Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Rock County, Wisconsin: Best Greens to Play in 2025

Rock County, Wisconsin offers golfers some excellent public courses that combine challenging play with beautiful scenery. We’ve researched the top-rated options so you can plan your next round with confidence. Glen Erin Golf Club in Janesville stands out as one of the best public golf courses in the area, featuring unique rolling terrain and a prominent vale running through the property.

Wisconsin is known for its outstanding golf opportunities, and Rock County doesn’t disappoint. From the nationally recognized Riverside Golf Course (ranked #6 Friendliest Public Course by NBC GolfPass) to other local favorites like Krueger Haskell Golf Course, there are options for every skill level and budget. We’ll explore what makes these courses special and why they deserve a spot on your must-play list.

1) Glen Erin Golf Club

Glen Erin Golf Club stands out as a premier golfing destination in Janesville, Wisconsin. This public course offers a country club experience without the exclusive membership requirements.

The challenging course layout features beautiful vistas that showcase the natural landscape of Rock County. Their dedicated grounds crew maintains the course in excellent condition year-round for an optimal playing experience.

What makes Glen Erin special is its impressive range of amenities. Beyond golf, the facility includes a driving range and The Celtic House, which spans nearly 12,000 square feet and serves as one of the largest event venues in south Central Wisconsin.

The Cursing Stone Pub adds to the club’s appeal, known especially for its Friday Fish Fry during winter months. Golf outings are popular here, but advance booking is recommended as prime dates fill quickly.

Rating: 4.6 (307 reviews)
Location: 1417 W Airport Rd, Janesville, WI 53546
Contact: (608) 741-1100
Website: Visit Website

2) Hawk’s View Golf Club

Hawk’s View Golf Club in Lake Geneva offers two distinct golfing experiences. Como Crossings, their championship course, provides a challenging round for experienced golfers. For those seeking a quicker game, Barn Hollow offers an 18-hole par 3 course that’s perfect for beginners or players looking to improve their short game.

The club features more than just great golf. Tail Feathers Bar & Grill serves up delicious meals, with their Friday Night Fish Fry being particularly popular among locals and visitors alike. After your round, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends.

Hawk’s View also serves as a wedding venue with in-house catering services. The beautiful setting makes it a premier destination for celebrations in the Lake Geneva area. Whether you’re planning a golf outing or a special event, their facilities can accommodate your needs.

The scenic location provides stunning views throughout the property, living up to the “Hawk’s View” name. We recommend booking tee times in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these well-maintained courses.

Rating: 4.6 (667 reviews)
Location: 7377 Krueger Rd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Contact: (262) 348-9900
Website: Visit Website

3) Bass Creek Golf Club

Located in the scenic countryside near Janesville, Bass Creek Golf Club offers a delightful 9-hole golfing experience. This par 36 public course stretches 3,188 yards and presents golfers with a variety of challenges including bunkers, water hazards, and significant elevation changes.

The course is nestled among picturesque woodlands, creating a peaceful setting for your round. We particularly appreciate the well-maintained grounds and thoughtful layout that makes it enjoyable for golfers of different skill levels.

Bass Creek offers excellent amenities including a covered driving range, practice green, and paved cart paths. After your round, you can relax at their bar and grill, which features a popular Friday Fish Fry starting at 4:30pm.

The club also provides season memberships, a full-service golf shop, and a banquet room that doubles as a wedding venue. With convenient operating hours from 7:00am to 9:00pm daily, Bass Creek accommodates both early birds and those who prefer evening tee times.

Rating: 4.6 (318 reviews)
Location: 1303 S Murphy Rd, Janesville, WI 53548
Contact: (608) 876-6631
Website: Visit Website

4) Evergreen Golf Club

Evergreen Golf Club stands out as one of the top golfing destinations in the area. Located in Elkhorn, this 27-hole championship golf course offers excellent value for players of all skill levels. The layout provides varied challenges across its three distinct nine-hole courses.

The club features more than just great golf. The BUNKER restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, with breakfast available on weekends. Their popular 75¢ wing special during games lets visitors sample eight different sauces while watching sports.

Evergreen Golf Club also serves as a versatile event venue. They host weddings with elegant Country Club service in both indoor and outdoor settings. Their banquet facilities accommodate celebrations, fundraising events, business receptions, and meetings.

We appreciate that Evergreen combines quality golf with excellent amenities at reasonable prices. The well-maintained grounds and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for both serious golfers and casual players.

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

5) Door Creek Golf Course

Just minutes from Madison’s east side, Door Creek Golf Course stands out as an award-winning public golf destination in Cottage Grove. The course has earned recognition as “Best of Madison” and “Best of Cottage Grove” multiple times, making it a trusted choice for golfers of all skill levels.

Door Creek strikes an ideal balance for different types of players. Casual golfers appreciate the peaceful, beautiful setting, while more experienced players enjoy the consistently fun challenge. The course layout provides enough variety to keep rounds interesting without being overly punishing.

We find Door Creek particularly welcoming to newcomers while still offering enough complexity to satisfy seasoned golfers. The course conditions are well-maintained, and the atmosphere remains relaxed and inviting throughout the season.

The full-service facilities include a driving range for practice sessions, professional instruction, and a bar and grill to unwind after your round. Their banquet hall also makes it a great venue for events when you’re not focusing on improving your golf game.

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

6) The Club at Lac La Belle

The Club at Lac La Belle stands as one of Wisconsin’s premier golfing destinations. Located in Oconomowoc, this historic course underwent a complete redesign in 2018 under the Morse family’s ownership. The renovation successfully preserved the rich traditions of the past while modernizing the facilities for today’s golfers.

Golf Digest recently ranked it as the #6 Most Fun Golf Course in the United States. The publication specifically praised its “startling, dramatic and fun greens” that stand out among courses nationwide. The Club also earned the distinction of being named The Top New Wisconsin Golf Course for 2021 by Golf Digest.

While technically a public course open to all, The Club at Lac La Belle offers amenities typically found at private establishments. Visitors can enjoy not only exceptional golf but also fine dining and beautiful event spaces including wedding facilities. The Morse family has created a destination worth experiencing repeatedly.

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

7) University Ridge Golf Course

University Ridge Golf Course stands as one of the premier golfing destinations in Wisconsin. Located in Verona, this public course opened in 1991 and serves as the home course for the University of Wisconsin Badgers golf teams.

The meticulously maintained course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its varied terrain and thoughtful design, University Ridge provides a true test of golfing ability while showcasing the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s landscape.

University Ridge hosts the American Family Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event that brings professional golfers to the course each summer. This prestigious tournament has helped put the course on the map as a top destination for golf enthusiasts.

Beyond golf, University Ridge offers excellent practice facilities, professional instruction, and a pro shop for all your golfing needs. The W Grill provides refreshments after your round, making it a complete golfing experience.

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

8) Coachman’s Golf Resort Edgerton WI

Coachman’s Golf Resort offers a spectacular 27-hole regulation course nestled in the beautiful countryside of Southern Wisconsin. Recently opened for the 2025 season on March 13th, this public golf course features a gently rolling landscape surrounded by majestic oaks and willows.

The course design strikes an excellent balance between challenge and accessibility. Experienced golfers will appreciate the strategic water hazards and tough roughs that test their skills. At the same time, beginners can enjoy the course without feeling overwhelmed.

Located just southeast of Madison, Coachman’s provides more than just golfing. The property includes a motel, resort accommodations, and a full-service restaurant that opened for the season on March 14th. This makes it an ideal destination for both day trips and weekend getaways.

We appreciate that Coachman’s was designed with versatility in mind. The course layout respects the natural terrain while offering enough variety to keep golfers coming back to improve their game and explore all 27 holes.

Rating: 4.3 (535 reviews)
Location: 984 County Hwy A, Edgerton, WI 53534
Contact: (608) 884-8484
Website: Visit Website

9) Destination Geneva National

Destination Geneva National offers a premier golf experience in Lake Geneva with not one, but three championship courses designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino. Each course provides unique challenges set against the beautiful backdrop of wooded slopes and Lake Como shores.

The resort goes beyond just golf with three distinctive lodging options to suit different preferences. Guests can choose from the Lodge, Suites, or Cottages, with the latter being ideal for larger groups seeking both privacy and togetherness.

After a day on the greens, visitors can enjoy six onsite dining venues, including the award-winning Hunt Club Steakhouse and Crafted Italia. The resort also features two saltwater pools for relaxation and various recreational activities like kayaking on the lake.

For golfers looking to improve their game, Destination Geneva National offers junior golf programs dedicated to developing young players, along with Stay & Play packages that combine golf with deluxe accommodations.

Rating: 4.7 (1031 reviews)
Location: 1221 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Contact: (262) 245-7000
Website: Visit Website

10) The Oaks Golf Course

The Oaks Golf Course offers an exceptional golfing experience for players of all skill levels. This family-owned and operated facility features a welcoming public course that ranges from 5,615 to 6,763 yards. Its convenient location east of Madison along I-94 makes it easily accessible for golfers throughout the region.

Designed by acclaimed architect Greg Martin, the course strikes a perfect balance between challenge and playability. Martin’s philosophy focuses on creating fair rounds while showcasing the natural beauty of the Wisconsin landscape. The result is a course that both beginners and experienced golfers can enjoy.

One unique feature of The Oaks is their weather guarantee. If players need to cut their round short before completing the 18th hole due to weather conditions, the course offers a full refund of greens fees as a rain check. This shows their commitment to customer satisfaction and providing value to every golfer.

The facility offers more than just golf, with amenities including a bar and grill, event venue options, and even electric vehicle charging stations. Whether you’re planning a casual round, golf outing, or considering it as a wedding venue, The Oaks delivers a complete experience.

Rating: 4.5 (207 reviews)
Location: 4740 Pierceville Rd, Cottage Grove, WI 53527
Contact: (608) 837-4774
Website: Visit Website

Golf Course Features

Rock County’s public golf courses offer distinctive features that appeal to players of all skill levels. The region boasts impressive landscapes and varying difficulty levels that create memorable golfing experiences.

Scenic Views and Layouts

Rock County golf courses showcase Wisconsin’s natural beauty with stunning vistas and thoughtful designs. Glen Erin Golf Club features an Irish-inspired layout with rolling hills and beautiful panoramic views that make each round visually rewarding.

The landscape varies significantly across the county’s courses. Some properties offer wooded sections with mature trees framing fairways, while others incorporate natural water features into their design.

Many courses take advantage of Rock County’s natural terrain. Krueger Haskell Golf Course utilizes elevation changes to create challenging and interesting holes. These elevation shifts not only add difficulty but also provide golfers with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Seasonal changes enhance the visual appeal. Spring brings vibrant greenery, summer offers lush playing conditions, and fall transforms courses with colorful foliage.

Course Difficulty Levels

Rock County offers golf challenges suitable for beginners through advanced players. The difficulty varies significantly from course to course, with some providing multiple tee options to accommodate different skill levels.

PrairieView Golf Club presents a moderate challenge with strategically placed hazards that reward thoughtful play. Water hazards and well-positioned bunkers create risk-reward decisions throughout many of the county’s courses.

For experienced golfers seeking a test, several courses feature:

• Narrow fairways requiring precision driving
• Challenging green complexes with subtle breaks
• Strategic bunkering that penalizes wayward shots
• Length that demands strong ball-striking

Beginner-friendly courses typically offer wider fairways, fewer forced carries, and more forgiving rough. Deer Valley Golf Course provides an approachable layout while still maintaining interest for more skilled players.

Community and Events

Rock County’s golf courses foster a vibrant community through tournaments and social activities. These events bring together golfers of all skill levels while creating opportunities for friendly competition and networking.

Local Tournaments

Rock County hosts several noteworthy tournaments throughout the golf season. Glen Erin Golf Club in Janesville organizes monthly member tournaments that are open to the public with varying formats including scrambles, best ball, and individual stroke play.

The annual Rock County Amateur Championship rotates between courses, drawing competitive golfers from across the region. This two-day event typically occurs in mid-July and features both scratch and handicap divisions.

Riverside Golf Course holds the popular “Twilight League” every Tuesday evening from May through September. Teams of two compete in a season-long points race, culminating in a championship event.

Many courses also offer senior tournaments, women’s events, and junior competitions to ensure all demographics can participate in competitive play.

Golfing Community Activities

Beyond tournaments, Rock County’s golf community stays connected through various activities year-round. Krueger Haskell Golf Course hosts weekly “Nine and Dine” events where golfers play nine holes followed by a social dinner at the clubhouse.

Golf clinics are regularly scheduled at most public courses, offering instruction for beginners and advanced players alike. These sessions provide affordable access to professional coaching.

During winter months, indoor simulators at Riley’s On the Green keep the community engaged with virtual leagues and practice opportunities.

Many courses partner with local charities for fundraising events. These scramble-format tournaments raise money for community causes while providing a fun, low-pressure competitive environment.

We’ve also noted growing participation in golf social media groups where members share course conditions, arrange meetups, and discuss local golf news.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golf enthusiasts in Wisconsin have many excellent public courses to choose from. Rock County offers several standout options, while the broader Wisconsin region features award-winning courses for players of all skill levels.

What are the top-rated public golf courses in Rock County, Wisconsin according to Golf Digest?

According to Golf Digest ratings, Riverside Golf Course in Janesville has consistently earned 3+ stars on a 4-star scale. In 1998, it ranked 47th on Golf Digest’s “Top 100” list.

Glen Erin Golf Club is another highly-rated option in Rock County that offers a challenging course with great vistas. It’s a public daily fee course with amenities comparable to private country clubs.

Which public golf courses in Wisconsin offer the best value for visitors?

In Rock County, Bass Creek Golf Club and Evergreen Golf Club provide excellent value with reasonable greens fees and well-maintained courses. These courses offer enjoyable play without the premium prices of destination courses.

Door Creek Golf Course is another value option with good course conditions and affordable rates. We recommend checking their websites for seasonal specials and weekday discounts.

Can you list the top 20 public golf courses in Wisconsin for avid golfers?

While a complete top 20 isn’t available in our search results, several standouts include University Ridge in Madison, Sand Valley, and Mammoth Dunes. These courses are highly recommended by golf enthusiasts.

The Club at Lac La Belle and St. Croix National Golf Course also rank among Wisconsin’s best public courses based on GolfPass Golfers’ Choice 2024.

Glen Erin in Janesville and Hawk’s View Golf Club also deserve spots on any list of Wisconsin’s top public courses.

What are the best public golf courses in Wisconsin for beginners?

For beginners in Rock County, we recommend Krueger Haskell Golf Course, which has received positive reviews on Yelp. This course offers a more forgiving layout for those still developing their skills.

Evergreen Golf Club also provides a friendlier experience for novice golfers with wider fairways and fewer hazards. Door Creek Golf Course offers good practice facilities and a layout that won’t overwhelm beginners.

Are there any award-winning public golf courses in Northern Wisconsin?

Northern Wisconsin boasts several award-winning public courses, though our search results don’t specifically highlight them. St. Croix National Golf Course in the northern region has received recognition for its quality and design.

Viroqua Hills Golf Course is another northern option that appears on GolfPass’s top Wisconsin courses list.

Where can I find a map of the best-rated public golf courses in Wisconsin?

We recommend visiting the Wisconsin Golf Association website for comprehensive maps and listings of public courses throughout the state. Many travel websites like GolfPass also offer interactive maps.

Local tourism offices in Rock County can provide detailed information about courses in the area. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism website features golf trail maps that highlight clusters of quality public courses in different regions.