Kamloops offers a variety of golf courses that make it a destination worth planning a trip around. Each course offers unique challenges shaped by the area’s landscape of rolling hills, sand dunes, and lakes. Whether you're after technical fairways or a relaxed atmosphere, there’s a course here for every level of player. With plenty of amenities, scenic views, and different play styles, Kamloops’ golfing scene is designed to keep players engaged throughout an entire trip.
Kamloops Golf & Country Club
Kamloops Golf & Country Club, established in 1914, is the oldest course in the region. The parkland-style layout features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and immaculately maintained greens. Recent renovations have modernized the course without losing its traditional charm.
The layout tests players’ shot-making ability with a mix of long and short holes. The back nine features particularly scenic spots, including holes framed by mature trees and vibrant greenery. The club regularly hosts tournaments, making it a central hub for competitive and social golfing events in Kamloops.
The Willows Restaurant is a popular gathering spot after a round. Players can enjoy comfort options like quesadillas, burgers, and fish & chips, paired with craft beer from British Columbia’s Okanagan region.
Tobiano Golf Course
Tobiano is one of the most celebrated courses in Canada. Located near Kamloops Lake, it blends dramatic elevation changes with sweeping fairways. The course was designed by Thomas McBroom and offers expansive views and complex hole designs. Precision is required to navigate deep ravines, narrow fairways, and strategic bunkers that make the course a true test of skill.
Each hole at Tobiano is thoughtfully crafted to balance challenge and reward, with some requiring aggressive play and others demanding caution. The par-4 seventh hole is a major highlight. It challenges players with a tee shot over a canyon, forcing careful strategy from the first swing. The course's undulating greens demand focus, making even short putts tricky.
Tobiano’s clubhouse features a large patio overlooking the lake, providing a perfect spot to unwind after a round. The Black Iron Club & Grill is highly regarded for its menu of locally sourced steaks, fresh seafood, and inventive appetizers. Guests often pair their meals with selections from BC’s growing list of celebrated wineries and craft breweries.
The Dunes at Kamloops
The Dunes emphasizes its natural, sandy terrain shaped by ancient deposits. This links-style course offers wide fairways and rugged fescue framing, creating opportunities for creative shot-making. The course rewards players who can manage the fast, rolling fairways, particularly when dealing with unpredictable wind conditions.
Hole designs require a strategic approach, with several par-4s and par-5s presenting a variety of routes to the green. The course’s practice facilities include a large grass-tee driving range and putting greens, allowing players to hone their skills.
Dining at The Dunes Restaurant complements the experience. The menu features classic golf course favourites like burgers and fries but also offers chef-inspired specials that take advantage of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
Talking Rock Golf Course
Talking Rock is located on Little Shuswap Lake and is owned by the Little Shuswap Lake Band. Opened in 2007, the course integrates its natural surroundings, including dense forest and lakeside vistas. Challenging doglegs, rolling fairways, and wide greens define the layout. The final hole runs parallel to the lake, creating a scenic and satisfying conclusion to a round.
Talking Rock’s design blends playability with technical elements, ensuring it caters to both beginners and experienced players. Fairways lined with mature trees and strategic bunkers add difficulty without overwhelming newcomers. The natural beauty of the course is a key attraction, with players often pausing to take in the tranquil lake views.
Jack Sam's Restaurant is a culinary highlight, serving dishes inspired by local Indigenous traditions. Bannock, wild game, and salmon prepared with traditional methods are just a few of the offerings.
Eaglepoint Golf Resort
Eaglepoint Golf Resort is known for its diverse terrain, offering rolling fairways, elevation changes, and challenging greens. The design incorporates doglegs and elevated tee boxes that require precision. The signature par-3 12th hole features a dramatic shot over a deep ravine, making it a memorable part of the course.
The course layout encourages strategic shot placement and offers multiple tee boxes to accommodate varying skill levels. Eaglepoint’s extensive practice facilities include a large driving range and a dedicated short-game area.
After a round, players can relax at the Eaglewood Restaurant, which serves a variety of options, from hearty mains to lighter fare. The patio overlooks the surrounding hills, making it an inviting spot to review the day’s highlights.
Rivershore Golf Links
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Rivershore Golf Links offers a traditional links-style experience along the South Thompson River. The course is defined by wide fairways, large greens, and deep, strategically placed bunkers. Though the terrain is mostly flat, the course’s proximity to the river brings wind into play, requiring careful shot control.
The wide-open nature of the course can be deceptive. Players who underestimate the wind and hazards may find themselves struggling with long approach shots. Rivershore hosts several tournaments each year and is a favourite among experienced players seeking a competitive challenge.
The Keekwillie Restaurant offers light meals, including soups, salads, and sandwiches. Large windows provide views of the river and course, creating a relaxing atmosphere for post-round dining.
Bighorn Golf & Country Club
Bighorn Golf & Country Club offers a desert-style golfing experience just minutes from downtown Kamloops. The course features bentgrass fairways that wind through natural sand dunes and sagebrush-covered slopes. Elevation changes and rugged terrain create dynamic hole designs that reward accuracy and creativity.
The wildlife presence, especially sightings of the course’s namesake bighorn sheep, adds an element of surprise to the round. Sloped fairways and strategic bunkers require players to adjust their game plan frequently.
The club’s restaurant, Mason's Kitchen & Bar, is a casual option for players seeking comfort food. Menu items like tacos, wraps, and house-made fries are favourites, and the relaxed environment makes it welcoming for both golfers and visitors.
Sun Peaks Golf Course
Sun Peaks, located at the highest elevation of any course in British Columbia, offers a unique alpine golfing experience. Designed by Graham Cooke, the course follows the contours of the Sun Peaks Resort village. Mountain views and cooler temperatures provide a refreshing contrast to lower-elevation courses.
The elevation affects ball flight, adding distance but also making accuracy more challenging. Players must adapt to the thinner air, especially on longer holes. The signature 16th hole offers a dramatic downhill tee shot with expansive views.
Dining at Sun Peaks includes options like Mantles Restaurant, which emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The relaxed, mountain-inspired atmosphere is perfect for winding down after a day on the course.
Pineridge Golf Course
Pineridge is a 9-hole course that offers a relaxed and approachable experience, making it ideal for beginners and families. Located on the outskirts of Kamloops, the course features tree-lined fairways that are manageable in length but still provide subtle challenges on the greens.
Regulars appreciate the calm atmosphere and opportunities to participate in family-friendly events and short tournaments. The practice area includes a basic putting green for players looking to sharpen their short game skills.
The clubhouse offers light refreshments, including sandwiches and beverages. Outdoor patio seating allows golfers to relax and enjoy views of the surrounding fairways.
Mt. Paul Golf Course
Mt. Paul Golf Course, a 9-hole course located within Kamloops city limits, focuses on straightforward play and fundamental skill development. It’s well-suited for newcomers and those looking to fit in a quick round. Short fairways and few hazards allow for smooth, steady gameplay.
The layout emphasizes shot accuracy and offers opportunities to work on approaches and putting. More experienced players use the course to refine their short game skills.
A modest clubhouse provides light snacks, coffee, and a comfortable place to unwind after a round. Additional practice facilities, including a putting green and driving net, help golfers prepare for their game.
Golf Season and Climate in Kamloops
Kamloops benefits from a long golf season, often starting in March and continuing through October. The semi-arid climate ensures low rainfall and dry conditions. Early morning rounds are particularly enjoyable, with cool air and bright skies enhancing the experience.
The variety of course designs means players can find options that suit their preferences throughout the season. Summer temperatures rise but are moderated by breezes, especially at higher elevation courses like Sun Peaks.
Closing Thoughts
Kamloops delivers a golfing experience defined by variety and quality. Courses like Tobiano and Talking Rock attract players seeking top-tier challenges, while smaller courses like Pineridge and Mt. Paul cater to relaxed rounds. The area’s climate, combined with off-course activities, makes Kamloops a strong choice for both short visits and longer golf vacations. Plan your trip to experience some of the best golfing in British Columbia.
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