Bend Golf - EpicBend https://epicbend.com Live Your Best Life in Bend Oregon and Frederick Maryland! Fri, 01 May 2026 09:28:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://epicbend.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/241208-EpicTotal-Logo-1-150x150.png Bend Golf - EpicBend https://epicbend.com 32 32 Best Bend Oregon Resorts: Luxury & Unforgettable Stays (2026 Guide) https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-resorts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bend-oregon-resorts https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-resorts/#respond Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:17:03 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=29996 Discover the best Bend Oregon resorts, including luxury resorts and scenic stays near Bend Oregon. Find top-rated resorts for families, couples, and outdoor adventures.

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Nicole and I are biased as residents, but Bend, Oregon, is a captivating place to visit.  The extensive list of things to do, especially outside, is hard to beat.

If you are planning a trip to Bend, there are lots of options for where to stay. In this guide, Nicole and I break down the best Bend, Oregon resorts—including high-end luxury stays near Bend and family-friendly venues. 

All of which put you right in the middle of Central Oregon’s natural beauty.

The Best Resorts in Bend, OR - Contents

Map of Bend Oregon Resorts

Have you stayed at any of these resorts?  Did we rank something too high or low?  Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

1. Juniper Preserve (Bend, OR)

Pronghorn Golf Course at Juniper Preserve Resort, a resort near Bend Oregon.

Why We Love It: You’ll love this resort if you are a golfer (Glenn ranks it the best golf course in Bend, Oregon).  But this is a special place for anyone looking for a luxury resort in Bend, OR.

This high-end resort used to be called Pronghorn Resort, but rebranded in 2022 to Juniper Preserve (though the golf courses are still named ‘Pronghorn‘).

There’s a lot to love about Juniper, set in the Oregon high desert just outside Bend.  Besides the golf, the spa, restaurants, and pool areas are top-end and fabulous.

It feels boutique, while spacious and full of Oregon backcountry character.  This would be our top choice for anyone looking for a romantic escape or luxury resort in Bend.

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Award Winning Upscale Golf Resort
  • Spa and Wellness Area
  • High End Accommodations and Fine Dining
  • Exclusive Feel
BOOK HERE

2. Brasada Ranch (Powell Butte, OR)

Brasada-ranch-resort-bend-or
Photo Credit: brasada.com

Why We Love It: About 25 minutes outside of Bend, in the Oregon backcountry, is the fabulous Brasada Ranch resort.

This award-winning luxury resort has a ranch vibe in the high desert, with upscale cabins and bungalows for accommodations and hard-to-beat sunset views.

The activities are plenty, including a spa, horseback riding, and a golf course that is among the best in the Bend area.

Brasada Ranch is perfect for romantic couples or a family trip wanting the full Bend resort experience.

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Incredible Oregon Views
  • Private Luxury Cabins
  • Horses and Ranch Experience
  • Top 100 Oregon Golf Course
BOOK HERE

Planning a Trip to Bend?

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Top Rated Hotels in Bend

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Book Adventure Tours in Bend

3. Sunriver Resort (Sunriver, OR)

Float-the-Deschutes-River

Why We Love It: Sunriver is more than a resort; it’s an entire community.  

Just south of Bend, Sunriver Resort has been a destination for families and a retirement and vacation home community since 1969.  It consistently wins awards from major publications.

Sunriver has just about everything you would ever want to do for a Central Oregon vacation- multiple golf courses, miles of bike trails, access to the Deschutes (including a marina with rentals), restaurants and breweries, and a variety of accommodations.

In fact, some of the best things to do around Bend can be found at Sunriver.  It’s a great daytime destination for anyone visiting Bend.

Sunriver Resort is the best resort choice around Bend for families and groups who want to stay busy with lots of activities.

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Wide Variety of Accommodations and Rentals
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Miles of Bike Trails
  • Access to the Deschutes River
  • Three Golf Courses
BOOK HERE

4. Tetherow (Bend, OR)

Tetherow Resort in Bend Oregon one of the best resorts in Bend.

Why We Love It: If you are looking for a luxury resort in Bend and want to be closer to the city while still having access to everything Bend offers, Tetherow is a great choice.

Tethrow has become its own sub-section of Bend in southwest.  It’s a stunning community of homes and vacation properties, with a championship golf course (one of the best in Bend).

There’s a variety of places to stay, including the Tetherow Lodges.  But the abundance of vacation rentals makes it ideal for families and larger groups.

You’ll not only be 10 minutes from downtown Bend, but right on the Cascade Lakes highway, which leads to all the outdoor fun at Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters Wilderness. 

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Access to Downtown Bend
  • Stunning Views and Landscape
  • World-Class Golf Course
  • Upscale Dining
BOOK HERE

5. Black Butte Ranch (Sisters, OR)

A golf course with green fairway, sand bunkers, and a water hazard, bordered by trees and distant mountains in a serene landscape.
Photo Credit: blackbutteranch.com

Why We Love It: Just 40 minutes north of Bend is a classic Pacific Northwest ranch resort that has been around for fifty years.

Black Butte Ranch Resort sits in a pristine spot among tall pines with views of all the major Cascade peaks.

It’s a great resort for families who want to enjoy the outdoors, or anyone who wants to relax in Oregon’s mountain beauty.

Accommodations are exclusively in privately owned vacation homes on the property, which can be easily rented on the resort website. 

There are several great restaurants, two golf courses, a spa, and countless other outdoor activities, including tons of things to do for kids.

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Incredible Scenic Views
  • Cabin-Like Rentals
  • Golf, Biking, Outdoor Activities
  • Family Friendly
BOOK HERE

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6. Eagle Crest Resort (Redmond, OR)

Aerial view of a golf course with green fairways, ponds, and surrounding trees near a hotel building in the foreground.
Photo Credit: eagle-crest.com

Why We Love It: Eagle Crest Resort is a sprawling vacation property just outside Redmond, OR.

It has the same Cascades Mountain setting as the other resorts on this list, with a wider selection of accommodation types (The Lodge or vacation rentals).

Eagle Crest has several restaurants, three very scenic golf courses, tennis, a spa, several pools, and lots of kids activities.

Your dollar will stretch further at Eagle Crest, so consider this resort if you want a longer stay or have a large family and still want a lot of the same amenities. 

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Lodge or Vacation Rental Accommodations
  • Multiple Pools
  • Three Golf Courses
  • Scenic Setting
BOOK HERE

7. Riverhouse Lodge (Bend, OR)

A riverside restaurant patio with many orange umbrellas, built on a wooden deck beside a rocky, flowing river and a pedestrian bridge nearby.
Photo Credit: riverhouse.com

Why We Love It: If you are looking to stay in Bend proper but want to slightly upgrade your accommodation to a resort-type property, check out Riverhouse Lodge.

Located just minutes from downtown Old Bend, the Riverhouse Lodge is a rustic place with comfy rooms and a restaurant overlooking the Deschutes River.

Riverhouse is a great basecamp if you are visiting and plan to enjoy all the great things to do in Bend. 

You’ll be close to all the downtown restaurants and bars, Drake Park, the Deschutes, and can easily launch from her to all the great hikes around Bend.

It is also adjacent to the Rivers Edge Golf Course if you are in Bend to play golf.

What Makes This Resort Special:

  • Rustic Lodge
  • Comfy Rooms
  • Downtown Location
  • Great Bend Oregon Basecamp
BOOK HERE

Tips for Choosing the Best Bend Oregon Resort

As you can read above, there are plenty of resorts around Bend to choose from, and it’s just a matter of choosing the one that is best for you and your group.

A stone building entrance with double wooden doors, flanked by large potted evergreens, welcomes visitors to Pronghorn Golf Course. A black mat in front reads JUNIPER PRESERVE, BEND, OREGON. Nearby sits a grey cushioned chair and lantern-style wall light.

To further help you decide, here is how Nicole and I would break down this list based on your most important characteristics:

  1. Most Luxurious Resort.  Juniper Reserve, Brasada Ranch.
  2. Best Resort for Families.  Sunriver, Eagle Crest.
  3. Resort With Most Outdoor Activities.  Sunriver, Black Butte, Eagle Crest.
  4. Best Ranch Experience.  Black Butte Ranch, Brasada Ranch.
  5. Best Golf Resort.  Juniper Reserve, Brasada Ranch.
  6. Best Resort In Bend Proper.  Riverside, Tetherow.
  7. Best Resort for Couples Getaway.  Brasada Ranch.

Final Thoughts on The Best Resorts in Bend, Oregon

Nicole and I have stayed, dined, visited, or golfed at many resorts around Bend.  As a well-traveled couple, we can definitely confirm that the resorts around Bend are exquisite.

the Scenic Golf Course at Brasada Ranch with Lush Green Fairways and a Golf Cart Sits in the Center Sagebrush and Trees Surround the Course Near Rolling Forests and Snow capped Mountainsperfect for Those Seeking Where to Stay in Bend Oregon

If you are visiting Bend, you can certainly book at VRBO, Airbnb, or stay at one of the many hotels around town.

But you can significantly upgrade your Bend visit experience by choosing one of these resort properties and enjoying all they have to offer.

Want More of the Best of Bend, Oregon?

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The Sunriver Lodge at Sunriver Resort with its golf course is surrounded by lush green fairways and autumn-colored trees—a picturesque choice for those seeking where to stay in Bend, Oregon, with mountain views under a golden sunset sky.
The Best Resorts in Bend

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]]> https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-resorts/feed/ 0 The 8 Best Bend Oregon Golf Courses to Play Right Now https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-golf-courses/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bend-oregon-golf-courses https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-golf-courses/#respond Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:54:02 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=23721 Ranking the Best Bend Oregon Golf Courses to Play Right Now. The Best Golf Course Around Bend for Golfers at All Levels.

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Bend, Oregon, is a destination that captivates everyone who enjoys the outdoors.  But for golfers, the array of exceptional Bend, Oregon Golf Courses makes it a must-visit location. 

In this article, we present our rankings of the top golf courses in Bend, OR.

a Golfer in a White Shirt and Dark Pants Swings on a Tee Box Facing a Sunlit Fairway at a Bend Oregon Golf Course the Lush Landscape is Surrounded by Green Shrubs Trees and Rolling Hills with a Building Nestled Among the Trees
Photo Credit: Tetherow.com

Set against the stunning backdrop of Central Oregon’s high desert, these courses offer a unique blend of natural beauty and challenge, catering to players of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find the perfect course to elevate your game and create an unforgettable golf experience.

Read on to see why Bend is truly a golfer’s paradise!

The 8 Best Bend Oregon Golf Courses

Golf Courses in Bend, Oregon - Map

Public vs Semi-Public vs Private Golf Courses in Bend, OR

Like most golf destinations, Bend has a wide array of golf courses. Some Bend golf courses, like Broken Top Golf Club and Aubrey Glenn, are private clubs that require membership.

a Lush Green Bend Oregon Golf Course with a Sand Bunker is Surrounded by Trees and Shrubs Under a Dramatic Cloudy Sky Snow capped Mountains Rise in the Background with Sunlight Filtering Through the Clouds and Casting Shadows Across the Landscape
Photo Credit: JuniperReserve.com

The Bend golf courses included in this list are either public or semi-public.

This means that anyone can book a tee time to play. Many of these courses also offer membership options that provide special privileges or the opportunity to purchase an annual pass.

Factors to Consider When Ranking Bend Oregon Golf Courses

True golfers know that golf is more than a game. 

Playing a round of golf is an experience. Many factors go into how a golf course delivers its overall experience. This is especially true in a beautiful area like Bend.

a Blue Deschutes Beer Can with a Green Hop Illustration Stands on Green Grass in the Foreground Reminiscent of a Bend Oregon Golf Course Behind It Shrubs and Dirt Appear Beneath a Bright Blue Sky with Scattered White Clouds

The factors that go into creating a great golf experience are specific to each golf.  But when ranking golf courses, here are the factors that I’ve used:

  1. The Setting, Beauty, and Scenery of the Golf Course
  2. The Character of the Course (Uniqueness of Layout and Creativeness of Holes)
  3. Quality of the Course (Greens, Fairways, Tee Boxes)
  4. Quality of the Facility
  5. The Before and After Golf Amenities
  6. Price

Typical Green Fees for Golf in Bend, Oregon

The green fees for the various golf courses in Bend can vary significantly.

At luxury, high-end resort courses around Bend, such as Pronghorn and Tetherow, you can expect to pay over $100, and possibly up to $200 during peak times.

However, we believe it’s worth it to treat yourself to a special round of golf at a place like this occasionally.

a Metal Tee Marker with an Antelope Horn Design Stands on a Green Pronghorn Golf Course Tee Box in the Background Are Golf Bags on a Cart Bushes Rocks and Trees Beneath a Partly Cloudy Sky Highlighting This Scenic Outdoor Golf Experience

The great thing about golf in Bend is that there are some stunningly beautiful places to play golf at much more affordable rates.

We love Widgi Creek, Juniper Golf, and Lost Tracks, and all of these can be played for well under $100.

Which of these Bend Golf Courses have you played? Which are ranked too high or low?  Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links.  If you book or purchase through them, we may earn commission at no extra cost to you.)

1. Pronghorn Golf Club - Nicklaus Course

Pronghorn Golf Course at Juniper Preserve Resort, a resort near Bend Oregon.

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  Located at the stunning Juniper Reserve 30 minutes north of Bend, the Prognhorn Golf Course features two golf courses that epitomize high desert golf.

One of the Pronghorn courses (the Tom Fazio Championship Course) is private.  However, the equally beautiful and challenging Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is public and a must-play if you are a golfer in the Bend, Oregon area.

The Nicklaus course gets rave reviews and consistently ranks high on Oregon golf course lists and public course rankings in the US.  

The course is characterized by its surrounding environment—native grasses, sandy desert landscapes, pine trees, and evergreen plants. The mountain views are stunning.

In-season rates can be pricey, but if you are a serious golfer in Bend, it’s worth splurging for a round at Proghorn.

2. Tetherow Golf Club

Tetherow Resort in Bend Oregon one of the best resorts in Bend.

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  Tetherow, situated in the picturesque southwest corner of Bend, stands out as a premier luxury golf course that beautifully captures the essence of central Oregon.

Designed by renowned architect David McLay Kidd—creator of Oregon’s finest course, Bandon Dunes, and several distinguished courses in Scotland—Tetherow boasts a spectacular links-style layout that offers stunning panoramic views at every turn.

The course is part of Tetherow Resort and is semi-private with a variety of membership options.  The facilities are top-notch, and the overall experience is hard to beat anywhere around Bend.

If you are a golfer in Bend or visiting Bend, Tetherow is the perfect blend of challenge and natural beauty on an exceptional course.

3. Widgi Creek Golf Club

A large stone sign reading Widgi Creek is set into a rock formation with small waterfalls on both sides. Green grass and trees surround this Bend Oregon Golf Course landmark, as sunlight casts shadows across the rocks.

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  You won’t find Widgi Creek Golf Club ranked super high on any golf course rankings (relative to others on this list).  But we love it.

In fact, we consider it the ‘home course’ for Bend residents who mostly play public golf. Located prominently on the Cascades Lakes Highway on the southwest side of town, it epitomizes Bend, Oregon Golf. Tree-lined fairways, mountain views, and a laid-back atmosphere.

It’s also a challenging and interestingly laid-out golf course. The fairways are narrow, and accurate drives are a must. Several holes have water.

Widgi Creek is also home to a 10-court pickleball facility.

Rates at Widgi are very reasonable, and there are membership options available for those who want to play frequently.

Planning a Trip to Bend?

We are locals!  Let’s us guide and ensure you get the best deals.

Top Rated Hotels in Bend

Looking for a rental?  Check out the best Airbnb and VRBOs in Bend.  Also, the Best Resorts Around Bend.

Book Adventure Tours in Bend

4. Brasada Canyons

The scenic golf course at Brasada Ranch with lush green fairways and a golf cart sits in the center. Sagebrush and trees surround the course near rolling forests and snow-capped mountains—perfect for those seeking where to stay in Bend, Oregon.
Photo Credit: Brasada.com

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  First, it should be clear that Brasada Canyons is a course only open to members and resort guests. You have to stay at the resort to play the course.

But it certainly belongs on this list. The views!

Brasada is a pristine central Oregon golf course about 30 minutes northeast of Bend, which might have the best views of any course in the state.

Brasada consistently ranks among the top courses in Oregon lists.  The facilities are top-notch, and the overall golf experience is dreamy.

If you are planning a golf trip to Bend, Oregon, Brasada Ranch is a resort and golf course worth considering.

5. Juniper Golf

Photo Credit: PlayJuniper.com
Photo Credit: PlayJuniper.com

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It: Another high desert golf course, Juniper is one of the best public golf courses in Oregon.  Located 20 minutes north of Bend in Redmond, its a beautifully laid out course that is easier on your wallet than some of the resort courses above.

Juniper has been around since the 1950s, but has had multiple renovations over the years to keep it fresh.  The Three Sisters, Mount Bachelor, and Broken Top seem to constantly in view as you traverse the course.

If you are a a local golfer in Bend or Redmond, Juniper also has some great membership options.

6. Lost Tracks Golf Club

Photo Credit: LostTracks.com
Photo Credit: LostTracks.com

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  Lost Tracks Golf Club may not boast the opulence of some courses, but it holds a cherished place in the Bend golf community.  

Nestled just south of town, this course features a tranquil, secluded ambiance, bordered by the National Forest and set against the backdrop of breathtaking high desert landscapes.

Towering pine trees, unique lava rock formations, and spectacular views of the iconic Three Sisters and Mount Bachelor surround Lost Tracks, immersing visitors in the region’s natural beauty.

This course embodies a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for golfers of all levels.

On a glorious, sun-drenched day in Bend, Lost Tracks transforms into a golfer’s paradise.  If you are a golfer in Bend, don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself!

Book Your Place to Stay in Bend, Oregon!

7. River's Edge Golf Course

Photo Credit: RiversEdgeGolfBend.com
Photo Credit: RiversEdgeGolfBend.com

Ratings and Rankings: 

Why Play It:  Another Bend golf course virtually built into the town’s fabric is River’s Bend Golf Course.  In fact, if you’ve driven anywhere around the north-central part of town, you’ve probably caught a glimpse of one of the holes.

But River’s Edge is still a golf experience that immerses you in nature. Utilizing the Deschutes River, the surrounding forest, and many of the creatures that live there, River’s Edge is all about the outdoors.

River’s Edge is a member of the Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), an organization committed to preserving the environment.

You’ll love the golf course as well. It is always meticulously cared for and in excellent condition, and it could easily be higher on this list.

8. Old Back Nine

Photo Credit: OldBackNine.com
Photo Credit: OldBackNine.com

Why Play It:  There are so many things to do in Bend, one of the main reasons we and many other Bend residents love it. Golf is merely one of many outdoor activities you can enjoy. 

The biking, fishing, skiing, and hiking around Bend make it an outdoor lover’s paradise.

What if you don’t want to spend a whole day playing golf?  What if you are a visitor to Bend, OR, and your days are limited?  Maybe you want to split a day between golf and some other activity?

Look no further than the Old Back Nine Golf Course in southeast Bend. This beautiful nine-hole course set within the pine forest of Bend is perfect for a quick round that won’t take all day.

Old Back Nine is also great for beginners or anyone learning the game.  Check it out! 

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Want More of the Best of Bend, Oregon?

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Read Detailed Reviews of Golf Courses in Bend, OR!

A golf course with a green tee box in the foreground, surrounded by sagebrush and desert plants. Fairways, trees, and sand traps stretch into the distance—a classic scene among Bend Oregon golf courses with blue skies and distant mountains.

The Iconic Pronghorn Golf Course Near Bend – Is It Worth It?

Looking for the ultimate golf getaway in Bend? Discover why Pronghorn Golf Course is the crown jewel of Central Oregon's golf scene.

A large stone sign reading Widgi Creek is set into a rock formation with small waterfalls on both sides. Green grass and trees surround this Bend Oregon Golf Course landmark, as sunlight casts shadows across the rocks.

Widgi Creek Golf Club in Bend – The Locals “Home” Course

Widgi Creek Golf Course is the golf club in Bend, Oregon that many locals call their 'home course'. For good reason, …

The post The 8 Best Bend Oregon Golf Courses to Play Right Now first appeared on EpicBend.

]]> https://epicbend.com/bend-oregon-golf-courses/feed/ 0 The Iconic Pronghorn Golf Course Near Bend – Is It Worth It? https://epicbend.com/pronghorn-golf-course/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=pronghorn-golf-course https://epicbend.com/pronghorn-golf-course/#respond Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:38:15 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=26893 Looking for the ultimate golf getaway in Bend? Discover why Pronghorn Golf Course is the crown jewel of Central Oregon's golf scene.

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Bend, Oregon, is no stranger to exceptional golf experiences, but few rival the opulence and world-class design of Pronghorn Golf Club at Juniper Reserve.

Nestled amid the rugged beauty of the high desert, this resort delivers not just one, but two incredible golf courses.  It has a price tag to match, so are steep greens fees worth it?

a Man in a Blue Cap Sunglasses and Striped Polo Shirt Stands in the Foreground of Pronghorn Golf Course with Green Grass Sandy Patches Low Shrubs and Distant Trees Under a Bright Blue Sky with Scattered White Clouds

Pronghorn is the home of two incredible golf courses.  The Tom Fazio Championship Course is private and only available to members.

However, the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is equally stunning and open to the public.  I’ve played it several times, and this review will be based on this course open to anyone.

A Guide and Review of Pronghorn Golf at Juniper Reserve

Pronghorn Golf Nicklaus Course - Ratings

Here are some notable ratings for the Pronghorn Nickalus Course near Bend:

a Metal Tee Marker with an Antelope Horn Design Stands on a Green Pronghorn Golf Course Tee Box in the Background Are Golf Bags on a Cart Bushes Rocks and Trees Beneath a Partly Cloudy Sky Highlighting This Scenic Outdoor Golf Experience

Pronghorn Golf Course: Basics

Pronghorn is located at the Juniper Reserve, a resort about 30 minutes northeast of Bend.  It’s a fabulous high desert resort and a premier golf destination, one of the most luxurious resorts around Bend.

The Golf Experience at Pronghorn Golf Club

Pronghorn is more than just a place to tee off.  If you include everything the Juniper Reserve resort has to offer, you can craft a sensational Oregon golf vacation.

But let’s focus solely on the golf experience associated with playing the Pronghorn Nicklaus course.  Because for golfers, that’s a pretty unforgettable experience in itself.

Two Clear Plastic Water Bottles with White Labels Sit on a Black Surface the Left Label Reads longhorn Club with a Horn Logo Perfect for Pronghorn Golf Course the Right juniper Preserve with a Juniper Tree Logo Both Are Half Full and Have Condensation

When you arrive and check it, you’ll get much more of a private club vibe than a public course.  The property is stunning, the pro shop and locker room are luxurious, and the practice areas are pristine.

There are nice touches everywhere, like water bottles in your state-of-the-art golf cart.  The property is top-notch.

The Jack Nickalus Signature Course at Pronghorn

Set against the backdrop of Oregon’s high desert, the Jack Nicklaus course winds through ancient juniper trees, lava formations, and panoramic mountain vistas.

The dry climate and rugged terrain not only define its aesthetic but also shape its playability, offering firm conditions, fast greens, and a sense of seclusion that makes each round feel intimate and unique.

This is high desert golf at its finest—wild, refined, and utterly unforgettable.

Dense Sagebrush Fills the Foreground of Pronghorn Golf Course with Green Fairways Sand Bunkers and Clusters of Trees in the Background Several Golfers Can Be Seen in the Distance Under a Partly Cloudy Blue Sky

Some noteworthy highlights of the Nicklaus Course at Pronghorn:

  • Par 72, 7,381 Yards from the back Tees
  • Distinct Tees:  Black, Rust, Gold, Silver
  • Iconic #8 Hole with a Lava Tube guarding the green
  • Great Views of the Three Sisters
a Person Wearing a Cap Light Shirt and Shorts Stands on a Tee at Pronghorn Golf Course Preparing to Swing a Golf Club the Green Fairway Stretches Ahead Surrounded by Trees and Shrubs Under a Blue Sky with Scattered Clouds

I’ve played multiple times, and here are my favorite holes:

Hole 8.  A killer par five that stretches on forever.  But a beautiful tee shot and views over the water across the landscape.

Hole 12.  A relatively short par four but an awesome elevated green and a tight approach shot.  Harder than it looks from the tee.

Hole 15.  A long par five that is probably the most difficult hole (#2 handicap).  The fairway wraps around a lake and challenges all your shots. 

a Weathered Metal Sign on a Post Reads gold Rust Black with a Left Arrow and silver with a Right Arrow Set Outdoors Near Pronghorn Golf Course It Stands in a Dry Rocky Area Dotted with Sparse Shrubs and Twisted Tree Branches

My Recent Round at Pronghorn Golf Course

I play Pronghorn Nicklaus recently in July 2025, arriving by myself on a hot Saturday.  I got paired with a very interesting young man, a pilot from Seattle on vacation at Juniper with his family.  We immediately hit it off and had a great round.

a Man Wearing a Blue Cap Sunglasses and a Striped Polo Shirt Smiles for a Selfie at Pronghorn Golf Course Behind Him Are Green Fairways Scattered Shrubs Pine Trees and a Bright Blue Sky with Some Clouds

Playing the rust tees (normally the ‘blue’ tees), the course mostly got the better of me on the front nine, though I shot much better on the back nine.

The course conditions were exceptional.  The greens were perfect, the pace very fast for a Saturday, and it’s the type of golf course you constantly want to snap a photo.

a Twisted Weathered Tree Trunk Lies on Bright Green Grass Under a Blue Sky with Scattered Clouds in the Background at Pronghorn Golf Course a Person Walks Near a Golf Green with a Red Flag Surrounded by Trees and Open Space

Pro Tip:  The course is designed so that most of the best views of the mountain range are in the morning.  By afternoon, the Insta-worthy tee shots are directly into the blinding sun.

Juniper Preserve - Stay and Play in Style

One of the best features of The Pronghorn Golf Club is its home resort itself.  The Juniper Preserve offers an upscale escape with refined lodging options, including suites, townhomes, and the Juniper Preserve luxury residences.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying long-term, the resort elevates the experience.

a Stone Building Entrance with Double Wooden Doors Flanked by Large Potted Evergreens Welcomes Visitors to Pronghorn Golf Course a Black Mat in Front Reads Juniper Preserve Bend Oregon Nearby Sits a Grey Cushioned Chair and Lantern style Wall Light

If you want to make a weekend out of playing golf at Pronghorn, the Juniper Reserve offers:

  • Resort-style pools and a fitness center

  • The Juniper Spa & Wellness Center

  • Fine dining at Cascada or casual eats at The Trailhead Grill

  • Adventure concierge for local excursions

Final Thoughts - Is Playing Pronghorn Worth Its Green Fees?

If you love golf, Pronghorn is a Central Oregon bucket list course. We have it #1 on our ranking of the top golf courses around Bend.

Depending on when you book your tee time, you’ll pay anywhere from $150 to $250 in greens fees.  Is that a lot, or too much?

a Blue Deschutes Beer Can with a Large Green Hop Illustration and Bold Orange Lettering Stands on Green Grass at Pronghorn Golf Course in the Background a Sandy Course Weaves Among Shrubs and Trees Beneath a Partly Cloudy Blue Sky

Paying upwards of $200 for a round of golf is not something I want to do every outing.  But it’s also not unheard of.  Golf is expensive.

If you’re a golfer, either a resident or visitor to Bend or Central Oregon, I’d encourage you to play the Nicklaus Course at Pronghorn. It’s the best example of high desert golf in the region.

(I’ll also note that Tetherow and Brasada Canyons, comparable course in the area, have similar greens fees).

a Golf Green at Pronghorn Golf Course is Bordered by Trees and a Stone Wall with a Golf Bag Leaning Against It Pink Flowers Bloom in the Foreground While Sunlight Filters Through Partly Cloudy Skies Onto the Well kept Grass and Flags

Pronghorn Golf Club isn’t just one of the best golf courses in Bend—it’s a destination in itself.

Whether you’re looking for a high-end golf experience or simply soaking in the stunning high desert views, a round at Pronghorn is one for the memory books.

a Red Flag Reading Pronghorn Club Flutters Atop a Flagstick on the Green at Pronghorn Golf Course the Mostly Clear Sky and Tree lined Background Are Bathed in Bright Sunlight Casting Sharp Shadows Across the Well manicured Grass

Looking for More Great Golf Around Bend, Oregon?

Of the many things that make Bend, Oregon, a great place to live or visit, a plethora of fantastic golf courses is on the list.

Be sure to check out some of our other golf course reviews in Bend:

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]]> https://epicbend.com/pronghorn-golf-course/feed/ 0 Widgi Creek Golf Club in Bend – The Locals “Home” Course https://epicbend.com/widgi-creek-golf-course-the-golf-club-bend-golfers-call-home/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=widgi-creek-golf-course-the-golf-club-bend-golfers-call-home https://epicbend.com/widgi-creek-golf-course-the-golf-club-bend-golfers-call-home/#respond Mon, 30 Jun 2025 03:57:28 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=420 Widgi Creek Golf Course is the golf club in Bend, Oregon that many locals call their 'home course'. For good reason, Widgi Creek is gem.

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Bend, Oregon, has no shortage of golf courses.  Public options like Lost Track Golf Club, Old Back Nine, and River’s Edge Golf Course all provide a high-desert feel with mountain scenery.

If you are lucky enough to play the private or semi-private golf clubs in Bend, like Awbrey Glen or Tetherow, you are in for a special experience.

a Winding Paved Path Curves Through a Manicured Lawn with Tall Pine Trees in the Background Theres a Large Rustic Lodge with Many Windows an American Flag on a Pole and Golf Carts Parked Nearby Under a Clear Blue Sky

But there is one Bend Oregon golf course that locals call ‘home’—Widgi Creek Golf Club. Widgi Creek is not the most glamorous, exclusive, or pristine course in Bend. 

But it embodies everything fabulous about playing golf in Bend.  It’s the course in Bend I’ve played the most, and still one of my favorites in Bend.

A Guide to Widgi Creek Golf Club

Widgi Creek Golf Course: Rankings

Here are some of the rankings for Widgi Creek Golf Course in Bend, Oregon:

a Sand Bunker Borders a Neatly Mowed Golf Fairway Surrounded by Tall Pine Trees Under a Partly Cloudy Blue Sky the Green Grass Contrasts with the Sandy Bunker in the Foreground and the Scene is Calm and Peaceful

Widgi Creek Golf Club: Basics

If you have spent time in Bend, you have probably seen Widgi Creek Golf Club. It sits on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway, on the left just as you leave town.

The Golfing Experience at Widgi Creek

Widgi Creek is an inviting setting.  Tree-lined fairways.  Well-maintained greens and bunkers.  Super challenging holes like the epic 653-yard par 5 number 3 hole, which I never seem to play well.

Most of all, Widgi is like Bend – laid back and beautiful.

a Black Golf Club Rests on a Large Weathered Tree Stump Beside a Sand Bunker on a Golf Course in the Background Lush Green Grass Tall Pine Trees and a Blue Sky with Wispy Clouds Complete the Scenic Outdoor Setting

Widgi Creek is set among towering Ponderosa pines and flows along the Deschutes River corridor.

The course is renowned for its tranquil ambiance and natural layout, featuring elevation changes and water features that demand strategy but reward exceptional shots.

a Green Sign at Widgi Creek Golf Club Displays daily Pin Location 1 and play Ready Golf Below a Notice Warns That Outside Alcohol is Not Allowed and Violations May Result in Removal Trees and Green Grass Are Visible in the Background

What I also love about it:

  • An 18-hole, par-72 course that’s challenging and interesting

  • Tree-lined fairways and dramatic mountain views

  • Reasonably Priced, well-paced tee times and a relaxing environment

  • Great facilities for a public course – club house, driving range, practice area

It’s also a great course to walk.  In fact, I’ve probably walked nine holes at Widgi in the evening more than I’ve played eighteen.

a Blue Disc with a White Abstract Design Stands Upright on a Grassy Area Likely a Golf Course or Park Tall Pine Trees and a Blue Sky with Scattered Clouds Are in the Blurred Background Creating a Serene Outdoor Scene

Course Overview, Stats, and Rates

Widgi has four tees so it can play almost 7,000 yards from the tips.  Or you can play the blue/white combo like me which is less insane.

The course generally has narrow fairways, and tee shots demand accuracy and length. 

This is the high desert, and shots that miss the fairway quickly find themselves in the tall ponderosa trees that stand above tall grass.  I had to punch out several times when hitting poor tee shots.

a Golf Putter and a Bright Green Golf Ball Rest on Grass Near a Pond with Tall Pine Trees and a Clear Blue Sky in the Background Creating a Scenic Golf Course Setting

There is water on several holes, specifically 6, 7, 11, 17, and 18, and the ponds come significantly into play on your tee shot.  Check out the hole-by-hole layout, and you’ll find lots of interesting dog legs that require some strategy and course knowledge.

My favorites are:

Hole 7.  A long par five which requires some strategy to navigate bunkers and a green protected by water.

Hole 11.  Over water par three with a multi-level green that can make for some crazy putts.

Hole 17.  A monster par five (582 from the blue) that is a nightmare for slicers, but a beautiful hole.

a Row of Golfers Practices at a Driving Range Bordered by Tall Pine Trees Under a Blue Sky the Foreground Features Manicured Bushes Spelling out pga in Green Letters on a Brown Mulch Bed Surrounded by Neatly Trimmed Grass

Rates at Widgi Creek vary by season and time, but in general are very reasonable for Bend.  I also like that they have 9 hole and twilight rates (which I take advantage of often).

Explore Widgi Creek Golf Clubs Comprehensive Rate Chart in Bend Featuring Five Seasonal Sections with 18 hole and 9 hole Prices for Prime Afternoon and Twilight Timesranging from $49 to $125 and $25 to $65

My Rounds at Widgi

a Golf Push Cart with a Bag Stands on Green Grass Near a Small Sign Reading Carts with an Arrow Tall Pine Trees Border the Golf Course and a Golfer with a Pull Cart is Seen in the Distance Under a Blue Partly Cloudy Sky

I’ve played Widgi many times. In fact, like Whiskey Creek Golf Course in Frederick, it has become my de facto ‘home course’ in Bend.

The first time I played was many years ago, when I was paired with several Bend locals. They helped me navigate the course, and I fell in love with the place.

a Bright Green Golf Ball Lies on Bare Soil and Sparse Grass Near Tall Blades with a Large Tree and Shadowed Trunk Nearby in the Background Theres a Paved Path Lush Green Grass and Tall Pine Trees Under a Partly Cloudy Blue Sky

I’ve played as recently as June 2025, this time paired with part-time residents of the Seventh Mountain Resort just down the road.  One of them came 6 inches from a hole-in-one on the par 3, second hole. 

Bend Golf at its Best at Widgi

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Widgi Creek Golf Club is a must-play. Its serene setting, thoughtful design, and warm community feel create a golf experience that stands out in Central Oregon.

a Man Stands at a Wooden Counter in a Golf Pro Shop with Large Windows Behind the Counter a Woman Assists Him Golf Gear Apparel and Displays Fill the Shop Two Deer Mounts Are on the Beam Above and Sunlight Streams Through the Tall Windows

A few more things to know:

  • There’s a full service bar and grill to hit up when you finish your round
  • If you are local and play a lot of golf, you’ll definitely want to consider a membership. Widgi offers very reasonable 5-day and 7-day memberships.
  • Widgi also has the best pickleball facility in the Pacific Northwest!

Looking for More to Do in Bend, Oregon?

Two Pint Glasses with Crux Fermentation Project Logos Sit on a Wooden Table Outdoors in Bend Oregon One Holds a Hazy Beer the Other a Golden Brewperfect for Enjoying One of the Best Things to Do in Bend Relaxing with Local Craft Beer

Of course, there’s more to do in Bend than golf, and we can help:

 

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