Desert Winds Combat Center Golf
Desert Winds Combat Center Golf offers an 18-hole desert course on a military base in Twentynine Palms, California. This open layout emphasizes wind and natural desert challenges, delivering scenic mountain views and approachable playability in a unique high desert setting.
Course Overview
Located within the high desert expanses of Twentynine Palms, California, Desert Winds Combat Center Golf offers a distinctive experience far removed from typical lush parkland layouts. This 18-hole, public-access course resides on a military base, blending open fairways and natural desert terrain for a round that challenges strategic shot-making amid arid surroundings and shifting winds. The landscape stretches wide under an expansive sky, framed by rugged mountain vistas that create a striking backdrop from tee to green.
This course carries a simplicity that appeals to a broad range of golfers, from newcomers seeking an approachable layout to seasoned players who appreciate the desert’s subtle demands. Unlike traditional courses, Desert Winds contains few hazards beyond the natural brush and desert sands, making it accessible for those wary of dense bunkering or water hazards. However, the ever-present wind plays a pivotal role, testing accuracy and club selection throughout your round.
The greens are well-maintained and receptive, providing a true roll despite the arid climate. Players often remark on the smoothness of the putting surfaces, which stand out as a highlight given the course’s desert setting. Early morning tee times are advisable to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy quieter conditions, often allowing for a solitary and peaceful round.
Amenities include a driving range and dedicated practice areas for chipping and putting. The staff are noted for their friendly, helpful service, enhancing the overall experience for players visiting the base.
The course’s openness and desert environment offer abundant wildlife sightings, adding to the natural character of each hole. Scenic viewpoints, particularly near holes 11 and 17, showcase panoramic desert and mountain vistas that reward those who pause to take in the landscape.
With affordable green fees and a relaxed atmosphere, Desert Winds Combat Center Golf invites players to embrace the desert’s rhythm and challenge. Whether visiting military personnel or local enthusiasts, it remains a valued venue reflecting the rugged spirit of the Mojave Desert region.
Course Highlights
Open fairways framed by native desert vegetation challenge players to navigate with precision amid prevailing winds; greens are exceptionally smooth and fast for a desert course; spectacular views of surrounding mountains, especially near holes 11 and 17; lacks traditional bunkering but demands focus due to natural desert hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Heather Orton
The golf course is well maintained. We unfortunately did not have enough time to play as much of the course as we would like due to having to drive home that day, but I have no doubt the whole place is amazing. It was not crowded at all and there was lots of wildlife!
Rob Wanless
This is a good desert course on a military base. The people here are solid and hard working. The course is in the middle range of difficulty. Wind is usually a factor (hence the name) I recommend playing it twice on two different days
Jelepo Adamovic
As a beginner, I cannot really give any more constructive judgment of the quality of courses but say that my husband and I had a good time playing (despite having to skip two of the courses - one as it was closed and the other as we misread the map). What struck us as a negative was an unpleasant greeting and handling by one of the receptionists. Prior to visiting, we checked the website that showed most of the time slots open, so we didn't think there would be a problem finding a vacancy. What we didn't know is that we had to make a reservation regardless - an honest mistake. Right at the start, we were notified of the fact in a very reprimanding way, which we would've forgotten about later on had we not been ignored altogether afterwards. I suggested, as there was so much vacancy, to do it on the spot if it was mandatory (the impression I got judging the receptionist's attitude), but there was no response, she proceeded our check-in without a word. We were basically ignored from then on, not even given eye contact. As beginners, we had questions, but didn't feel comfortable asking from then on. The fellow staff member had to jump in after we started to look more uncomfortable and gave us all the information we needed, and did so very kindly. We enjoyed our time on the courses despite this experience but were nevertheless left with a bad feeling that we would much rather avoid in the future, so, unfortunately, we might not pay any more visits to the place. We sincerely hope the management takes more care and attention in the future when employing staff, making sure that they are appropriate in both appearance and behavior and equipped with the required skills to work with people.
Mark Smiley
I love visiting the kids stationed at 29 Palms Marine Corp base...as I get to play this cool golf course. It's not very challenging, there are no sand traps (except the desert) there are no water hazards, and fairways are pretty open. The greens (and fringes) are in amazing shape. They are better than greens I play in Destin, FL. As a military retiree, I play this course during the week and most of the time I have the entire 18 holes to myself. Awesome! Views of surrounding desert and mountains are worth the green fees alone. Speaking of green fees...usual play for 18 holes was $28 for retired E7. Thursdays, they run a special, $20! Not bad. The only downfall...the heat. Play early and bring alot of water. One last thing, as someone else posted, you will find more balls than you lose. Ha. Bottom line, great place, awesome staff...love it! Vistas from #11 and #17 greens are fantastic! Edit: (Oct 2022) I've read a couple recent reviews of the course and they trash its condition. Folks...it is what it is. Open course, in the desert, on a military base. If you want high end experience, then book a tee time in Palm Springs. Bottomline: this is my favorite golf course...why...solitude! (And vistas). Most of the Google online pictures that are said to be misleading of course's condition...are the ones I took. Course seemed fine to me that day!
Ryan Parker
The disc golf course is pretty good. Hole 5 has a hefty right turn toward the end and you can lose your disc's in the trees (I almost did). And hole 9 is the farthest hole. Its also interlaced with the regular golf course, so be mindful of them when playing.
Stephanie Brunette
Julie is awesome
Jose Lara
Solid course for the price close to 1 dollar per hole. Greens are very slow. Saturdays and Sundays e1-e5 get free range tokens from 10-12. Range is okay and they have clubs you can use at the range. Also has a putting and chipping area in the back. The older lady is the most helpful.
Rob Wanless
This is a good desert course on a military base. The people here are solid and hard working. The course is in the middle range of difficulty. Wind is usually a factor (hence the name) I recommend playing it twice on two different days
Jose Lara
Solid course for the price close to 1 dollar per hole. Greens are very slow. Saturdays and Sundays e1-e5 get free range tokens from 10-12. Range is okay and they have clubs you can use at the range. Also has a putting and chipping area in the back. The older lady is the most helpful.
Josh Mueller
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Course Details
Access & Location
Bldg 3811, Twentynine Palms, CA 92278, USA
Main Pro Shop and Clubhouse facility onsite with practice areas
Walking is welcomed; flat terrain with firm desert footing—wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection
Military ID or authorized guest access required; green fees apply to all players
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