Alberta is known for its breathtaking landscapes and is home to some of Canada’s most scenic golf courses. From world-famous destinations to lesser-known hidden gems, this province is packed with options for golfers of all kinds.
Of course, golf does come with a couple of drawbacks. For one, it is not exactly a quick activity. A full round can easily take up the better part of a summer day. And with that kind of time commitment in a stunning setting, it is no surprise that many courses come with a hefty price tag. But it does not have to be that way. If you're ready to spend the day golfing but aren't ready to empty your wallet, we've found some budget-friendly options to consider.
Some of these courses even come with quirky, memorable names that match Alberta's fun, laid-back spirit. Whether you are new to the game or a seasoned player just looking for an affordable round, there has never been a better time to get out, try something different, and soak up the best this province has to offer. If you are looking to play this season without overspending, here are a few of our favourite courses that combine natural beauty and unbeatable value for an unforgettable day on the green.
Tooth of the Dogpound Creek Golf Course
Tucked away in the scenic Dogpound Creek valley, just west of Carstairs in Mountain View County, this 18-hole course offers a peaceful rural escape without the hefty price tag. Set along Highway 580, it’s loved by locals and visitors alike for its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and very reasonable green fees. The course winds through a gently rolling landscape, making for a round that is as visually rewarding as it is fun to play.
One of its standout features is the signature 8th hole, known as “Devil's Head,” which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Rocky Mountain foothills in the distance. After your round, stop by the licensed clubhouse and snack bar, where hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and casual dinners are served with a side of small-town charm.
Beaver Dam Golf Course
Just 25 minutes northwest of Calgary, Beaver Dam Golf Course & RV Resort in Madden offers the perfect mix of accessibility, affordability, and charm. Set against the rolling coulees of Alberta’s foothills, this course provides a quiet, scenic escape for golfers looking to unwind without straying too far from the city.
Beaver Dam’s known for its well-kept greens, laid-back atmosphere, and wallet-friendly rates. It’s a great pick for players of all skill levels, whether you’re getting in a quick round after work or planning a full day of golf and relaxation. The surrounding landscape adds a peaceful touch to the experience, with wide open skies, gentle hills, and the kind of rural calm that makes the game feel a little more enjoyable.
The on-site RV resort makes it a solid option for weekend getaways, and the welcoming clubhouse rounds out the visit with friendly service and refreshments. If you’re looking for a down-to-earth golf destination with a great community feel, Beaver Dam’s definitely worth the short drive.
Serenity Golf Club
Tucked into the quiet farmland of Rocky View County, Serenity Golf Club lives up to its name with a peaceful setting and a beautifully challenging 36-hole layout. Just a short drive from Calgary, it's an easy escape for city golfers craving a change of pace without a long haul.
Golfers can choose between two distinct courses, Dancing Bull and Sun Catcher, both designed to test your skills while treating you to sweeping prairie views. Expect to navigate around natural water features, tree-lined fairways, and just enough bunkers to keep you honest with your strategy and club choice.
If you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident moose grazing near the trees. With its mix of natural wetlands, rolling terrain, and impeccably maintained greens, Serenity offers a blend of beauty, quiet, and quality that makes every round memorable.
Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Canadian Badlands, Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club delivers a one-of-a-kind golf experience. The course blends rugged natural beauty with a fun and challenging layout that keeps players on their toes.
The front nine offers a more traditional parkland feel, but it is the back nine that steals the show. Carved into the Badlands terrain, it serves up sweeping views, dramatic elevation changes, and a truly unforgettable round. If you are after a course that feels completely different from anywhere else in the province, this one is well worth the trip.
Coal Creek Golf Resort
Built on the site of a former coal mine, Coal Creek Golf Resort is land reclamation done right. The course honours its roots with distinctive black sand bunkers and a layout that blends history with playability.
It’s a course that feels different from the moment you step onto the first tee. The unique landscape, thoughtful design, and commitment to preserving the land's story all come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Coal Creek’s also known for being affordable, so if you’re looking for something memorable without the high price tag, this spot is definitely worth a visit.
Camrose Golf Course
A favourite among locals for its affordability and peaceful setting, Camrose Golf Course is a city-run public course that delivers a great experience without the high cost. It features scenic water crossings and plenty of wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you spot deer or geese along the way.
The course is well-known for its thoughtful layout and the variety it offers across its fairways and greens. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, it's a relaxing place to spend a day on the course.
Kananaskis Country Golf Course
Located in the heart of Kananaskis Country, this course features two stunning 18-hole layouts, Mount Kidd and Mount Lorette, set among towering peaks and glacier-fed creeks. It is the kind of place where the scenery is just as impressive as the golf.
With lush fairways, bent grass greens, and incredible mountain views in every direction, it offers a top-tier golf experience at surprisingly reasonable rates. Whether you are teeing off at sunrise or soaking in the views between shots, this course delivers the full mountain golf experience.
Wolf Creek Resort
This Ponoka County gem combines two distinct 18-hole courses: the Scottish-inspired Links Course and the Parkland-style Old Course. Both offer unique challenges in Alberta’s picturesque countryside, making for an unforgettable golf getaway. If you’re in the mood for a memorable day in the sun, you will find it here without a doubt. Book your tee times and get ready for a fun round on Ponoka.
Grouse Nest Golf Course
This Parkland County course offers excellent value with its well-maintained greens and scenic surroundings. It’s ideal for golfers seeking affordability without compromising on quality or views. Listen for the sounds of their namesake drumming their wings in a mating call, or chance upon a nest of duck eggs. The natural setting is home to many species of wildlife and a wide variety of flora. Grouse Nest is a relaxing, friendly, and scenic golfing experience.
Gunby Ranch Golf Club
This hidden gem, tucked away in Greenview County, just East of Grand Prairie, offers unbeatable affordability alongside beautiful natural landscapes. The 9-hole course is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option filled with charm. Camping is available onsite, complete with a licensed clubhouse and bar.
Exploring these courses is affordable and showcases the diverse landscapes and welcoming golfing communities Alberta has to offer. Grab your clubs and discover these hidden gems this season.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
