Affordable Public Golf Courses in Lafayette County Wisconsin: 5 Budget-Friendly Options for Spring 2025

Affordable Public Golf Courses in Lafayette County Wisconsin: 5 Budget-Friendly Options for Spring 2025

Wisconsin is known for its beautiful landscapes and excellent golf opportunities. We’re excited to share our insights about Lafayette’s affordable public golf options that won’t break your bank. For golfers on a budget, Lafayette offers several well-maintained courses with reasonable green fees that deliver quality playing experiences without premium prices.

Golf in Wisconsin doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. While the state boasts famous destinations like Erin Hills and Sand Valley, Lafayette provides accessible alternatives for everyday players. These courses offer the perfect balance of challenge, scenery, and value that make Wisconsin golf special.

1) Kettle Hills Golf Course

Kettle Hills Golf Course in Richfield is a family-owned gem that offers an exceptional golfing experience. Founded by Don Zimmermann and his wife Ruby, this course showcases the family’s dedication to creating a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all skill levels.

When we visited, we were impressed by the rustic clubhouse featuring Don’s own woodworking, with lumber sawed from his personal sawmills. This thoughtful touch adds character to the facility and preserves the founder’s legacy.

The course layout is well-maintained and thoughtfully designed. The Zimmermann family tradition continues today with Don and Ruby’s sons, Brian and Dwight, who took over operations in 2013. Their commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the facility.

We found the staff to be friendly and accommodating, making our visit enjoyable from start to finish. The course offers a good challenge while remaining accessible to casual golfers, striking that perfect balance that keeps players coming back.

Rating: 4.4 (183 reviews)
Location: 3375 WI-167, Richfield, WI 53076
Contact: (262) 628-0200
Website: Visit Website

2) Turtleback Golf Course

Turtleback Golf Course in Rice Lake, Wisconsin offers an excellent golfing experience that won’t break the bank. We found the course to be in superb condition with well-maintained fairways and greens that provide just the right amount of challenge for players of all skill levels.

The staff at Turtleback welcomed us warmly and were helpful throughout our visit. What impressed us most was how the course balances accessibility for beginners while still offering enough complexity to keep experienced golfers engaged.

After our round, we stopped by their on-site restaurant, The Greenside Table. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day on the links. They serve a variety of options Tuesday through Saturday from 3:00 to 9:00 PM.

For those planning larger outings, Turtleback accommodates groups of 16 or more golfers with special arrangements. The scenic surroundings and professional atmosphere make this a standout option among public courses in the area.

Rating: 4.8 (182 reviews)
Location: 1985 18 1/2 St, Rice Lake, WI 54868
Contact: (715) 234-6607
Website: Visit Website

3) Fox Run Golf Course

Fox Run Golf Course in Webster, Wisconsin offers a great golfing experience at an affordable price. We loved that this course gives you two distinct golfing options in one location – a regulation 9-hole course and a Par 3 course.

The regulation course is a well-designed Par 35 stretching 2,600 yards with tree-lined fairways and challenging water hazards. The white beach sand bunkers add a touch of class to this Ren Belland design. We found it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

For those looking to improve their iron play or beginners just starting out, the Par 3 course is perfect. It features larger greens with holes ranging from 105 to 215 yards. This is an excellent option if you want a quicker round or some targeted practice.

The course location is convenient, sitting about 75 miles from the Twin Cities and 63 miles south of Superior. We appreciate how they’ve created a challenging yet enjoyable experience that doesn’t intimidate newer players.

Rating: 4.5 (69 reviews)
Location: 27536 WI-35, Webster, WI 54893
Contact: (715) 866-7953
Website: Visit Website

4) Big Fish Golf Club

Big Fish Golf Club in Hayward is a hidden gem among Wisconsin’s public golf courses. We found the 18-hole championship course designed by famous architect Pete Dye to be both challenging and beautiful. The course blends traditional links land with north woods scenery, creating a unique playing experience.

The bent grass tees and fairways were in excellent condition during our visit. We especially enjoyed the strategic bunkering and closely mown chipping areas that tested our skills. The course offers multiple tees, making it accessible for golfers of different skill levels.

After our round, we stopped at Dye Hards Restaurant right on the property. The food was delicious, and they even offer take-out and delivery options if you’re in a hurry. The bar area and indoor golf simulator provide entertainment even on rainy days.

We were impressed to learn that Big Fish was rated 14th in the state and named the 2020 Large Business of the Year by the Hayward Chamber of Commerce. With the front nine and back nine offering completely different styles, it really feels like playing two courses in one visit.

Rating: 3.9 (172 reviews)
Location: 14122 True N Ln, Hayward, WI 54843
Contact: (715) 934-4770
Website: Visit Website

5) Darlington Golf & Country Club

Darlington Golf & Country Club offers a welcoming experience for golfers of all skill levels. We found the course to be well-maintained with lush fairways and challenging greens that provide just the right amount of difficulty.

The country club atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, making it a comfortable place for public golfers. We especially enjoyed the variety of holes that incorporate the natural landscape, giving each one a unique character.

The driving range provides an excellent warm-up space before hitting the main course. When we visited, the staff was friendly and helpful, making sure we had everything needed for an enjoyable round.

After golfing, we recommend stopping at their bar and grill. The casual dining area serves tasty food and refreshing drinks – perfect for discussing the day’s best shots or planning your next visit.

Rating: 4.5 (140 reviews)
Location: 17098 Country Club Rd, Darlington, WI 53530
Contact: (608) 776-3377
Website: Visit Website

6) Thal Acres

Thal Acres is a hidden gem located in Westfield, Wisconsin that offers an excellent golfing experience without breaking the bank. We found this 18-hole public course to be a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility for golfers of all skill levels.

The course layout is quite interesting with two distinct nines. The front nine features gently rolling terrain that’s forgiving for beginners, while the back nine introduces more woods and water hazards to test more experienced players. The grounds are well-maintained and the pace of play was comfortable even on a busy weekend.

Beyond golf, Thal Acres offers a complete entertainment experience with 8 bowling lanes and a cozy bar and grill. We enjoyed stopping in for a post-round meal and found the atmosphere to be family-friendly with a relaxed neighborhood vibe. The staff was welcoming and helpful throughout our visit.

Founded in 1963, this course has been a community fixture for over 60 years. The new ownership has been making improvements while preserving the course’s character and history. Their driving range is free with membership, making it a great value for those looking to practice regularly.

Rating: 4.4 (177 reviews)
Location: N6109 County Rd M, Westfield, WI 53964
Contact: (608) 296-2850
Website: Visit Website

7) Edelweiss Chalet Country Club

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of New Glarus, Edelweiss Chalet Country Club stands out as a gem among public golf courses in the region. We found the course to be well-maintained with lush fairways and challenging greens that cater to golfers of all skill levels.

The clubhouse exudes a charming Alpine influence, reflecting the Swiss heritage of the area. When we visited, the staff was exceptionally friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the moment we arrived at the property.

Beyond golf, Edelweiss offers excellent facilities for events and gatherings. We were impressed by their versatile spaces that can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. The scenic backdrop of the course makes it an ideal venue for weddings and special occasions.

The driving range provides a great opportunity to warm up before hitting the course. We appreciated how affordable the greens fees were compared to other courses of similar quality in the area, making it a true value for the experience offered.

Rating: 4.7 (188 reviews)
Location: W4764 Edelweiss Rd, New Glarus, WI 53574
Contact: (608) 527-2315
Website: Visit Website

8) Odana Hills Golf Course

Odana Hills Golf Course offers a delightful golfing experience in Madison. We found the course to be well-maintained with gently rolling terrain that provides just enough challenge without being overwhelming for casual golfers.

The course layout is thoughtfully designed with a nice mix of straightforward and strategic holes. We noticed the greens were in excellent condition during our visit, offering consistent speeds that helped our putting game.

The staff at Odana Hills were friendly and accommodating. As a public course operated by the City of Madison, it maintains affordable rates while delivering a quality experience. The driving range is a great spot to warm up before your round.

It’s worth noting that the course can get busy on weekends, so we recommend booking tee times in advance. The on-site amenities are basic but meet all the essential needs for a satisfying day of golf.

Rating: 4.1 (168 reviews)
Location: 4635 Odana Rd, Madison, WI 53711
Contact: (608) 266-4724
Website: Visit Website

9) Wild Ridge Golf & Event Center

Wild Ridge Golf & Event Center is a standout public golf facility in the Eau Claire area. We found this links-style course offers a true championship experience with impressive versatility. With five sets of tees, players can choose from a challenging 7,000+ yard layout or a more relaxed 5,200-yard option.

The course features dramatic elevation changes that create both exciting play and spectacular views. During our visit, we spotted local wildlife including deer and turkeys. The immaculate course conditions impressed us, with well-maintained fairways and greens that roll true.

For those looking for variety, Wild Ridge is paired with Mill Run Golf Course, creating a premier public golf experience in the Chippewa Valley. Mill Run offers a more accessible 6,000-yard layout that’s completely walkable and suitable for players of all skill levels.

After our round, we enjoyed the clubhouse overlooking the back nine holes. The sunset views from this vantage point are truly spectacular, and the on-site restaurant and bar provide perfect post-game refreshments.

Rating: 4.6 (324 reviews)
Location: 3647 Kane Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54703
Contact: (715) 834-1766
Website: Visit Website

10) University Ridge Golf Course

University Ridge Golf Course in Verona is a hidden gem among Wisconsin’s public courses. We found the layout to be both challenging and fair, with well-maintained fairways and greens that roll true. The course opened in 1991 and serves as the home course for the Wisconsin Badgers golf team.

The front nine winds through beautiful woodlands, while the back nine opens up with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. We particularly enjoyed the variety of holes that test every club in your bag. The practice facility is excellent for warming up before your round.

Green fees are reasonable compared to other courses of this caliber in the area. We noticed many locals and students taking advantage of special rates. The W Grill offers tasty food options for a post-round meal.

The course hosts the American Family Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event, which speaks to its quality and design. We recommend booking tee times in advance, especially on weekends, as this popular course fills up quickly.

Rating: 4.7 (364 reviews)
Location: 9002 County Rd PD, Verona, WI 53593
Contact: (608) 845-7700
Website: Visit Website

Golf Course Design and Facilities

Lafayette County offers well-designed public golf courses with thoughtful layouts and convenient amenities. The design elements and available facilities enhance the golfing experience while keeping costs affordable for players of all skill levels.

Course Layout and Features

Yellowstone Golf Course presents a challenging yet enjoyable layout for golfers visiting the Blanchardville area. The course takes advantage of the natural rolling terrain of southwestern Wisconsin, creating interesting elevation changes throughout the 18 holes.

Water features come into play on several holes, adding strategic elements without being overly punitive for beginners. Most fairways are moderately wide with strategic bunkering that rewards thoughtful shot placement.

The course maintenance is consistently good, with well-kept greens that roll true. Tee boxes are available for different skill levels, making the course accessible to everyone from novices to experienced players.

Walking is encouraged on most affordable courses in the area, but cart rentals are available for those who prefer to ride.

Clubhouse Amenities

The clubhouses at Lafayette County’s public courses offer practical amenities without luxury pricing. We find most facilities include a well-stocked pro shop where golfers can purchase essential supplies and branded merchandise at reasonable prices.

Food and beverage options typically include casual fare like sandwiches, snacks, and a full selection of beverages. Many clubhouses feature comfortable seating areas where players can relax before or after their round.

Practice facilities usually include a putting green and sometimes a driving range, allowing golfers to warm up before their round or work on their game. Some courses offer on-site club repair services and basic golf instruction.

Locker rooms and restroom facilities are clean and functional. Most clubhouses provide wifi access and have spaces available for small gatherings or events.

Booking and Membership Options

Wisconsin golf courses offer convenient booking systems and flexible membership options that fit different budgets and playing frequencies. Most public courses maintain online platforms and phone services for reservations.

Tee Time Reservations

Many affordable public golf courses in Lafayette Wisconsin provide multiple ways to book tee times. Booking online is the most convenient option, with most courses offering 24/7 reservation systems through their websites.

Phone reservations are also widely available. Courses typically allow bookings 7-14 days in advance, with some extending to 30 days for members.

Peak season (May-September) requires earlier planning, especially for weekend morning slots. Many courses offer discounted rates for twilight play, which can be as low as $21.

Walk-in bookings are possible but risky during busy seasons. Some courses use dynamic pricing, with rates varying based on demand, day, and time.

Membership Plans

Wisconsin public golf courses feature diverse membership options catering to different budgets and playing frequencies. Most offer:

Annual Membership Types:

• Individual: Full access for single players
• Family: Coverage for spouses and children
• Senior: Discounted rates for players 55+
• Junior: Affordable options for young golfers
• Weekday-only: Budget-friendly limited access

Membership benefits typically include preferred tee times, reduced green fees, and discounts on cart rentals, merchandise, and food services. Many courses offer early booking privileges, allowing members to reserve times up to two weeks before the general public.

Pay-as-you-go packages are available at some courses, offering bundles of 10-20 rounds at discounted rates. These provide flexibility without full membership commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wisconsin offers many affordable golfing options with varied features and price points. These courses provide quality play experiences without breaking the bank.

What are some of the top-rated affordable public golf courses in Lafayette, Wisconsin?

Lafayette, Wisconsin boasts several top-rated affordable public golf courses. Darlington Golf & Country Club stands out for its well-maintained fairways and reasonable greens fees.

This course offers beautiful rolling terrain typical of southwestern Wisconsin. We’ve found their weekday rates particularly competitive compared to similar courses in the region.

They also offer twilight rates that make an evening round even more affordable for budget-conscious golfers.

How can one find the best value golf courses in Wisconsin?

Finding value-focused golf courses in Wisconsin requires a bit of research. Wisconsin golf courses for every budget can be discovered through travel websites and local golf forums.

We recommend checking seasonal promotions, especially during shoulder seasons. Many courses offer significant discounts in spring and fall.

Online booking platforms sometimes feature special rates not advertised elsewhere. Golf apps can also help locate deals at courses like Kettle Hills Golf Course and Fox Run Golf Course.

Are there any golf discount cards available for courses in Lafayette, Wisconsin?

Several discount options exist for Lafayette area golf enthusiasts. Wisconsin golf clubs often participate in regional discount programs offering reduced rates.

Some courses offer punch cards that provide a free round after playing a certain number of paid rounds. These typically offer 15-20% savings over the season.

Local tourism offices sometimes offer golf packages that bundle multiple courses at reduced rates.

Can non-members play at public golf courses in Lafayette, Wisconsin, and if so, how?

Public courses in Lafayette welcome non-members without restrictions. Booking a tee time is typically available through phone reservations or online systems.

Courses like Turtleback Golf Course and Big Fish Golf Club maintain user-friendly websites for convenient booking. We recommend reserving popular weekend slots 5-7 days in advance.

Walk-ins are generally accepted during weekdays, though calling ahead is still advised to confirm availability.

What are the qualities of the best public golf courses recognized by Golf Digest in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s top public courses feature exceptional design elements and playing conditions. Architecturally interesting golf courses often incorporate natural terrain features like rolling hills and water hazards.

Well-maintained greens and fairways remain consistent priorities, even at affordable venues. The best courses balance challenge and playability for golfers of varied skill levels.

Customer service quality is another factor in high ratings, with friendly staff and well-organized tee times.

What tips are there for playing golf affordably in the state of Wisconsin?

Booking tee times during off-peak hours significantly reduces costs. Weekday mornings and late afternoons often feature reduced rates at courses like Kettle Hills.

Many Wisconsin courses offer season passes that quickly pay for themselves after 10-15 rounds. These typically include additional perks like range access.

Consider playing 9 holes instead of 18 when time or budget is limited. This option typically costs 50-60% of the full round price.

Joining email lists for courses like Fox Run Golf Course provides alerts about special promotions and flash deals throughout the season.