Welcome to Iowa, a disc golf haven with over 360 courses offering diverse challenges in picturesque settings. Ranked 8th in the U.S., Iowa boasts a thriving disc golf community, complete with local leagues, gear stores, and numerous courses with 18+ holes.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Iowa invites you to explore its top disc golf courses, from Des Moines’ bustling cityscape to Davenport’s scenic beauty. Join us as we uncover the best disc golf courses in Iowa.
Key Takeaways:
- Iowa is ranked as the 8th best disc golf state in the United States.
- There are over 360 disc golf courses in Iowa, offering a wide variety of greens.
- The state has a vibrant disc golf community with leagues and stores catering to players’ needs.
- Des Moines, Davenport, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City are among the cities with top disc golf courses.
- Wildcat Bluff, Walnut Ridge Recreation Area, Pickard Park, Sunnyside Disc Golf Course, and West Lake Park are must-visit courses in Iowa.
Best Disc Golf Courses in Des Moines
When it comes to disc golf courses in Des Moines, Iowa, enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Des Moines has something to offer. With a perfect blend of open spaces and challenging terrain, these courses provide an exciting and enjoyable disc golf experience for all skill levels.
Ewing Park Disc Golf Course
Ewing Park Disc Golf Course is a beautiful 18-hole course nestled within Ewing Park. This course offers a mix of open fairways and wooded holes, providing players with a variety of shot selections and challenges. With its well-maintained grounds and stunning surroundings, Ewing Park Disc Golf Course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Grandview Park Disc Golf Course
Located in the heart of Des Moines, Grandview Park Disc Golf Course is a fantastic option for disc golfers. This 18-hole course features a blend of open and wooded fairways, offering players the opportunity to test their skills across a diverse range of holes. The course’s central location makes it easily accessible for both residents and tourists.
Big Creek State Park Disc Golf Course
Big Creek State Park Disc Golf Course, situated within the scenic Big Creek State Park, in Polk City, IA, located just outside Des Moines is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This 18-hole course offers a combination of open shots and wooded fairways, with some holes overlooking the stunning lake. The course’s natural beauty and serene ambiance provide a truly remarkable disc golf experience.
No matter which course you choose to play in Des Moines, you can expect a memorable and enjoyable disc golf adventure. From stunning natural landscapes to well-designed layouts, these courses showcase the very best of disc golf in Iowa.
Continue reading to explore more disc golf courses in various cities across Iowa!
Disc Golf Courses in Davenport
Davenport, a city in eastern Iowa, offers disc golfers a variety of top-notch courses to explore. With these unique courses to choose from, both locals and visitors can enjoy the thrill of disc golf in Davenport.
Course 1: Credit Island Park
Set along the Mississippi River, Credit Island Park offers disc golfers a scenic and serene playing environment. This course incorporates water features and a blend of open and wooded holes, making it both challenging and visually appealing. With its picturesque views and well-designed layout, Credit Island Park is a must-visit for disc golf enthusiasts.
Course 2: West Lake Park
West Lake Park boasts a stunning 24-hole course that will put players’ skills to the test. This challenging course features water hazards, extreme wind conditions, and elevation changes, providing a truly memorable disc golf experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, West Lake Park offers a unique and exciting adventure.
Course 3: Eastern Avenue Park
Eastern Avenue Park is a hidden gem in Davenport, offering disc golfers a quiet and peaceful setting to enjoy their favorite sport. This well-manicured course features a mix of open fairways and wooded areas, providing a nice balance for players of all skill levels. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind at Eastern Avenue Park.
Embark on a disc golf adventure in Davenport, Iowa, and discover the thrill of playing on these remarkable courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the disc golf courses in Davenport offer something for everyone. With their unique challenges and scenic beauty, these courses are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cedar Rapids Disc Golf Courses
Cedar Rapids, known as Iowa’s “City of Five Seasons,” offers 5 fantastic disc golf courses for players to enjoy. These courses provide a mix of technical shots, wooded and open fairways, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a local or visiting Cedar Rapids, these disc golf courses are a must-visit for any disc golfer.
Not too far from Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, also boasts 3 top-rated disc golf courses. These courses offer unique challenges and provide a fantastic playing experience for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Take a look at the table below for more information on the disc golf courses in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City:
| City | Disc Golf Courses |
|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids | 1. Jones Park 2. Shaver Park 3. High Point 4. Kelly’s Park 5. Xavier High School |
| Iowa City | 1. Turkey Creek 2. Wetherby 3. Peninsula Park |
These courses in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City offer a variety of challenges and playing experiences. From technical shots through wooded fairways to open shots with stunning views, disc golfers will find plenty to enjoy.
Disc Golf Courses in Other Iowa Cities
While Des Moines, Davenport, and Cedar Rapids offer excellent disc golf courses, there are many other cities in Iowa that are home to notable greens. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the state, consider exploring disc golf courses in cities such as Cedar Falls, Bettendorf, Ottumwa, Ames, Waterloo, Sioux City, and Urbandale. Each city has its own unique courses that provide a diverse range of challenges and settings.
Here’s a closer look at some disc golf courses in these Iowa cities:
- Cedar Falls: This city offers disc golfers a variety of courses, including the Big Woods Disc Golf Course and the Riverview Park Disc Golf Course. These courses feature a mix of wooded and open fairways, making for an exciting disc golfing experience.
- Bettendorf: Disc golf enthusiasts in Bettendorf can enjoy courses like Middle Park Disc Golf Course, Devil’s Glen Disc Golf Course and Sunrise DGC, offering beautiful scenery and challenging shots. With its well-designed layout, this course is sure to test players’ skills.
- Ottumwa: Experience disc golf at Ottumwa’s Pioneer Ridge Nature Area Disc Golf Course, which boasts a scenic setting and a mix of open and wooded holes. This course offers a great balance of challenge and enjoyment.
- Ames: Ames is home to disc golf courses such as the Iowa State University Disc Golf Course. With its well-manicured fairways and a mix of open and wooded holes, this course provides an enjoyable disc golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
- Waterloo: Head to Waterloo and check out courses like Exchange Park Disc Golf Course, featuring a variety of hole designs and scenic views. This course offers an excellent balance of challenge and playability for disc golfers.
- Sioux City: Disc golfers in Sioux City can explore courses like Sertoma Park Disc Golf Course, featuring long holes and a mix of open and wooded fairways. This challenging course provides a great opportunity to test your disc golf skills.
- Urbandale: Urbandale offers disc golfers the opportunity to play at Walnut Hill Elementary School DGC, known for its well-maintained fairways and diverse hole designs. With its multiple tee options and challenging shots, this course is a favorite among locals.
Each of these cities contributes to the vibrant disc golf scene in Iowa, providing players with a range of courses to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a beginner-friendly course or a more challenging layout, Iowa’s disc golf courses have something for everyone.
Wildcat Bluff – Urbana
Wildcat Bluff in Urbana is a renowned disc golf course that is consistently ranked among the top 50 courses in the world. With its challenging layout and stunning natural beauty, it is a must-play destination for disc golf enthusiasts in Iowa.
The course features 21 holes that are strategically designed to test players of all skill levels. As you navigate through tight fairways, encounter elevation changes, and tackle various obstacles, every throw requires precision and strategy. Even advanced players will find themselves pushed to their limits on this demanding course.
What sets Wildcat Bluff apart is its breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Urbana, the course offers picturesque views of rolling hills, wooded areas, and serene water features. It’s an idyllic setting that adds to the overall disc golfing experience.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of state, a round at Wildcat Bluff is sure to be memorable. The course provides a unique blend of challenge and beauty, making it a favorite among both recreational players and seasoned professionals. So grab your discs and immerse yourself in the disc golfing paradise that is Wildcat Bluff.
| Hole | Par | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 324 ft |
| 2 | 4 | 507 ft |
| 3 | 3 | 361 ft |
| 4 | 5 | 649 ft |
| 5 | 3 | 410 ft |
| 6 | 4 | 521 ft |
| 7 | 3 | 345 ft |
| 8 | 4 | 502 ft |
| 9 | 3 | 367 ft |
| 10 | 4 | 490 ft |
| 11 | 3 | 354 ft |
| 12 | 4 | 512 ft |
| 13 | 3 | 379 ft |
| 14 | 4 | 503 ft |
| 15 | 3 | 370 ft |
| 16 | 4 | 520 ft |
| 17 | 3 | 349 ft |
| 18 | 4 | 502 ft |
| 19 | 3 | 376 ft |
| 20 | 4 | 502 ft |
| 21 | 5 | 648 ft |
Walnut Ridge Recreation Area – Johnston
Located in Johnston, Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is widely regarded as one of the top disc golf courses in Iowa. With its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and excellent variety of shot options, this course offers an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
The course features 18 holes that encompass a mix of open and wooded fairways, providing a balanced and exciting gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to improve your disc golf skills, Walnut Ridge Recreation Area caters to all levels of expertise.
One of the highlights of this course is its scenic views of Saylorville Lake. As you navigate through the course, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas that enhance the overall disc golfing experience.
Whether you’re aiming for a birdie, ace, or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely round of disc golf in a beautiful setting, Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is a must-visit destination. So grab your discs and get ready to tackle the challenges this top-rated course has to offer!
Course Highlights:
- 18 holes with a mix of open and wooded fairways
- Scenic views of Saylorville Lake
- Variety of shot options for all skill levels
| Hole | Distance (ft) | Par |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 300 | 3 |
| 2 | 400 | 4 |
| 3 | 350 | 3 |
| 4 | 250 | 3 |
| 5 | 450 | 4 |
| 6 | 400 | 3 |
| 7 | 350 | 3 |
| 8 | 275 | 3 |
| 9 | 325 | 4 |
| 10 | 375 | 3 |
| 11 | 400 | 4 |
| 12 | 350 | 3 |
| 13 | 275 | 3 |
| 14 | 450 | 4 |
| 15 | 400 | 3 |
| 16 | 375 | 3 |
| 17 | 300 | 3 |
| 18 | 350 | 4 |
Pickard Park – Indianola
If you’re looking for one of the best disc golf courses in Iowa, look no further than Pickard Park in Indianola. This renowned 18-hole course offers a challenging but scenic experience that will delight players of all skill levels. Situated amidst rolling hills, ponds, and creeks, Pickard Park provides a picturesque backdrop for your disc golf adventure.
The course features well-manicured fairways that wind through the park, offering a variety of shot opportunities and obstacles to keep you on your toes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find the layout both engaging and enjoyable.
One of the standout features of Pickard Park is its commitment to inclusivity. Each hole is equipped with two tee pads, allowing both amateur and professional players to tailor their experience to their skill level. This makes it an ideal destination for disc golf tournaments, attracting players from all over Iowa.
With its stunning natural surroundings and thoughtfully designed layout, Pickard Park is a hidden gem nestled in Indianola, offering some of the best disc golf in Iowa. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Sunnyside Disc Golf Course – Atlantic
The Sunnyside Disc Golf Course in Atlantic is a hidden gem for disc golf enthusiasts in Iowa. With its wide-open fairways and moderate distances, this 18-hole course offers a perfect balance of challenge and playability. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or an experienced player seeking a relaxing round of disc golf, Sunnyside has something for everyone.
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Sunnyside features lush green landscapes that create a peaceful atmosphere for disc golfers to enjoy. The course is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the area, with strategically placed trees, rolling hills, and a creek that adds an element of excitement to the game.
Players of all skill levels will appreciate the variety of shots that Sunnyside offers. Whether you prefer long drives or accurate approach shots, this course provides ample opportunities to test your disc golfing skills. The elevation changes throughout the course add an extra layer of challenge, making each hole a unique and memorable experience.
Sunnyside Disc Golf Course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s not hard to see why. The course’s well-maintained fairways, professional tee pads, and high-quality baskets make it a joy to play. It’s no wonder that Sunnyside receives rave reviews from disc golf enthusiasts across the state.
If you’re planning a disc golf adventure in Iowa, be sure to include Sunnyside Disc Golf Course in your itinerary. Its serene surroundings, well-designed layout, and enjoyable gameplay will make for an unforgettable disc golfing experience.
Course Details:
Here are the key details and features of Sunnyside Disc Golf Course:
| Course Name | Sunnyside Disc Golf Course |
|---|---|
| Location | Atlantic, Iowa |
| Number of Holes | 18 |
| Course Type | Open with some wooded areas |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Course Design | Designed to highlight natural features with elevation changes and a creek |
| Amenities | Professional tee pads, baskets in excellent condition |
| Reviews | Highly rated by disc golfers for its scenery, gameplay, and overall experience |
West Lake Park – Davenport
Located in Davenport, West Lake Park is a premiere disc golf destination in Iowa. This challenging 24-hole course offers a thrilling experience for disc golfers of all skill levels. With its diverse layout and unique features, West Lake Park stands out as one of the best disc golf courses in Iowa.
The course is strategically designed to test players’ skills with water hazards, extreme wind conditions, and dramatic elevation changes. As you navigate each hole, you’ll encounter a variety of challenges that will put your disc golf abilities to the test.
West Lake Park caters to players of all skill levels, offering both pro and amateur tee pads. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to improve your game, you’ll find a tee pad that suits your needs.
The surroundings of West Lake Park are simply breathtaking. As you play through the course, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, including lush greenery and scenic views. The peaceful ambiance adds to the overall disc golfing experience, making it a favorite among players.
One of the standout features of West Lake Park is its unique basket placements. Each hole presents a new and exciting challenge as you navigate your way to the basket. It’s a course that keeps you engaged, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable round of disc golf.
Highlights of West Lake Park:
- Challenging 24-hole course
- Water hazards and extreme wind conditions
- Dramatic elevation changes
- Pro and amateur tee pads for all skill levels
- Breathtaking surroundings and scenic views
- Unique basket placements
Discover the thrill of disc golf at West Lake Park in Davenport and experience one of the best disc golf courses in Iowa. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, this course is a must-play for any disc golfer seeking a challenging and unforgettable adventure.
Conclusion: Explore Iowa’s Disc Golf Wonders
Iowa is a treasure trove of amazing disc golf courses that cater to all skill levels and provide a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a local enthusiast or visiting Iowa, you’ll find a wide range of options to satisfy your disc golf cravings.
From beginner-friendly greens to highly challenging layouts, Iowa has it all. You can take your pick from courses that offer a mix of open fairways, wooded holes, elevation changes, water features, and technical shots. Each course is a testament to the state’s commitment to promoting and nurturing the sport.
As you explore Iowa’s disc golfing scene, make sure to check out the top-rated courses that consistently receive rave reviews from players. These courses are known for their impeccable design, stunning surroundings, and fair but exciting challenges. They are a testament to Iowa’s status as one of the disc golfing hotspots in the country.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to test your skills or a beginner eager to discover the joys of disc golf, Iowa has the perfect course for you. Pack your discs, grab your friends, and embark on a journey to explore the wonders of disc golfing in this beautiful state. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQ
What are the best disc golf courses in Iowa?
Some of the best disc golf courses in Iowa include Wildcat Bluff in Urbana, Walnut Ridge Recreation Area in Johnston, Pickard Park in Indianola, Sunnyside Disc Golf Course in Atlantic, and West Lake Park in Davenport.
Which city in Iowa has the most disc golf courses?
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, offers five top disc golf courses.
Are there disc golf courses in Davenport, Iowa?
Yes, Davenport, a city in eastern Iowa, boasts five disc golf courses.
What are some disc golf courses in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?
Cedar Rapids, known as Iowa’s “City of Five Seasons,” offers five disc golf courses. Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, also has three top-rated disc golf courses for players to enjoy.
What are some other cities in Iowa with notable disc golf courses?
Some other cities in Iowa with notable disc golf courses include Cedar Falls, Bettendorf, Ottumwa, Ames, Waterloo, Sioux City, and Urbandale.
What makes Wildcat Bluff in Urbana one of the top disc golf courses in Iowa?
Wildcat Bluff is recognized as one of the top 50 disc golf courses in the world. It features tight fairways, elevation changes, and obstacles that test even advanced players.
Why is Walnut Ridge Recreation Area in Johnston considered one of the best disc golf courses in Iowa?
Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is considered one of the best courses in the state due to its 18 holes, mix of open and wooded fairways, and a great balance of shot variations. Its scenic views of Saylorville Lake add to the overall experience.
What makes Pickard Park in Indianola a must-visit for disc golfers in Iowa?
Pickard Park offers a challenging but scenic experience with rolling hills, ponds, and creeks. It is designed to accommodate players of all skill levels, with two tee pads for each hole. It is also a popular spot for disc golf tournaments.
What can disc golfers expect from Sunnyside Disc Golf Course in Atlantic?
Sunnyside Disc Golf Course is known for its wide-open fairways and moderate distances. It offers a variety of shots and features elevation changes and a creek that comes into play. It provides a peaceful setting and is perfect for “empty your bag” disc golfing.
Why is West Lake Park in Davenport considered a standout disc golf course in Iowa?
West Lake Park is a challenging 24-hole course that tests players’ skills with water hazards, extreme wind, and elevation changes. It offers both pro and amateur tee pads for players of all skill levels and boasts beautiful surroundings and unique basket placements.
Are there disc golf courses for players of all skill levels in Iowa?
Yes, Iowa offers a wide range of disc golf courses, from beginner-friendly layouts to more challenging ones suitable for advanced players.
Can I find disc golf courses near me in Iowa?
Yes, there are numerous disc golf courses throughout Iowa, making it easy to find one near your location.
Source Links
- https://udisc.com/places/iowa-united-states
- https://www.traveliowa.com/the-best-of-iowas-disc-golf-courses/
- https://www.discgolfscene.com/courses/Iowa/top-rated
