Private · 18 Holes

Desert Forest Golf Club

37207 North Mule Train Road, Carefree, Arizona

PrivateMembership
18Holes
Red LawrenceCourse Designer
4.764 Reviews
Carefree, AZLocation
3Listings

The Club

About Desert Forest Golf Club

Desert Forest Golf Club is a prestigious private club known for its rich history and dedication to the pure game of golf. The course, designed by Red Lawrence, is celebrated as the first desert-style links course, offering a unique golfing experience that respects the natural contours of the land. The club features a minimalist design...

Facilities

Club Amenities

Pull Cart
Club Rental
Club Fitting
Pro Shop
Golf Lessons
Caddie Hire
Driving Range
Putting Green
Chipping Green
Practice Bunker
Restaurant
Reception Hall
Clubhouse
Changing Room
Lockers

Membership

Joining Desert Forest Golf Club

Membership at Desert Forest Golf Club is by sponsored invitation, offering access to a historic and beautifully designed golf course. Members enjoy a walking-friendly course, a practice facility with a double-sided driving range, and a short game practice area. The club is committed to preserving the traditions of golf and contributing to the community through programs like the Youth Caddie Program.

Membership Options

Ways to Join

Full Golf Membership

golf
  • $10,001/yrAnnual

Fees are approximate and gathered from public sources — contact the club to confirm current pricing.

Reviews

What People Say

4.7/5
Google · 64 reviews
In summary

Desert Forest Golf Club is highly regarded for its challenging and beautifully maintained course that embraces the natural desert terrain, offering a true test of skill with narrow fairways and fast greens. The club's peaceful setting, friendly members, and quality amenities are frequently praised. However, some find the course's difficulty level and strict rules demanding, and there are isolated reports of less favorable customer service experiences.

9 months ago
Desert Forest is often called the original “desert golf” course, and you can see why. Instead of forcing water or lush landscaping, it embraces the natural terrain. The result is a layout that feels rugged, authentic, and beautifully minimalist. Fairways are narrow, greens are quick, and accuracy is a must. It’s not the most forgiving course, but it’s rewarding for players who enjoy a true test of golf. The quiet, natural setting makes it peaceful as well—you really feel like you’re out in the desert, playing golf the way it was meant to be there.
— Cole Nisson
6 years ago
One of the most challenging golf courses there is but very fun if you can handle some lost balls and crazy lines off the tee. Range is nice and clubhouse is good.
— Hayden Shieh
9 months ago
Very nice course I've never played. Private members only. My daughter does high school golf practice here and says it is great.
— Jeff Zenno
a year ago
I called and spoke to Mike on the phone - he hung up on me while I was asking for assistance. I was incredibly kind on the phone despite him cutting me off, only to get hung up on. I've never golfed here, but I definitely won't after being treated like that over a simple phone call.
— lashai miller
4 years ago
Really enjoyed my first time to Desert Forest. One of the more challenging tracks I have ever played. Just out of overseed so the grass was lush, and the greens were fast and true. I am looking forward to the next time, I feel like I will have a better idea of where I need to be to put the ball in better position for the next shot, some deceiving angles & visuals. Had a great time!! ⛳️
— Brian Ford
5 years ago
Amazing design, exquisitely maintained course is not for the faint of heart. Precision, focus and shot making required on this course. A golfers golf course where making par is a good score on any hole. Takes a few times thru to be able to score, but worth the time. Members are warm and receptive to guests.
— Tim Bender
7 years ago
Crazy tough golf course, I have left many golf balls in the desert, but immaculately maintained and fun to play. People in the clubhouse and grill are wonderful and very nice to get to know.
— Brad Putney
Edited 4 years ago
Beautifully maintained. Hard.course.
— Mj Dillenburg
3 years ago
A top private club with the amenities tippy want. Great golf course, excellent food and beverages. Very limited membership allows for easy access to a tee time
— Joe Williams
5 years ago
I was fortunate to play at Desert Forest last week. An amazing place with a wonderful golf course. Challenging but a fair test. Friendly members and staff. Can’t wait to go back!
— Chris Rodgers
6 years ago
The course way beautiful. My Great Grandpa built this golf course many years ago. It was nice to see that they take so much pride in maintaining it.
— Joy Leslie
8 years ago
Arguably this could be the best course in Arizona, if the membership didn't take the controversial step of rebuilding the greens. I vote that they flatten out the putting surfaces.
— Mike Loustalot

Buy with the best & sell with confidence

Find a recommended local agent.

Search Our Agents