The Pfau Course
The Pfau Course in Bloomington offers an 18-hole test of accurate driving and precise putting across well-manicured zoysia fairways and firm, fast greens. This public course combines natural grassland terrain with strategic challenges that reward thoughtful play and skillful shot-making.
Course Overview
Located just off Indiana State Road 45-46 Bypass in Bloomington, The Pfau Course presents an 18-hole challenge that demands respect and rewards precision. Characterized by well-maintained zoysia fairways and thoughtfully placed bunkers that blend seamlessly with the terrain, this public course offers a blend of aesthetic charm and competitive golf. The course’s layout reveals subtle elevation changes and natural grassland edges that influence shot selection and strategy throughout the round.
The Pfau Course is a test predominantly for mid to low handicappers but remains approachable for players willing to select forward tees and practice patience. Fairways are generous but bordered by tall, thick rough and heather that punishes wayward shots. Accurate driving is vital since finding the fairway often dictates the quality of the approach. The greens are known for their speed and firmness, making putting a determining factor in scoring. Even after recent aeration, the surfaces run true, providing firm yet fair conditions that encourage aggressive yet thoughtful putting.
Visiting golfers will appreciate the friendly staff and a clubhouse that serves as a welcoming space to relax after a round. While yardage markers on the course are limited, players equipped with their own laser rangefinders gain a distinct advantage, especially given the number of blind tee shots and strategically contoured holes. Walking the course is possible and offers an immersive experience, though sturdy footwear is advisable due to the varying terrain and occasionally long grass.
This course balances natural beauty with a serious test of golf; players who maintain patience and respect the conditions find themselves rewarded. Its maintenance standard remains high, with fairways and greens kept in excellent shape throughout the season. The Pfau Course stands as a memorable Southern Indiana golf destination for those seeking a challenging layout without sacrificing scenic appeal.
Course Highlights
Known for its zoysia grass fairways and fast, true greens, The Pfau Course challenges players with thick rough and heather bordering the fairways. The layout incorporates natural terrain and several blind tee shots, demanding strategic course management, while the bunkers integrate naturally into the landscape, guarding key greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
G “PapaThursday” Johnson
An absolutely amazing course in the heart of the IU campus. Visited the course after a few days of rain, so the greens were not nearly as fast as I anticipated. The courses greatest defense is the heather. Be prepared for what will be a difficult find and nearly impossible lie to exit, if your ball leaves the fairways. If you are a double digit handicap, play forward tees and bring plenty of balls.
Bryce Bulthaup
Amazing gem of a course. Probably the most beautiful course I have ever played. The layout and landscaping make the place feel very natural like they just cut some fairways into a plot of land. Also a very difficult course with some far back tee boxes. Greens are hard and fast. Rough is very long and thick. Small errors become big ones out here. Lots of bunkers that look like a part of the landscape. Only 4 stars because with $95 green fee you don't get a range finder on your cart, and there are no yardage markers on the course itself so I guess they just assume you're rich enough to have a personal range finder. Pretty pricey to just be guessing your yardage all the time. Wish they had the course layout on the scorecard because there are a lot of blind tee shots. Lot of money to pay to not have these things. Overall it is an amazing course and one you should try once if you have the money. Not a cheap place to play but definitely somewhere you should try once with some friends.
Rentong Wang
2024.8.22. Played it 9 years ago and was not especially impressed. Played it again yesterday after its renovation, wow, it was a beautiful and CHANLLENGING course with slopped fairways and hard-to-read greens!
Aaron Kaiser
Challenging but fair. stay in the fairways and your golden, stray and you pay the price. Greens were aerated the day before and couldn't tell in the slightest. The maintenance is top notch. Beautiful fairways and scenic
Austin Fuller
I’ve been here twice and I love this course but I have yet to see a cart person either time. We saw one on the one tee box and never saw them again. Massive misstep on their part.
Michael Zverev
if there’s daylight out, your automated driving range shouldn’t be closed. that’s ridiculous.
John Moran
Nicest and hardest course I've played in Indiana. Love the zoysia fairways. Greens were true and fast GPS device would not work so bring a laser scope or use sprinkler heads for distance. All staff members were very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend this course. A must play in Indiana.
Dillon
Jimmy Garara
Lewis Reyman
This has got to be one of the most challenging courses I’ve played in Southern Indiana and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is an aesthetically pleasing course with all of the beautifully maintained fairways, rough and greens. A beautiful clubhouse and very welcoming staff. Very good price for the caliber of the course.
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Course Details
Access & Location
1492 Indiana 45 46 Bypass, Bloomington, IN 47408, USA
Main clubhouse with pro shop and dining facilities
Walking is allowed and encouraged; course features gentle rolling hills requiring comfortable walking shoes
Open to the public; reservations recommended on weekends and holidays
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