🏌️♀️ Fairways, Forests & Foothills: Where to Golf Near Oakhurst, CA
Looking to swap your hiking boots for golf shoes while exploring the area near Yosemite’s south entrance? Whether you’re trading pine needles for putting greens or just trying to justify packing your clubs on a national park vacation, you’re in luck. Within a half-hour drive of Oakhurst, you’ll find a handful of courses that deliver mountain air, dramatic views, and enough challenge to make you forget that you’re technically “on vacation.”
From rustic meadow-style classics tucked inside Yosemite National Park to hilly layouts with oak-lined fairways and sneaky water hazards, there’s a course here for every swing speed and skill level. Let’s tee it up—this guide breaks down your best local options for a memorable round near Oakhurst.
⛳ River Creek Golf Course (Ahwahnee, CA)
📍 Distance from Oakhurst: ~6 miles / ~11 min west via Hwy 49
- Holes & Yardage: 9 holes, par 36 • approx. 3,152 yards from the back tees; championship layout by John Hilborn.
- Difficulty: Moderate–challenging. Tight fairways and undulating terrain demand accurate drives and solid approach shots.
- Recent Reviews:
- Yelp: “Fairly well kept 9‑hole … beautiful views. Moderately challenging, but very playable for all levels.”
- TripAdvisor notes “challenged us all” yet praised reasonable price and friendly staff.
- Highlights: Spectacular Sierra Nevada views, interesting rock formations and creek frontage, peaceful setting near Yosemite’s south entrance, great for both leisurely rounds.
- Traveler Tip: The 18-hole rate is usually only a few bucks more than the 9-hole rate so do the math and consider going around twice!
⛳ Yosemite Lakes Park Golf Course (Coarsegold, CA)
📍 Distance from Oakhurst: ~15 miles / ~22 min south via Hwy 41 & Rd 415
- Holes & Yardage: 9 holes, par 31 • approx. 1,710 yards; features five holes over water
- Difficulty: Moderate–challenging. Accuracy is key—small greens, tight fairways, forced carries make club selection crucial.
- Recent Reviews:
- GolfPass: locals call it “scenic,” “challenging play for all levels,” with great staff and pace.
- TripAdvisor & Yelp highlight peaceful layout with water hazards, well-conditioned turf.
- Highlights: Fun water features, relaxed semi-private environment, no frills but solid amenities and pace.
- Traveler Tip: Great for families or quick afternoon rounds—stop by the Fairway Café adjacent to the course.
⛳ Wawona Golf Course (Yosemite National Park)
📍 Distance from Oakhurst: ~21 miles / ~33 min via CA‑41 into the park
- Holes & Yardage: 9 holes, par 35 • approx. 3,050 yards; offers combo tees for par‑70, 18‑hole rounds.
- Difficulty: Moderate. Not much length challenge, but thoughtful play on classic meadow-style layout; elevation, wind, and no pesticides add nuance.
- Recent Descriptions:
- NPS: “Established in 1918… offers a unique experience in Yosemite’s breathtaking landscape.
- ScenicWonders: “completely organic… zero pesticides… reclaimed gray water hydrates…”
- Highlights: Historic and eco-friendly, nestled next to the (currently closed) Wawona Hotel and forested meadows—an unforgettable Sierra golf moment.
- Traveler Tip: Open late spring through early fall, weather permitting. Pro shop, carts/caddies, and light refreshments available—check seasonal schedules ahead of time.
🗺 Driving Times Overview
| Route | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oakhurst → River Creek | ~6 mi | ~11 min |
| Oakhurst → Yosemite Lakes | ~15 mi | ~22 min |
| Oakhurst → Wawona (Yosemite) | ~21 mi | ~33 min |
🎯 Course Comparison at a Glance
| Course | Holes | Yardage | Difficulty | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| River Creek | 9 | ~3,152 yds | Moderate-Challenging | Scenic, greens roll very true |
| Yosemite Lakes | 9 | ~1,710 yds | Moderate | Water hazards, tight layout |
| Wawona | 9 | ~3,050 yds | Moderate | Historic, rustic vibe |
🏌️♂️ Which One Should You Play?
- Quick but serious round? Go for River Creek or Yosemite Lakes—they’re both in better shape and more reliably open compared to the Wawona course.
- More casual Yosemite diversion? Wawona delivers unique history and setting within the park—ideal for casual rounds when you need a break from all the scenic overlooks.
✅ Vacation Tips
- Book early at River Creek to ensure a tee time—especially on weekends.
- Check operating season for Wawona—usually late spring through early fall.
- Pace of play: 9-hole options are usually fairly quick; play twice if you want a full 18.
- Bring essentials: Water hazards, bunkers, and the hot Sierra sun make water, extra balls, and sun protection a good idea.
- Combine play & nature: Schedule Wawona around Yosemite hikes or Valley visits—great combo day.
🌟 Final Recap
From leisurely nine-hole strolls with Sierra views to a historic course inside the national park, these three options offer something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing birdies, mixing it up on a day of exploration, or just looking for a nice afternoon stroll, the Oakhurst region can deliver some interesting golf as a tasty side dish on your next vacation.