Texas Hill Country’s Premier Golf Destination
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, Barton Creek Golf Club is a sanctuary for golf enthusiasts seeking a blend of championship-level courses, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking scenery. This world-class golf destination boasts four meticulously designed courses, each offering a unique challenge while embracing the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. With layouts crafted by legends like Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, and Ben Crenshaw, Barton Creek is a bucket-list golf experience that has earned its place among the best courses in the United States.
General Information
Barton Creek Golf Club is located in Austin, Texas, USA, within the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa. The club was established in 1986 and features courses designed by renowned architects Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, Bill Coore, and Ben Crenshaw. Over the decades, Barton Creek has become a premier private golf retreat, offering a fusion of strategic course design and natural landscapes that make it one of the most picturesque and challenging golf destinations in Texas.
What Makes Barton Creek Unique?
Course Layout & Design
Barton Creek Golf Club features four championship-caliber golf courses, each providing a distinctive playing experience:
- Fazio Foothills Course – A Par 72, 7,125-yard masterpiece known for steep cliffside fairways, scenic waterfalls, and dramatic elevation changes.
- Fazio Canyons Course – A Par 72, 7,153-yard layout that winds through towering oak trees and natural limestone ravines, offering a visually stunning yet formidable challenge.
- Coore Crenshaw Cliffside Course – A Par 71, 6,630-yard classic Texas-style course with strategically placed bunkers and wide fairways, designed to reward shot-making precision.
- Palmer Lakeside Course – A Par 71, 6,619-yard Arnold Palmer-designed course, featuring rolling hills, water hazards, and spectacular views of Lake Travis.
Each course at Barton Creek is designed to challenge the best golfers while remaining accessible to all skill levels, making it a must-play for anyone visiting Texas.
Tournaments & Legacy
Major Championships & Historic Moments
Barton Creek has hosted several prestigious professional and amateur events, solidifying its reputation as one of the finest golf resorts in the country.
- PGA Tour Qualifiers & USGA Events – Barton Creek has been a frequent host for U.S. Open qualifiers, PGA Tour practice rounds, and elite amateur competitions.
- Texas Golf Hall of Fame Connection – The club has long been associated with legendary Texas golfers, including Ben Crenshaw, who played an instrumental role in shaping one of its courses.
- Celebrity & Charity Tournaments – Barton Creek is a go-to venue for celebrity pro-ams and charity golf tournaments, drawing A-list athletes, musicians, and business leaders.
Champions of the Last Decade
Recent Tournament Winners
Since Barton Creek is primarily a private golf club, it does not regularly host professional tour events. However, its courses have been the site of numerous elite amateur and regional championships, as well as PGA Tour pro practice rounds.
World-Class Facilities & Membership
Barton Creek Golf Club offers an unrivaled luxury experience both on and off the course, featuring world-class amenities that cater to golfers and resort guests alike.
- Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – A five-star resort offering luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
- State-of-the-Art Golf Academy – Home to the Barton Creek Golf Performance Center, which provides TrackMan technology, custom club fitting, and expert coaching.
- Private Club Memberships – Members enjoy exclusive access to all four courses, priority tee times, and premium practice facilities.
- Dining & Social Lounges – The club offers multiple dining venues, including Crenshaw’s Bar & Eatery, Velvet Joe’s Coffee House, and Blind Salamander Kitchen & Bar.
- Practice Facilities & Driving Ranges – Members have access to expansive putting greens, short-game areas, and high-tech driving ranges.
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Barton Creek has attracted many of the game’s biggest legends for private rounds, charity events, and course consultations.
- Course Record: The Fazio Foothills Course holds the lowest recorded tournament round at 62.
- Longest Drive: Several PGA Tour pros have driven over 400 yards on the Palmer Lakeside Course.
- Notable Golfers Who Have Played Barton Creek: Phil Mickelson, Jordan Spieth, and Ben Crenshaw have all played the course in exclusive private rounds.
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
- Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa underwent a $150 million renovation, further elevating its status as a premier golf resort.
- The Fazio Foothills Course has been ranked among the Top 100 Golf Courses in America by multiple publications.
- Ben Crenshaw personally influenced the design of the Coore Crenshaw Cliffside Course, ensuring it reflected the spirit of classic Texas golf.
- The Palmer Lakeside Course offers some of the best sunset views in Texas, making it a favorite for evening rounds and twilight golf.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
Barton Creek Golf Club is more than just a golf destination—it’s a world-class experience. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of the Fazio courses, the strategic elegance of the Crenshaw layout, or the scenic beauty of Palmer Lakeside, Barton Creek offers something for every golfer.
With award-winning facilities, a commitment to luxury, and four distinct championship courses, Barton Creek Golf Club ranks among the top golf resorts in the United States. Whether you’re a scratch golfer looking for a new challenge or a casual player in search of a relaxing golf getaway, this club delivers an unparalleled blend of Texas hospitality and world-class golf.