Clubs
Best Private Country and Golf Clubs in Dallas
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Golfing is a cherished pastime in Dallas, and there are plenty of great options for all skill levels. There are lots of public courses available, but in this article we've lined up a few of our favorite private clubs.
What to bring for a better round
Private-club polish is nice, but the right basics matter more once you reach the first tee. These are the practical pieces we would pack for a full day on the course.
- Laser rangefinder — helpful when elevation changes, hazards, and unfamiliar landing areas make the yardage less obvious. Shop a laser rangefinder
- Reliable golf glove — a fresh glove gives you a more secure grip and is easy to keep tucked into your bag as a backup. Find a reliable golf glove
- Golf balls you trust — bring enough for the day and choose a model whose feel and flight suit your game. Browse golf balls
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen — choose a portable, easy-to-reapply formula for long stretches outdoors. Shop broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Polarized sunglasses — a comfortable pair can cut glare and help you track the ball without squinting through the afternoon. See polarized sunglasses
- Insulated water bottle — keep cold water close between stops so hydration does not depend on reaching the clubhouse. Shop an insulated water bottle
Pack the useful pieces, respect the club's dress code, and let the course provide the luxury.
Dallas National Golf Club
Image courtesy of golfdigest.com
Dallas National is wonderfully quiet and secluded, with no noise from nearby roads or businesses. This is a beautiful and challenging course with varying elevations and deceptively difficult putting greens. Designed by one of golf's premier architects, Tom Fazio, the course spans 7,326 yards and offers playability for both professional and amateur golfers.
If you're looking to get some training in, you can practice your swing at the 130 yard driving range. The impressive range boasts tees at both ends and eight bunkered target greens. You can also practice your short game in the shade of mature trees at one of the six bent grass putting and chipping greens.
Northwood Country Club
Photo courtesy of golfpass.com
Northwood Country Club was designed by Perry Maxwell and Bill Diddell. Frequented by celebrities, pro-golfers, and politicians, it has been a Dallas staple since it first opened in 1946. It has since been added to the Texas Registry of Historic Golf Courses. With its rolling hills, mature trees, and scenic views of White Rock Creek, it is one of the prettiest courses in Texas.
In 2017, Northwood added a four-hole short course for practice. Other amenities of the club include a massive tennis facility with 12 outdoor hard courts and four indoor courts. Members can enjoy a resort-style swimming pool, a Wellness Center, and the newly-renovated Clubhouse.
Shady Oaks Country Club
Photo courtesy of ocm.com
Shady Oaks is famous as the favorite practice course for golf legend Ben Hogan. It underwent updates and renovations in 2020, including added bunkering and more challenging greens. Shady Oaks keeps its membership purposefully small, which means there are no tee times and you can always get a table in one of their three dining rooms.
In addition to the championship golf course, Shady Oaks has five outdoor and two indoor tennis courts, a workout facility with state-of-the-art equipment, and a 25 meter swimming pool with a lap lane and deck service.
Shady Oaks is one of the more family-friendly clubs, with lots of fun events scheduled throughout the year.
River Crest Country Club
River Crest is Ft. Worth's oldest country club. It was designed by Tom Bendelow and A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1911. It is a beautiful and sleek course, with established shady trees and perfectly manicured bent grass greens.
What sets River Crest apart are its social events. From fundraisers to family nights, there is nearly always something to do at this club. For example, River Crest hosts an annual "Crestival" that is widely considered one of the best parties in golf. It is also one of the biggest golf Calcuttas in Texas.