Desert Lakes Golf Course
Desert Lakes Golf Course in Alamogordo presents a 9-hole desert-style layout with wide fairways and firm greens shaped by the Southwest's dry climate. Ideal for golfers looking to hone their precision and enjoy scenic views near White Sands National Park, this public course blends straightforward playability with desert charm.
Course Overview
Desert Lakes Golf Course offers a distinctive golfing experience set against the rugged, arid beauty of Alamogordo, New Mexico. This 9-hole public course embraces its desert surroundings with wide-open fairways and a layout that challenges players with dry, firm conditions typical of the Southwest. While its par and specific yardage vary across tees, Desert Lakes rewards strategic shot-making over sheer power, reflecting the natural contours and sparse vegetation that shape each hole.
The course sits on flat terrain interrupted by gentle rises and sandy waste areas, which function similarly to bunkers by demanding accuracy and thoughtful club selection. The greens, though modest in size, provide a reliable rolling surface, often speeding up under the dry climate. Desert Lakes favors players who can manage trajectory and control spin in windy conditions, with gusts that curl through the course, putting precision at a premium.
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere from the attentive staff who balance professional service with a relaxed pace typical of local golf communities. The clubhouse features a grill offering convenient dining before or after rounds, with menu options that reflect the casual, friendly vibe of the venue. Accessibility is enhanced by reasonable rates that include club rental and cart options, making Desert Lakes an approachable choice for newcomers and seasoned players alike.
The course’s location also makes it a practical stop for travelers exploring nearby attractions like White Sands National Park. Early morning or late afternoon tee times optimize play conditions, with cooler temperatures and softer sunlight revealing the desert’s subtle color shifts. Walkers are welcome and can enjoy a brisk game on well-maintained paths; appropriate footwear is recommended due to occasional sandy patches.
Desert Lakes Golf Course offers a straightforward, engaging round where the desert landscape asserts itself through both challenge and charm. It delivers a memorable outing with opportunities to sharpen skills in an environment shaped by nature’s elements rather than manicured perfection.
Course Highlights
Desert Lakes presents a distinct 9-hole desert layout with firm, fast greens and strategic sandy waste areas that emulate traditional bunkers. The course challenges golfers to manage wind and dry fairway conditions while offering inviting views of the surrounding desert landscape. The friendly clubhouse atmosphere and proximity to White Sands make it a practical choice for travelers seeking golf in a unique southwestern setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Jesse Mueller
Stayed at Desert Lakes Golf Course for two nights through Harvest Hosts and really enjoyed the experience. The designated Harvest Host parking is at the far end of the main lot. It's a level asphalt surface with plenty of lighting at night, which made setup easy. The only downside is the noise from the nearby 4-way intersection. A lot of vehicles stop and then aggressively take off, and that happens throughout the day and night. During my stay, I ate at the restaurant inside the clubhouse both days. The food was solid and it was convenient being just steps away. On my day off, I packed up my trailer and played 9 holes on the course. The greens were in good shape, although the rest of the course was a little dry, which is pretty typical for the region. The price for 9 holes, a cart, and club rental was under $50, which felt more than fair. The staff was friendly and helpful, making me feel welcomed as both a golfer and a Harvest Host guest. This location is also only about 30 minutes from White Sands National Park, which makes it a great stop if you're exploring the area. If you have extra time, I highly recommend visiting Cloudcroft. It's a small old western-style town high in the mountains, kind of like a smaller Virginia City, NV. But don’t take your rig up there. The grade is steep and takes you into snow elevations, so it’s best to go up in your tow vehicle or toad. Great stop overall. Good food, golf, and close to one of the most beautiful places in the Southwest. Side note: I’ve submitted nearly 600 reviews, and my photos and videos have over 18 million views on Google Maps. If this helped, give me a follow. It’s always appreciated!
Christien Poole
The guy that we checked in with was extremely racist towards our party. Hovering over us as well as making sure we didn’t bring alcohol when multiple parties of a different race were allowed to bring full cases of beer in. He was extremely condescending and rude. The golf course is also very small and poorly maintained, the lowest of the low in regards to standards for a golf “resort”.
Ashley Quarles
Desert Lakes Golf Course had a very inviting and warm atmosphere! The people and staff were incredibly cordial and kind! The restaurant was very clean and tidy, and the food was very delicious!
Jesse Mueller
Stayed at Desert Lakes Golf Course for two nights through Harvest Hosts and really enjoyed the experience. The designated Harvest Host parking is at the far end of the main lot. It's a level asphalt surface with plenty of lighting at night, which made setup easy. The only downside is the noise from the nearby 4-way intersection. A lot of vehicles stop and then aggressively take off, and that happens throughout the day and night. During my stay, I ate at the restaurant inside the clubhouse both days. The food was solid and it was convenient being just steps away. On my day off, I packed up my trailer and played 9 holes on the course. The greens were in good shape, although the rest of the course was a little dry, which is pretty typical for the region. The price for 9 holes, a cart, and club rental was under $50, which felt more than fair. The staff was friendly and helpful, making me feel welcomed as both a golfer and a Harvest Host guest. This location is also only about 30 minutes from White Sands National Park, which makes it a great stop if you're exploring the area. If you have extra time, I highly recommend visiting Cloudcroft. It's a small old western-style town high in the mountains, kind of like a smaller Virginia City, NV. But don’t take your rig up there. The grade is steep and takes you into snow elevations, so it’s best to go up in your tow vehicle or toad. Great stop overall. Good food, golf, and close to one of the most beautiful places in the Southwest. Side note: I’ve submitted nearly 600 reviews, and my photos and videos have over 18 million views on Google Maps. If this helped, give me a follow. It’s always appreciated!
Bob Ness
Visitor, played 3x during stay. The course conditions are currently rather rough after some water issues, but much to love about course. The layout is fun and interesting, staff very friendly, really great bar & grill...restaurant! And the views along course! Really enjoyed rounds.
Lauren Murphy
We didn't golf, but the course looked nice. Stayed with the Harvest Host site with our RV on the property. It was a great spot. Beautiful sunsets and sunrise. Grill was great to eat at too.
Zachariah Diaz
Lauren Murphy
We didn't golf, but the course looked nice. Stayed with the Harvest Host site with our RV on the property. It was a great spot. Beautiful sunsets and sunrise. Grill was great to eat at too.
Ashley Quarles
Desert Lakes Golf Course had a very inviting and warm atmosphere! The people and staff were incredibly cordial and kind! The restaurant was very clean and tidy, and the food was very delicious!
Christien Poole
The guy that we checked in with was extremely racist towards our party. Hovering over us as well as making sure we didn’t bring alcohol when multiple parties of a different race were allowed to bring full cases of beer in. He was extremely condescending and rude. The golf course is also very small and poorly maintained, the lowest of the low in regards to standards for a golf “resort”.
Book Your Round
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
Direct booking • No commissions
Course Details
Access & Location
2351 Hamilton Rd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, USA
Main clubhouse with dining grill and pro shop
Walking allowed and encouraged when weather permits; wear sturdy shoes due to occasional sandy terrain
Open to all players without reservation; rental clubs and carts available on-site
Nearby Courses
