What are the best Scottsdale public courses for intermediate golfers?

Top picks include Talking Stick (O’odham), McDowell Mountain, Eagle Mountain, Camelback Padre, and TPC Scottsdale – Champions. These offer playable tee shots, strategic approaches, and fair greens for 10–20 handicaps.

Which tees should a 10–20 handicap play in Scottsdale?

Aim for total yardage around 5,800–6,400 yards depending on your driver carry. Most courses mark these as the middle tees; moving up a set keeps scoring chances high and pace comfortable.

Are these courses good value for intermediate players?

Yes. McDowell Mountain and TPC Champions often price below marquee tracks while maintaining excellent conditions. For more savings, look at shoulder-season or twilight rates.

When is the best time of day to play as an intermediate golfer?

Mid-morning (8–10am) offers warmer temps and smoother pace most of the year. Twilight is a great value if you’re comfortable finishing near sunset.

Which Scottsdale courses balance scenery with playability?

Eagle Mountain delivers elevated views with a fair layout, while Talking Stick O’odham and Camelback Padre are visually clean and forgiving without sacrificing interest.

Scottsdale

Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Intermediate Players

These Scottsdale public golf courses offer the perfect mix of challenge and forgiveness, ideal for intermediate golfers looking to level up and enjoy every round.

golf ball on green grass field during daytime

August 31, 2025 · 6 min read

By Ryan at 18Away

If you’re a 10 to 20 handicapper, Scottsdale is a dream. The city’s public courses cater to every skill level, but for intermediate golfers, there’s a sweet spot, courses that are rewarding without being punishing, strategic without being overwhelming.

Whether you’re on a buddies trip or just want to push your game to the next level, these Scottsdale golf courses are perfectly tailored for the improving player.

Quick Answer: Best Scottsdale Courses for Intermediate Golfers

Play Talking Stick O’odham, McDowell Mountain, Eagle Mountain, Camelback Padre, and TPC Scottsdale – Champions. They mix forgiveness off the tee with strategic greens, stay fair from the middle tees, and deliver fun, confidence-building rounds without the blow-up factor.

1. Talking Stick Golf Club – O’odham Course

Designed by Coore & Crenshaw, the O’odham Course (formerly North) blends wide landing areas with subtle complexity. It’s perfect for intermediate players ready to think through shot selection.

Why it’s ideal:

Strategic bunkering requires thoughtful play
Walkable layout with variety
Forgiving off the tee, but rewards accuracy on approach

Also featured in our Best Walkable Golf Courses in Scottsdale guide.

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2. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

This course hits the sweet spot between playability and challenge. It’s open off the tee but demands smart decisions around the green, exactly what intermediate players need to sharpen.

Highlights:

Multiple tee boxes make it adaptable
Smooth greens and fair challenges
Rated as one of the Most Forgiving Courses in Scottsdale

3. Eagle Mountain Golf Club

This course introduces elevation changes and scenic distractions but stays playable for mid-handicap golfers. It’s one of the best spots to test your course management without losing a dozen balls.

Best for:

Shot variety and decision-making
Rewarding par 5s and drivable par 4s
Sweeping desert views that don’t compromise fairness

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4. Camelback Golf Club – Padre Course

A parkland-style layout with wide fairways and minimal forced carries, this course offers a solid challenge while keeping the intimidation factor low.

Why mid-handicappers enjoy it:

Clean visuals and traditional design
Reasonable pace of play
Smart bunkering without overcomplication

5. TPC Scottsdale – Champions Course

While its Stadium sibling gets all the attention, the Champions Course is more approachable and just as fun for the 10–20 handicap golfer.

Why it’s great:

Excellent turf conditions year-round
Fair test from the middle tees
Let's you experience TPC-level golf without getting smoked

Featured in our Best Budget-Friendly Courses in Scottsdale.

Planning Tips for Intermediate Golfers

Tee it forward: Don’t be afraid to move up a set of tees to maximize fun. Many Scottsdale courses are designed for shot-making, not distance.
Play early or twilight: To avoid peak heat and maximize value, try a twilight round. See our Best Twilight Rates in Scottsdale for savings.
Use our itinerary: The 3-Day Scottsdale Golf Trip Template includes flexible options perfect for intermediate players.

More Scottsdale Golf Planning Resources

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Written by Ryan from 18Away, your go-to golf trip planner.

Whether you’re breaking 90 or chasing consistency, these courses will elevate your game and your Scottsdale experience, the ideal picks for intermediate players on the rise.