Papago Golf Course
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix's beloved municipal gem, Papago sits at the base of the iconic Papago Buttes and has been a favorite of locals and touring professionals for decades. The mature desert layout offers outstanding value and an unforgettable setting.
History & Heritage
Papago Golf Course opened in 1963, designed by William F. "Billy" Bell Jr. — the same architect who designed Torrey Pines South Course in San Diego. The City of Phoenix owns and operates the facility at the base of the iconic Papago Buttes in Papago Park, just two miles from Sky Harbor Airport.
A $5.8 million renovation was completed in December 2008, led by Billy Fuller (a former Augusta National superintendent). The project removed 400 trees to restore original sightlines toward the Buttes, Camelback Mountain, and downtown Phoenix; rebuilt all greens to USGA specs with Mini-Verde bermuda; repositioned 12 fairway bunkers to challenge modern distances; and stretched championship tees to 7,333 yards.
Since 2018, Papago has served as home course for Arizona State University golf — one of the most successful collegiate programs in NCAA history. The course hosted the 1971 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship and handles roughly 100,000 rounds per year. Sports Illustrated rated it 9.5/10.
Signature Holes
The signature hole — plays uphill and typically into the prevailing wind, with a water hazard guarding the green. Set against the red sandstone Papago Buttes (6–15 million years old), it is the most visually memorable shot on the course. Always take one extra club.
A bruising uphill closer that demands both length off the tee and accuracy on the approach. Part of a punishing 16-17-18 finishing stretch that can turn a good round sour. Play for the center of the green and take your par.
One of the toughest scoring holes — 253 yards from the tips. A deep bunker guards the right side; favor the left for a safer angle. One of the longest par 3s on any municipal course in Arizona.
What to Expect
Unlike the target-style desert courses dominating Phoenix/Scottsdale, Papago is a parkland layout with tree-lined fairways and legitimate rough — misses stay recoverable rather than disappearing into desert waste. The gentle terrain through Papago Park makes it one of the most walkable courses in the area.
Views of the red sandstone Papago Buttes, Camelback Mountain, and the Phoenix skyline surround the round. Five sets of tees range from 5,400 to 7,333 yards. Greens are Mini-Verde bermuda rebuilt to USGA specs — fast and true.
The course is honest and straightforward — everything is in front of you. Wide fairways and strategic bunkering reward course management over heroics. Pricing varies by season; peak winter rates can exceed $100, but a Phoenix City Golf Card offers significant discounts.
Playing Tips
The closing stretch (16-17-18) is brutal. Play conservatively through these holes — center of greens, take your pars.
Hole 11: always take one extra club. It plays uphill and into the wind.
Hole 8: favor the left side to avoid the deep right bunker. The 253-yard distance from the tips makes par a great score.
The course plays honestly — there are no hidden hazards or blind shots. Trust what you see and focus on course management.
Off-fairway lies can be rocky. Carry extra balls and protect your club soles.
Book early in winter — peak-season tee times at this beloved muni fill fast.
Highlights
- ✓ Iconic Papago Buttes setting
- ✓ Best municipal course in Arizona
- ✓ Incredible value for the quality
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Papago?
Why is Papago so popular?
Is it the ASU home course?
How long can it play?
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