Best Public Golf Courses in Lincoln County, Wisconsin: Top Picks and Player Reviews

If you love time on the fairways, Lincoln County, Wisconsin, has some great public golf courses to check out. Whether you’re new to the game or an old hand, there’s a spot here for your skill level and wallet.

Public golf courses in Lincoln County offer gorgeous scenery and a friendly vibe. Expect rolling greens, casual clubhouses, and a place to unwind while you work on your swing.

1) MoundView Golf Course

MoundView Golf Course sits in a peaceful area near Friendship, Wisconsin. This public course welcomes golfers of any experience level.

The relaxed vibe and wide fairways make it easy for anyone to enjoy a day outside. After your round, the on-site restaurant and grill is a solid spot for a meal.

They’ve got daily specials and use fresh ingredients, which is always a plus. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a sit-down dinner, you’ll find something good.

The staff genuinely tries to make everyone feel at home. Folks often mention the quick service and how well-kept everything is.

Rating: 4.6 (299 reviews)
Location: 1930 14th Ct, Friendship, WI 53934
Contact: (608) 339-3814
Website: Visit Website

2) The Club at Lac La Belle

Try a round at The Club at Lac La Belle, one of Wisconsin’s oldest courses. The open, scenic layout gives you some great views.

It’s public, so you don’t need a membership—just show up and play. There’s a driving range and pro instruction if you want to sharpen your game.

People rave about the friendly staff and how well they maintain the course. All skill levels can find something to tackle here.

The club also hosts weddings and events, and the clubhouse is pretty modern. It’s a popular spot for both golf and special occasions.

Rating: 4.7 (623 reviews)
Location: 6996 Pennsylvania St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Contact: (262) 567-7833
Website: Visit Website

3) Merrill Public Golf Club

Merrill Public Golf Club is just a short drive north of Wausau. You can reach this 18-hole public course easily from Highway 64.

The course features long fairways and several water hazards. Sand traps are scattered around, making things interesting for everyone.

Golfers appreciate the peaceful layout. If you want to work on your skills, there’s enough challenge here to keep you busy.

Booking a tee time is straightforward—you can do it online. A lot of people end up coming back for another round.

Rating: 4.3 (82 reviews)
Location: 1604 O Day St, Merrill, WI 54452
Contact: (715) 536-2529
Website: Visit Website

4) The Golf Courses of Lawsonia

The Golf Courses of Lawsonia gives you a classic Wisconsin golf experience. There are two unique 18-hole courses: The Links and The Woodlands.

Each course has its own flavor, so every round feels fresh. Lawsonia is famous for its fair pricing and friendly staff.

The folks in the golf shop and Langford’s Pub always seem happy to help. Golfers of all backgrounds keep coming back.

The Links course often gets national praise as a top classic course. The open, scenic setting and natural hazards reward smart play.

A lot of people call Lawsonia a hidden gem in the Midwest.

Rating: 4.4 (357 reviews)
Location: W2615 S Valley View Dr, Green Lake, WI 54941
Contact: (920) 294-3320
Website: Visit Website

5) Viroqua Hills Golf Course

Viroqua Hills Golf Course sits in Wisconsin’s scenic Driftless Region. This public 18-hole course stretches over 6,300 yards and mixes challenge with great views.

You’ll play through wooded hills and rolling countryside, with plenty of elevation changes. The newer nine holes, added in 1996, have cool features—like the signature 11th with its steep 90-foot drop from the tee.

Large ponds and a waterfall add some flair. There’s even a tunnel under the highway to reach the new nine.

The clubhouse looks out over the hills and woods. You can swing by the pro shop, grab a drink or a bite in the restaurant and bar, or just chill for a bit.

They rent carts and clubs, which is handy. There’s a driving range and two putting greens to practice before your round.

This course is open to everyone—no membership needed.

Rating: 4.9 (155 reviews)
Location: 1110 US-14, Viroqua, WI 54665
Contact: (608) 637-7615
Website: Visit Website

6) Lake Arrowhead – Pines Course

Lake Arrowhead – Pines Course is close to Nekoosa. The tall pine trees and tidy fairways make for a peaceful round.

This public course has holes for every skill level. Beginners and seasoned golfers will both find something to chew on here.

The setting is quiet, and the layout is clear and enjoyable. There’s a restaurant on the property and space for events like weddings or banquets.

Rating: 4.6 (463 reviews)
Location: 1195 Apache Ln, Nekoosa, WI 54457
Contact: (715) 325-2929
Website: Visit Website

7) Castle Rock Golf Course

Castle Rock Golf Course offers an 18-hole layout with water hazards, sand traps, and trees scattered throughout. You’ll get a mix of challenges on every hole, no matter your experience.

The rolling land makes it comfortable to walk or ride. If you want to warm up, there’s a driving range and two practice greens.

You can rent clubs, buy a membership, or just pay for a single round. They also offer golf lessons if you’re looking to improve.

After your round, the bar and grill is a nice place to unwind. They handle group outings and have banquet facilities too.

The pro shop stocks the basics in case you forget something.

Rating: 4.4 (171 reviews)
Location: W6285 Welch Prairie Rd, New Lisbon, WI 53950
Contact: (608) 847-4658
Website: Visit Website

8) Inshalla Country Club

Inshalla Country Club sits just outside Tomahawk. This family-owned public course opened in 1964 and, though it’s under new owners, it still feels local.

They keep upgrading the course and clubhouse every year. The Par 70 layout is fun for beginners and still tests experienced players.

You’ve got a driving range, putting and chipping greens, and a Pro Shop for gear. The clubhouse has a bar and grill—always good after a round.

There are banquet and wedding halls, plus private dining rooms for events. It’s more than just golf here.

Rating: 4.6 (75 reviews)
Location: N11060 Clear Lake Rd, Tomahawk, WI 54487
Contact: (715) 453-3130
Website: Visit Website

9) Quail Run Golf Links

Quail Run Golf Links sits just outside Richland Center, offering a public golf course that’s open to everyone. The area feels peaceful, and the open fairways make for a relaxing round.

There’s a bar and grill on site if you want to grab a meal or just hang out after playing. You can eat, have a drink, or just unwind with friends.

The property also includes an American restaurant and a bar, so you’ve got options for food and drinks. Call ahead for tee times or check their website if you want more info.

The staff keeps the grounds looking good, and you’ll usually find carts ready when you need them.

Rating: 4.4 (155 reviews)
Location: 25275 Co Hwy Y, Richland Center, WI 53581
Contact: (608) 647-3117
Website: Visit Website

10) Wild Ridge Golf & Event Center

Wild Ridge Golf & Event Center brings a links-style course with a championship layout. You get five sets of tees, so you can play over 7,000 yards for a challenge or go as short as 5,200 if you’re in the mood for something lighter.

The course has dramatic elevation changes and well-kept fairways. The views are honestly some of the best around.

You might spot deer, turkeys, or even eagles while you play. The clubhouse overlooks the back nine, and sunsets from there are worth sticking around for.

You don’t have to golf to enjoy the place—non-golfers are welcome to hang out and take in the scenery. Wild Ridge shares the property with Mill Run Golf Course, which works for all skill levels.

Both courses let you walk or ride, and you’re free to play at your own pace. The whole setting just feels calm, and the layout really encourages you to play your best.

Rating: 4.6 (327 reviews)
Location: 3647 Kane Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54703
Contact: (715) 834-1766
Website: Visit Website

Golf Course Amenities and Features

Public golf courses in Lincoln County come with a bunch of helpful features for all types of players. You’ll find dedicated practice spaces, food options, and easy equipment rentals for a smoother day out.

Practice Facilities

Most public courses here offer spots to warm up before you tee off. There’s usually a driving range, which is handy for getting your long game ready.

A lot of places also have a chipping area for short shots. You’ll almost always find a putting green too, so you can work on your accuracy.

Well-kept practice areas make a difference, whether you’re new or you’ve played for years. You can squeeze in a little practice before your round or hang out after to work on your swing.

Practice spots are open during regular hours, but it’s smart to check ahead. Some courses even have golf pros or instructors if you want a lesson or just a quick tip.

Give them a call or check their website to see what’s available.

Dining and Clubhouse Services

Several Lincoln County courses have on-site dining, from quick bites to sit-down meals. Some clubhouses serve up full meals or have a bar with course views.

You can usually order sandwiches, burgers, or something a bit fancier if you’re in the mood. Some spots also have banquet halls for group events, which is handy for outings or work gatherings.

The atmosphere tends to be laid-back, and you don’t need to dress up. These dining options make your day easier—grab breakfast before you play or relax with friends after.

Whether you just want a snack or a spot to celebrate, the clubhouses have you covered.

Cart and Equipment Rentals

You don’t have to bring all your own gear. Most public courses around here rent out golf carts, so getting around is easy.

You can pick between a riding cart or a pull cart, whatever suits you best. Rental equipment typically includes:

• Golf carts
• Pull carts
• Golf clubs
• Practice balls

Ask the clubhouse for current rental prices and what’s in stock. If you’re new to golf, club rentals are a simple way to try out the game.

Most pro shops also sell balls, tees, and gloves if you forget something. Booking a cart or rental clubs is usually straightforward—just do it when you book your tee time.

For more details on amenities and rentals, check out listings like Lincoln Park Golf Course, which breaks down all the cart and equipment services.

Planning Your Visit

Weather plays a big role in when you’ll want to golf in Lincoln County, Wisconsin. It’s also good to know what to wear and how to act on the course for the best experience.

Seasonal Considerations in Lincoln County

Golf season here starts as soon as the snow’s gone, usually late April or early May. Most courses close up again in October when it gets cold.

Summer’s the warmest and driest, so tee times fill up fast—try to book ahead if you can. Spring can be pretty rainy, and you might run into wet spots or temporary rules.

Layering your clothes helps, especially early or late in the day. If you play in the fall, you’ll catch some amazing autumn colors, but it cools off fast.

A lot of courses post opening and closing dates online. Merrill Golf Club also shares current course conditions and seasonal details, so planning ahead isn’t too tough.

Dress Codes and Course Etiquette

Most Lincoln County courses expect casual golf attire. A collared shirt and golf shoes or sneakers are usually fine.

Denim and tank tops? Not so much. In cooler months, you’ll see people in light jackets or sweaters.

You’re expected to follow course etiquette to keep things running smoothly. That means repairing ball marks, raking bunkers, and keeping up with the group ahead.

Golf cart rules are usually posted near the clubhouse or printed on your scorecard. Respect any course-specific rules, and try to keep noise down so everyone enjoys their round.

If you stick to these guidelines, your time on the course will be good for you and everyone else.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll find several highly rated public golf courses in Lincoln County and all over Wisconsin. Amenities, rankings, and even course history might shape your pick for your next round.

What are the top-rated public golf courses in Northern Wisconsin?

Northern Wisconsin has some scenic and challenging public courses. MoundView Golf Course in Merrill is one example, with well-kept greens and fairways.

Travelers seem to love the natural beauty around these spots.

How do I find a map showing the best public golf courses in Lincoln County?

If you want maps and listings of top public golf courses in Lincoln County, check the county’s official FAQ page. They’ve got local map resources and can point you to the nearest courses.

Which public golf courses in Wisconsin have been highly ranked by Golf Digest?

Some public courses in Wisconsin have scored high marks from Golf Digest. The Golf Courses of Lawsonia and The Club at Lac La Belle stand out for their design and playability.

Both get a lot of love for their conditions and unique layouts.

Can you name some of the public golf courses considered to be within the top 20 in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s got quite a few public courses that show up in top rankings. Merrill Public Golf Club, The Club at Lac La Belle, The Golf Courses of Lawsonia, and Viroqua Hills Golf Course all make the list.

For updated rankings, check out Golfers’ Choice 2024 for top public golf courses in Wisconsin.

Are there any public golf courses in Lincoln County that have hosted professional events?

Lincoln County is mostly known for community and recreational golf. MoundView Golf Course and Merrill Public Golf Club are popular locally, but they haven’t hosted big professional events.

These courses focus on welcoming everyone for casual play.

What amenities can one expect at the premier public golf courses in Lincoln County?

When you swing by top public golf courses like MoundView Golf Course or Merrill Public Golf Club, you’ll usually find well-maintained greens. There’s a clubhouse, equipment rentals, and sometimes even on-site dining if you get hungry after a round.

Most of these places also have practice facilities. The staff tend to be friendly and helpful, so golfers of any skill level can feel right at home.