Big Lake Country Club

This semi-private 9-hole "country club" is a hacker's dream in terms of difficulty with flat, wide fairways, no water, no bunkers, and a short layout.

The wind and rugged conditions can get you, but the highlight of this facility is not the golf course-it's the other golfers you'll share the experience with. There's something special about playing the great game with an oilman who's sporting a six-beer buzz, spitting tobacco, sipping on whiskey, and teaching you the art of profanity and golf.

Pay once and play all day. There are two sets of tees for a different look the second time around. Refrain from outfitting yourself in the big-city garb of khakis and a polo, as the locals could be wearing Wrangler jeans, multi-colored Western shirts (if at all), and either cowboy boots or tennis shoes.

Getting there : Take Hwy. 67 west out of Big Lake.