Best Affordable Public Golf Courses in Dodge County Wisconsin

Best Affordable Public Golf Courses in Dodge County Wi: Top Spots for Budget-Friendly Tee Times

Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy golf in Dodge County, Wisconsin?

You’ve got several public courses in the area where you can play a round without spending too much.

You’ll find options that offer a good mix of value, challenge, and accessibility for golfers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re new to golf or just want an affordable place to practice, Dodge County’s got a course for you.

1) Beaver Dam Country Club

Beaver Dam Country Club sits near Horicon Marsh and Beaver Dam Lake. The club opened as a nine-hole course back in the 1960s, but now you can play all 18 holes.

You’ll find tree-lined fairways and rolling hills across the course. The layout sticks with a traditional style and features small, elevated greens.

Most greens have that classic turtle back shape, so short shots matter. Bunkers hug the greens, so you’ll want to be accurate.

The course runs just over 6,000 yards, so distance isn’t your biggest worry. Pay attention to where you land your shots, since the terrain can change a lot from one hole to the next.

After your round, you can hang out at the bar and grill. The club also hosts events if you need a venue for something special.

Rating: 4.2 (166 reviews)
Location: W8884 Sunset Dr, Beaver Dam, WI 53916
Contact: (920) 885-6614
Website: Visit Website

2) Kestrel Ridge Golf Course

Kestrel Ridge Golf Course gives you a public golfing option with a relaxed, welcoming feel. The course stretches up to nearly 6,000 yards from the longest tees, so it’s a fair challenge for beginners and experienced golfers alike.

You get some nice countryside views while you play. The atmosphere stays laid-back, so there’s no pressure to rush or perform.

The staff here really focuses on guest service and friendliness. Kestrel Ridge sits in Columbus, just a short drive from Milwaukee and not far from Madison.

If you get called off the course for bad weather, you’re covered by a 94.4% weather guarantee. You’ll get a full rain check if you leave before finishing your round.

Active and retired military, first responders, and seniors over 60 get $5 off every round. Don’t forget to ask for your discount at check-in if you qualify.

Rating: 4.4 (140 reviews)
Location: 900 Avalon Rd, Columbus, WI 53925
Contact: (920) 623-4653
Website: Visit Website

3) Kettle Hills Golf Course

Kettle Hills Golf Course is a family-owned spot in Richfield, Wisconsin. Don Zimmermann and his wife Ruby built the course with help from their kids, and you can see Don’s woodworking in the clubhouse—he used lumber he sawed himself.

The course offers both public and private golf, plus lessons if you want to get better. There’s also a restaurant on site, which is great if you’re hungry before or after your round.

The whole place feels peaceful, and you’ll notice the care that went into every detail. In 2013, management passed to the next generation, so the local commitment runs deep.

The staff welcomes golfers of all skill levels. People mention the down-to-earth vibe and appreciate the well-kept greens and fairways.

Rating: 4.4 (186 reviews)
Location: 3375 WI-167, Richfield, WI 53076
Contact: (262) 628-0200
Website: Visit Website

4) Hartford Golf Course

When you pull up to Hartford Golf Course, you find a golf club with serious history—it’s been around since 1928. The place keeps a friendly vibe for golfers of all levels, and people seem to really like the atmosphere and service.

You can play up to 6,500 yards from the longest tees, and the course is a par 72. There are water hazards on holes three and four, and the dogleg left twelfth is the longest, with some pretty scenic views.

The course rating is 70.7 with a slope of 121. You’ll play on Bluegrass, which holds up well all season.

Lessons and a driving range are available if you want to work on your swing. Not bad if you ask me.

Rating: 4.4 (76 reviews)
Location: 7072 Lee Rd, Hartford, WI 53027
Contact: (262) 673-2710
Website: Visit Website

5) Door Creek Golf Course

Door Creek Golf Course sits just outside Madison, Wisconsin—super easy to reach from the east side of the city. The course welcomes both beginners and more seasoned players.

Door Creek is known for its tidy fairways and peaceful views. A lot of players say it’s both relaxing and still offers a good challenge.

If you like public courses, you’ll appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere here. Besides golf, you’ll find a banquet hall and a bar & grill on site.

You can use the driving range or book a lesson with an instructor. Pretty convenient, honestly.

Rating: 4.5 (163 reviews)
Location: 4321 Vilas Rd, Cottage Grove, WI 53527
Contact: (608) 839-5656
Website: Visit Website

6) Rolling Meadows Golf Course

Rolling Meadows Golf Course is a public course where you can play a round of golf or just hang out with friends. The course is set up for different skill levels, so both beginners and regulars can have a good time.

You can use golf carts during your game, and the driving range is open. They also run special events, like 2-person Best Ball tournaments, now and then.

The course is easy to get to from Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay—usually about an hour’s drive. You’ll find several hotels close to the clubhouse, so planning a trip with friends or family is pretty simple.

Grab food or a drink at the on-site Pub and Grill after your round. The staff encourages you to reach out if you have questions or want help planning your visit.

If you’d rather shop from home, their online store is open all day. Handy, right?

Rating: 4.3 (225 reviews)
Location: 560 W Rolling Meadows Dr, Fond du Lac, WI 54937
Contact: (920) 924-2425
Website: Visit Website

7) Fox Lake Golf Club

You’ll spot Fox Lake Golf Club right on the edge of Fox Lake, tucked into central Dodge County. The place has been around for over a century, and honestly, it’s still buzzing with golfers.

It kicked off as a 9-hole course, but in 2004, they stretched it out to a full 18 holes. The front nine weaves through wooded areas with smaller greens.

The newer nine? It’s more open, almost links-style, and you get larger greens to aim for. Five different tee boxes per hole mean you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy a round here.

After finishing up, swing by the clubhouse for a drink or something to eat. They’ve got trivia nights, bags leagues, sports watch parties, and all sorts of events going on during the season.

Rating: 4.5 (172 reviews)
Location: Fox Lake Golf Club on Google Maps
Contact: (920) 928-2508
Website: Visit Website

8) Paganica Golf Course

Paganica Golf Course welcomes everyone, no matter your skill level. The layout feels relaxed, so whether you’re just learning or you’ve played for decades, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy yourself.

It’s right in Oconomowoc, so you don’t have to drive far. The grounds are quiet, a nice change from the usual city noise.

The staff here genuinely tries to make people feel at home. Expect a casual vibe, both on the course and in the clubhouse.

If you’re looking for an affordable round that’s still memorable, Paganica is definitely worth a shot.

Rating: 4.1 (179 reviews)
Location: 1335 Silver Lake St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Contact: (262) 567-0171
Website: Visit Website

9) The Rock Golf Club

The Rock Golf Club gives you two very different nines. The front nine is lined with old, towering trees—some of these holes haven’t changed since 1927.

They’ve updated certain holes over time, but a few from the “Old Nine” are still original. The back nine flips the script with a links-style look and feel.

You’ll need to be accurate off the tee here, dodging 29 sand traps and several water hazards. The course is open to the public, so you don’t need a membership to play.

There’s a bar and restaurant on site, plus space for banquets and events. People seem to love both the course and the extra amenities—can’t really blame them.

Rating: 4.5 (190 reviews)
Location: 700 County Park Rd, Waupun, WI 53963
Contact: (920) 324-2621
Website: Visit Website

10) The Club at Lac La Belle

The Club at Lac La Belle sits in Oconomowoc and got a major redesign back in 2018. The Morse family kept a lot of its charm and history, but the course feels fresh and modern.

It’s public, so no membership headaches. People rave about the unique, playful greens—Golf Digest even called it one of the “Most Fun Golf Courses in the U.S.”

The course layout feels up-to-date, and there’s plenty of event space for all sorts of gatherings. The clubhouse has fine dining, so you can make a day (or night) of it whether you’re golfing or just hanging out.

Rating: 4.7 (608 reviews)
Location: 6996 Pennsylvania St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Contact: (262) 567-7833
Website: Visit Website

What Makes Public Golf Courses in Dodge County Affordable?

So, why are golf courses in Dodge County usually so budget-friendly? A lot of it comes down to how they manage costs and what they choose to offer—or skip.

Factors Influencing Course Pricing

Land prices and maintenance costs run lower here than in big cities. Most courses sit on rolling farmland, and it’s just not as pricey to keep them up compared to resort-style spots.

You probably won’t find fancy spas, huge restaurants, or luxury clubhouses at these public courses. They focus on solid play and a well-kept course, not expensive extras.

Some courses even get city or county support, which helps them offer discounts for locals, seniors, or juniors. The goal is usually community access, not big profits.

Here are a few common cost-saving strategies:

• Relying on volunteers instead of a big paid staff
• Keeping maintenance basic—no wild landscaping
• Simple pro shops or snack bars, not full restaurants

Membership Versus Daily Fees

Most public courses here stick with daily fees. You just pay for each round—no long-term commitment.

That’s perfect if you don’t play every week. Some spots do offer memberships, but they’re way cheaper than private clubs.

Membership might get you unlimited play or cheaper cart rentals, but daily fees are still the go-to for most folks. Here’s a quick comparison:

Option	Common in Dodge County	Upfront Cost	Long-term Savings
Daily Fee	Yes	Low	Best for casual
Membership	Sometimes	Moderate	Good for frequent

You don’t have to pick one or the other right away. Most courses let you choose what works for you, but paying as you go is usually the least expensive option.

Tips for Planning a Budget-Friendly Golf Outing

Golf in Dodge County doesn’t have to break the bank. If you know when to play and where to look, you’ll save some cash and still get a solid round in.

Best Times to Play for Savings

Off-peak hours are your friend. Weekday mornings or evenings tend to cost less than weekends.

Rates can also drop early in the season or late in fall, when courses want to fill up their tee sheets. Don’t overlook twilight rates—lots of places cut prices if you’re willing to play later in the day.

Check the calendar for holidays or local events. Some clubs throw out special deals during slow stretches, so it’s worth calling ahead to ask about the cheapest tee times.

Discount Opportunities and Local Deals

Plenty of courses offer loyalty programs or punch cards for regulars. Sign up for email lists and you might get the inside scoop on flash sales or exclusive specials.

Sites like Groupon sometimes have deals for green fees or packages. Don’t forget to check the course’s website or even Yelp for mentions of discounts or multi-round passes.

If you play with friends, group rates can knock a few bucks off for everyone. And if you’re a junior or senior, always ask about special rates—sometimes those save the most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dodge County has a bunch of public golf courses, with all sorts of pricing and membership setups. Some are well-known, others fly under the radar, but you can usually find good value if you look around.

What are the top-rated affordable public golf courses in Dodge County, Wisconsin?

Beaver Dam Country Club, Kestrel Ridge Golf Course, and Mayville Golf Course all get recommended a lot. They balance price with well-kept facilities, which is really what most people want.

How does the Old Hickory Golf Club membership cost compare to other Dodge County courses?

Old Hickory Golf Club is a solid course, but its membership rates usually run higher than most public green fees in the area. You do get some perks, though. Clubs like Beaver Dam Country Club usually offer lower daily or membership fees for casual players.

Can you recommend public golf courses in Dodge County with the best value for money?

Mayville Golf Course is known for being easy on the wallet but still challenging. Kestrel Ridge Golf Course is another good pick—nice facilities at reasonable rates, and people seem happy with the value at both places.

What are the average greens fees for playing at Mayville Golf Course?

Mayville Golf Course is one of the oldest in the county. Their average greens fees are low for the area, so it’s a great spot for regular play. For exact numbers, check their site or Golf Moose’s Mayville Golf Course page.

Are there any hidden gems for public golfing in Dodge County for budget-conscious players?

Beaver Dam Country Club is great for quiet, affordable rounds. Door Creek Golf Course and Hartford Golf Course also give you solid play without a big price tag.

How do the rates at Old Hickory Golf Course compare to other public courses in the area?

Old Hickory Golf Course usually charges more than the other public courses in Dodge County. Some folks think the higher price matches the quality, but that’s always up for debate, isn’t it?

If you’re watching your wallet, Kestrel Ridge and Beaver Dam Country Club tend to cost less. Want more options? Check out the Yelp list of best golf in Dodge County.