The likes of Jason Day and Angela Stanford call the city of Fort Worth “home” and it’s also the birthplace of celebrated golfing legend Ben Hogan.
The Dallas-Fort Worth area boasts some of the best golf courses in Texas and the Charles Schwab Challenge (formerly the Colonial) is held here in Fort Worth.
Scores of courses in the DFW area offer 18 holes — from budget municipal courses that anyone can play to more exclusive private clubs that require membership.
With a near-perfect golfing climate and some stunning natural scenery, these courses attract locals and visitors alike.
Here’s our rundown of the best golf courses in Fort Worth (both public and private) to help you choose a location for your next 18 holes:
Best budget golf courses in Fort Worth
These Fort Worth golf courses offer a round of 18 holes for less than $50 with no membership required…
- Address: 8951 Creek Run Road, Fort Worth, TX 76120. Tel: 817-861-4653
- Green fees: $30-$76 (Annual passes available from $900-$2,500)
- Tee times: Book online
Waterchase Golf Course is located just off the Tom Landry Freeway in the east of Fort Worth and is considered one of the best courses in the area — but remains affordable.
The public is free to play this course and, most times, you can find a tee time for under $50. All skill levels are accommodated and annual or monthly memberships with discounted per-play rates are also available.
The course itself spans 7,150 yards and is beautifully landscaped amid eye-catching scenery. It features tree-lined doglegs, split fairways and even a cascading waterfall.
Waterchase gets quite busy as it frequently hosts tournaments, charity events, outings, corporate groups, etc. Amenities include an onsite bar with food available but the main focus here is golf. There is a practice area with a chipping green, putting green and driving range available.
- Address: 1851 Jacksboro Hwy, Fort Worth, TX 76114. Tel: (817) 392-6560
- Green fees: $17-$36
- Tee times: Book online
Rockwood Park, just to the northwest of downtown Fort Worth, is one of three main municipal golf courses in Fort Worth.
For those looking for city golf at very affordable rates, it’s one of the best golf courses in Fort Worth, with wonderful views of the city as you tackle the well-maintained greens and fairways.
It’s also one of the most historic courses in the area, first opened for play in 1938. With a multi-million-dollar renovation between 2015 and 2017, the course was upgraded with new greens, tees, fairways, bunker system, drainage and cart paths. It was also lengthened up to 7,053 yards and attracts plenty of players.
- Address: 160 Club House Drive, Weatherford, TX 76087. Tel: 817-596-4653
- Green fees: $23-$57
- Tee times: Book online
Canyon West Golf Course is a little out of Fort Worth — about an hour to the west off the I-20 — but if you’re looking to escape the city and play 18 holes at rates that remain affordable, this course ticks all the boxes.
With its dynamic pricing model offering rates that vary according to demand, you can normally play a round here for well under $50 if you avoid peak times.
Canyon West is a scenic course that gets golfers out into the Texan countryside. As well as the native prairie grasses and wildflowers bordering the course, there’s a waterfall, streams and fountains, many of which weren’t planned but were built into the course when massive limestone slabs were discovered just below the surface during the construction phase.
Canyon West also features a pool, pavilion and sports courts as well as golf and even caters for large events like weddings and graduations. Memorabilia like wagons and old Western tools (as well as cacti) provide plenty of photo opportunities.
- Address: 1815 Jenson Road, Fort Worth, TX 76112. Tel: (817) 392-6191
- Green fees: $12-$26
- Tee times: Book online (Note: course is closed for renovations from Nov 2023)
Meadowbrook is another of the municipal 18-hole golf courses in Fort Worth. The course is located in the east-central metropolitan area of the city but, despite being a city course, offers wonderful views and is picturesque.
Much of the course’s beauty is owed to the rolling terrain and towering mature trees lining its fairways — which also add extra challenges for golfers.
Spanning a total of 6,363 yards from the back tees, Meadowbrook is suitable for all skill levels and, as you would expect from a municipal course, is priced at just about the lowest you can get for 18 holes in Texas.
As well as a round of golf, you can enjoy the driving range, putting green, pro shop and bar & grill. However, please note that Meadowbrook Golf Course will close for renovations beginning November 1, 2023.
- Address: 6400 Pecan Valley Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76132. Tel: (817) 392-6490
- Green fees: $14-$33 (River) or $11-$25 (Hills)
- Tee times: Book online
Pecan Valley Golf Course, opened in 1963, is the third of the municipal courses featured in our rundown of the best golf courses in Fort Worth.
Located in the southwest of the city, the course makes the list not only for its free availability and scenic beauty but also for its unbeatable green fees.
There are actually two 18-hole courses at Pecan Valley: the River course and the Hills course, which are separated by the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. Both courses offer unique scenic landscapes for golfers of all skill levels, including plenty of maturing trees that will enhance play in future years.
The River course spans up to 6,600 yards from the championship tees while the Hills course is around 150 yards shorter.
Pecan Valley also offers practice areas, including a driving range, putting green areas and practice sand bunkers. Snacks and meals are also available here.
Best mid-price golf courses in Fort Worth
The following Fort Worth golf courses offer 18 holes at rates between $50 and $100. They may still be affordable for most readers but generally offer a step up from the budget courses in terms of exclusivity, setting, facilities and/or overall course quality.
- Address: 7005 Golf Club Dr, Arlington, TX 76001. Tel: 817-478-8500
- Green fees: $37-$84
- Tee times: Book by phone, in person or online
Tierra Verde Golf Club is located in the City of Arlington, just to the southeast of Fort Worth. Opened in 1998, it has recently undergone green restoration, with new bunkers, brush clearing, sodding and other course improvements, only re-opening in late 2022.
Tierra Verde is classed as a municipal course but is also a championship golf facility. You may still be able to book a round for under $50 but, more typically, green fees are in the $60-$85 bracket unless you book a late twilight round.
With an active wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement policy, the course also promotes water quality management and conservation, energy efficiency and waste reduction.
Besides the 18-hole course, Tierra Verde features an outdoor pavilion and full-service restaurant, a pro shop, a lit driving range and a state-of-the-art golf learning center.
- Address: 5700 Resort Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76179. Tel: 817-750-2178
- Green fees: $32-$60. Memberships start at $275 per month.
- Tee times: Book online
The Golf Club at The Resort is a “semi-private” club where memberships are offered but the public can still walk in and play. It should be noted, however, that the long-term goal is to transition to a fully private club.
Located just to the northwest of the City on the eastern shore of Eagle Mountain Lake, this championship course measures 6,626 yards and offers spectacular views with rolling hills, live oaks and wildlife aplenty. The main challenges include plenty of water, rock walls, bunkers and raised greens.
With a major overhaul in 2006, the course is suitable for golfers of all skill levels and, if you want to improve your game with professional assistance, pro instruction is available.
The clubhouse features a restaurant and workout facility and the pro shop and onsite practice facilities won’t disappoint.
- Address: 251 Sugar Tree Drive, Lipan, TX 76462. Tel: 817-341-1111
- Green fees: $35-$66
- Tee times: Book online
Sugar Tree Golf Club, built in 1988, is located about 30 minutes west of Fort Worth, a few miles off I-20.
In keeping with its location by the Brazos River, water is a major feature of Sugar Tree, with 13 of the 18 holes providing a watery challenge for golfers. Tree-lined fairways, elevation changes and receptive greens also feature in the scenic layout of this course, which spans up to 6,810 yards.
Green fees remain very reasonable despite the exclusive feel of this course and if you are prepared for a twilight round, you can play for budget prices.
As well as the golf course, you’ll find a full-service onsite restaurant, a pro shop and more. There is even a “stay and play” option, where accommodation for 4-12 guests is provided at Sugartree Lodge. The 4,300-square-foot lodge is also bookable without playing golf.
- Address: 2100 Clubhouse Drive, Granbury, Texas 76048. Tel: 817-578-8600
- Green fees: $40-$70
- Tee times: Book online
Harbor Lakes is a country club located on the northern shore of Lake Granbury, with an expansive and challenging 7,200-yard, 18-hole, championship golf course.
A little outside of Fort Worth, to the southwest of the city, the course offers the best of the Texas countryside and is available to the public (with an open guest policy) as well as members (semi-private).
Established in 2003, Harbor Lakes keeps its rates affordable for most keen golfers willing to travel outside the city a little.
As well as 18 holes, Harbor Lakes offers an exclusive dining experience and has the facilities to host major events. It also features a pro shop, driving range and other practice facilities.
- Address: 3401 Clubgate Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76137. Tel: (817) 847-1900
- Green fees: $40-$90. Memberships (with discounted 18-hole rates and other perks) at $80-$90/month
- Tee times: Book online
The Golf Club at Fossil Creek, located just to the north of downtown, is another of the best golf courses in Fort Worth.
The championship course, designed by Arnold Palmer, provides a premium city golfing experience with challenging holes, manicured fairways and stunning views including plenty of water from its location by Fossil Creek.
If you’re flexible with tee times, you can still book a round for under $50 but, more typically, the green fees come in at $60-$90.
The club is semi-private with memberships providing many perks, including discounted green fees, unlimited driving range balls and advance tee-time booking.
Besides the 18 holes, there’s a pro shop, a luxurious clubhouse with fine dining, a driving range and other practice facilities.
- Address: 2151 Old Annetta Road, Aledo, TX 76008. Tel: 817-441-GOLF (4653)
- Green fees: $45-$59. Memberships available for $175-$250/month plus tax (initiation fee of $1,500).
- Tee times: Book online
Located a few miles off the I-20 at Aledo, to the west of Fort Worth, the Split Rail Links & Golf Club lies in the picturesque Annetta Valley with a cross timber landscape and flowing streams.
The club offers a Scottish-inspired course with 7,353 yards of beautiful fairways, challenging bunkers and mounds of tall fescue. The influence of Scotland (the home of golf) even extends to the onsite restaurant called The Bagpiper Grill.
This semi-private club was opened in 2002 and offers memberships (limited to 300 full golf members) for the keenest golfers but also has an open guest policy that allows golfers of all levels to play for affordable rates.
Unlimited use of the golf course for members and immediate family is included in full memberships and reduced fees are available for guests of members throughout the year.
The clubhouse at Split Rail can be hired for parties, banquets and weddings.
Best luxury golf courses in Fort Worth
A round of golf at the following Fort Worth golf courses will require an annual membership. In return, you can expect a premium golfing experience…
- Address: 6000 Clubhouse Drive, Cleburne, TX 76033. Tel: 817-556-0287
- Green fees: Membership only: $150 per month for resident members; $25-$85 per round for guests and family members.
- Tee times: Reservations required (seven days in advance for resident members and five days for non-resident members). Closed on Mondays.
The Retreat Country Club is located about 30 minutes southwest of Fort Worth in a beautiful scenic area that offers an escape from the bustle of city life.
The star attraction of this private club is its 18-hole championship course, which draws both resident members and non-resident members.
The pro shop and clubhouse are well-stocked and professionals are on hand for private tuition to improve your swing. A putting green and practice facility can also help improve your game.
The Retreat offers much more besides golf if you’re looking to get away for a weekend break. There is first-class accommodation, a fitness center, fine dining, parks and playgrounds, sports courts, swimming and more.
- Address: 3735 Country Club Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76109. Tel: (817) 927-4200
- Green fees: Membership only (initiation fee of $80,000 and $470 per month)
- Tee times: Unknown
Colonial Country Club has an exclusive country club feel but is located just to the southwest of downtown Fort Worth near Texas Christian University.
This historic club, founded in 1936, hosted the 1941 US Open and is best known in the modern day for hosting the Charles Schwab Challenge, which it has held since 1946.
There are bent-grass greens and three “horseshoe” holes to look forward to along with plenty of creeks, ponds, sand bunkers and green hazards. The course spans 7,209 yards across one hundred and fifty acres, providing superb views of surrounding woodland and canyons and also boasting excellent facilities.
As a private, member-owned club, it requires a significant initiation fee and is rumored to have 700 members, who pay $470 per month for the privilege and must also pay extra fees for bringing guests to the club.
Public vs. private vs. resort golf courses
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main differences between municipal, public, private and resort golf courses in Fort Worth:
- Municipal courses: owned and/or managed by the city, town or county.
- Public courses: privately owned and operated (by individuals, real estate development companies or corporations) but open for the public to play. Many of the best ones are designed by experienced course architects (sometimes with the help of ex-players).
- Semi-private courses: open to the public but also offer memberships for those who want to pay for priority tee times, reduced green fee rates and other perks.
- Private courses: these courses usually require membership of the golf club (or registration as a guest) to play a round of golf. In return for paid membership, golfers enjoy less crowded courses, high-quality fairways/greens, dining/social activities, etc.
- Resort courses: many of these are technically public courses (no membership is required) but restrict public access by requiring that you stay at the resort if you want to play golf there.
Best public golf courses in Fort Worth
For the best public golf courses in Fort Worth, consider these options:
- Waterchase Golf Course
- Rockwood Park Golf Course
- Canyon West Golf Course
- Meadowbrook Golf Course
- Pecan Valley Golf Course
If you’re prepared to pay a little more for a round, consider these options:
- Tierra Verde Golf Course
- The Golf Club at The Resort
- Sugar Tree Golf Course
- Harbor Lakes Golf Club
- The Golf Club at Fossil Creek
- Split Rail Links & Golf Club
Best private golf courses in Fort Worth
A wide choice of members-only private courses is also available for a more exclusive golfing experience. The best private golf courses in Fort Worth are:
- The Retreat Country Club
- Colonial Country Club
- Shady Oaks
- Mira Vista Country Club
- Diamond Oaks Country Club
- River Crest Country Club
- Ridglea Country Club
- Woodhaven Country Club
Work on your putting in your Fort Worth backyard…
Homeowners in Fort Worth needn’t venture far to practice their putting and chipping. With the ready availability of high-quality artificial putting green grass, it’s never been easier to install a high-performance putting green at home in your backyard.
Synthetic putting green turf perfectly mimics the roll of natural grass if installed professionally — and it is available more affordably than ever before. You can even add a chipping area if space permits in your backyard.
An artificial putting green looks immaculate all year round and, unlike real grass greens, requires minimal maintenance.At DFW Turf Solutions, our team can look after everything from green design to installation. Discuss your backyard golfing ideas with a professional by calling us at 925.234.4349.
