Turtle Pointe Golf Club

Turtle Pointe Golf Club sits along the shores of DeGray Lake in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, a setting that defines much of the course's character and routing. Designed by Joe Finger and Jim Schuemacker and opened in the 1970s, the course occupies rolling, wooded terrain typical of the Ouachita foothills region, with several holes playing directly along the lake's edge. The water becomes a strategic element on multiple occasions, particularly on holes where the shoreline dictates both tee shot placement and approach angles. The layout makes use of the property's natural elevation changes and tree-lined corridors, creating a traditional parkland experience with occasional dramatic views across the lake. Finger, a Texas-based architect known for his work throughout the South and Southwest, collaborated with Schuemacker to create a course that balances accessibility with enough challenge to test better players. The design reflects the era's emphasis on playability while incorporating the natural features of the site. Turtle Pointe serves as a public facility and has been a fixture in the Arkadelphia golf scene for decades, drawing players from the surrounding region who appreciate its lakeside setting and the variety offered by its routing. The course provides a straightforward test of golf in a scenic environment, with the lake and surrounding forest creating a sense of seclusion despite its proximity to town. It remains a representative example of regional golf architecture from the 1970s, shaped by the natural assets of the DeGray Lake area.