Desert Lakes Golf Course
Desert Lakes Golf Course in Alamogordo, NM, features an 18-hole public layout combining desert charm with accessible playability. Its water-lined fairways and scenic mountain views offer an inviting experience for players of all levels seeking a Southwestern golfing escape.
Course Overview
Set against the stark beauty of New Mexico’s high desert, Desert Lakes Golf Course offers an 18-hole public layout that balances approachable play with the rugged character of its Southwestern surroundings. Located just outside Alamogordo, this course invites golfers to experience wide fairways bordered by native desert scrub, punctuated by strategic water hazards that challenge shot selection without overwhelming less experienced players.
The course presents a gently undulating topography that captures the region’s natural contours, creating distinct holes that reward thoughtful positioning. While the arid climate leaves much of the landscape with a desert-hued palette, patches of irrigated turf maintain healthy greens and fairways, providing a playable surface year-round. The wind often plays a subtle but persistent role, demanding steady tempo and focus, especially on the longer par 4s and reachable par 5s.
Desert Lakes is well suited for players of varying skill levels, with multiple tee boxes that ensure an accessible yet rewarding experience. The course is especially inviting for those looking for a relaxed round within a distinctly Southwestern environment, without complicated elevation changes or overly penal hazards. Its compact layout does not skimp on variety—several holes run alongside water features, testing accuracy while framing memorable vistas of the surrounding desert and distant mountain ranges.
The clubhouse acts as a welcoming hub, featuring a restaurant known for its hearty Southwestern fare and friendly service. Golfers can take advantage of rental clubs and carts, making it an ideal stop for visitors who may be exploring nearby White Sands National Park or the mountain town of Cloudcroft. While course conditions have seen some variability due to recent water constraints, management’s commitment to steady improvement is evident.
Visitors should prepare for desert-weather conditions by bringing sunscreen and hydration, while comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on the firm yet forgiving terrain. With its blend of classic desert aesthetics and thoughtful design, Desert Lakes Golf Course offers an engaging, practical golfing experience that stands out within New Mexico’s golfing landscape.
Course Highlights
Distinctive water hazards create strategic challenges amid desert terrain, while views of nearby mountain ranges add visual depth. The course’s flat to gently rolling landscape offers a straightforward walk that coexists with native desert vegetation, lending an authentic Southwestern atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
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.
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”.
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!
Zachariah Diaz
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”.
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.
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Course Details
Access & Location
2351 Hamilton Rd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, USA
Desert Lakes Clubhouse & Grill
Walking is permitted and recommended during cooler months; sturdy shoes advised for desert terrain.
Open to the public; tee times recommended especially on weekends.
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