Texas is a state that has something for every golfer. With wide-open spaces, a warm climate, and a mix of landscapes, Texas has become one of the best destinations for golf in the United States. From the rolling hills of Austin to the bustling city courses in Dallas and the scenic stretches near the Gulf, you can find golf courses that suit every style of play.
Golfers love Texas not only for its variety but also for its culture. The state is home to some of the most exclusive private clubs, popular public courses, and resort destinations where you can enjoy golf along with a relaxing vacation. If you are trying to plan your next golf trip or just want to explore new places to play, knowing about the best golf courses in Texas will help you make the right choice.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the standout courses in Texas. The review is based on research, rankings, and reputation. We will also talk about public versus private access, the best options for beginners and advanced players, and a few resort courses that give a complete stay-and-play experience. At the end, I will share my personal recommendations so you know exactly where to start.
What Makes a Golf Course Stand Out in Texas?
Texas has hundreds of golf courses, but only some make it to the top. What makes them different is the design, the setting, and the overall experience they offer.
The first thing golfers look for is course design. A good design keeps the game interesting and forces you to think about strategy. Many of the top golf courses in Texas are designed by well-known architects such as Tom Fazio, Ben Crenshaw, and Tiger Woods. These courses balance challenge with playability, so both professionals and average golfers can enjoy them.
Scenery also plays a big role. Texas is known for its variety of landscapes. Some courses take you through the green hills of Central Texas, while others showcase desert-style layouts or coastal views. The natural setting can make a round of golf feel like more than just a game.
Facilities are another important part of the experience. The best courses usually have excellent practice areas, professional teaching staff, and well-equipped clubhouses. For many golfers, these features are just as important as the fairways and greens.
Finally, reputation and history matter. Texas is home to several PGA Tour events, and the courses that host them often become must-play destinations. Courses that consistently rank high in national and state lists are also a good indicator of quality.
Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Texas
There are many golf courses in Texas keep golfers captivated in playing there again and again. Here are 10 best golf courses in Texas. Each one offers something unique, and together they represent the wide variety that Texas golf has to offer.
1. Whispering Pines Golf Club – Trinity, TX
Often ranked the number one course in the state, Whispering Pines is a private course known for its exclusivity and beauty. Built along Lake Livingston, it combines stunning views with a challenging layout. It is also the home of the Spirit International Amateur Golf Championship. Golfers consider it one of the crown jewels of Texas golf.
2. Dallas National Golf Club – Dallas, TX
Dallas National Golf Club is another top choice and is often seen as one of the best urban golf experiences in the country. Located in Dallas, it features rolling fairways and elevation changes that give it a unique character. The course also offers views of the city, which adds to the appeal. Like Whispering Pines, it is private, so access is limited to members and guests.
3. Bluejack National – Montgomery, TX
Bluejack National in Montgomery has a very special place in Texas golf. It is the first course in the United States designed by Tiger Woods, and it has quickly earned a reputation for being fun and player-friendly. The course was built to balance challenge with enjoyment, which makes it suitable for golfers of different skill levels. Its resort-style atmosphere also makes it popular with families and traveling golfers.
4. Colonial Country Club – Fort Worth, TX
Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth is one of the most historic golf clubs in the state. Known simply as “Colonial,” it has hosted the PGA Tour’s Charles Schwab Challenge for decades. The course is traditional in style and offers a real test of accuracy and patience. Playing here feels like being part of golf history, which is why it is highly respected by professionals and fans alike.
5. Trinity Forest Golf Club – Dallas, TX
For golfers who enjoy a different type of challenge, Trinity Forest Golf Club in Dallas stands out. Unlike many tree-lined Texas courses, Trinity Forest is built in a links-style layout. Wide fairways, firm ground, and native grasses make it feel more like a Scottish course than a Texan one. It has also hosted PGA Tour events, proving its quality and toughness.
6. Austin Country Club – Austin, TX
Austin Country Club adds another layer of variety. Situated along Lake Austin, the course combines a challenging layout with stunning views of the Pennybacker Bridge. It is also famous for hosting the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play, which makes it one of the most recognized courses in the state.
7. TPC San Antonio – San Antonio, TX
TPC San Antonio, part of the PGA Tour’s TPC network, offers two championship courses. Both have hosted professional events, and the facility is known for its high-quality conditions. Many golfers visit TPC San Antonio to experience what it feels like to play on the same greens as tour professionals.
8. Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – Austin, TX
Omni Barton Creek is more than just a course. It is a resort destination that offers multiple championship layouts designed by golf legends like Tom Fazio and Ben Crenshaw. It’s perfect for golfers who want a full “stay and play” experience.
9. The Rawls Course at Texas Tech – Lubbock, TX
The Rawls Course at Texas Tech in Lubbock is often mentioned as one of the best university courses in the country. Designed by Tom Doak, it features wide fairways, creative bunkering, and wind conditions that keep the game interesting. What makes it especially appealing is that it is open to the public, so anyone can enjoy a high-quality round without being a member.
10. BlackHorse Golf Club – Cypress, TX
BlackHorse Golf Club in Cypress is another public option that deserves recognition. With two 18-hole courses and excellent practice facilities, it has become a favorite among local golfers. The affordability and quality make it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a top golf experience without the exclusivity of private clubs.
Public vs. Private Golf Courses in Texas
Not all courses in Texas are open to the public. Many of the best golf courses in Texas are private clubs, including Whispering Pines and Dallas National. These often require membership or an invitation.
Public courses like BlackHorse and The Rawls Course give everyday golfers the chance to play quality layouts without membership costs. Semi-private and resort courses like TPC San Antonio and Omni Barton Creek allow access through packages, making them great for traveling golfers.
If you are visiting Texas, focusing on resort and public courses is the most practical option.
Best Texas Golf Courses for Beginners vs. Professionals
- Beginner-friendly courses: The Rawls Course at Texas Tech and BlackHorse Golf Club. Both provide forgiving layouts, affordable rates, and teaching facilities that help new players improve.
- Challenging courses for professionals: Whispering Pines, Dallas National, and Colonial Country Club are among the toughest and most prestigious. They demand precision and strategy.
- Balanced play: Bluejack National and TPC San Antonio are great for intermediate golfers who want challenge but also playability.
This mix makes Texas an ideal state for golfers of every skill level.
Best Golf Resorts in Texas (Stay & Play)
Resorts are a big attraction for traveling golfers because they combine great golf with accommodation and leisure. Texas has some excellent options:
- Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – With multiple championship courses and luxury amenities, it’s perfect for a weekend golf getaway.
- TPC San Antonio – A true PGA-level experience where golfers can test themselves on the same greens as tour professionals.
- Horseshoe Bay Resort – Located in the Hill Country, it features several courses, lakeside views, and a full resort experience.
These resorts are not only about golf but also about relaxation, making them ideal for vacations.
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My Personal Recommendation
From a teaching and research perspective, I recommend golfers choose courses based on their skill level. Beginners should start with The Rawls Course at Texas Tech or BlackHorse Golf Club. Both are accessible, affordable, and designed to help players build confidence.
Intermediate golfers will enjoy Bluejack National and TPC San Antonio. These courses provide a balance between challenge and fun, which is ideal for improving skills.
For professional or highly skilled players, Whispering Pines and Dallas National stand out as the most challenging and rewarding experiences. They are not easy to access, but they are considered the very best.
If I had to recommend one destination for a golf trip, I would choose Omni Barton Creek Resort. With multiple courses and a luxury resort setting, it offers the complete package for golfers who want both quality and variety.
Popular FAQs
Some of the best golf courses in Texas include Whispering Pines Golf Club in Trinity, Dallas National Golf Club in Dallas, Bluejack National in Montgomery, Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, and Omni Barton Creek Resort in Austin. These courses are highly rated for their design, facilities, and overall experience.
Many top Texas courses are private, but there are excellent public options such as The Rawls Course at Texas Tech in Lubbock, BlackHorse Golf Club in Cypress, and resort courses like TPC San Antonio and Omni Barton Creek. These allow non-members to enjoy high-quality golf without private access.
The best resort courses include Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, TPC San Antonio, and Horseshoe Bay Resort in the Hill Country. They offer championship golf combined with luxury stays, dining, and spa experiences.
The Rawls Course and BlackHorse Golf Club are two of the most beginner-friendly courses. They have wide fairways, practice facilities, and layouts that are welcoming to new players.
Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth hosts the PGA Tour’s Charles Schwab Challenge. Austin Country Club hosts the WGC-Dell Match Play. TPC San Antonio regularly hosts PGA Tour events, making them popular destinations for golfers who want to play where the pros play.
Costs vary depending on whether the course is private or public. Private clubs like Whispering Pines and Dallas National require membership, which can be very expensive. Public courses like BlackHorse usually range between $50 and $120 per round. Resort packages at places like Barton Creek or TPC San Antonio often start around $200 and can go higher depending on the season.
The Hill Country around Austin has some of the most scenic courses, including Barton Creek and Austin Country Club. Whispering Pines also offers stunning lake views, while Horseshoe Bay Resort combines lakeside scenery with rolling hills.
For high handicappers or casual golfers, BlackHorse Golf Club and Bluejack National are good options. They are designed to be fun and forgiving while still offering quality play.
Most resort and public courses in Texas have teaching pros and learning facilities. Omni Barton Creek, TPC San Antonio, and BlackHorse Golf Club all have strong programs for players who want to improve their skills.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to play golf in Texas. The weather is mild, the courses are in excellent condition, and you can avoid the extreme summer heat.
Conclusion
Texas has earned its place as one of the top golf destinations in the country. The variety of landscapes, the quality of design, and the mix of private and public options make it unique. Whether you are a beginner learning the game, an intermediate player looking for a challenge, or a professional testing your skills, Texas has a course for you.
The best golf courses in Texas are not only about the sport. They also provide memorable experiences, from scenic views to historic tournaments. If you are planning your next golf outing, make sure Texas is on your list.
