The Ultimate Guide to Northwest Arkansas Golf Courses

Northwest Arkansas is a hidden treasure for golf lovers, featuring beautiful landscapes and diverse courses. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this region has something for everyone. In this guide, I will detail some notable courses, highlighting their unique features so that you can have the best golf experience. Grab your clubs and let’s hit the greens!

1. The Blessings Golf Club

Home to the University of Arkansas's Men's and Women's golf teams, the venue has served as the host site for the 2012 SEC Women’s Championship, 2013 NCAA Men’s Fayetteville Regional and 2019 NCAA Men’s and Women’s Championship.

It will also host the 2025 NCAA Men’s Fayetteville Regional.

The impeccably maintained course stretches to over 7,900 yards from the back tees and plays through two distinct landforms; the Clear Creek floodplain and a plateau that rises to 65 feet above the floodplain where it’s bisected by a series of ravines.

Both the outward and inward nines climb up and down between the two topographies, creating drama and variety on each hole. The course was originally designed by architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. with a redesign recently completed by noted architect Kyle Phillips.

2. Shadow Valley Country Club

Feeling fancy? For those seeking a traditional country club vibe, Shadow Valley in Rogers can’t be beaten.

This course is a tale of two nines. The front nine is super tight weaving through the neighborhood of Shadow Valley, with the back-nine a bit more open and straight in front of you. This private course harmonizes with its natural surroundings, featuring a layout that challenges players while providing spectacular views and a beautiful neighborhood. It has a par of 72, with a total length of approximately 6,900 yards. Members enjoy premium facilities, including exceptional dining options and a full practice range.

3. Big Sugar Golf Club

Big Sugar is an 18-hole public course that stretches over 7,200 yards from the back tees. Don’t let the name fool you though — there’s nothing sweet about the challenge this course brings. It’s got rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and enough twists and turns to keep things interesting from start to finish.

The course was designed by Jerry Slack and opened in 2002. The views on some of the holes allow you to see so much of the scenery around you. You’ll be navigating through wooded areas, hitting over valleys, and facing some serious elevation changes. One of the standout holes is a 212-yard uphill par-3 that’ll test even the most confident golfers.

The greens are 007 Bentgrass (yep, like James Bond — smooth and slick), and the fairways are Zoysia, which makes for a pretty premium playing surface. It’s clear the course is well taken care of, and the views aren’t bad either.

4. The Creeks Golf Club

Located near downtown Cave Springs, The Creeks golf course is nestled along the Spring and the Osage creeks and these waterways create one of the most scenic and challenging golf venues in northwest Arkansas.

I've yet to play this course, but it's on my list.

5. Pinnacle Country Club

Situated in Rogers, Pinnacle Country Club is an upscale course which opened in 1990. Originally designed by Don Sechrest and tour pro Bruce Lietzke, it was redesigned by Randy Heckenkemper in 2008. This course has a par of 72 and spans around 7,100 yards. Members enjoy premium amenities, including a high-quality restaurant and expansive practice facilities, making it a destination for serious golf enthusiasts.

The Club features a full-service Golf Shop with three PGA Professionals, brand name merchandise and programming for the entire family. The course is also home to the LPGA Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G. 

6. Lost Springs Golf & Athletic Club

Located in east Rogers, Lost Springs Golf & Athletic Club was established in June of 1992. Originally a family farm, this piece of land would be Lyndy Lindsey’s first attempt at golf course design. Lost springs has been the site of numerous mini-tour events and is famous for its firm fast greens and tree lined fairways. The original vision of the designer is enjoyed by all who take to the fairways at this Northwest Arkansas gem. The course is championship quality from start to finish.

7. Bella Vista Golf (7 courses)

If you're a golf enthusiast exploring Northwest Arkansas, Bella Vista is a destination you shouldn't miss. The charming community boasts several top-notch golf courses, each offering its own unique experience, with surrounding hills and lakes, it's one of the most scenic areas of the Ozarks to play. Here's a rundown of the must-play courses in Bella Vista:​

1. Bella Vista Country Club Course

   As the oldest course in Bella Vista, the Country Club Course offers a classic design with mature trees lining the fairways. It's a semi-private 18-hole course that provides a challenging yet enjoyable round for golfers of all levels.

   
   

2. Highlands Golf Course

   It might be known as the longest and most challenging course in Bella Vista, the Highlands Golf Course is carved out of the region's rolling terrain. Golfers can expect a test of shot control with surprises around the doglegs. With five sets of tees, it accommodates players of all skill levels.

3. Scotsdale Golf Course

   If you're looking for a taste of Scottish links-style play, Scotsdale is the place to be. This 18-hole course features new Champion Bermuda greens and strategically placed bunkers, requiring calculated shots. After your game, the Scotsdale Clubhouse and Pub offer a selection of beers, ales, and the famed 'Bella Vista Brat' to wrap up your day.

   
   

4. Dogwood Hills Golf Course

   Traversing through Bella Vista's wooded areas and rural landscapes, Dogwood Hills is a links-style course with gentle terrain. It's designed for all skill levels and offers a relaxed atmosphere. The golf shop provides all the basics, and the snack bar is perfect for a post-round beer and brat.

5. Kingswood Golf Course

   Kingswood offers a pleasant mix of challenging holes and scenic beauty. This 18-hole course is known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

6. Berksdale Golf Course

   For those looking for a shorter game, Berksdale provides a 9-hole course with a par of 36. It's perfect for a quick round while still offering the quality and challenge Bella Vista courses are known for.

7. Brittany Golf Course

   Another 9-hole option, Brittany is an executive course with a par of 31. It's ideal for beginners or those wanting to sharpen their short game in a picturesque setting, as well as those who are just wanting a quick round of golf.

   
   

   Bonus: The Tanyard Creek Driving Range is now open and has been updated with a lot of cool features.

Time to turn in your cart

Northwest Arkansas is a hidden golf paradise. While most people are focused on cycling and mountain biking around NWA, there are a ton of courses to hit up. There are countless options waiting to be discovered.

I know I'm missing a few golf courses, and this is meant as a soft introduction, but I'm excited to post more courses, and highlight all of the one's I mentioned above!

So, gather your clubs, explore the hidden gems of Northwest Arkansas’s golfing scene, and enjoy every moment on the greens! Happy golfing!