If you love the peaceful beauty of green fairways and the thrill of a perfect swing, living near Hinsdale, Illinois gives you access to some of the best golf experiences in the Midwest. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or someone who enjoys a relaxing day outdoors, the area offers a blend of private clubs and public courses that make the community feel both elegant and welcoming.
Here’s a closer look at the top Hinsdale golf courses and nearby clubs that locals and new homeowners love.
1. Ruth Lake Country Club
Location: Hinsdale, IL
Established: 1922
Ruth Lake Country Club is a true part of Hinsdale’s history. This private 18-hole course offers a beautifully manicured layout with tree-lined fairways and rolling greens. The course design focuses on strategy rather than distance, making it fun and challenging for players of all levels.
Members love the warm, family-friendly atmosphere here. The club also features tennis courts, a fitness center, and a newly renovated clubhouse that hosts social events year-round.
Why locals love it:
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Short drive from downtown Hinsdale
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Excellent junior golf programs
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Great dining and social amenities
If you’re considering homes near Ruth Lake Country Club, Johnny Kloster Real Estate can help you explore listings that fit the lifestyle of this classic Hinsdale neighborhood.
2. Hinsdale Golf Club
Location: Clarendon Hills, IL (just minutes from Hinsdale)
Established: 1898
Founded over a century ago, the Hinsdale Golf Club is one of the oldest private golf courses in Illinois. The course layout is timeless, featuring tight fairways, small greens, and strategic bunkers that test every part of your game.
But what really stands out is its strong sense of community. Generations of families have called this club their golfing home. The clubhouse offers fine dining, swimming, and tennis, making it more than just a course—it’s a lifestyle hub.
What makes it special:
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Rich local history
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A welcoming community of long-time residents
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Elegant club facilities
For many buyers exploring Clarendon Hills and Hinsdale, proximity to the Hinsdale Golf Club adds incredible neighborhood appeal.
3. Oak Brook Golf Club
Location: Oak Brook, IL
Type: Public
Not every golfer wants a private membership, and that’s where Oak Brook Golf Club shines. This public 18-hole championship course delivers a high-quality experience at an accessible price. The fairways are generous, the greens are fast, and the entire layout sits on a picturesque stretch of land just minutes from Hinsdale.
It’s ideal for both residents and visitors who want a relaxed round with friends or colleagues. The on-site restaurant and pro shop add to the convenience, making it a local favorite for weekend golfers.
Highlights:
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Affordable yet well-maintained
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Practice range and lessons available
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Great location near shopping and dining in Oak Brook
If you’re searching for homes near Oak Brook Golf Club, the nearby luxury communities offer a great blend of privacy, accessibility, and value.
4. Butler National Golf Club
Location: Oak Brook, IL
Type: Private, Men’s Only
For those who take golf seriously, Butler National Golf Club is in a league of its own. Known for its challenging design by George Fazio and its reputation as one of the toughest courses in the country, Butler National has hosted several PGA Tour events, including the Western Open.
The course demands precision and skill, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens that make every hole memorable. Although it’s a men’s-only private club, its prestige draws players and enthusiasts from all over the nation.
Course facts:
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Designed by George and Tom Fazio
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Ranked among the top courses in Illinois
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Former PGA Tour host
Living near this course reflects a love for tradition, privacy, and world-class golf—qualities that align perfectly with many homes showcased by Johnny Kloster Real Estate.
5. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club
Location: Lemont, IL (20 minutes from Hinsdale)
Type: Public
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club is a name every Illinois golfer knows. With four courses, including the famous “Dubsdread” Course No. 4, it has hosted multiple professional tournaments like the BMW Championship.
Even if you’re new to the game, Cog Hill offers lessons, a driving range, and practice greens for players of all skill levels. The facilities are top-notch, and the staff are known for their hospitality.
Why golfers recommend it:
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Four courses with unique layouts
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Professional instruction available
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Championship-level experience for public access
It’s perfect for families or individuals who enjoy regular play without the commitment of a private club membership.
Comparison Table: Top Hinsdale-Area Golf Courses
Golf Course |
Type |
Distance from Hinsdale |
Key Feature |
Ruth Lake Country Club |
Private |
Within Hinsdale |
Family-friendly, historic charm |
Hinsdale Golf Club |
Private |
1 mile (Clarendon Hills) |
Rich heritage, strong community |
Oak Brook Golf Club |
Public |
10 minutes |
Accessible, scenic, affordable |
Butler National Golf Club |
Private |
10 minutes |
Championship-level challenge |
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club |
Public |
20 minutes |
Multiple courses, pro-level design |
Why Golf and Real Estate Go Hand-in-Hand in Hinsdale
Hinsdale’s golf culture isn’t just about sport—it’s part of the lifestyle. Homes near these courses often feature larger lots, quiet tree-lined streets, and quick access to both leisure and downtown amenities. Many buyers choose Hinsdale and nearby towns like Oak Brook or Clarendon Hills because they combine elegance, family life, and recreational opportunities.
If you’re relocating to the area or exploring luxury homes near golf communities, Johnny Kloster Real Estate offers deep local expertise and insight into properties that match your lifestyle.
Why Hinsdale Is a Golfer’s Dream Community
From the classic fairways of Ruth Lake to the tournament-ready greens at Butler National, the Hinsdale golf course scene blends tradition, community, and world-class design. Whether you prefer private exclusivity or open-access public play, there’s a perfect fit for every golfer and homeowner.
As you explore life in Hinsdale, imagine weekends spent on these scenic greens followed by a relaxing evening in your dream home nearby. That balance of leisure and lifestyle is what makes Hinsdale truly special.
FAQ: Golf Courses and Golf Living in Hinsdale, IL
1. Are there public golf courses near Hinsdale, IL?
Yes. Oak Brook Golf Club and Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont both offer excellent public golf experiences close to Hinsdale, with well-maintained courses and full amenities.
2. What are the best private golf clubs near Hinsdale?
Ruth Lake Country Club and Hinsdale Golf Club are top private options known for their strong community, family-friendly environments, and beautifully designed courses.
3. Can non-members play at private clubs like Ruth Lake or Hinsdale Golf Club?
Typically, play is limited to members and their guests. However, some clubs occasionally host charity or invitational events that allow limited guest participation.
4. Which golf course near Hinsdale is known for professional-level tournaments?
Butler National Golf Club and Cog Hill’s “Dubsdread” Course No. 4 have both hosted major PGA events, attracting top-level players from around the country.
5. Is Hinsdale a good area for golf enthusiasts to buy a home?
Absolutely. Many neighborhoods in and around Hinsdale offer proximity to premier golf courses, scenic green views, and access to both private and public clubs—perfect for golf lovers seeking a refined lifestyle.
6. Do golf clubs in the Hinsdale area offer junior or family programs?
Yes. Clubs like Ruth Lake and Hinsdale Golf Club feature robust junior golf programs, family events, and recreational facilities beyond golf, including tennis and swimming.
7. How far are most top golf courses from downtown Hinsdale?
Most are within a 5–20 minute drive, including nearby Clarendon Hills and Oak Brook—making it easy for residents to enjoy golf without long commutes.
8. Are there real estate options overlooking or near golf courses in Hinsdale?
Yes. Many luxury homes in Hinsdale and Oak Brook offer golf course views or are located within a short distance of prestigious clubs, appealing to buyers who value both elegance and recreation.