SAND VALLEY GOLF RESORT
🇺🇸 Nekoosa, WI, USA
Designed by Ben Crenshaw, Bill Coore
The Sandbox, a beguiling 17-hole par-3 course at Sand Valley Golf Resort in central Wisconsin, isn't just an amenity; it's a rollicking testament to the pure, unadulterated fun of the game. Embracing the spirit of Golden Age design, the Sandbox sits within the property's sandy expanse. The terrain, characteristic of the region's unique sand barrens ecosystem, offers a pleasingly chaotic blend of undulating fairways, native grasses, and strategically placed bunkers, testing golfers’ creativity and short game skills without pretense.
Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, The Sandbox is a masterclass in minimalist design. The architects embraced the natural contours of the land, creating a layout that feels both playful and challenging. Each hole presents a unique puzzle, encouraging inventive shot-making and a willingness to embrace the unpredictable bounces that define links-style golf. While it may not host televised championships, the course has garnered a devoted following for its relaxed atmosphere and sheer playability.
The appeal of The Sandbox extends beyond the links. It is where families, friends, and golfers of all skill levels converge to embrace the joyful essence of the game. The resort’s reputation for accessible, high-quality golf makes it a popular destination for those seeking a respite from the more formal atmosphere of championship courses. The atmosphere around the course has been known to generate a raucous jovial competitive environment.
As twilight descends, the Sandbox transforms into a haven for post-round camaraderie, where shared laughter and friendly wagers are as integral to the experience as the course itself. Here, the pursuit of low scores takes a back seat to the simple pleasure of hitting shots, forging connections, and reveling in the beauty of the Wisconsin landscape. It’s a reminder that golf, at its core, is a game meant to be savored, and The Sandbox provides the perfect setting to do just that.
Reviews
Just so much fun. What an enjoyable experience
You can see the wear and tear this gets most of the year but considering the amount of play it gets, it’s great. Don’t let this short course foul you, it is hard. Beats me up every time I play it.
The sandbox is by far the best short course I have ever played. It is 17 par 3s that can played with just your putter if you wanted. While some holes are templates of real holes such as the road hole others are truly unique. The course is just as well manicured as the main courses on property and the nearby food truck is unbelievable. The best part of the sandbox is the many ways it can be played. Wanna get your short game dialed before 18 holes on one of the big course ? Take a loop. Have time in the evening after your last round of the day? Take a loop. Fresh off the plane with time to kill as your room gets ready? Take a loop. I was on property for 4 days and I think I took 4 loops. I wish I took 44. It’s the perfect practice area, matchplay course, and the best way to end the day with some spotted cows. It’s flawless, endless fun, and my only regret is not playing a loop with hickories. If you go to Sand Valley and don’t play the sandbox you have seriously messed up.
The best part 3 course I have played. So many fun template greens and holes. One hole after the next was so good. Played 2 rounds here and likely going back next year with my younger son. Can’t say enough with how much fun this place is!
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The Sandbox at Sand Valley Golf Resort has a Course Vaults score of 8.1 out of 10 based on 48 explicit golfer ratings.
The Sandbox was designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore.
Yes. The Sandbox at Sand Valley Golf Resort is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at The Sandbox is 54.
The Sandbox plays 796 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at The Sandbox is 107.