By Oregon Golf Association
Public golf courses in Portland have a rich history, providing accessible and enjoyable golfing experiences to players of all skill levels since the early 20th century. Among the most notable courses are Eastmoreland Golf Course, Rose City Golf Course, Heron Lakes Golf Club, RedTail Golf Center, and several others that have played pivotal roles in the development of public golf in the region.
Eastmoreland Golf Course: A Historic Gem
Opened in 1917, Eastmoreland Golf Course is one of Oregon's oldest public golf courses. Designed by Henry Chandler Egan, it initially featured just nine holes, which were later expanded to a full 18-hole course. Known for its tree-lined fairways, undulating greens, and the picturesque Crystal Springs Lake, Eastmoreland has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments and remains a beloved destination for Portland golfers.
Rose City Golf Course: Portland's Golfing Heritage
Established in 1923, Rose City Golf Course has significantly contributed to Oregon's public golfing landscape. Located in Northeast Portland, Rose City offers a classic parkland-style layout with narrow, tree-lined fairways and small, well-protected greens. Designed by George Otten, the course emphasizes playability and enjoyment for golfers of all levels. Rose City's rich history and commitment to providing affordable golf have ensured its enduring popularity.
Heron Lakes Golf Club: A Modern Classic
Heron Lakes Golf Club, established in 1972, offers a different flavor of public golf in Oregon. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the club features two distinct 18-hole courses: the Great Blue Course and the Greenback Course. The Great Blue Course is known for its challenging layout, with numerous water hazards and strategically placed bunkers, while the Greenback Course offers a more forgiving but equally enjoyable experience. Heron Lakes has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including U.S. Amateur qualifiers, and continues to attract golfers seeking a modern and well-maintained public course.
RedTail Golf Center: A Premier Public Facility
RedTail Golf Center, located in Beaverton, Oregon, is a premier public golfing facility known for its excellent amenities and challenging layout. The course features well-maintained fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a variety of water hazards that provide a test for golfers of all skill levels. RedTail also offers an extensive practice area, including a driving range, putting greens, and a short game practice area, making it a favorite among both casual golfers and serious players looking to improve their game.
Colwood Golf Center: A Revitalized Urban Oasis
Colwood Golf Center, located in Northeast Portland, has undergone significant transformation since its opening in 1929 as an 18-hole course. Colwood was reimagined and redeveloped into a 9-hole executive course and an extensive practice facility in 2014. This redevelopment was part of a broader effort to make golf more accessible to urban residents and to provide a modern golfing experience. The center now boasts a driving range, practice greens, and a short game area, making it a favorite among beginners and experienced golfers alike. Colwood's focus on community engagement and junior golf programs has cemented its place as a vital part of Portland's golfing landscape.
Other Notable Public Courses
Oregon's public golf scene extends beyond these iconic courses, with numerous other venues contributing to the area's rich golfing tapestry. Glendoveer Golf Course, established in 1928, offers two 18-hole courses and a comprehensive practice facility, known for its tree-lined fairways and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Stone Creek Golf Club, a relatively newer addition, opened in 2002 and quickly gained acclaim for its championship-caliber design by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy. The course is set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains and features a mix of open links-style holes and tree-lined fairways.
Future Prospects and Legacy
The legacy of public golf courses in Oregon is one of accessibility, community, and a deep appreciation for the game. These courses have provided generations of golfers with the opportunity to play and enjoy golf without the barriers often associated with private clubs. As the game continues to evolve, Oregon's public courses remain committed to offering high-quality, affordable golfing experiences. Efforts to maintain and improve these courses are ongoing, with investments in course maintenance, renovation, and sustainability ensuring that they remain viable and attractive for future generations.
Oregon's public golf courses, from historic gems like Eastmoreland and Rose City to modern classics like Heron Lakes and revitalized urban oases like Colwood, have played a crucial role in the area's golfing history. They embody the spirit of inclusivity and passion for the game, providing accessible and enjoyable golfing experiences for all. As we look to the future, these courses will continue to be cherished landmarks, fostering the growth and love of golf in Oregon.
Photo Credit: Portland Parks Golf