The River Course
Kohler, WI, USA
The River course at Blackwolf Run, sculpted along the Sheboygan River, isn't just a round of golf; it's a confrontation with nature's raw power. Pete Dye's design, dating to the late 1980s, captures a distinctly modern ethos of risk-reward golf played across dramatic, undulating terrain. The course demands strategic thinking and shot-making prowess, often favoring those who dare to challenge the river's edge. Blackwolf Run hosted the U.S. Women's Open in both 1998 and 2012, won by Se Ri Pak and Na Yeon Choi respectively. These events underscored the River course's capacity to test the world's best, its demanding layout separating contenders from pretenders under the scrutiny of major championship pressure. While not a fixture of constant professional play, the River course maintains a reputation as a stern but fair test of golf, drawing players to Wisconsin for its unique blend of challenge and natural beauty. Members savor the Sheboygan brat, a local staple served with pride after a hard-fought round. The course's difficulty is often the topic of conversation, a shared experience that binds players together.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Public: #143
Best in USA
Public: #69
Best in WI
Public: #8
Golfers say the River Course at Kohler delivers stunning beauty and top-notch service but divides opinion on difficulty and value. Most praise the scenery and conditioning, noting how frequently the river comes into play and calling it a worthy complement to Whistling Straits, though some find Pete Dye's design unfairly difficult or even gimmicky in spots. Reviewers consistently note the high price tag, with several suggesting it's worth experiencing once or twice but too expensive for regular play. The pro shop and dining options earn praise, and while the course isn't considered walkable due to long cart rides between holes, most agree Kohler's hospitality standards shine throughout the experience.
8.5
285 players
Best use of a river on any course. Lots of strategy required. Excellent conditioning.
Such a beautiful course but so difficult that is unfair at times. The river comes into play on so many holes. Pete Dye wanted a challenge for players and this course comes through. Not walkable since long drives between some holes. Kohler is top notch with service and this is evident everywhere. Part of a great golf trip. Too expensive for regular playing but worth it a couple of times. Pro shop is stacked and food options are great.
Very difficult
This is where value comes into play. The course itself is amazing and beautiful albeit a little unfairly hard at times. It’s an amazing walk though and great as a completely different pairing to Whistling but definitely maybe not worth the usual price tag
Beautiful course. Easy to understand why it’s the Kohler favorite to some. The gravitas of Straits makes this feel quaint, but on all measures a phenomenal place to play golf.
I just didn’t like this as much as I expected. It was nice and absolutely beautiful in the fall but layout was gimmicky in some areas. Not worth the value.
Public courses closest to The River at Blackwolf Run Golf Club.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The River at Blackwolf Run Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.5 out of 10 based on 109 explicit golfer ratings.
The River was designed by Pete Dye.
Yes. The River at Blackwolf Run Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at The River is 72.
The River plays 7,404 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at The River is 151.
