Painted Desert Golf Club

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada | Style: Desert Parkland | Length: 6,781 yards | Par: 72

Opened in 1987 and designed by Jay Morrish, Painted Desert Golf Club holds a special place in the history of golf in Nevada as one of the first true desert-style layouts in Las Vegas. Its thoughtful design blends classic parkland features with the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert, offering an inviting yet strategic challenge just minutes from the Strip.

The course’s lush fairways, framed by native desert vegetation and mountain backdrops, create a striking contrast against the surrounding landscape. Measuring just under 6,800 yards, Painted Desert rewards accuracy and smart positioning over raw power, with water hazards, target-style carries, and well-guarded greens that keep every shot interesting.

Course highlights

• Historic desert design – One of the first courses in Las Vegas to introduce the “desert target golf” concept, inspiring many that followed.
• Playable for all levels – Wide fairways and approachable greens make it ideal for casual golfers, while precise shot-making is still rewarded.
• Scenic surroundings – Views of Red Rock Canyon and the Sheep Mountain Range complement every round.
• Excellent value – Known for providing championship-level quality at an accessible price point.

Signature Holes

Some standout holes at the course are:

• Hole 8 – Par 3: A beautiful, downhill hole over water to a guarded green framed by desert flora. Club selection and wind judgment are key.
• Hole 10 – Par 5: A true risk-reward hole with a reachable green for long hitters, though water and bunkers wait to punish the overly ambitious.
• Hole 18 – Par 4: A strong finishing hole requiring accuracy off the tee and a confident approach to an elevated green beneath the clubhouse patio.

Clubhouse & amenities

Golfers at Painted Desert can enjoy a welcoming and relaxed club atmosphere with:

• Full-service clubhouse featuring casual dining and a bar with course views
• Expansive practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green
• PGA professional instruction and custom club fitting
• Convenient location just 20 minutes northwest of the Las Vegas Strip

Did You Know?

Painted Desert Golf Club hosted several events on the Nevada Open and Las Vegas Invitational qualifying circuits during the 1990s, helping cement its place in local golf lore.