The Best Golf Courses in Dallas, TX: Teeing Off in the Heart of North Texas

Golf in Dallas isn’t just a game—it’s a lifestyle. With its warm climate, rolling terrain, and deep-rooted golfing culture, Dallas is a haven for golfers of all ages and abilities. Whether you're a scratch golfer looking for a challenge, a casual player seeking beautiful scenery, or a newcomer to the sport in search of welcoming fairways, the Dallas area has a course for you.

From historic country clubs to public gems, this guide from The TXRE Group highlights the best golf courses in Dallas and the surrounding area—offering residents and visitors alike the chance to enjoy world-class golf in the heart of Texas.

Regularly ranked among the top golf courses in Texas—and the entire country—Dallas National Golf Club is a true golfer’s paradise. This private course, designed by Tom Fazio, is nestled into the rugged terrain of the Austin Chalk Escarpment in southwest Dallas. The layout takes full advantage of the natural topography, offering elevation changes rarely seen in North Texas.

With impeccable course conditions, a world-class practice facility, and a no-tee-time policy, Dallas National caters to serious golfers seeking a pure, uninterrupted experience. Membership is highly exclusive, but for those who gain access, it's an unforgettable place to play. This course is where the elite come to refine their game.

Located just north of Dallas in McKinney, TPC Craig Ranch is part of the prestigious Tournament Players Club network operated by the PGA Tour. It’s also the current host of the AT&T Byron Nelson tournament, making it one of the few places in the area where golfers can walk the same fairways as the pros.

Designed by Tom Weiskopf, this championship course offers wide fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic views of Rowlett Creek. It’s a great option for serious players and fans of the professional game. While it’s a private club, TPC Craig Ranch also emphasizes a family-friendly atmosphere with dining, events, and junior golf programs.

For those seeking a more accessible round of golf without sacrificing quality, Tenison Park is one of Dallas’s best public golf options. Located just east of downtown, Tenison offers two courses: Tenison Highlands and Tenison Glen. The Highlands course is the more modern and challenging of the two, with dramatic elevation changes, water features, and lush fairways.

The Glen course, while shorter and more traditional, is equally charming and a great option for beginners or those looking for a quicker round. Tenison Park’s affordability, convenience, and scenic layout make it a favorite among Dallas residents.

Established in 1969, Royal Oaks Country Club is a prestigious private club located in the heart of Dallas. It’s known for its pristine 18-hole course designed by Don January and Billy Martindale and its tight-knit community atmosphere. The club strongly emphasizes family and community, with a host of social events, youth programs, and luxurious amenities.

The course itself offers a classic parkland style layout, with tree-lined fairways and fast, true greens. It’s not overly long, but it demands strategic play and careful shot placement—making it a favorite for serious golfers and weekend warriors alike.

Formerly known as Oak Cliff Country Club, The Golf Club of Dallas is a semi-private course with a rich history. It hosted the Byron Nelson Classic for over a decade during the 1950s and 60s, and its classic layout remains a nostalgic nod to the golden age of golf design.

Located just 10 miles south of downtown, this club offers both memberships and public tee times, making it one of the more accessible classic courses in the region. The tree-lined fairways and small, sloping greens require finesse and control, rewarding smart play over brute strength.

Trinity Forest Golf Club is a unique addition to the Dallas golf scene. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this private course was built on a reclaimed landfill in southeast Dallas and mimics the firm, fast conditions of Scottish links courses. Wide fairways, sandy waste areas, and natural undulations make it a challenging and distinctive layout.

Trinity Forest previously hosted the AT&T Byron Nelson and is known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. It also serves as the home course for the SMU golf teams. The minimalist, links-style experience offers a refreshing contrast to the tree-lined, parkland courses that dominate the area.

Often called “The Little Augusta,” Stevens Park Golf Course is a city-owned gem located in the historic Kessler Park neighborhood. After a major renovation in 2011, the course now features elevated tee boxes, dramatic views of the Dallas skyline, and challenging greens.

It’s known for its affordability, playability, and picturesque design—ideal for golfers who want a quality round without the exclusivity of a private club. The course’s lush landscaping and proximity to downtown make it one of the most scenic public golf options in Dallas.

With three 18-hole courses and a broad range of amenities, Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch is one of the most versatile private clubs in the Dallas area. It caters to golfers of all skill levels with the Masters, Championship, and President’s courses offering varying challenges and experiences.

In addition to golf, Brookhaven offers tennis, swimming, fitness, and kids' programs, making it an ideal choice for families who want more than just a golf membership. The club also has a vibrant social calendar, further fostering a strong sense of community among its members.

Cedar Crest Golf Course is steeped in history. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1919, it hosted the 1927 PGA Championship and was one of the first courses in the country to allow African American players during segregation. Today, it remains a proud part of Dallas’s golfing heritage and a pillar of the local community.

The course itself is fun, challenging, and extremely walkable. Its rolling hills and mature trees offer both beauty and difficulty. Cedar Crest is more than just a golf course—it’s a historical landmark and a symbol of the game’s progression in Dallas.

For many, living near a top-tier golf course is about more than easy access to the game—it’s about embracing a lifestyle. Homes in golf course communities often come with scenic views, added security, and access to exclusive amenities like clubhouses, pools, and tennis courts.

Whether you’re searching for a luxury home in a gated golf community, a condo with views of a city course, or simply a home near your favorite fairway, The TXRE Group can help you find the perfect match. Our team understands the unique appeal of golf course living and is ready to help you navigate the Dallas real estate market with expert advice.

Whether you're a lifelong golfer or just picking up a club for the first time, Dallas offers some of the finest golf experiences in Texas. From historic courses and elite private clubs to family-friendly facilities and public gems, there's a course for every style of play.

Ready to find your dream home near one of Dallas’s top golf destinations? Visit The TXRE Group to browse listings, connect with our knowledgeable team, and start your journey toward the ultimate Texas golf lifestyle.