Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Want the true Arizona desert golf experience? These public courses in Scottsdale offer dramatic views, cacti-lined fairways, and epic elevation changes.
July 21, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Looking to soak up the full Arizona experience on your next golf trip? Desert-style golf is what Scottsdale does best — with rocky terrain, cactus-lined fairways, and dramatic elevation changes that make every shot memorable.
Here’s your expert guide to the best public desert-style golf courses in Scottsdale, all of which you can book without needing a private membership.
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Quick Answer: Top Desert-Style Public Courses
For pure desert golf, Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, and Quintero top the list. These courses deliver towering saguaros, elevated tee boxes, and unforgettable scenery, making them essential additions to any Scottsdale golf trip.
Need a full itinerary already planned out? Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Golf Trip Template for a stress-free, Arizona-style weekend.
What is Desert-Style Golf?
Desert golf is defined by its use of the natural Arizona landscape. Instead of tree-lined fairways and soft green rough, you get:
- Firm turf with fast runouts
- Native vegetation like cacti, creosote, and desert brush
- Expansive waste areas and arroyos
- Strategic elevation changes
- Stunning views of surrounding mountains and valleys
If you're coming from the East Coast or Midwest, this style of golf feels like playing on another planet, in the best way.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Top Desert-Style Public Courses in Scottsdale
1. Troon North – Pinnacle & Monument
North Scottsdale | $$$
Troon North is the crown jewel of desert golf. Both the Pinnacle and Monument courses are carved through boulder formations, ravines, and cactus-dotted hillsides, offering a fair but dramatic test of skill.
Highlights:
- Elevated tee shots with sweeping views
- Massive granite formations throughout
- Consistently ranked among the top public courses in the U.S.
Looking for other group-friendly courses? Check out our guide to the Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups.
2. We-Ko-Pa – Saguaro & Cholla
Fort McDowell | $$$
We-Ko-Pa offers uninterrupted desert golf with no homes, no traffic, and no distractions. The Saguaro course, designed by Coore & Crenshaw, emphasizes walkability and natural movement through the land.
Highlights:
- Remote setting in the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
- 360-degree mountain views
- Pure golf vibe for serious players
Also featured in our guide to the Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale if you're curious about course conditions across the seasons.
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.
3. Quintero Golf Club
Peoria (worth the drive) | $$$
Technically outside Scottsdale, Quintero is a must-play if your group is up for a 60-minute drive. Its remote desert setting, towering saguaros, and elevation changes make it one of the most visually stunning courses in Arizona.
Highlights:
- Epic elevation shifts
- Tight fairways framed by desert terrain
- High shot value and great conditioning year-round
4. Boulders Golf Club – North Course
Carefree | $$$
Set among iconic rock formations, Boulders offers a blend of desert target golf and rugged natural beauty. It's semi-private, but public tee times are available, especially in summer.
Highlights:
- Unique rock landscape, including 12-million-year-old boulders
- Quiet, exclusive desert ambiance
- Great pairing with a spa or resort stay
5. McDowell Mountain Golf Club
North Scottsdale | $$
For a more budget-friendly option, McDowell Mountain offers solid desert-style design without the resort pricing. Wide landing areas and mountain vistas make it great for mid- to high-handicap groups.
Highlights:
- Great value for desert golf
- Walkable layout
- Consistent conditions and friendly pace of play
Tips for Playing Desert Golf in Scottsdale
- Club selection matters: Firm fairways mean more roll, don't be afraid to club down.
- Stay hydrated: The dry air can sneak up quickly, especially in warmer months.
- Watch for wildlife: Coyotes, roadrunners, and even javelinas are common sights.
- Early tee times are gold: You’ll beat the heat and get crisper visuals.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Scottsdale Golf Trip Mistakes to Avoid
- What Does a Scottsdale Golf Trip Cost?
- Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
- Where to Eat After Golf in Scottsdale
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
Still deciding? Take the Golf Trip Quiz to get matched with your perfect trip plan.
Written by Ryan from 18Away, your go-to golf trip planner.
For groups chasing the full Arizona vibe, this guide makes it easy to find public-access desert golf that brings the drama without the stress.
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