
Highlands at Tenison Park stands as a testament to Dallas's early embrace of public golf, a place where the city's diverse tapestry has played out on its fairways for generations. Its enduring popularity stems from a design that, while not nationally renowned, offers an accessible and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.
Dating back to the mid-20th century, Highlands presents a classic parkland layout. The relatively flat terrain, typical of this area of East Dallas, is punctuated by mature trees that frame each hole, demanding strategic positioning more than brute force off the tee. While favoring accuracy, the course's open fairways and forgiving greenside areas allow for recovery, making it a pleasant, if not overly challenging, round.
The original design has seen subtle refinements over the years, maintaining its playability without sacrificing its inherent character. Highlands is more than just a round of golf, it’s a regular gathering place, a civic hub where local tournaments and casual rounds intertwine. It’s a place where one is just as likely to see seasoned players honing their skills as beginners taking their first swings.
Reviews
Solid municipal course. Reliably in good shape
Good muni. Good bunkers. Good layout
Decent value but pace of play is an issue. Consistently backed up and 4.5 hour rounds. Fairways stay in good condition and greens are maintained. Greens tend to roll slow and get a little fuzzy. Bunkers need work. Back 9 is hilly; still walkable but more of a challenge. Some fun holes with risk/reward at play, like the drivable par 4 #7 with water all down its left side. Par 5s are gettable. Front 9 plays easier than the back.
Great value. Always get a round in with college buddies whenever I'm in Dallas.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Highlands at Tenison Park has a Course Vaults score of 6.1 out of 10 based on 19 explicit golfer ratings.
Highlands was designed by Steve Wolfard.
Yes. Highlands at Tenison Park is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Highlands is 72.
Highlands plays 7,078 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Highlands is 130.