Desert Forest Golf Club is widely considered the first desert-style course ever built. And that was just the beginning of the considerable acclaim accorded to this desert gem over its 45+ year history. In 1962, architect Robert "Red" Lawrence carved the course from existing desert landscape, with virtually no soil having been removed or shaped during course construction. Its environmentally neutral setting remains today the hallmark of the course, with its desert characteristics proudly and beautifully displayed for the discerning eye to see and the dedicated golfer to appreciate.

Since its very beginning, the course has been earning honor after honor and has amassed an enviable record.

Many elements contribute to Desert Forest Golf Club's unique and challenging charm.
   •  There are no "out of bounds" markers.
   •  There are no fairway bunkers.
   •  There are no water hazards.
   •  The bentgrass greens are very fast, true and fair. Many reviewers consider them the best greens in the Southwest.
   •  At an elevation of 2500 feet, the fairways are bordered by native desert vegetation.
      The topography is the natural rolling terrain of this part of the desert.
   •  The course has tee areas from 5,350 yards at the forward tees to 7,035 yards at the championship tees.
      Played from the championship tees, the course rating is 73.9.

Overall, these attributes and their location, in what is often considered the most scenic part of the Sonoran Desert, combine to create a true test of golf for the dedicated golfer in a setting that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is challenging.

Read our Mission Statement or a Biography of Robert "Red" Lawrence.