Park golf is designed to be simple, accessible, and fun for everyone, from young kids to older adults and complete beginners to longtime players. With just one club, one ball, and a good attitude, you’re ready to play. But to keep the game enjoyable for all, a little etiquette goes a long way.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential guidelines and best practices to help keep the game fun, friendly, and respectful for all players.
What makes park golf different
Park golf keeps things simple, and that’s what makes it so enjoyable. Instead of a full bag of clubs, each player uses just one wooden club and a soft, oversized ball. It’s easy to carry, easy to use, and perfect for players of all ages.
The holes are shorter than those on a traditional golf course, usually arranged in 9- or 18-hole layouts. Thanks to the compact design, a full round only takes about two hours, just the right amount of time for some fresh air and fun without spending the whole day on the course. The goal? Same as regular golf: get through the course using the fewest strokes possible. But with a simpler setup and quicker pace, park golf is all about relaxed, low-pressure fun.
Essential rules of play
Park golf is easy to pick up, but there are a few essential rules to keep the game fair and fun. Each hole begins with a tee-off from a designated area, and the goal is to complete the course using the fewest strokes possible.
After the initial tee shots, the player whose ball is furthest from the hole goes next, and play continues in that order until everyone finishes the hole. If a ball goes out of bounds, a one-stroke penalty is added, and the player drops the ball near the spot where it went out.
These simple guidelines help keep the game organized and enjoyable for players.
Best practices & etiquette
Park golf might be laid-back, but good etiquette keeps the game enjoyable for everyone. One of the most important things is to keep a steady pace; if your group is playing a little slower, it’s courteous to let faster players go ahead. If the group in front is lingering and you’re ready to move on, it’s totally fine to skip ahead; just be sure to let them know.
Sharing the space also means taking care of it: fix any divots, rake the bunkers, and be gentle around the greens. When someone’s lining up a shot or putting, keep noise and distractions to a minimum so they can focus.
There is no need for fancy outfits; just wear something comfortable for the weather and stick to closed-toe shoes for safety.
Most importantly, be encouraging! Park golf is all about having fun, connecting with others, and enjoying a good time outdoors.
How 1Club makes park golf easy, fair, and fun
1Club helps take the stress out of park golf, making the game as smooth and enjoyable as it should be. The courses are clearly laid out and easy to navigate, so you can focus on playing, not figuring out where to go next. Need help? The staff are always around to answer questions or offer quick, helpful tips. To keep things running smoothly, players get friendly reminders to stay on pace and be mindful of others. This creates a welcoming atmosphere where everyone, from first-timers to regulars, can enjoy the game.
About 1Club:
Tucked into the heart of Vernon Valley, 1Club is more than just a park golf course, it’s a full-on outdoor experience. The course is thoughtfully designed to follow the natural landscape, creating a smooth, scenic playing experience without disrupting the terrain.
No need to bring gear or know what you’re doing—just show up, grab a club, and get going.
Real-time scoreboards track your shots, and upbeat music plays throughout the course to keep the energy light and fun.
When you’re done playing, the day doesn’t have to end. Kick back at Hef’s Hideaway with a craft cocktail, or head to Hef’s Hut for locally inspired eats that hit the spot after a round. With great views, great tunes, and good food, 1Club makes it easy to turn a simple game of park golf into a full relaxing day outdoors.
Strategy tip: read the ground
In park golf, your best strategy isn’t about power; it’s about paying attention to the terrain. Since the ball tends to stay low and roll more than it flies, reading the ground is key. Before you swing, take a moment to look at the ground: is it sloping left or right? Is the grass smooth or patchy? These small details can help you plan your shots more accurately and avoid unnecessary strokes. Think of it like traditional golf; precision and touch go a long way.
Final thoughts
Park golf is the perfect blend of fun and challenge, it’s simple enough to pick up quickly but still offers enough strategy to keep you engaged. There’s none of the pressure or complexity you might find in regular golf, just straightforward rules and a focus on enjoying the game.
As long as you’re respectful of others and of your pace, you’ll fit right in. If it’s your first time playing, don’t stress, and if you’re bringing friends who’ve never played, that’s even better! Park golf is all about sharing a good time, no matter your skill level.
Ready to see what the fuss is about? Round up a friend or two, reserve your spot, and come find out why people keep coming back to play.