Texas’ country club scene is a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class amenities. From historic institutions with storied pasts to modern enclaves catering to the elite, these clubs represent the pinnacle of opulence. Below, we dive into the top 30 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the Lone Star State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
30. Ridglea Country Club
Ridglea Country Club is a well-established private club in Fort Worth, offering two 18-hole courses and a reputation built on family-friendly tradition. The North Course, with roots dating back to the 1920s, plays tighter and more traditional, while the South Course offers a slightly more forgiving layout with scenic views and wider fairways. Both provide a quality golf experience that balances challenge and accessibility, and the club regularly hosts USGA qualifiers and regional events.
The broader club experience goes well beyond golf. Ridglea features a large clubhouse, multiple dining options, a full tennis complex , pickleball, a fitness center, and an active swim program. It’s one of the few clubs in Texas with the scale to support large multi-generational families while still maintaining a laid-back, unpretentious vibe. Long known as Fort Worth’s go-to family club, Ridglea has evolved without losing its core identity.
29. Dominion Country Club
Dominion Country Club is a premier private club nestled in a gated, upscale community on the rolling Texas Hill Country terrain just northwest of San Antonio. Launched in 1984, the club swiftly gained recognition for its stunning 18-hole championship course designed by Texas Open champion Bill Johnston. Spanning over 260 acres of wooded hills and interlaced with Leon Creek and several man-made lakes, the course offers a fair yet testing experience with four distinct tee options ranging from about 5,400 to nearly 7,000 yards. Its dramatic layout and impeccable conditioning made it the longest consecutive host of a Senior PGA event, reaffirming its competitive pedigree and appeal to avid golfers and weekend players alike.
But Dominion is more than a golf retreat—it’s a full-service lifestyle haven. At its grand 54,000 sq ft clubhouse—adorned in Renaissance-style architecture with domes, cantera stone, and opulent interiors—members enjoy a rich array of amenities: seven dining venues, a wine room with an elite vintage collection, a piano bar, modern fitness and wellness centers, multiple tennis and pickleball courts, and Jr. Olympic-sized pools. Family, social, and corporate events find a perfect backdrop here, from weddings to charity tournaments. With ongoing enhancements to dining and recreational spaces, Dominion Country Club continues to blend timeless luxury with refreshed, family-ready sophistication.
28. Dallas Athletic Club
The Dallas Athletic Club (DAC), established in 1919, boasts a rich and storied history, initially serving as a premier downtown Dallas facility with a focus on dining and athletic pursuits like racquet sports and even boxing exhibitions. Its evolution saw a significant shift in 1954 when the club relocated to a sprawling 325-acre campus in east Dallas, near the intersection of Interstates 30 and 635. This move marked a transition to a more golf and tennis-centric club, setting the stage for its current reputation as a distinguished institution with two championship 18-hole golf courses. Notably, the Blue Course has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the 1963 PGA Championship where Jack Nicklaus claimed his first PGA title.
Today, the Dallas Athletic Club stands as a comprehensive private club, committed to enhancing the social and athletic lifestyles of its members through a blend of warm hospitality, personalized service, and a wide array of quality amenities. Beyond its two Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses, which offer distinct challenges and natural beauty, the club features a state-of-the-art golf short game practice facility, ten outdoor tennis courts, and three pickleball courts. Members also enjoy access to modern fitness centers, a swimming pool, and diverse dining options. With ongoing renovations and a commitment to member engagement, DAC continues to foster a vibrant community and a unique “home away from home” experience for families, couples, and individuals who appreciate an active and social lifestyle.
27. Gleneagles Country Club
Gleneagles Country Club, located in Plano, Texas, is a prestigious and well-established private club renowned for its exceptional golf and comprehensive amenities. Founded in 1985 on what was once farmland, Gleneagles has grown to become a cornerstone of luxury living in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Its two championship 18-hole golf courses, the King’s and Queen’s, were designed by legendary course planners Robert Von Hagge and Bruce Devlin, offering challenging play amidst picturesque water features and towering oak trees. The club’s commitment to golf excellence is further highlighted by its history as the only U.S. site to host the British Open Qualifier (IFQ) for five consecutive years, solidifying its reputation on an international scale.
Beyond its celebrated golf courses, Gleneagles Country Club provides a rich array of facilities and programming designed to cater to every member of the family. The club boasts extensive racquet sports facilities, including 12 tennis courts and 4 pickleball courts, making it a hub for active lifestyles. Members also enjoy access to state-of-the-art fitness centers, two swimming pools (including an Olympic-sized lane pool and a family leisure pool with a slide), and a variety of dining options ranging from casual patio meals to upscale cuisine. With a vibrant social calendar, junior programs, and a dedicated Kids’ Club, Gleneagles fosters a strong sense of community and offers a truly comprehensive country club experience.
26. Stonebriar Country Club
Stonebriar Country Club, established in 1988, is a distinguished private club located in the vibrant city of Frisco, Texas, offering a luxurious and resort-inspired experience to its members. At its heart are two championship 18-hole golf courses: the Country Club Course, designed by Ken Dye and Joe Finger, and the Tom Fazio-designed Fazio Course. These meticulously maintained courses provide diverse challenges and breathtaking landscapes, catering to golfers of all skill levels with features like undulating fairways, subtly contoured greens, and strategic water hazards. The club also offers a comprehensive golf experience with a driving range, short game practice facilities, PGA-certified instruction, and a caddie program, cementing its status as a premier golf destination in North Texas.
Beyond its celebrated golf offerings, Stonebriar Country Club provides a rich array of amenities designed for an active and social lifestyle. Members have access to extensive racquet sports facilities, including eight lighted tennis courts and four pickleball courts, along with professional coaching and league play. The club also boasts a modern 3,000-square-foot fitness center with personal training options, a Junior Olympic swimming pool with private cabanas, and a dedicated Kids’ Club for children. Multiple dining venues, ranging from an adults-only tavern to a family-friendly grille, offer diverse culinary experiences. Stonebriar’s elegant clubhouse and various event spaces also make it a sought-after location for private celebrations and social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community among its members
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25. Bent Tree Country Club
Bent Tree Country Club is a private country club located in Dallas, Texas. The club offers a variety of amenities, including an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and several dining options.
The golf course at Bent Tree Country Club was designed by Desmond Muirhead and opened in 1972. It has since been renovated and updated to meet modern golfing standards. The course is known for its challenging layout and scenic views.
Bent Tree Country Club also offers several dining options, including a formal dining room, a casual grill, and a lounge area. The club hosts several social events throughout the year, including holiday parties, live music, and themed dinners.
24. Austin Country Club
Austin Country Club is one of Texas’s most historic and prestigious private clubs, tucked along the shores of Lake Austin with panoramic views of the Hill Country and the iconic Pennybacker Bridge. Established in 1899, the club features a championship 18-hole course designed by Pete Dye, known for its dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and challenging water features. The course blends classic design with Hill Country terrain, offering a distinctive and memorable round for serious golfers. It served as the longtime host of the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play, cementing its reputation on the global golf stage.
Beyond golf, Austin Country Club delivers a full-service experience for members and their families. Amenities include tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a heated pool, a marina with boat slips, and several dining and social spaces overlooking the water. The club’s rich legacy includes ties to golf legends like Harvey Penick, Ben Crenshaw, and Tom Kite, all of whom have walked its fairways. With deep roots in Austin’s social fabric, it remains a symbol of refined recreation and exclusivity in Central Texas.
23. River Crest Country Club
River Crest Country Club, established in 1911 in Fort Worth, Texas, holds the distinction of being the city’s oldest and one of its most revered country clubs. Conceived by a group of prominent Fort Worth businessmen, the club’s vision was to create an exclusive recreational oasis along the Trinity River. Its meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course, originally designed by A.W. Tillinghast and later refined by architects like John Fought, is a classic parkland layout that gracefully follows the natural topography of the land, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course’s mature trees, strategic bunkering, and subtle undulations reflect its rich history and enduring appeal.
Beyond its historic golf course, River Crest Country Club provides a full complement of amenities designed to cater to every aspect of its members’ lives. The elegant clubhouse serves as the social heart, offering exquisite dining experiences, private event spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. The club also boasts extensive racquet sports facilities, including numerous tennis courts and dedicated pickleball courts, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center and a resort-style swimming pool. With a strong emphasis on family, camaraderie, and timeless tradition, River Crest Country Club continues to be a cherished institution, fostering a vibrant community and providing a refined escape for its members.
22. Lakewood Country Club
Lakewood Country Club, a venerable institution in Dallas, Texas, holds a significant place in the city’s history as one of its oldest and most prestigious private clubs. Established in 1912, the club was meticulously designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural beauty of its surroundings in the historic Lakewood neighborhood. The centerpiece of the club is its classic 18-hole golf course, originally designed by the legendary Tom Bendelow and later refined by architects such as Ralph Plummer and Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. This mature parkland course is renowned for its undulating fairways, challenging greens, and the strategic use of Turtle Creek, offering a timeless and demanding test of golf that has captivated generations of members.
Beyond its celebrated golf course, Lakewood Country Club provides a comprehensive array of upscale amenities and services, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition. The elegant clubhouse serves as the social hub, offering diverse dining experiences ranging from casual fare to formal dining, along with private event spaces for various gatherings. Members also enjoy access to a robust tennis program with multiple courts, a modern fitness center, and a beautiful swimming pool area. With a deep commitment to family-friendly programming, social events, and personalized service, Lakewood Country Club continues to uphold its legacy as a cherished retreat and a cornerstone of Dallas’s social and recreational landscape.
21. Oak Hills Country Club
Oak Hills Country Club in San Antonio, Texas, is one of the state’s most historically significant private golf clubs. Originally founded in the 1920s as Alamo Country Club, the course was designed by legendary architect A.W. Tillinghast and is considered one of his finest works. Set across 170 acres of mature oak trees and rolling terrain, the par-71 layout is known for its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging green complexes. It’s a pure shot-maker’s course that demands accuracy and discipline while rewarding smart play.
The club hosted the PGA Tour’s Texas Open 19 times and was the site of the very first Tour Championship in 1987. Although tournament play has since moved on, Oak Hills remains deeply respected in golf circles. A renovation in 2018 by Tripp Davis restored many of Tillinghast’s original design elements, breathing new life into the course while preserving its strategic integrity. Beyond the fairways, members enjoy tennis, upscale dining, and event spaces, but the soul of the club remains its timeless golf experience.
20. Northwood Club
Northwood Club, located in Dallas, Texas, is a historically significant private club with a legacy dating back to its founding in 1946. Originally designed by William Diddel, the club gained national prominence when it hosted the 1952 U.S. Open, won by Julius Boros, marking it as one of only three courses in Texas ever to have held the prestigious championship. The golf course itself is a classic parkland layout, characterized by its mature trees lining the fairways and traditional, strategic greens. It has undergone thoughtful renovations over the years, including a significant restoration by Tripp Davis, to maintain its classic character while remaining strategically relevant for today’s game.
Beyond its championship golf course, Northwood Club offers a comprehensive suite of amenities designed to cater to an active and social membership. The club boasts extensive racquet sports facilities, featuring 16 tennis courts (including four indoor courts) and four pickleball courts, supported by a robust tennis program. Members can also take advantage of a state-of-the-art wellness center spanning 16,000 square feet, offering fitness equipment, group classes, and spa services. A large resort-style swimming pool complex with a poolside cafe, along with a spacious clubhouse offering diverse dining options and banquet facilities, further enhance the experience, fostering a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere.
19. Royal Oaks Country Club
Royal Oaks Country Club in Houston, Texas, is a prestigious and modern private club developed on the former Andrau Airpark property, opening its doors around the early 2000s. Designed by golf legend Fred Couples, the par-72 championship golf course is the centerpiece of this gated community, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers. The course is meticulously maintained and integrates seamlessly with the upscale residential development, featuring strategic bunkering and water features that demand precision and thoughtful play. Its reputation for a high-quality golfing experience makes it a sought-after privilege among golf enthusiasts in the Houston area.
Beyond the greens, Royal Oaks Country Club boasts an extensive array of luxurious amenities and services, designed to cater to a diverse membership. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub, providing a sophisticated setting for various dining options, from casual bistro fare to fine dining experiences, complete with private wine cellars and banquet facilities. Members also have access to a state-of-the-art sports center equipped with the latest cardio and weight training equipment, a full schedule of exercise classes, and a luxurious spa. The club further enhances the member experience with resort-style swimming pools, tennis programs, and a vibrant calendar of social events and youth activities, fostering a strong sense of community and a resort-like lifestyle.
18. Bluejack National
Bluejack National, located in Montgomery, Texas, is a distinctive private residential golf club renowned for its laid-back luxury and family-centric approach. Opened in 2015, its centerpiece is the first golf course in the United States designed by Tiger Woods. The par-72 championship course stands out for its “no rough” concept and wide, forgiving fairways, making it playable and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels while still offering strategic challenges. Woods’ design emphasizes creativity around the greens and integrates seamlessly with the rolling hills and majestic pine forests reminiscent of the Carolinas, providing a unique and memorable golfing experience in East Texas.
Beyond the greens, Bluejack National offers an unparalleled array of amenities designed for an active and social lifestyle. “The Fort” is a standout, serving as a vibrant family activity center complete with bowling lanes, zip lines, swimming pools (including a water slide), a “mini-Fenway” whiffle-ball diamond, and a football field. The club also boasts a wellness center and spa, racquet sports facilities with tennis and pickleball courts, and miles of scenic hiking, biking, and running trails that wind through its 755 acres. With diverse dining options and a commitment to personalized hospitality, Bluejack National cultivates a resort-style living experience where families can create lasting memories and enjoy a life of leisure and recreation.
17. Escondido Golf & Lake Club
Escondido Golf & Lake Club, nestled in the scenic Texas Hill Country near Horseshoe Bay, offers an exclusive and luxurious private club experience centered around its championship golf course and access to Lake LBJ. Opened in 2006, the club’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending with the natural landscape of ancient oaks, rugged rock formations, and clear streams. Fazio’s signature style is evident in the course’s challenging yet fair layout, featuring strategic bunkering, varied terrain, and impeccable conditioning that provides a world-class golfing experience set against a stunning backdrop. The course is consistently ranked among the best in Texas, drawing golf enthusiasts seeking a truly exceptional game.
Beyond its celebrated golf course, Escondido Golf & Lake Club provides a comprehensive array of upscale amenities that cater to a sophisticated membership. The “Great House” serves as the elegant clubhouse, offering exquisite dining experiences, a fully stocked pro shop, and luxurious locker rooms. The “Lake Club” on Lake LBJ is a distinct highlight, providing direct access to the lake for boating, fishing, and watersports, complete with boat slips and a casual dining area. Members also enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, a resort-style swimming pool, and a robust social calendar that fosters a strong sense of community, making Escondido a complete lifestyle destination.
16. TPC Las Colinas
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Las Colinas urban center in Irving, Texas, Las Colinas Country Club has long been a prominent private club known for its challenging golf course and comprehensive amenities. The club’s 18-hole golf course, originally designed by Joe Finger in 1963 and later updated by others including Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, has a rich history, having hosted PGA Tour events like the Dallas Open.
15. Vaquero Club
Vaquero Club, located close to Fort Worth in the mesmerizing Texan countryside, appeals with its unique fusion of luxury and relaxation. It provides a haven for individuals looking for the pinnacle of golfing as a private golf course.
More than just a golf course, Vaquero Club is a way of life, a refuge, and a place to visit where luxury and exclusivity come together to create an unmatched Texan experience.
14. Shady Oaks Country Club
Shady Oaks Country Club is one of Texas’s most revered private clubs, located just west of Fort Worth in Westworth Village. Designed in the 1950s by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course is known for its subtle difficulty, tight corridors, and natural beauty. A full renovation in recent years refined the layout without compromising its classic charm, making it a favorite among serious players. It’s perhaps most famous for being the longtime home club of Ben Hogan, whose legacy still looms large across the property.
Beyond the course, Shady Oaks offers a full range of high-end amenities in a low-profile, understated setting. Members enjoy a modern clubhouse with multiple dining options, tennis courts, a pool, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, and a separate short course often used for practice and junior instruction. While not the flashiest club in Texas, Shady Oaks carries a quiet prestige that comes from tradition, golf pedigree, and a tightly knit membership that values discretion over spectacle.
13. Spanish Oaks Golf Club
Spanish Oaks Golf Club, nestled in the scenic Texas Hill Country just west of Austin in Bee Cave, is an exclusive private club renowned for its pristine natural beauty and exceptional golf experience. Opened in 2001, the club’s centerpiece is its 18-hole championship golf course, masterfully designed by Bobby Weed. The course is celebrated for its harmonious integration with the rugged landscape, featuring dramatic elevation changes, flowing creeks, and mature oak trees that create a challenging yet profoundly aesthetic journey. Weed’s design emphasizes strategic play and shot-making, making it a favorite among discerning golfers who appreciate a pure, walk-able golf experience without the distraction of homes lining the fairways.
Beyond the acclaimed golf course, Spanish Oaks Golf Club offers a refined array of amenities that cater to a sophisticated membership. The elegant clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere with exquisite dining options and private event spaces. Members also enjoy access to “The Pool Pavilion,” a resort-style swimming complex that serves as a tranquil oasis. The club further enhances the lifestyle with a state-of-the-art fitness center, a dedicated sports lodge, and a network of hiking and biking trails that wind through the preserve. With a strong emphasis on privacy, impeccable service, and a deep respect for its natural surroundings, Spanish Oaks Golf Club cultivates a unique and serene environment for its members.
12. Colonial Country Club
Colonial Country Club, located in Fort Worth, Texas, holds a unique and revered position in the world of golf, most notably as the only club to have hosted a PGA Tour event at the same venue annually since 1946. Established in 1936, the club’s championship 18-hole golf course was originally designed by John Bredemus and later refined by Perry Maxwell, solidifying its reputation as a classic parkland layout. Known for its challenging tree-lined fairways, strategic doglegs, and demanding greens, the course presents a formidable test for the world’s best golfers and is a beloved, enduring challenge for its members. This rich professional golf heritage, culminating in the Charles Schwab Challenge, truly defines Colonial.
Beyond its legendary golf course, Colonial Country Club offers a wide array of amenities that cater to a sophisticated and active membership. The elegant clubhouse provides a refined setting for various dining experiences, from casual meals to formal events, complete with private rooms and comprehensive catering services. Members also enjoy access to extensive racquet sports facilities, including tennis and pickleball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a beautiful swimming pool complex. With a deep commitment to tradition, exceptional service, and fostering a strong sense of community, Colonial Country Club remains a cherished institution in Fort Worth, blending its storied past with a vibrant present.
11. River Oaks Country Club
River Oaks Country Club, located in the prestigious River Oaks neighborhood of Houston, Texas, is an esteemed private club with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1923. Designed by the renowned architect Donald Ross, the club’s 18-hole championship golf course is a classic parkland layout that has been meticulously preserved and thoughtfully updated over the decades. Characterized by its challenging greens, strategic bunkering, and graceful routing through mature trees, the course offers a timeless and engaging experience for golfers. Its enduring quality and beauty make it a highly regarded course within the state.
Beyond its celebrated golf course, River Oaks Country Club provides an extensive array of world-class amenities designed to cater to a sophisticated membership. The elegant clubhouse serves as the social heart, offering diverse dining experiences, from casual to formal, along with a variety of private event spaces. The club also boasts a comprehensive tennis facility with numerous clay and hard courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a beautiful swimming pool complex that includes lap lanes and a resort-style area. With a deep commitment to exceptional service, a vibrant social calendar, and a strong sense of community, River Oaks Country Club continues to uphold its legacy as a premier private club in Houston.
10. Lochinvar Golf Club
A sanctuary for golf enthusiasts, this club offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and challenging fairways. From its meticulously manicured landscapes to its inviting clubhouse, Lochinvar Golf Club promises an unforgettable experience for players of all skill levels.
Established in 1955, Lochinvar Golf Club stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the sport in Houston, Texas. This storied club was founded with a vision to create a premier golfing destination that not only provided an exceptional playing experience but also celebrated the natural beauty of the region.
9. Austin Golf Club
Austin Golf Club, located in the scenic Texas Hill Country just west of downtown Austin, is a highly exclusive and private golf club co-founded by legendary golfer Ben Crenshaw and his longtime friend and business partner, Bill Coore. Established in 1999, the club’s 18-hole championship course is a quintessential Coore & Crenshaw design, celebrated for its minimalist approach, natural beauty, and strategic depth. The course embraces the native landscape, utilizing the rolling terrain, natural rock outcroppings, and mature oak trees to create a layout that feels timeless and blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering a pure and challenging test of golf.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Austin Golf Club maintains a highly private and intimate atmosphere, prioritizing the golf experience and camaraderie among its limited membership. While the club’s primary focus remains on golf, it offers a well-appointed clubhouse that provides a comfortable and understated setting for dining and social gatherings. The amenities are curated to complement the club’s golf-centric philosophy, ensuring a serene and focused environment for its members. This emphasis on exclusivity, natural beauty, and a world-class golf course designed by one of the sport’s most respected duos makes Austin Golf Club a truly unique and sought-after destination for golf purists.
8. Houston Country Club
Houston Country Club is one of the most exclusive and historic private clubs in Texas, tucked away in the Tanglewood area west of downtown. Founded in 1908, the club moved to its current site in the 1950s, with a course designed by Robert Trent Jones that was later refined by Coore & Crenshaw. The 18-hole layout is classic and tree-lined, offering a traditional test that values precision over power. With its manicured fairways and discreet setting along Buffalo Bayou, it remains a favorite among Houston’s old-guard membership.
The club’s amenities are upscale and understated, including tennis courts, a large pool, fitness center, and a timeless clubhouse with formal and casual dining options. Known for its privacy and deep-rooted legacy, Houston Country Club maintains a low profile despite its reputation as a hub for prominent business and political figures. It’s a club where tradition matters, and the focus stays on quality, community, and continuity.
7. Carlton Woods
The Club at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands, Texas, is a premier private golf destination featuring two championship-caliber 18-hole courses designed by legends Tom Fazio (Creekside course, opened 2005) and Jack Nicklaus (Signature course, opened 2001). Set amidst rolling hills, woodlands, and Spring Creek bluffs, both layouts showcase dramatic undulations, tree-lined fairways, and strategic bunkering. The Fazio course received immediate accolades as one of Texas’s best new private tracks, while the Nicklaus course has hosted the prestigious Chevron Championship since 2023, marking its status among elite tournament venues.
Beyond golf, the club offers a 50,000-square-foot clubhouse with Italianate architecture, fine dining, wine room, men’s grill, and a full-service pro shop. A modern teaching facility, practice range, and luxury golf carts round out the experience, supporting players at all levels. The Club at Carlton Woods is also recognized as a Platinum Club of America, emphasizing exceptional amenities, service, and community atmosphere that embody a “life uncompromised” ethos for its members.
6. Whispering Pines Golf Club
Whispering Pines Golf Club, located in Trinity, Texas, stands as one of the most exclusive and highly-rated golf clubs in the United States, renowned for its exceptional course and philanthropic mission. Opened in 2000, the club was founded by Barbara and Corby Robertson Jr. with the unique purpose of generating revenue for the World Health & Golf Association (WHGA) and other charitable causes, making every round played contribute to a greater good. The 18-hole championship course, designed by Chet Williams, is masterfully carved into the East Texas pine forests, featuring dramatic elevation changes, sandy waste areas, and challenging water hazards that create a truly unforgettable and demanding golf experience. Its commitment to pristine conditions and strategic design consistently places it among the top courses nationwide.
Beyond its world-class golf course, Whispering Pines offers a secluded and intimate retreat for its limited membership. The club’s facilities are designed to complement the golf experience, providing a luxurious yet understated atmosphere. This includes a well-appointed clubhouse with dining facilities that offer exquisite cuisine, comfortable locker rooms, and an inviting pro shop. The club’s remote location and focus on pure golf ensure an undisturbed and immersive experience for its members and their guests, solidifying its reputation as a hidden gem and a testament to the power of golf for good.
5. Brook Hollow Golf Club
Brook Hollow Golf Club, an esteemed and historically significant private club in Dallas, Texas, traces its roots back to 1920. Designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast, the club’s 18-hole championship golf course is a classic parkland layout that has meticulously preserved its original character and strategic integrity over the decades. Known for its challenging green complexes, intricate bunkering, and a layout that demands precise shot-making, the course offers a timeless and pure golf experience. Its enduring quality and Tillinghast’s masterful design consistently earn it high praise among golf purists and make it one of Texas’s most revered traditional courses
Beyond its celebrated golf course, Brook Hollow Golf Club provides a comprehensive suite of amenities and services designed to foster a rich social and recreational lifestyle for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as the central hub, offering refined dining experiences, private event spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the club’s long-standing traditions. Members also enjoy access to a robust tennis program with multiple courts, a modern fitness center, and a beautiful swimming pool. With a deep commitment to preserving its legacy, delivering exceptional service, and nurturing a strong sense of community, Brook Hollow Golf Club remains a cornerstone of Dallas’s private club landscape.
4. Dallas Country Club
Dallas Country Club (DCC) is one of Texas’s most venerable private clubs, founded in 1896 and nestled in upscale Highland Park overlooking Turtle Creek and the Dallas skyline. The original course was laid out by Tom Bendelow in the early 1900s, with renovations led by Jay Morrish and John Fought in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It plays as a par‑70 over roughly 6,266 yards, weaving around Turtle Creek which forces several strategic shots. Over its century-plus run, DCC has maintained its reputation as an elite social hub—membership is invitation-only, sometimes requiring years and even subject to blackballing, underscoring its tightly held exclusivity.
Beyond golf, Dallas Country Club is a full-service family-oriented institution with upscale but understated amenities. The sprawling 100+‑acre grounds include indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a modern fitness center, a resort-style pool, spa services, and multiple dining venues—from casual to formal. Its clubhouse, designed in a classic style, hosts social events and has served as the backdrop for civic and business gatherings for decades. While its history includes controversy over slow diversification—first Black member admitted only in 2014—the club has recently modernized both its facilities and its membership base, balancing tradition with contemporary values.
3. Dallas National Golf Club
Dallas National Golf Club, located just west of downtown Dallas, Texas, is one of the most exclusive and highly acclaimed golf clubs in the United States, designed specifically for the pure golf enthusiast. Established in 2002 by financier John Goff, the club’s 18-hole championship course was masterfully crafted by Tom Fazio, who utilized the dramatic elevation changes and natural topography of the land to create a visually stunning and strategically challenging layout. The course is renowned for its impeccable conditioning, expansive fairways, and challenging green complexes, offering a world-class experience that consistently ranks among the top courses nationwide. The club’s focus is squarely on golf, with a limited membership and a “no tee times” policy that ensures unparalleled access to the course.
Dallas National Golf Club provides a refined and understated experience, designed to complement its golf-centric philosophy. The elegant clubhouse offers exquisite dining options and comfortable locker room facilities, all while maintaining an intimate and private atmosphere. While the club’s primary emphasis is on delivering an unparalleled golf experience, its amenities are thoughtfully curated to enhance that focus, without the extensive recreational facilities found at more traditional country clubs. This dedication to the game, combined with its stunning Fazio design and exclusive membership, solidifies Dallas National Golf Club’s reputation as a true golfer’s paradise.
2. Trinity Forest Golf Club
Trinity Forest Golf Club, located in Dallas, Texas, stands as a distinctive and modern golf club with a unique links-style design, a stark contrast to the traditional tree-lined courses common in the region. Opened in 2016, the club’s 18-hole championship course was designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, who meticulously sculpted the layout from a former landfill site into a sprawling, treeless expanse reminiscent of classic Scottish and Irish links courses. The course features undulating fairways, natural bunkers, and firm, fast conditions that demand creativity and strategic shot-making, providing a truly authentic and challenging links experience in the heart of Texas.
Beyond its innovative golf course, Trinity Forest Golf Club serves as the home course for the Southern Methodist University (SMU) golf teams and previously hosted the PGA Tour’s AT&T Byron Nelson tournament, showcasing its championship pedigree. The club’s facilities include a modern and minimalist clubhouse that complements the course’s design, offering comfortable amenities for members and guests. While its primary focus is on delivering an exceptional golf experience, the club embodies a contemporary approach to the game, prioritizing the purity of links golf and offering a unique alternative to traditional country clubs in the Dallas area.
1. Preston Trail Golf Club
Preston Trail Golf Club, located in Dallas, Texas, is an exclusive and highly revered private golf club with a storied history dating back to its establishment in 1965. Conceived by a group of prominent Dallas businessmen, the club was designed by the esteemed golf course architect Ralph Plummer. The 18-hole championship course is renowned for its challenging yet fair layout, featuring mature trees, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens that demand precision and thoughtful play. As a pure golf club, Preston Trail is consistently recognized for its immaculate conditioning and its commitment to providing an unparalleled golfing experience for its members.
What sets Preston Trail Golf Club apart is its unique identity as a men-only club, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and a deep focus on the game of golf. The club offers a comfortable and well-appointed clubhouse, providing excellent dining facilities and a welcoming environment for members to socialize before and after their rounds. While the primary emphasis is on golf, the club’s commitment to exceptional service and a strong sense of tradition creates a distinct and highly sought-after private club experience in the Dallas metropolitan area.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in Texas’ country club scene. Each offers a unique blend of world-class golf, opulent amenities, and a commitment to privacy, catering to the elite who seek the finest in leisure and lifestyle.