Texas is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the United States. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, public courses in Texas offer world-class layouts, scenic views, and an unforgettable golfing experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 public golf courses in Texas for 2025, complete with practical tips, course highlights, and useful links.
Barton Creek’s Fazio Canyons is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, natural water features, and challenging holes that test every golfer’s skill. The course seamlessly blends with the Texas Hill Country landscape, offering both scenic beauty and strategic play.
18-hole championship layout
Signature holes: 6th and 12th, with canyon views
Practice facilities include a driving range and putting greens
Book tee times early, especially on weekends
Ideal for intermediate to advanced players due to elevation changes and bunker placements
- Website: Barton Creek Resort & Spa
2. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort – Palmer Course (San Antonio, TX)
Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, this course offers lush fairways and a challenging layout with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. Perfect for golfers seeking a mix of fun and challenge.
27-hole championship course
Beautiful views of the Texas Hill Country
PGA-level practice facilities
Afternoon tee times offer the best lighting for photos
Stay hydrated; Texas heat can be intense during summer
3. The Golf Club at Star Ranch (Celina, TX)
Star Ranch combines natural beauty with a challenging design. Rolling terrain and native landscaping make it a picturesque choice for both local and visiting golfers.
18-hole course with lake features
Excellent for tournaments and casual play
Well-maintained greens and fairways
Check for local tournaments as it can get busy
Early morning rounds help avoid afternoon wind
- Website: Star Ranch Golf Club
4. Colony Creek Golf Club (Fort Worth, TX)
Colony Creek offers a private-club feel at a public course price. It’s a great course for those looking to combine challenge with elegance.
18-hole championship course
Fast, true greens ideal for putting practice
Water features on multiple holes
Play during weekdays for a quieter experience
Take advantage of golf lessons offered on-site
5. The Tribute Golf Club (The Colony, TX)
This course pays homage to legendary golfers and offers a classic design with a modern twist. Perfect for players who enjoy strategic play and scenic Texas landscapes.
18-hole championship layout
Signature holes inspired by famous PGA Tour courses
Pro shop and clubhouse amenities
Bring a camera for the picturesque surroundings
Ideal for both casual and competitive rounds
6. The Rawls Course at Texas Tech – Lubbock, TX
Designed by Tom Doak, The Rawls Course is a standout in West Texas. Built on a former cotton field, it features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and a layout that challenges golfers with its wind-swept terrain. The course is known for its affordability and quality, making it a must-play for those in the area.
18-hole championship layout
Wide fairways and deep bunkers
Host of collegiate tournaments
- Website: The Rawls Course
7. Max A. Mandel Golf Course – Laredo, TX
Opened in 2012 and designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this course offers scenic views along the Rio Grande. It’s recognized as one of Texas’ top municipal courses, praised for its layout and maintenance. Despite temporary greens, it remains a favorite among golfers.
18-hole layout with water features
Challenging for all skill levels
Scenic views of the Rio Grande
8. Quail Valley Golf Club – Missouri City, TX
Located in the Houston area, Quail Valley offers two public courses: the El Dorado and the La Quinta. Both provide a challenging yet enjoyable experience with well-maintained fairways and greens. The club also features practice facilities and hosts various events.
Two 18-hole courses
Practice facilities and driving range
Event hosting capabilities
- Website: Quail Valley Golf Club
9. Hermann Park Golf Course – Houston, TX
Situated near downtown Houston, Hermann Park Golf Course is undergoing a $30 million renovation to enhance its facilities. The course offers a par-3 front nine and a par-36 back nine, making it accessible for golfers of all levels.
Par-3 front nine and par-36 back nine
Undergoing major renovations
Located near downtown Houston
10. Rayburn Resort Golf Course – Brookeland, TX
Located in Southeast Texas, Rayburn Resort Golf Course offers a scenic and challenging layout. The course has hosted the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) tournament, showcasing its quality and appeal to golfers of all ages.
Scenic layout with water features
Host of AJGA tournaments
Suitable for golfers of all skill levels
- Website: Rayburn Resort Golf Course
Final Thoughts
Texas truly stands out as a premier destination for golfers, offering a wide range of public courses that combine natural beauty, challenging layouts, and world-class amenities. From the scenic Hill Country to the bustling cities of Houston and Austin, each course provides a unique experience for beginners, casual players, and seasoned golfers alike. Planning your visits to these top 10 public golf courses in 2025 ensures unforgettable rounds, beautiful surroundings, and a chance to improve your game in some of the most iconic Texan landscapes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these courses are must-plays that showcase the best of Texas golf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are these courses suitable for beginners?
A: Yes! Most courses welcome golfers of all skill levels. Some may offer shorter tees or practice areas specifically for beginners.
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Q: Can I rent golf clubs at these courses?
A: Absolutely. Nearly all the courses provide club rentals, as well as carts, practice ranges, and lessons.
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Q: How much does a round typically cost?
A: Prices vary by course and time of day, generally ranging from $60 to $200 per round.
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Q: Do I need to book tee times in advance?
A: Yes, especially on weekends or during peak season. Online booking is often recommended.
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Q: Are these courses family-friendly?
A: Many of these courses welcome families and even provide junior programs or family-friendly events.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
