Ironwood Golf Course

About Ironwood Golf Course

Ironwood is the City of Gainesville's course, run by its Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs department: 18 holes, par 72, laid out around century-old pines and lakes. The map survey backs that up. Water touches 12 holes, every hole is lined with trees, there are only about two dozen bunkers, and the ground is dead flat, so it walks easy and the trees and ponds do the defending. Course character from OpenStreetMap contributors' survey data.

It's a busy public course. The city says it hosts more than 50 tournaments a year, and Golf Digest has named it one of the best places to play. It has been an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since July 1999, a certification the city earned with help from the University of Florida's environmental horticulture department and the UF Turfgrass Club, so expect wildlife and natural areas between holes.

It's one of 6 courses Yoink watches in the Ocala, Gainesville & Nature Coast area, and the closest alternative is Turkey Creek Golf Course, about 8 miles away — handy when your first choice is booked solid.

What it's like to play Ironwood Golf Course

Water comes into play on 12 of 18 holes. Keep the ball in front of you. A creek or river runs through the property and comes into play on 3 holes.

Course character from OpenStreetMap contributors' survey data (ODbL).

Booking a tee time at Ironwood Golf Course

Ironwood takes tee times five days ahead, online through the course site or by phone at 352-393-8505. Tournaments sometimes take over the tee sheet, so book early if you want a weekend morning. It's closed Mondays for maintenance. The posted rates (no year on the card, tax included) run $43 for 18 with a cart Tuesday to Thursday mornings and $47 Friday to Sunday, less later in the day, and juniors walk for $7.50.

How to get a tee time at Ironwood Golf Course