Best Public Golf Courses In Iowa County Wisconsin: Top Destinations for Golf Enthusiasts

Best Public Golf Courses In Iowa County Wi

Iowa County, Wisconsin offers some excellent golfing experiences for enthusiasts seeking quality public courses. With rolling hills and beautiful landscapes, this area provides scenic backdrops for golfers of all skill levels. The region’s courses blend natural terrain features with thoughtful design elements.

The top public golf courses in Iowa County include gems like Deer Valley Golf Course, Spring Green Golf Club, and Edelweiss Chalet Country Club, which consistently earn positive reviews from visitors. We find that these courses offer a mix of challenging holes, well-maintained greens, and reasonable rates that make them popular destinations for both local players and tourists exploring Wisconsin’s rich golfing tradition.

1) University Ridge Golf Course

University Ridge Golf Course is a premier golfing destination in Verona, Wisconsin. When we visited, we were immediately impressed by the beautifully maintained fairways and greens. The course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

The layout takes advantage of the natural terrain, creating a diverse playing experience with each hole offering unique challenges. We found the front nine to be more open while the back nine winds through wooded areas, providing a nice contrast throughout the round.

Established in 1991, University Ridge serves as the home course for the University of Wisconsin golf teams. The practice facility is top-notch with a spacious driving range and putting greens that allow golfers to warm up properly before their round.

We noticed the course is well-known for hosting the American Family Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event. The staff was friendly and professional, making our visit even more pleasant.

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

2) Pleasant View Golf Course

Pleasant View Golf Course is a standout option for golfers in Wisconsin. Set on hills about 300 feet above Lake Mendota, the course offers breathtaking panoramic views of Madison. We were impressed by how well-maintained the grounds are throughout all seasons.

The course offers an impressive 27 holes of championship golf plus a scenic 9-hole par 3 course that’s perfect for beginners or those looking to work on their short game. Their practice range is excellent too, with plenty of space to work on your swing before hitting the main course.

What makes Pleasant View special is the value it provides. As a city-owned facility, green fees are reasonable compared to courses of similar quality. The hilltop location creates interesting elevation changes that add challenge to your round without being frustrating.

It’s no surprise that Pleasant View has won Madison Magazine’s Best Golf Course Gold award multiple times, including 2024. After playing here, we can see why locals continue to vote it as their favorite year after year.

Rating: 4.5 (148 reviews)
Location: 1322 N Pleasant View Rd, Middleton, WI 53562
Contact: (608) 831-6666
Website: Visit Website

3) The Glen Golf Park

The Glen Golf Park in Madison offers a charming golf experience that we found both challenging and accessible. With well-maintained fairways and greens, this public course provides an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.

We appreciated the course layout, which makes good use of natural terrain to create interesting holes without being overly difficult. The staff was friendly and helpful, making our visit pleasant from check-in to finish.

Located on Speedway Road, this golf course is conveniently situated for Madison residents and visitors alike. We noticed many locals seemed to frequent the course, suggesting it has a good reputation within the community.

When we visited most recently, we were impressed by how well the grounds were kept despite Wisconsin’s sometimes challenging weather conditions. The pace of play moved well, and we didn’t feel rushed or held up during our round.

Rating: 4.5 (130 reviews)
Location: 3747 Speedway Rd, Madison, WI 53705
Contact: (608) 266-4737
Website: Visit Website

4) Platteville Golf – Country Club Bar & Restaurant

Nestled in the rolling hillsides of Southwestern Wisconsin, Platteville Golf & Country Club offers one of the most enjoyable golfing experiences in the region. We found the 18-hole course to be both challenging and accessible, making it perfect for golfers of all skill levels.

The meticulously maintained greens are truly the highlight here. They’re small, quick, and thoughtfully designed to complement the natural terrain. We were particularly impressed by the lush fairways that provide excellent playing conditions throughout the season.

Despite being a country club, Platteville welcomes everyone as it’s open to the public. The on-site bar and restaurant offers a perfect spot to unwind after your round. We appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and friendly service that makes even first-time visitors feel at home.

When planning your golf itinerary in southwest Wisconsin, this course definitely deserves a spot on your list. The picturesque setting combined with well-designed holes creates a memorable golfing experience that keeps players coming back.

Rating: 4.3 (72 reviews)
Location: 6729 N Water St, Platteville, WI 53818
Contact: (608) 348-4653
Website: Visit Website

5) The Club at Lac La Belle

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Oconomowoc, The Club at Lac La Belle offers a truly remarkable golfing experience. We found the course to be meticulously maintained with lush fairways and fast, true-rolling greens.

The layout presents a good challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The course features strategic water hazards and well-placed bunkers that require thoughtful shot selection. Some holes provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside that add to the overall experience.

The practice facilities at Lac La Belle are excellent. We used the driving range to warm up before our round and found it spacious and well-equipped. The staff members were friendly and professional, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived.

Beyond golf, the clubhouse serves quality food and drinks. We enjoyed a meal after our round, and the service was prompt and attentive. The building itself has a charming design that fits perfectly with the natural surroundings.

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

6) Reedsburg Country Club

Located just minutes from Wisconsin Dells, Reedsburg Country Club offers an outstanding golf experience that’s accessible to everyone. We found the 18-hole championship course to be beautifully maintained with rolling greens and scenic views throughout our round.

The course presents a nice challenge for experienced golfers while remaining playable for beginners. The fairways are immaculate, and the layout takes advantage of the natural Wisconsin landscape. We especially appreciated how each hole offered something unique.

After our round, we stopped at the 1924 Bar & Grill for a meal and drinks. The casual dining atmosphere was perfect for unwinding, and the food exceeded our expectations for course dining. The staff was friendly and attentive throughout our visit.

For golfers looking to improve their game, the club offers lessons and a well-stocked pro shop. We noticed several league events taking place, showing the strong community connection this semi-private club maintains while welcoming public players.

Rating: 4.5 (308 reviews)
Location: 3003 E Main St, Reedsburg, WI 53959
Contact: (608) 524-6000
Website: Visit Website

7) Hickory Grove Golf & Country Club

Tucked away in the beautiful countryside of Southwest Wisconsin, Hickory Grove offers an excellent nine-hole golfing experience. The course is immaculately maintained with lush fairways and well-groomed greens that enhance the natural beauty of the rolling landscape.

We found the course layout to be both challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels. The scenic views throughout the course create a peaceful atmosphere that makes for a relaxing round. The staff is friendly and attentive, making everyone feel welcome from the moment they arrive.

Their on-site restaurant deserves special mention. We enjoyed a delicious lunch from their varied menu at very reasonable prices. The restaurant is open for lunch daily and dinner on Fridays during golf season. It’s a perfect spot to relax after your round.

Hickory Grove offers excellent value with some of the most affordable rates in the area. They also have reciprocal agreements with thirteen other courses, giving members expanded options. Whether you’re looking for a quick nine holes or considering a membership, this hidden gem delivers quality golf without breaking the bank.

Rating: 4.3 (93 reviews)
Location: 14562 US-61, Fennimore, WI 53809
Contact: (608) 822-3314
Website: Visit Website

8) Hawks Landing Golf Club

Hawks Landing Golf Club offers a fantastic golf experience on the west side of Madison, Wisconsin. The championship par 72 layout provides an enjoyable challenge for players of all skill levels with its five different teeing locations.

We found the practice facilities impressive during our visit. The 395-yard double-sided range features well-placed target greens and an all-grass tee area. There’s also a dedicated full-swing instruction area and a separate space for practicing chipping, pitching, and bunker shots.

The expansive putting green gives golfers plenty of space to work on their short game before hitting the course. The staff was friendly and accommodating, making our time at Hawks Landing memorable.

The course conditions were excellent, with well-maintained fairways and greens. Whether you’re planning a group outing or considering a membership, Hawks Landing delivers a premium golf experience that keeps players coming back.

Rating: 4.5 (87 reviews)
Location: 88 Hawks Landing Cir, Verona, WI 53593
Contact: (608) 848-4295
Website: Visit Website

9) Spring Green Golf Course

Spring Green Golf Course is a hidden gem nestled along WI-23 in Spring Green, Wisconsin. We found this public course to be well-maintained with lush fairways and challenging greens. The layout offers a good mix of holes that will test your skills without being overly punishing.

The course sits in the beautiful Wisconsin River Valley, providing scenic views throughout your round. The natural landscape adds character to the golfing experience, with some holes requiring strategic play around natural features. We noticed the grounds crew takes pride in keeping the course in excellent condition.

We enjoyed the friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes even first-time visitors feel welcome. The pace of play was comfortable, and we never felt rushed during our round. The course represents the dynamic yet tranquil character of Spring Green itself – a town that blends small community charm with surprising amenities.

The reasonable greens fees make this course an excellent value for casual golfers and serious players alike. We appreciated that we could get a quality round of golf without breaking the bank.

Rating: 4.4 (43 reviews)
Location: WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: Visit Website

10) Lake Wisconsin Country Club

Lake Wisconsin Country Club offers a fantastic golfing experience in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin. We found the course to be well-maintained with scenic views that make each hole memorable. The layout provides a good challenge for golfers of all skill levels without being overly punishing.

The club operates as a semi-private facility, welcoming both members and public players. When we visited, the staff was friendly and professional, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the pro shop to the first tee. The pace of play was reasonable even during busier times.

Beyond golf, Lake Wisconsin Country Club houses excellent amenities. Their clubhouse features a restaurant and bar where we enjoyed tasty food and drinks after our round. The patio area provides a perfect spot to relax and discuss the day’s highlights with beautiful views of the course.

The venue also serves as a popular wedding and event destination. We noticed their banquet facilities were impressive and would make an excellent location for special occasions or corporate gatherings.

Rating: 4.3 (203 reviews)
Location: N1076 Golf Rd, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
Contact: (608) 643-2405
Website: Visit Website

Understanding Public Golf Courses

Public golf courses offer affordable access to the sport without membership requirements. These courses serve as entry points for new golfers and provide great options for experienced players looking for variety.

Features of Public Golf Courses

Public golf courses vary widely in design and difficulty. They typically offer 9 or 18 holes with different par ratings based on the expected number of strokes needed to complete each hole.

Most public courses in Wisconsin include:

• Driving ranges for practice
• Pro shops with equipment and apparel
• Golf cart rentals
• Basic amenities like restrooms and water stations

Many public courses in Wisconsin maintain excellent quality despite lower green fees. In Iowa County specifically, public courses feature rolling terrain that showcases the region’s natural beauty.

Course maintenance is generally good, though it may not match the manicured perfection of private clubs. Tee time availability is more flexible, allowing for spontaneous play without long-term commitments.

Benefits of Playing at Public Courses

The primary advantage of public courses is accessibility. Anyone can play without membership fees or commitments, making golf more inclusive.

Cost efficiency ranks high among benefits. Green fees at public courses are substantially lower than private club dues. This affordability allows players to:

• Try different courses without financial strain
• Play more frequently
• Introduce friends and family to golf

We find public courses often have more diverse players, creating welcoming environments for golfers of all skill levels. This diversity fosters a community atmosphere where experienced players frequently offer tips to beginners.

Public courses in Wisconsin, including those in Iowa County, provide excellent value. They offer beautiful landscapes and quality playing conditions without the exclusivity of private clubs.

Golfing in Iowa County Wisconsin

Iowa County offers a diverse golfing experience with several excellent courses set against the beautiful backdrop of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. The rolling hills and unique terrain create both challenges and opportunities for golfers of all skill levels.

Local Climate and Playing Conditions

Wisconsin’s seasonal climate significantly impacts the golfing experience in Iowa County. The golf season typically runs from April through October, with peak conditions in summer months. Spring brings lush green fairways but can be wet, while fall offers spectacular foliage views with cooler temperatures.

Summer days provide the longest playing hours with temperatures averaging 75-85°F. We recommend morning tee times in July and August to avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms. The soil in this region drains well due to the unique Driftless Area geography, allowing courses to recover quickly after rain.

Wind can be a significant factor in Iowa County golf, particularly on hilltop holes. The elevation changes throughout the area create microclimates where conditions can vary dramatically from one hole to the next.

Unique Challenges of Golfing in Iowa County

Iowa County’s distinctive topography presents several unique challenges for golfers. The dramatic elevation changes require careful club selection and strategic thinking. Many local courses feature uphill and downhill shots where standard yardage calculations need adjustment.

Courses like Deer Valley Golf Course take full advantage of the natural terrain. Players face tight fairways cut through wooded areas with significant elevation changes. We’ve found that first-time visitors often underestimate the importance of course management here.

Water hazards are strategically placed throughout many Iowa County courses. The region’s natural springs and streams create beautiful but challenging obstacles. Local knowledge is particularly valuable as some hazards may not be visible from the tee.

Bunkers in this region typically contain coarser sand than many golfers are accustomed to. This requires a slightly different technique when playing from these hazards. Practicing sand shots before your round can save several strokes on your scorecard.

Tips for Visiting Iowa County Golf Courses

Planning your trip to Iowa County’s golf courses requires knowing both when to visit and what else to enjoy in the area. These local insights will help you maximize your golfing experience in this beautiful region of Wisconsin.

Best Times of Year to Visit

The prime golf season in Iowa County runs from mid-May through early October. We recommend visiting in September when you’ll find fewer crowds and spectacular fall colors enhancing your experience on the course.

Summer months offer the longest playing hours, but tee times fill quickly. Book at least two weeks in advance if planning a weekend visit during June through August.

Spring golf (April to mid-May) offers discounted rates, though be prepared for occasionally wet conditions. Many courses offer “spring specials” during this period.

Weather in Wisconsin can be unpredictable. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season. Morning tee times typically provide calmer wind conditions and better pace of play.

Local Amenities and Attractions

Iowa County offers more than just great golf. After your round, explore the nearby Amana Colonies cultural sites or visit House on the Rock, both within a short drive from most courses.

Dining options near the courses feature Wisconsin specialties. Try the local cheese curds and craft beers at the clubhouses or nearby restaurants. Many courses have partnerships with local eateries that offer discounts when you show your scorecard.

Lodging ranges from budget-friendly motels to charming B&Bs. Several courses offer stay-and-play packages that include:

• Discounted green fees
• Overnight accommodations
• Breakfast before your round

Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing between holes. Iowa County’s courses are known for their natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including deer, turkey and numerous bird species.

Frequently Asked Questions

Iowa County offers several outstanding public golf options for players of all skill levels. These courses feature varying challenges, price points, and amenities that attract both local golfers and visitors to the region.

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

University Ridge Golf Course consistently ranks as the top public golf course in Iowa County. This championship course features dramatic elevation changes and well-maintained fairways designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Pleasant View Golf Course earns high marks for its panoramic views and excellent course conditions. Many golfers appreciate its reasonable rates and challenging layout.

The Glen Golf Park has recently received upgrades that have improved its standing among public courses in the area. Its accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere make it popular.

How many public golf courses are there in Iowa County, and which are considered must-plays?

Iowa County houses five public golf courses that welcome players without membership requirements. University Ridge is widely considered the must-play course in the county.

Pleasant View Golf Course ranks as another must-play for its excellent value and challenging layout. The course offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding countryside.

For golfers seeking a less crowded experience, Platteville Golf – Country Club Bar & Restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained greens despite being slightly less well-known.

Which Wisconsin public golf courses have been ranked in the top 100 nationally?

While none of Iowa County’s courses have made national top 100 lists, several Wisconsin courses have earned this distinction. Whistling Straits and Sand Valley have received national recognition.

The Club at Lac La Belle has garnered attention for its recent renovations and is climbing in rankings among Wisconsin’s best public golf options.

Erin Hills, which hosted the 2017 U.S. Open, consistently appears on national top 100 lists and is within driving distance of Iowa County.

Can you list the public golf courses in Iowa County that have received high ratings from Golf Digest?

University Ridge Golf Course has received the highest Golf Digest ratings among Iowa County public courses. The course is frequently mentioned in Wisconsin golf publications.

Pleasant View Golf Course has earned solid ratings from golf publications, though not specifically from Golf Digest in recent years.

The remaining Iowa County courses—The Glen Golf Park and Platteville Golf—have received positive local reviews but haven’t been featured prominently in national golf publications.

What are some hidden gem public golf courses in and around Iowa County, Wisconsin?

Platteville Golf – Country Club Bar & Restaurant remains one of the area’s best-kept secrets. The course offers challenging play without the crowds of more famous venues.

The Glen Golf Park has emerged as a hidden gem following recent improvements to course conditions and facilities. Many golfers find its reasonable rates and relaxed atmosphere appealing.

Just outside Iowa County, Viroqua Hills Golf Course has gained recognition as a hidden gem with its scenic layout and excellent value.

Where can I find a comprehensive map of highly recommended public golf courses in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin State Golf Association website offers an interactive map showing public courses throughout the state, including those in Iowa County.

WiscoGolfAddict provides detailed rankings and maps of Wisconsin’s top public courses, which helps golfers plan their visits to highly-rated facilities.

Golf Wisconsin also maintains a comprehensive directory with maps, pricing information, and user reviews of public courses across the state.