DESERT FOREST GOLF CLUB
🇺🇸 Carefree, AZ, USA
Designed by Red Lawrence


Desert Forest, opened in 1962, represents a seminal moment in desert golf design, forging a path for minimalist architecture in the then-nascent Carefree, Arizona landscape. This original design from Robert Lawrence, untouched for many years, presents a stark contrast to manicured modern courses; fairways flow through the natural arroyos and saguaro forests, challenging players to adapt to the raw, untamed terrain.
Desert Forest's architecture is a product of its environment, demanding creative shot-making and strategic thinking over brute power. The layout favors players who can navigate the subtle breaks of the greens and appreciate the nuances of desert course management. A significant, meticulous restoration by Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design in 2014 respected Lawrence’s original vision while enhancing the course's playability and sustainability for future generations.
The club has quietly fostered a tight-knit membership known for its dedication to the traditions of the game. Its members value the course's challenging character and the camaraderie found within its unpretentious atmosphere. Post-round gatherings often revolve around the club's signature "Posse Burger," a testament to Desert Forest's understated charm and enduring appeal.
Reviews
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Desert Forest at Desert Forest Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.7 out of 10 based on 15 explicit golfer ratings.
Desert Forest was designed by Red Lawrence.
Desert Forest at Desert Forest Golf Club is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Desert Forest is 72.
Desert Forest plays 6,814 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
Desert Forest is a 18-hole course.