the number three handicap, so be
sure to warm up before you start. There are plenty of rolling hills and wind is usually a
factor. The front is more open than the back, which has lots of trees protecting the
narrow fairways. It's a fun, pretty course and the staff is courteous and professional.
Distance: About 30 minutes from downtown. Take I-35 north and exit Binz-Engleman.
Turn right to FM 78. Turn left onto FM 78 and go 3 miles to Woodlake Pkwy. Turn right. The
course entrance is a short drive on the left.
Editor's
Note
If you disagree with our ratings or have current information we can use, please email us
golfhappy@sanantoniogolf.com
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