Papago Golf Club is an 18-hole, par-72 public course in Phoenix designed by William F. “Billy” Bell. The championship layout stretches to roughly 7,300+ yards from the back tees and is known for its rolling terrain, large greens, Papago Buttes views, and connection to Arizona State University golf.
Papago Golf Club, commonly called Papago Golf Course, is a public golf facility located at 5595 E. Moreland St., Phoenix, Arizona.
The course opened in 1963 and was designed by William F. “Billy” Bell, whose portfolio also includes major California golf courses. Papago has developed a reputation as a classic Phoenix municipal course and has hosted significant competitive golf, including the 1971 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship.
Today, Papago is also closely associated with Arizona State University golf, with the ASU men’s and women’s teams using the facility and its practice complex.
Papago Golf at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Holes | 18 |
| Par | 72 |
| Designer | William F. “Billy” Bell |
| Opening | 1963 |
| Type | Public / municipal |
| Back-tee length | 7,300+ yards |
| Golf style | Traditional / parkland-desert setting |
| Nearby landmark | Papago Buttes |
| Major connection | Arizona State University golf |
| Airport access | Close to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport |
Exact yardage and playing conditions can vary by the current course setup and tee configuration. Golf publications currently list the championship layout at approximately 7,333 yards, while other current course listings report slightly different totals.
Why Is Papago Golf So Popular?
Papago stands out because it doesn’t feel like a typical resort course surrounded by luxury homes.
Instead, golfers get a more traditional layout framed by Arizona’s rugged landscape.
Incredible Papago Buttes Views
One of the first things you’ll notice is the scenery.
The distinctive red-rock formations of Papago Buttes provide a memorable backdrop, while parts of the course offer views toward the Phoenix skyline. Golf Digest specifically highlights the views of the nearby Camelback Mountains and downtown Phoenix.
That combination gives Papago something many city courses struggle to provide: a strong sense of place.
A Traditional Golf Layout
Papago isn’t simply about hitting shots through open desert.
The course incorporates:
- Rolling fairways
- Large putting surfaces
- Strategic bunkers
- Natural desert areas
- Mature trees
- Undulating terrain
- Several challenging approach shots
GolfPass describes the course as a traditional-style layout with rolling fairways, undulating greens, bunkers, mounding and selected water hazards.
It Has Serious Golf Credentials
Papago isn’t just a recreational municipal course.
Its history includes major competition, and its modern identity is connected with Arizona State University’s golf programs. Golf Digest notes the substantial investment in the course and the Thunderbirds Golf Complex, which serves the ASU men’s and women’s teams.
That makes Papago particularly interesting for golfers who enjoy playing where serious competitive players practice.
Papago Golf Course Layout
Papago is a par-72, 18-hole course with multiple tee options, allowing golfers to choose a distance that better matches their ability.
The longest listed configuration is around 7,333 yards, with shorter tees available. GolfPass lists the course at 7,333 yards with a 75.0 rating and 130 slope, while historical scorecard information shows multiple tee configurations ranging from roughly 5,400 to 7,300+ yards.
Is Papago Golf Difficult?
It can be.
From the back tees, the combination of length, bunkers, desert hazards, elevation changes and demanding greens can make Papago a serious test.
But the multiple tee boxes are important.
Don’t automatically play the longest tees.
For recreational golfers, choosing a suitable tee can make the round considerably more enjoyable.
The course isn’t designed around gimmicks. Instead, many of its challenges come from asking golfers to:
- Pick the correct target
- Avoid strategically placed hazards
- Control approach distance
- Read large greens carefully
- Keep tee shots reasonably accurate
That’s the kind of challenge that can reward smart golf rather than simply maximum distance.
Papago Golf’s Most Memorable Holes
While every golfer may have a different favorite, several holes have received attention from golf reviewers.
Hole 3
The third hole is a demanding par 4 and has been highlighted as one of the course’s stronger holes.
Historical course analysis lists it at up to 467 yards, with a rolling fairway and bunkers protecting the green. The putting surface itself can make the approach particularly interesting because of its internal contours.
The lesson?
A good drive doesn’t automatically mean an easy par.
Your approach and putting can still determine the outcome.
Hole 17
The 17th is a memorable par 3, particularly from the longer tees.
Historical course information lists the hole at up to approximately 243 yards, making it a serious long-iron or hybrid challenge depending on the tee and conditions. Bunkers protect sections of the green, adding another layer to club selection.
For many golfers, this is exactly the kind of hole that sticks in the memory after the round.
Papago Golf Practice Facilities
One of Papago’s biggest advantages isn’t limited to the 18 holes.
The facility also has a substantial practice complex associated with Arizona State University.
Golf Digest describes the Thunderbirds Golf Complex as having an extensive practice setup, including a large hitting area with target greens and fairway bunkers, along with a substantial short-game area.
That makes Papago more than a place to play a quick round.
It’s also a serious environment for golfers who want to work on:
- Driving
- Iron play
- Wedge shots
- Chipping
- Putting
- Bunker play
- Distance control
For visitors planning a golf trip to Phoenix, this can be a major attraction.
Papago Golf Club and Arizona State University
One of the most interesting things about Papago is its relationship with Arizona State University golf.
The university’s men’s and women’s golf teams use the facility and practice complex. Golf Digest identifies the Thunderbirds Golf Complex as a training facility for the ASU programs.
For an ordinary golfer, that creates a fun piece of trivia:
You aren’t simply playing a Phoenix municipal course you’re playing at a facility connected to a major collegiate golf program.
That competitive connection also helps explain the importance placed on the practice facilities.
Papago Golf Course Rates
This is one area where golfers should be careful when researching older articles.
Papago’s golf prices can change according to season, tee time, residency, demand and other booking conditions.
Current third-party listings show that peak-season pricing can become considerably higher than the traditional image of a municipal golf course suggests. Golf Digest currently lists a broad price range rather than one fixed green fee and advises golfers to check the course for specific timing and pricing.
So instead of relying on an old blog post claiming a specific price, check the current booking information before planning your round.
Money-saving tip
If you’re flexible, compare:
- Weekday vs. weekend
- Morning vs. afternoon
- Peak vs. off-peak season
- Walking vs. riding
- Resident vs. non-resident rates, where applicable
Phoenix-area golf prices can vary substantially depending on timing.
When Is the Best Time to Play Papago Golf?
Phoenix golf is heavily influenced by weather.
For most visiting golfers, the cooler months are generally the most comfortable time to explore the area’s courses.
A typical Phoenix golf trip is particularly attractive during the cooler part of the year, while summer brings significantly hotter conditions.
If you’re visiting during warmer months:
Start early. Hydrate continuously. Protect yourself from the sun.
Papago’s desert environment can feel very different from a mild-weather golf destination.
Papago Golf: What Should You Bring?
A little preparation can make your round much better.
Essential items include:
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen
- Hat or visor
- Sunglasses
- Golf glove
- Extra golf balls
- Comfortable golf shoes
- Towel
- Appropriate Arizona-weather clothing
If you’re playing during hot weather, hydration should be treated as part of your golf strategy not an afterthought.
Is Papago Golf Beginner-Friendly?
Yes, with the right expectations.
Papago isn’t necessarily the course a complete beginner should choose if they want an extremely easy introduction to golf.
However, beginners can enjoy it if they select appropriate tees and understand that the course is designed to challenge golfers.
The key is avoiding the temptation to play from the back tees simply because they’re available.
For higher-disability golfers
Consider:
- Playing shorter tees
- Prioritizing accuracy over distance
- Taking conservative lines
- Avoiding unnecessary hero shots
- Leaving yourself manageable approach distances
Papago becomes much more approachable when you play the course according to your ability.
Papago Golf vs. Resort Golf in Scottsdale
One reason Papago gets attention is its contrast with the luxury golf experience commonly associated with the Phoenix-Scottsdale region.
Scottsdale is famous for high-end golf resorts and dramatic Sonoran Desert layouts.
Papago offers something different.
Papago emphasizes:
- Accessibility
- Traditional golf architecture
- City convenience
- Collegiate golf facilities
- Natural desert surroundings
- A classic municipal-course identity
It doesn’t need to imitate a luxury resort.
That’s part of its character.
Is Papago Golf Worth Playing?
The answer depends on what you’re looking for in a golf course.
If your priority is location, traditional design, challenging golf, interesting scenery and a course with genuine history, Papago has plenty to offer.
Golf Digest describes it as a strong value within the Phoenix/Scottsdale golf market and highlights its scenery, recent investment and practice facilities.
At the same time, golfer reviews aren’t universally positive. GolfPass reviews show mixed opinions regarding conditions, value and pace of play, while other recent reviews praise the greens, staff, facilities and overall experience.
That difference is worth understanding.
Papago isn’t a course that every golfer will experience in exactly the same way.
Course conditions, weather, tee time, pace and expectations can influence the experience.
Papago Golf Reviews
Recent golfer feedback highlights several recurring themes.
Frequently praised
- Friendly staff
- Convenient Phoenix location
- Practice facilities
- Scenic Papago Buttes
- Interesting layout
- Greens
- Connection to ASU golf
Common criticisms
- Price can feel high during busy periods
- Pace can vary
- Some golfers find the course demanding
- Desert areas can be unforgiving
- Conditions can vary depending on season
GolfPass’s review data reflects a particularly positive perception of staff friendliness, while layout and value receive more mixed assessments.
That’s useful context when deciding whether Papago fits your own golf trip.
Papago Golf Near Phoenix Airport
For travelers, the location is a major advantage.
Papago is relatively close to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, making it potentially convenient for a golf trip’s first or final round.
A historical Sports Illustrated review noted the course’s proximity to the airport as one of its travel advantages.
That creates an appealing itinerary:
Land → play golf → check into your hotel
or
Check out → play golf → head to the airport
Of course, always leave sufficient time for traffic, rental-car return and airport security.
Papago Golf Tips for Your First Round
Playing Papago for the first time?
These simple strategies can help.
Choose your tees carefully
Don’t let ego choose your yardage.
Pick the tees that make the course challenging but playable.
Favor accuracy off the tee
A spectacular drive isn’t useful if it leaves you in trouble.
Study the greens
Large greens can create surprisingly difficult putts when you’re on the wrong level or section.
Respect the bunkers
Strategic bunkering means a seemingly safe target may not actually be safe.
Prepare for the desert
If your ball leaves the intended playing area, recovery may be considerably harder than on a typical parkland course.
Arrive early
If you’re unfamiliar with the facility, give yourself time to check in, warm up and get comfortable.
FAQs
Where is Papago Golf Course?
Papago Golf Club is located at 5595 E. Moreland St., Phoenix, Arizona.
How many holes does Papago Golf have?
Papago is an 18-hole, par-72 golf course.
Who designed Papago Golf Course?
The original course was designed by William F. “Billy” Bell.
When did Papago Golf open?
Papago opened in 1963.
How long is Papago Golf Course?
The back tees are listed at approximately 7,333 yards, although published yardages can differ slightly depending on the source and current setup.
Is Papago Golf a public course?
Yes. Papago is a public/municipal golf facility.
Is Papago Golf difficult?
From the longest tees, it can be a demanding course because of its length, hazards, bunkers and greens. Multiple tee options allow golfers to choose a more appropriate distance.
Does Arizona State University play at Papago?
Yes. Papago is associated with the Arizona State University men’s and women’s golf programs and includes the Thunderbirds Golf Complex.
Does Papago Golf have a driving range?
Yes. The facility includes a substantial practice complex with a large hitting area and short-game facilities.
Is Papago Golf close to the airport?
Yes. Papago is conveniently located near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, making it useful for travelers building golf into an arrival or departure day.
What makes Papago Golf different?
Its combination of traditional course design, desert surroundings, Papago Buttes views, Phoenix convenience, collegiate golf connections and extensive practice facilities gives it a distinctive identity.
Final THOUGHTS
Papago Golf is more than another golf course in the Phoenix area.
It’s a course with history, character and a strong connection to serious golf. The Billy Bell design, rolling terrain, strategic bunkers, large greens and views of the surrounding Arizona landscape create a round that can challenge experienced golfers while remaining accessible to players who choose sensible tees.
Its location is another major advantage. Being close to central Phoenix and the airport makes Papago particularly convenient for visitors who don’t want to spend their entire golf trip driving across the Valley.
The most important thing to remember is that Papago isn’t simply about scoring well. It’s about experiencing a classic Phoenix golf setting where natural desert scenery meets traditional golf architecture.
If you’re planning a Phoenix golf itinerary, Papago deserves a place on your research list especially if you value convenience, course history, challenging golf and memorable Arizona scenery.
And before booking, check the latest tee-time availability, rates and course conditions, because those details can change with season and demand.
Leo Carter is a passionate sports writer and storyteller at SportNestify.com covering cricket, football, hockey, tennis, basketball and more. With a focus on clear insights, engaging analysis, player stories, and the latest sporting trends, Leo turns every game into a story worth following. His goal is simple