Turtle Hills Golf Course

Former airline pilot and cattle rancher Dick Murphy turned his place eight miles north of Muenster, TX into one of the neatest 18-hole tracks in the state, and for around $30 on weekends, you can have the privilege of playing Murphy’s self-designed and self-built masterpiece.

Mr. Murphy’s design makes up for the lack of driving range by opening with several basic golf holes: the kind where you can relax, swing easy, and get into the flow of the round. Of those early holes No. 2 is the most challenging–it’s a mid-length par 4 that doglegs right and requires a blind approach into an elevated green.

The back side continues with a solid mixture of holes highlighted by the spectacular par 3 No. 11, which is considered by many to be the most beautiful par 3 in Texas. The hole plays down into an amazingly deep ravine, and requires a 2-3 club less than you would normally hit. If the tee shot isn’t perfect here–tough with the wind and drop in elevation–you’ll find yourself in the rugged Hill Country-like scrub that surrounds the green.
The bent-grass greens at Turtle Hill, surprising for a self-built ranch course, are large, roll true, and hold shots well.

You’ll wonder where the heck you’re going, and when you get there you’ll know to expect the basic amenities. But even though there’s no driving range, and the food and beverage service is limited, the Turtle Hill experience is definitely worth the trip.

Getting there : From Gainesville, take Hwy. 82 west to Muenster. Turn north on Hwy. 373 and drive 8.5 miles to the course. The entrance is on the left.