Best Public Golf Courses in Waukesha County Wisconsin

Best Public Golf Courses in Waukesha County Wisconsin: Top Destinations for Golfers in 2025

Waukesha County offers some of the finest public golf courses in Wisconsin. With beautiful landscapes and well-maintained fairways, local golfers have plenty of excellent options to choose from. We’ve researched the top public courses to help you plan your next golfing adventure.

Waukesha County’s public golf courses provide fantastic value with options for every skill level from beginners to seasoned players. From the county-operated Moor Downs Golf Course to popular venues like Morningstar Golfers Club, each course offers its own unique challenges and scenic views. Let’s explore the best places to tee off in this golf-friendly region.

1) Ironwood Golf Course

Ironwood Golf Course in Sussex offers a unique golfing experience with three distinct 9-hole courses on natural rolling terrain. Each course presents different challenges that test various aspects of your game.

The Callow features heavily wooded holes that create a demanding stretch of play. The Meath caters to imaginative players with its short par 4 and dogleg par 5s, offering both safe options and riskier plays.

The Birr stands out as particularly intriguing with its blind shots, sloping fairways, and reachable par 5s. Water comes into play on seven of the nine holes, making strategic shot placement essential for success.

Weekend golfers will find the course manageable from the middle tees, while more competitive players can step back to the tips for a more challenging experience. The variety of terrain and hole designs makes Ironwood a standout option in Waukesha County.

Rating: 4.6 (404 reviews)
Location: W270N6166 Moraine Dr #3332, Sussex, WI 53089
Contact: (262) 538-9900
Website: Visit Website

2) The Club at Lac La Belle

The Club at Lac La Belle offers a perfect blend of history and modern design in Oconomowoc. Redesigned in 2018 by the Morse family, this public golf course honors its rich traditions while providing an updated experience for today’s golfers.

Golf Digest has recognized this course as the #6 Most Fun Golf Course in the United States. The publication praised its “startling, dramatic and fun greens” that stand out among courses nationwide. It also earned the title of Top New Wisconsin Golf Course for 2021.

The course welcomes the public to enjoy not only its challenging links but also its fine dining options and event spaces. Whether you’re planning a round of golf or a special event like a wedding, The Club at Lac La Belle aims to create an experience worth repeating.

We recommend visiting this historic venue for its exceptional greens and facilities that balance tradition with innovation. The Morse family’s dedication to preserving the course’s heritage while enhancing its features makes it a standout destination in Waukesha County.

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

3) Evergreen Golf Club

Located near Lake Geneva, Evergreen Golf Club offers excellent golfing value with 27 championship holes. The course attracts both serious golfers and casual players with its well-maintained fairways and challenging layout.

The club features more than just golf. Their restaurant called “The BUNKER” serves meals daily, with breakfast options on weekends. Their famous 75¢ wings with eight sauce options make it a great spot to watch games.

Evergreen Golf Club doubles as an event venue, hosting weddings and banquets with country club service. They accommodate both indoor and outdoor celebrations at reasonable prices.

We appreciate that Evergreen remains accessible as a public course while maintaining the amenities typically found at private clubs. Their combination of quality golf, dining options, and event capabilities makes it stand out in the Lake Geneva area.

Rating: 4.3 (496 reviews)
Location: N6246 US-12, Elkhorn, WI 53121
Contact: (262) 741-6200
Website: Visit Website

4) Ives Grove Golf Course

Ives Grove Golf Course offers an exceptional golfing experience just 30 minutes south of Milwaukee. This premium links-style course features 27 holes of challenging play across beautifully maintained grounds.

The course’s design includes 110 bunkers, natural areas, and rolling greens that test golfers of all skill levels. We found the layout provides a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, making it suitable for both casual players and serious golfers.

Ives Grove goes beyond just the course with its comprehensive facilities. The year-round practice facility, Range Time LLC, gives golfers a place to work on their game regardless of season. Their fully stocked pro shop and knowledgeable staff ensure you have everything needed for a great round.

When planning your visit, we recommend booking tee times in advance as this popular course can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.

Rating: 4.6 (268 reviews)
Location: 14101 Washington Ave, Sturtevant, WI 53177
Contact: (262) 878-3714
Website: Visit Website

5) New Berlin Hills Golf Course

New Berlin Hills Golf Course has been a staple in the Milwaukee area since 1907. This historic public course continues to attract golfers from across the region with its challenging play and exceptional maintenance.

The course is best known for its fast, challenging greens that test even experienced players. Well-manicured fairways and high-quality customer service make this a standout option for golfers of all skill levels.

The impressive 5,000 square-foot clubhouse offers panoramic views of the picturesque course. It’s an ideal spot to relax after your round and take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds the property.

New Berlin Hills has hosted several state tournaments and has served as a qualifying course for the PGA Tour’s Greater Milwaukee Open. This prestigious history speaks to the quality and challenge the course provides to golfers.

Rating: 4.3 (390 reviews)
Location: 13175 W Graham St, New Berlin, WI 53151
Contact: (262) 780-5200
Website: Visit Website

6) Songbird Hills Golf Club

Songbird Hills Golf Club in Hartland is a well-maintained public golf course that offers a pleasant experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course layout provides enough challenge to keep experienced players engaged while remaining accessible to beginners.

We found that Songbird Hills takes pride in their course conditions, with regular maintenance like seasonal green aerating to ensure quality play throughout the year. Their commitment to course care is evident in the positive feedback from regular players.

The club hosts several events throughout the year, including their Spring Fling and Spring Scramble tournaments. They also offer various leagues for both men and women, making it easy to find regular playing opportunities.

Songbird Hills provides affordable membership options with special deals for early sign-ups. Their clubhouse offers food and beverage services, and they can accommodate golf outings for corporate events, fundraisers, and family gatherings.

Rating: 4.4 (299 reviews)
Location: W259N8700 WI-164, Hartland, WI 53029
Contact: (262) 246-7050
Website: Visit Website

7) Kettle Hills Golf Course

Kettle Hills Golf Course in Richfield offers golfers a family-owned experience with deep local roots. Founded by Don Zimmermann, a carpenter by trade, and his wife Ruby, this course showcases Don’s passion for craftsmanship throughout the property.

The clubhouse features Don’s rustic woodworking, with lumber sawed on his own mills. This personal touch gives Kettle Hills a unique, warm atmosphere that sets it apart from more corporate venues in the area.

The Zimmermann family tradition continues today with Don and Ruby’s sons, Brian and Dwight, at the helm since 2013. We appreciate how this family operation maintains high standards while preserving the friendly, welcoming environment that makes Kettle Hills special.

The course provides several layout options for players of different skill levels. Its well-maintained grounds and reasonable rates make it a solid choice for public golf in Waukesha County.

Rating: 4.4 (184 reviews)
Location: 3375 WI-167, Richfield, WI 53076
Contact: (262) 628-0200
Website: Visit Website

8) Kettle Moraine Golf Club

Kettle Moraine Golf Club has been serving golf enthusiasts in the Milwaukee area for over 55 years. The 6,406-yard course offers a perfect mix of scenic woodlands and peaceful wetlands that appeal to players of all skill levels.

The course is meticulously maintained and provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Players appreciate the thoughtful design that makes each hole interesting without being overly difficult for casual golfers.

Beyond the greens, Kettle Moraine offers excellent amenities including a driving range, practice green, and expert golf instruction for those looking to improve their game. The fully-stocked golf shop provides everything you need for a day on the course.

The club also features a spacious banquet hall, bar, and outdoor pavilion, making it a popular venue for events and gatherings. These facilities complement the golfing experience and make Kettle Moraine a complete destination for both golf and social activities.

Rating: 4.1 (302 reviews)
Location: W365 S4299, Hwy 67, Dousman, WI 53118
Contact: (262) 965-6200
Website: Visit Website

9) Fire Ridge Golf Club – Pro shop

Fire Ridge Golf Club offers a public golf experience with private club quality. The course features bent grass greens, tees, and fairways that maintain excellent playing conditions throughout the season. Since opening in 1995, it has received numerous awards including a 4-star rating from Golf Digest.

Located on 208 acres of quiet wilderness near the Kohler Golf Region, Fire Ridge presents a challenging layout with 70 bunkers and water hazards on 11 holes. The course provides four sets of tees to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, stretching to 7,016 yards from the championship tees.

The club offers several amenities including private lessons for those looking to improve their game. Members enjoy unlimited rounds throughout the season, shower and locker facilities, and the convenience of online booking. The club operates as cashless facility as of 2025.

We appreciate the course’s accessibility from Milwaukee via Highway 43, making it a convenient option for golfers looking for a premium experience without private club membership fees.

Rating: 4 (165 reviews)
Location: 2241 County Hwy W, Grafton, WI 53024
Contact: (262) 375-2252
Website: Visit Website

10) Naga-Waukee War Memorial Golf Course

Naga-Waukee War Memorial Golf Course offers one of the most scenic golfing experiences in Waukesha County. Located in Pewaukee, this public course features rolling hills and spectacular views that change with each season. The layout makes excellent use of the natural terrain.

The course presents a good challenge for golfers of all skill levels. With well-maintained fairways and greens, players can expect a quality experience every time. The varied elevation throughout the course adds both beauty and complexity to your round.

We particularly appreciate the value this municipal course offers compared to many private options in the area. The facilities include a driving range and practice area where golfers can warm up before their round. The clubhouse provides essential amenities and friendly service.

The course’s name honors war veterans, giving it a special significance beyond just recreation. Its location near Pewaukee Lake makes it a popular choice during the summer months, so we recommend booking tee times in advance.

Rating: 4.5 (253 reviews)
Location: W307N1897 Maple Ave, Pewaukee, WI 53072
Contact: (262) 367-2153

History of Golf in Waukesha County

Golf has been an integral part of Waukesha County’s recreational landscape for decades, with courses that have evolved from modest beginnings to become beloved community treasures.

Early Beginnings

Golf in Waukesha County dates back to the early 20th century when the first courses began to appear. These early courses were often simple layouts with minimal amenities. Moor Downs Golf Course stands as one of the county’s historic gems, opening during a time when golf was becoming more accessible to the general public.

The sport initially attracted wealthy residents, but gradually expanded its appeal to middle-class families throughout the county. Early clubs often started as private ventures before many transitioned to public ownership.

Weather and terrain challenges shaped these early courses. The rolling hills and glacial features of Waukesha County provided natural obstacles that made course design both challenging and distinctive.

Development Over the Decades

The 1960s marked a significant expansion period for golf in Waukesha County. Naga-Waukee Golf Course opened in 1966 as part of the county park system and quickly became one of the most popular public courses in the area.

The county government played a key role in golf’s growth by developing and maintaining several public courses. This commitment to public golf made the sport more accessible to residents across economic backgrounds.

Wanaki Golf Course in Menomonee Falls demonstrates the community’s dedication to preserving golf heritage. When threatened with closure, local golfers rallied to save it, resulting in its sale to the Storm family.

Modern courses like Morningstar Golfers Club and ThunderHawk Golf Club have added to the county’s reputation as a golf destination with their improved amenities and challenging layouts.

Landscape and Design Features

Waukesha County’s public golf courses showcase remarkable diversity in their terrain and design philosophies. The natural Wisconsin landscape blends with thoughtful architectural elements to create memorable playing experiences.

Natural Scenery

Waukesha County’s golf courses take full advantage of Wisconsin’s varied terrain. Morningstar Golfers Club features rolling hills and mature trees that create natural framing for many holes. The changing elevations add strategic challenges while providing scenic views.

Water features are prominent in several courses. Western Lakes Golf Club incorporates numerous ponds that serve both as hazards and visual focal points. These water elements attract local wildlife, enhancing the natural experience.

The seasonal changes in Wisconsin make these courses dynamic. Spring brings vibrant green fairways, while fall transforms the landscape with stunning foliage. Many courses like The Preserve at Silver Spring maintain natural areas where native plants thrive.

Architectural Influence

Course architects have shaped Waukesha’s public golf landscape with varied design philosophies. Moor Downs Golf Course offers a classic design with straightforward holes and traditional hazard placement, appealing to golfers who appreciate strategic simplicity.

In contrast, modern design elements are evident at courses like Naga-Waukee, where designers have created risk-reward scenarios that challenge players to make thoughtful decisions.

Bunker styles vary across the county’s courses. Some feature deep, Scottish-inspired pot bunkers, while others employ more sprawling waste areas. Green complexes also showcase different architectural approaches:

• Multi-tiered greens requiring precise approach shots
• Undulating surfaces with subtle breaks
• Strategic pin placement options for course management

We’ve observed that many Waukesha courses balance playability with challenge, making them accessible to various skill levels while still offering enough complexity to engage experienced players.

Frequently Asked Questions

Playing golf in Waukesha County offers many options for public course enthusiasts. Below are answers to common questions about the area’s top golfing destinations.

What are the top-rated public golf courses in Waukesha County?

Based on golfer reviews and course conditions, Moor Downs Golf Course and The Club at Lac La Belle consistently rank among the highest-rated public courses in Waukesha County. Ironwood Golf Course also receives excellent feedback for its challenging layout and well-maintained fairways.

New Berlin Hills Golf Course has built a strong reputation for its accessibility and value, making it popular with locals and visitors alike.

Which public golf courses in Waukesha County have the best greens?

The Club at Lac La Belle is known for having exceptionally well-maintained greens that roll true throughout the season. Evergreen Golf Club also prides itself on green quality, with consistent speeds and conditions that golfers appreciate.

Morningstar Golfers Club receives praise for its putting surfaces, which are kept in tournament-ready condition most of the year.

Are there any championship-level public golf courses in Waukesha County?

Yes, The Club at Lac La Belle has hosted several professional and amateur championships over the years. Its challenging layout and conditioning meet high standards for competitive play.

While not in Waukesha County proper, nearby Erin Hills has hosted the U.S. Open and represents championship golf in the greater area.

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

Top courses like Ironwood and The Club at Lac La Belle offer full-service clubhouses with restaurants, pro shops, and locker rooms. Many provide practice facilities including driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas.

Some courses offer golf cart GPS systems, on-course beverage service, and tournament hosting capabilities. The better facilities also provide lesson programs with PGA professionals.

How does Ironwood Golf Course rank among public courses in Waukesha County?

Ironwood Golf Course ranks among the top five public courses in Waukesha County. It’s particularly noted for its interesting layout that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

The course features well-placed bunkers, strategic water hazards, and tree-lined fairways. Many golfers appreciate Ironwood’s balance of difficulty and playability.

What are the running rates for tee times at Waukesha County’s public golf courses?

Weekday rates at public courses in Waukesha County typically range from $30-$65 for 18 holes with a cart. Weekend and holiday rates increase to $40-$80 depending on the course and time of day.

Moor Downs Golf Course offers some of the more affordable options, while premium experiences like The Club at Lac La Belle command higher fees. Many courses offer twilight rates, senior discounts, and season passes for regular players.