Golfweek recently released its list of the top casino resort golf courses for 2024, and tribal resorts have once again dominated the rankings. This comes as no surprise, as MGM Resort’s Shadow Creek in Las Vegas claimed the top spot, with a hefty fee of $1,250. Following closely behind is MGM’s Fallen Oak Golf Course at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Mississippi, tying for second place with French Lick’s Pete Dye Course in Indiana and The Greenbrier’s Old White course in West Virginia.
Moving down the list, tribal-owned courses begin to take control, with Yocha Dehe Golf Club at Cache Creek Casino Resort in California tying for third place. Barona Creek Golf Club at Barona Resort & Casino near San Diego, owned by the Barona Band of Mission Indians, comes in at sixth place. Scottsdale’s We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort’s Saguaro Course, owned by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, claims the seventh spot.
The Wilderness at Fortune Bay Resort Casino in Minnesota, owned by the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, secures eighth place. Turning Stone Resort Casino’s Atunyote Golf Course in New York, owned by the Oneida Indian Nation, rounds out the top nine spots.
While tribal nations make up half of the top 10, they hold an even larger presence in the remaining top 40 golf courses at casinos. Out of the remaining 40, tribal-owned courses occupy 24 spots, offering championship-caliber tracks and memorable golfing experiences at more affordable rates compared to commercial casino courses.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy rounds at tribal-owned courses like We-Ko-Pa’s Saguaro Course in Arizona for $170, significantly less than the rates at other non-tribal resorts. For example, a round at Eagle Falls Golf Course at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Southern California owned by the Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Indians costs just $125 before 1 pm, including additional perks like a cart, range balls, and casino coupons.
Golfweek ranks these courses based on criteria such as course routing, design integrity, overall land plan, and the variety and memorability of each hole. The ratings are averaged to determine the final ranking for each course, ensuring that golf enthusiasts can make informed decisions when choosing where to play.
Overall, tribal-owned golf courses continue to shine in the realm of casino resort golf, offering players unique experiences and challenging courses at more affordable prices. These courses provide an opportunity for golfers to enjoy the game in beautiful settings while supporting indigenous communities and their economic development through tourism.
