Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Walworth County Wisconsin: Where to Play in 2025

Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Walworth County Wi

Walworth County, Wisconsin offers some of the best public golf courses in the Midwest. From Lake Geneva to Elkhorn, golfers can find beautiful fairways, challenging holes, and stunning landscapes that make for memorable rounds. We’ve researched the top-rated options to help you plan your next golfing adventure.

Walworth County’s public golf courses range from affordable municipal options to upscale resort courses that have earned recognition as the area’s finest. Local favorites include the prestigious Hawk’s View Golf Club in Lake Geneva, which has been voted “Best Golf Course” in the Geneva Lakes Area for five consecutive years. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, you’ll find courses that match your skill level and budget throughout the county.

1) Hawk’s View Golf Club

Hawk’s View Golf Club in Lake Geneva offers two distinct golfing experiences for players of all skill levels. The main attraction is Como Crossings, a championship course that challenges serious golfers with varied terrain and strategic layouts.

For those seeking a more relaxed round, Barn Hollow provides an 18-hole par 3 experience that’s perfect for casual players or those looking to improve their short game. Both courses are well-maintained and showcase the natural beauty of the Lake Geneva area.

Beyond golf, Hawk’s View has established itself as a premier wedding venue in Walworth County. Their on-site facilities include banquet halls with in-house catering options, making it a one-stop destination for special events.

Visitors shouldn’t miss the popular Friday Night Fish Fry at Tail Feathers Bar & Grill. The restaurant serves American cuisine in a relaxed setting, providing the perfect end to a day on the links.

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

2) Evergreen Golf Club

Evergreen Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience as one of the Lake Geneva area’s best golf values. With 27 holes of championship golf, players can enjoy varied layouts and challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

The club features amenities beyond just golf. The on-site restaurant called “The BUNKER” serves breakfast on weekends and lunch and dinner daily. Their popular 75¢ wings come in eight different sauce options and make for a perfect post-round meal.

Evergreen Golf Club serves as more than just a golf destination. The facility doubles as an elegant wedding venue with both indoor and outdoor options. They also host various events including celebrations, fundraisers, business receptions, and meetings.

We appreciate that Evergreen combines quality golf with comprehensive amenities at reasonable prices, making it a standout choice in Walworth County.

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

3) The Club at Lac La Belle

The Club at Lac La Belle stands as a premier golfing destination in Wisconsin. Owned by the Morse family, this historic course underwent a complete redesign in 2018 that beautifully balances tradition with modern innovation.

Golf Digest has recognized this exceptional course as the #6 Most Fun Golf Course in the United States. The publication specifically praised its “startling, dramatic and fun greens” that create a memorable playing experience. The Club also earned the distinction of Top New Wisconsin Golf Course for 2021.

Though located in Oconomowoc rather than Walworth County, we include it for its exceptional quality and accessibility. The Club operates as a public course, welcoming all golf enthusiasts to experience its challenging layout and scenic views.

Beyond golf, visitors can enjoy fine dining in the clubhouse and take advantage of beautiful event spaces for special occasions. The Club at Lac La Belle delivers a complete experience that invites repeated visits.

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

4) Western Lakes Golf Club & Event Venue

Western Lakes Golf Club is a standout 18-hole championship golf course located in Pewaukee’s picturesque Lake Country area. The course offers convenient access just minutes from I-94, making it easily accessible for golfers throughout the region.

Golfers will appreciate the comprehensive facilities available at Western Lakes. The club features a full-service golf shop with an on-site professional, practice range, and dedicated bunker and green areas for improving your short game. Equipment rentals, including golf carts and clubs, are also available for visitors.

Beyond golf, Western Lakes doubles as an impressive event venue. Their recently renovated banquet hall provides stunning panoramic views of the manicured course. The versatile space hosts weddings, corporate gatherings, holiday parties, and other special events throughout the year.

Rating: 4.4 (454 reviews)
Location: W287 N1963, Oakton Rd, Pewaukee, WI 53072
Contact: (262) 691-0900
Website: Visit Website

5) Abbey Springs

Abbey Springs offers a premier golfing experience in the heart of Fontana. Established in 1971, this meticulously maintained course provides both challenges and enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.

The course features stunning views of Lake Geneva, creating a picturesque backdrop for your round. Recently renovated, Abbey Springs caters to casual players and serious enthusiasts alike.

Beyond golf, this country club boasts exceptional tennis facilities and serves as a popular wedding venue with panoramic lake views. The property also offers fine dining and various recreational activities for visitors.

Abbey Springs stands out as a versatile destination in Walworth County, combining natural beauty with top-notch amenities. Their dedicated staff ensures a memorable experience whether you’re playing a round or hosting an event.

Rating: 4.6 (158 reviews)
Location: One Country Club Dr, Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, WI 53125
Contact: (262) 275-6113
Website: Visit Website

6) Destination Geneva National

Destination Geneva National stands out as a premier golf resort in Walworth County. This upscale destination features three championship golf courses designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino, offering 54 holes of exceptional golf experiences.

The resort is nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Como, providing stunning views and a serene atmosphere for golfers. Beyond the greens, visitors can enjoy six onsite restaurants, including the award-winning Hunt Club Steakhouse and Crafted Italia.

For those looking to extend their stay, Destination Geneva National offers three distinct lodging options: the Cottages, Suites, and Lodge. Additional amenities include two saltwater pools, lake kayaking, and an outdoor putting course called the Dance Floor.

We recommend this destination for both serious golfers and those seeking a complete resort experience. The property combines world-class golf with luxury accommodations and dining in one convenient location.

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

7) Glen Erin Golf Club

Glen Erin Golf Club stands out as one of the premier public golf destinations in the area. Located in Janesville, this course offers a challenging layout with beautiful vistas that keep golfers coming back.

While it operates as a public daily fee course, Glen Erin provides a country club experience with its impressive amenities and dedicated staff. The well-maintained fairways and greens offer an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

Beyond golf, Glen Erin features The Celtic House, an impressive event venue spanning nearly 12,000 square feet. It’s one of the largest private event facilities in south Central Wisconsin, making it popular for weddings and special occasions.

Food enthusiasts will appreciate the Cursing Stone Pub, known especially for its Friday Fish Fry. The pub adds another dimension to the overall Glen Erin experience, providing a perfect spot to relax after a round.

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

8) The Highlands Golf Course at Grand Geneva

The Highlands Golf Course stands as one of the premier golfing destinations in Walworth County. This Scottish-inspired, links-style course features scenic hills, trickling creeks, and lush foliage that create a challenging yet beautiful experience for golfers.

Originally designed by legendary golf architects Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, The Highlands underwent transformation in 1996 by Bob Cupp. The course offers four sets of tees, making it accessible and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

The Highlands is part of the Grand Geneva Resort, which boasts 36 holes of championship golf when combined with its sister course, The Brute. The resort’s Golf Shop has received national recognition as one of the top 100 resort golf shops and won the Wisconsin PGA award for “Merchandiser of the Year.”

A new practice facility is scheduled to open in June 2025, featuring multiple putting, chipping, pitching, and bunker practice greens. Located on the resort’s former airport, this facility will also offer target greens with distances ranging from 50 to 360 yards.

Rating: 4.7 (159 reviews)
Location: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Contact: (262) 248-2556
Website: Visit Website

9) 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 many consider the most demanding stretch of the course. For golfers who enjoy using their imagination, The Meath provides short par 4s and dogleg par 5s with both safe options and riskier plays.

The Birr might be the most interesting of the three courses. It features numerous blind shots, sloping fairways, and reachable par 5s. Water comes into play on seven of the nine holes, making accurate shot placement crucial.

Weekend golfers will find the middle tees manageable, while more competitive players can step back to the tips for a more challenging experience. The course layout offers both accessibility for casual players and enough risk-reward scenarios to keep experienced golfers engaged.

Rating: 4.6 (403 reviews)
Location: W270N6166 Moraine Dr #3332, Sussex, WI 53089
Contact: (262) 538-9900
Website: Visit Website

10) Twin Lakes Country Club

Twin Lakes Country Club offers a traditional 18-hole parkland layout designed for golfers of all skill levels. The course provides a unique golf experience on historic grounds that blend challenge and playability.

The clubhouse features a century-old Red Barn that has been converted into a lounge and restaurant. Diners can enjoy full menu options and rotating specials while taking in beautiful views of the course from the patio.

Beyond golf, Twin Lakes serves as a versatile event venue. They host weddings in their Flower Garden Ceremony area and Fairway Pavilion, plus accommodate special events, golf outings, celebrations of life, and other gatherings.

The course is open from 8am until dusk, while the restaurant operates Thursday through Sunday evenings, with a Sunday brunch option for those looking to round out their weekend golf experience.

Rating: 4.4 (294 reviews)
Location: 1230 Legion Dr, Twin Lakes, WI 53181
Contact: (262) 877-2500
Website: Visit Website

History of Golf in Walworth County

Walworth County’s golfing legacy spans over a century, with some courses dating back to the early 1900s. The region’s natural beauty and rolling terrain have made it an ideal location for golf course development throughout the decades.

Early Developments and Influences

Golf in Walworth County began taking shape in the early 20th century. One of the oldest courses, Delbrook Golf Club in Delavan, was established in 1928 and continues to operate today. This 27-hole facility represents one of Wisconsin’s earliest golf venues.

Even earlier was what is now known as Majestic Oaks at Lake Lawn Resort, which dates back to 1921. These pioneering courses helped establish the county’s reputation for quality golf.

The region’s natural landscapes—featuring rolling hills, lakefront views, and varied terrain—influenced early course designs. Many courses were built to take advantage of these natural features, creating challenging and scenic golf experiences.

Major Milestones and Events

The creation of the Lake Geneva Golf Trail marked a significant milestone in unifying and promoting the area’s golf offerings. This initiative showcases the concentration of quality courses in Walworth County.

The development of prestigious venues like Geneva National Golf Club and Grand Geneva Resort Golf Course elevated the county’s golfing profile nationally. These courses feature designs by legendary golfers and architects.

Evergreen Country Club achieved recognition when it received a 4-Star rating from Golf Digest Magazine. It was also voted the Best Public Golf Course in Walworth County, cementing its status among the region’s top venues.

The expansion of many courses from 9 to 18 or even 27 holes reflected the growing popularity of golf in the region throughout the mid-to-late 20th century.

Architectural Styles of Golf Courses

Walworth County’s diverse golf landscape features distinct architectural approaches that blend with the natural Wisconsin terrain. These designs reflect both classic golfing traditions and contemporary innovations that challenge players of all skill levels.

Traditional Designs

The Delbrook Golf Club exemplifies traditional course architecture with tree-lined fairways and strategic bunker placement. These classic layouts often follow the natural contours of the land, creating a harmonious relationship between the game and environment.

Traditional courses in the county typically feature:

• Strategic water hazards that require precise shot planning
• Well-manicured rectangular tee boxes
• Small to medium-sized greens with subtle breaks
• Strategic bunkers protecting landing areas and greens

Many of Walworth’s established courses, like those at Lake Lawn Resort, incorporate classical design elements inspired by early American golf architecture. These courses emphasize shot-making skills rather than raw power.

The charm of traditional courses lies in their understated elegance and time-tested challenges that reward accuracy and course management.

Modern Innovations

Newer courses like Geneva National Golf Club showcase contemporary design philosophy with dramatic elevation changes and multiple tee options accommodating various skill levels. Modern designs in Walworth County often feature wider fairways balanced by more severe hazards.

Key elements of modern course architecture include:

• Risk-reward options on par 5s and short par 4s
• Environmentally conscious design preserving natural wetlands
• Undulating greens with multiple tiers and collection areas
• Extensive bunkering with varied depths and shapes

The Broadlands Golf Club represents this forward-thinking approach with its 4½-star Golf Digest rating. Modern courses typically incorporate advanced drainage systems allowing for better playing conditions year-round.

We’ve noticed these newer designs often feature more dramatic aesthetics with greater visual contrast between playing areas and natural rough, creating both challenging play and striking views.

Environmental Initiatives in Course Management

Public golf courses across Walworth County are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices that protect local ecosystems while maintaining excellent playing conditions. These initiatives focus on responsible resource management and creating habitats for native wildlife.

Sustainable Practices

Geneva National Resort has made significant strides in diminishing irrigation needs and chemical use on their courses. They also protect natural run-off areas, preventing chemicals from entering local water systems.

Many Walworth County courses now implement water conservation techniques including:

• Drought-resistant grass varieties
• Smart irrigation systems that reduce water waste
• Organic fertilizers that minimize chemical runoff

We’ve observed that several courses are transitioning to electric maintenance equipment to reduce carbon emissions. This shift helps decrease air pollution while maintaining course quality.

Recycling programs for course waste have become standard practice. These programs include composting grass clippings and leaves to create natural fertilizer used throughout the properties.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Public golf courses in Walworth County serve as important wildlife habitats, particularly in areas where natural spaces are limited. Many courses maintain no-play zones where native plants and animals thrive undisturbed.

Bird houses and bee hotels can be spotted throughout several courses, including Delbrook Golf Course. These simple additions support pollinators and help control pest populations naturally.

We’ve noted that course managers often work with local conservation groups to identify and protect vulnerable species. This collaborative approach ensures that golf operations don’t disrupt critical habitats.

Buffer zones around water features protect aquatic ecosystems while enhancing course aesthetics. These areas feature native plants that filter runoff and provide shelter for local wildlife, creating a balanced environment that benefits both nature and golfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golfers in Walworth County often have specific questions about the area’s public courses. We’ve compiled answers about ratings, amenities, and value to help you plan your next golfing experience.

Which public golf courses in Walworth County have received the highest ratings?

Abbey Springs consistently ranks as one of the top-rated public golf courses in Walworth County. The course earns praise for its well-maintained fairways and challenging layout.

Majestic Oaks Golf Course at Lake Lawn Resort also receives excellent ratings from players, earning it a top position among Walworth County’s best courses.

Hawk’s View Golf Club is another highly-rated option, with golfers particularly appreciating its scenic views and course conditions.

What are the most recommended public golf facilities in Walworth County for experienced golfers?

The Brute at Grand Geneva Resort offers a challenging experience for skilled players. Its demanding layout and strategically placed hazards test even the most experienced golfers.

Geneva National Golf Club features three championship courses designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino. Each course provides unique challenges for experienced players.

The Club at Lac La Belle, while technically in neighboring Waukesha County, is worth the short drive for serious golfers seeking a test of their abilities.

Are there any award-winning public golf courses in Walworth County, and how do they compare to private ones?

Abbey Springs has received recognition for its exceptional course design and maintenance. It offers a private club experience at public rates, with conditions that rival many exclusive clubs.

Geneva National Golf Club has gained acclaim for its three designer courses. The quality of these public offerings compares favorably to private courses in the region.

While private clubs like Big Foot Country Club may offer more exclusive amenities, many golfers find the top public courses in Walworth County provide comparable playing experiences at more accessible prices.

Can you list the top public golf courses in Walworth County that offer the best value for money?

Evergreen Golf Club stands out for its reasonable rates combined with well-maintained fairways and greens. The course provides excellent playing conditions without the premium price of resort courses.

Delbrook Golf Club offers competitive pricing with quality course conditions, making it a favorite for value-conscious golfers.

Western Lakes Golf Club provides an excellent cost-to-quality ratio, with affordable rates for a course that punches above its price point in terms of design and maintenance.

What amenities do the top-ranked public golf courses in Walworth County provide?

Lake Lawn Resort offers comprehensive amenities including a full-service pro shop, practice facilities, on-site dining, and resort accommodations for those wanting to extend their stay.

Abbey Springs provides excellent practice facilities, a well-stocked pro shop, and The Clubhouse Restaurant with panoramic course views. Golf instruction is also available for those looking to improve their game.

Hawk’s View Golf Club features two courses, a driving range, putting green, and a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. Their pro shop offers equipment and apparel from leading golf brands.

How do the leading public golf courses in Walworth County accommodate players of all skill levels?

Most top courses in Walworth County offer multiple tee options to adjust difficulty based on player ability. Geneva National provides five sets of tees on each of its three courses.

Many facilities like Evergreen Golf Club offer lessons and clinics for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve. Professional instructors are available for private and group sessions.

Hawk’s View Golf Club offers both an 18-hole championship course and a par-3 course, making it ideal for families and players of varying abilities to enjoy the game together.