Ever wonder what Park Golf actually is?
You’re definitely not the first person to ask. Park golf began in Japan in 1983 and has slowly gained popularity around the world. It’s becoming a go-to for people looking for a simpler, more social take on traditional golf
The basics of park golf
Park golf takes the core idea of golf – getting a ball in a hole with the fewest shots – and simplifies everything else. Instead of carrying around a bag full of different clubs, you get one. The ball is bigger and softer than a golf ball, about the size of a baseball. The courses are shorter, and you can walk the whole thing in an hour or so.
The Japanese created this game because they wanted something that families could play together without needing years of lessons or expensive equipment. It worked. Today, you’ll see kids playing alongside their grandparents, which doesn’t happen much in traditional golf.
Here’s what makes it different:
- Just one club for the whole game
- Courses with 9 or 18 holes that won’t require a sherpa
- Way more forgiving than traditional golf
- You can enjoy a conversation with your playing partners without worrying about breaking some unspoken golf code.
- And yes — you can have a drink in your hand while you play!
Park golf vs traditional golf
The two games share some DNA, but they feel completely different when you’re playing them. Regular golf has you thinking about which club to use, checking the wind, reading greens, and following a long list of unwritten rules. Park golf says “here’s your club, there’s the hole, have fun.”
Traditional golf courses sprawl over hundreds of acres. Park golf courses fit in much smaller spaces and don’t need golf carts. While serious golfers might spend four hours on a course, park golf players are usually done in 60-90 minutes.
The equipment tells the whole story. Golf shops sell dozens of different clubs, each designed for specific shots and distances. Park golf hands you one club and trusts you to figure it out. The softball-sized ball moves slower and bounces less erratically than a golf ball, making it easier to predict where your shot will end up.
Why everyone’s looking for a park golf club
Park golf succeeds where traditional golf sometimes struggles – it’s genuinely welcoming to beginners. You don’t need to know the difference between a pitching wedge and a sand wedge. And you won’t have to stress about slowing people down while you look for a lost ball in the trees.
People appreciate that they can learn the game in minutes, not months. A dad can bring his daughter who’s never held a golf club, and she’ll be enjoying herself by the second hole. That’s harder to guarantee with regular golf.
The social aspect matters too. Traditional golf has times when you need to be quiet and focused. Park golf encourages conversation throughout the round. Players help each other line up shots and celebrate good putts together.
Cost plays a role as well. Golf equipment, lessons, and greens fees add up quickly. Park golf facilities typically charge reasonable rates and provide everything you need. Most people try it without making a significant financial commitment.
Health benefits without the stress
Walking a park golf course gives you light exercise without feeling like a workout. The game requires some strategy: reading the slope of the green, choosing where to aim. But it doesn’t demand the precision that makes regular golf frustrating for casual players.
Being outside, spending time with friends or family, and taking a break from everyday stress can do wonders for your mental health. The game has a relaxed pace, so you can simply enjoy the moment.
Where to find a park golf club
Park golf facilities are popping up in more places as communities recognize the demand. Many started as pilot programs and became permanent fixtures after proving popular with residents.
In Vernon, New Jersey, 1Club Park Golf operates courses designed for players of all experience levels. The course is set against the stunning backdrop of Vernon Valley, so you can enjoy the scenery while you play. We provide equipment and basic instruction, making it easy for newcomers to try the sport without preparation.
Online booking makes planning easy, and the staff is great at helping everyone feel at home. It’s a fun place to hang out with friends, enjoy time with family, or try something different. Look for a course that’s well maintained and has a welcoming team—especially if you’re new to the game. The best park golf venues focus on creating positive experiences rather than enforcing rigid rules.
Getting your first round started
Starting park golf requires almost no preparation. Show up, rent equipment if needed, and listen to a brief explanation of the rules. Most facilities orient new players quickly, covering basic safety and etiquette in just a few minutes.
Many people enjoy their first experience more when they play with others. Bringing friends or family members makes the round more enjoyable and provides built-in encouragement when shots don’t go as planned.
Final thoughts
Park golf offers something that traditional golf sometimes doesn’t – immediate fun without a steep learning curve. It removes the barriers that keep people from trying golf while preserving the elements that make the sport enjoyable.
The game fits modern lifestyles better than traditional golf in many ways. It doesn’t require weekend-long commitments or significant financial investment. Players can enjoy a round during lunch breaks or as an evening family activity.
For those curious about the sport, trying it costs little and requires minimal time investment. The growing number of facilities suggests that many people are finding park golf to be exactly what they were looking for in outdoor recreation.
Ready to give it a try? Find a course near you and see what the fuss is about. Reserve your round online or by phone today! We can’t wait to welcome you to 1Club.