Golfing in the Sandhills of Nebraska: A Premier Destination for Golf Enthusiasts
- Taija Golden
- Feb 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 25
The Sandhills of Nebraska, a region known for its wide-open spaces, scenic beauty, and rolling hills, is quickly becoming one of the top golf destinations in the country. With some of the best and most unique golf courses in the United States, it’s no surprise that golfers are flocking to this quiet, remote part of the country to experience its world-class courses. From lush fairways to breathtaking views of the Sandhills landscape, golfing here is nothing short of extraordinary.
If you’re staying at The Merritt Dam Road Hill House you’ll be just a short drive away from some of the best courses in the country that are hidden in the Nebraska Sandhills. Here’s a look at five incredible golf courses in the area and their nationwide rankings, as well as their proximity to The Merritt Dam Road Hill House.
1. Prairie Club
Distance from Merritt Dam Road Hill House: ~ 11 Minute Drive
Nationwide Ranking: #40 (Golf Digest’s "America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses," 2023)
Located just outside Valentine, The Prairie Club is widely regarded as one of the best golf experiences in the country. With two championship courses, the Dunes Course and the Pines Course, the Prairie Club offers golfers a truly unique and memorable experience.
The Dunes Course is a links-style course that blends natural sand dunes with expansive views of the surrounding landscape, while the Pines Course offers a more tree-lined, parkland-style design with plenty of challenges. Both courses are masterfully designed, with natural undulations and strategic water features that make every round exciting. The Prairie Club is a destination for golfers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Sandhills while playing at the highest level.
Book your tee times here: https://theprairieclub.com/
2. Cap Rock
Distance from Merritt Dam Road Hill House: ~ 15 Minute Drive
Nationwide Ranking: #100 (Golf Digest’s "America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses," 2023)
Another fantastic course just outside Valentine is Cap Rock, and the newest course in the Sandhills, a top-rated golf course that provides an unforgettable golfing experience. This course is known for its challenging layout, offering sweeping views of the Sandhills and natural terrain that blends seamlessly with the environment.
Cap Rock’s design features unique elevation changes and strategic hazards, creating a course that tests a golfer’s skills while also showcasing the natural beauty of Nebraska. The course offers a stunning backdrop of tall grasses and rolling hills, and it’s a favorite for those looking to challenge themselves in an unforgettable setting.
3. Dismal River
Distance from Merritt Dam Road Hill House: ~ 1 Hour and 27 Minute Drive
Nationwide Ranking: #75 (Golf Digest’s "America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses," 2023)
Dismal River is a private golf course located on a working ranch in the Sandhills, and it’s one of the most exclusive and sought-after golf destinations in the country. The course is split into two 18-hole layouts, the Red Course and the White Course, both of which offer distinct challenges while incorporating the unique topography of the Sandhills region.
The Red Course is a links-style layout that takes advantage of the natural sand dunes, while the White Course is a more traditional design with rolling fairways and dramatic elevation changes. Both courses are beautifully designed and maintained, offering a golfing experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a challenging layout. Dismal River offers a true escape for golf lovers seeking a more private and exclusive experience.
4. Frederick Peak
Distance from Merritt Dam Road Hill House: ~ 34 Minute Drive
Nationwide Ranking: #84 (Golf Digest’s "America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses," 2023)
Frederick Peak is another standout course in the Sandhills, it is a unique 10 hole course that was designed by Tom Lehman and Chris Brands. It is known for its challenging design and impressive views. Set high above Valentine, the course features dramatic elevation changes, with fairways that wind through natural terrain and provide stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
What makes Frederick Peak stand out is its combination of challenging play and scenic beauty. The layout incorporates both open and tree-lined holes, creating a dynamic course that demands strategic play. The views of the surrounding Sandhills are unmatched, making it a must-visit for golfers looking to combine an exhilarating round with a visual feast.
5. Sandhills Golf Course
Distance from Merritt Dam Road Hill House: ~ 1 Hour and 11 Minute Drive
Nationwide Ranking: #16 (Golf Digest’s "America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses," 2023)
Sandhills Golf Course, often considered the crown jewel of the region, is a links-style course that perfectly blends with the natural Sandhills landscape. It is consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the United States, and with good reason. The course’s design embraces the natural beauty of the area, with wide fairways, deep bunkers, and strategically placed water features.
What makes Sandhills so special is its dedication to preserving the natural environment while providing a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience. It’s a walking course, meaning golfers get the chance to experience the land up close while navigating its undulating terrain. If you’re seeking an unforgettable golfing adventure, Sandhills Golf Course is an essential stop on your Sandhills golf tour.
Why Golfing in the Sandhills of Nebraska?
Nebraska’s Sandhills are a golfer’s dream, offering a collection of courses that are as stunning as they are challenging. The rolling hills, wide open spaces, and scenic beauty make for an unparalleled golfing experience. Whether you’re teeing off at The Prairie Club, enjoying the exclusive feel of Dismal River, or experiencing the breathtaking vistas at Sandhills Golf Course, every course in the Sandhills offers something special.
If you’re staying at The Merritt Dam Road Hill House, you’re conveniently located within a short drive of these world-class courses. From the unique challenges of the courses to the beauty of the surrounding Sandhills landscape, golfing here is an experience you’ll never forget.
So, grab your clubs, pack your bags, and head to the Sandhills of Nebraska for a golf trip like no other. With courses ranked among the best in the country, you’re sure to enjoy both incredible rounds of golf and the beauty of this special region.
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