While warmer temperatures have already provided a taste of spring, a sure sign the seasons are changing is when the five golf courses operated by Oakland County Parks open for the season. This year that date is set for Friday, March 29, weather permitting.
“The opening of the golf courses always generates excitement,” Chief Park Operations and Maintenance – North District Tom Hughes said. “Golf is a great way for people of all ages and abilities to socialize, get outdoors in the fresh air and squeeze some exercise into their busy schedules. Golf rates will remain the same as 2023, keeping play affordable and available to everyone looking to golf close to home or experience a new golf destination.”
OCP golf courses offer challenging play and top-notch amenities
Glen Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Springfield Oaks and White Lake Oaks golf courses are 18-hole courses that feature scenic views and challenging play. Three courses offer clubhouses with pro shops and food and beverage service. Springfield Oaks has food and beverage service at its pro shop and a trailer between the 1st and 10th tees while Lyon Oaks also has a driving range.
In addition to a 9-hole executive course, Red Oaks Golf Course is home to FootGolf, which combines the popularity of golf with soccer.
New this year at White Lake Oaks Golf Course are four electric golf bikes available for rent. These individual rentals are an alternative to a larger golf cart, providing the rider with the ability to go directly to their ball. Golf bags are mounted in the center of the bike, which has wide wheels for a balanced and controlled ride. Currently the bikes are limited to 18-hole rentals due to the limited fleet available and expected demand since White Lake Oaks is one of the first golf courses in the area to make the electric bikes available.
Junior rates to continue this year
Junior rates will continue this year at the golf courses. Individuals ages 17 and younger can play 9 holes for $10 and 18 holes for $15 Monday-Friday and weekend afternoons. Specific hours are posted at each golf course. Juniors ride free with a paid adult during those times.
“We’ve seen many junior golfers developing a love for the game thanks to these affordable rates,” Hughes said. “It’s great to see increased family participation.”
Golf’s health benefits for seniors
Along with the effort of swinging a club, which requires strength and balance, golfing involves a lot of walking. Cartless golfers walk four to eight miles while playing 18 holes and cart-riders walk just under four miles, writes Allie Flinn for Well + Good.
Golf has a number of positive physical and mental benefits for people of all ages but especially seniors, according to personal trainers interviewed by Healthline. Golf improves cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility, and balance and coordination.
There are also benefits to golf in stress relief, improved cognitive function and social interaction.
Seniors ages 62 and up, individuals with permanent disabilities, veterans and active military personnel can access these health benefits by golfing with OCP at discounted rates. Twilight golf offers special rates during the evening hours.
Single rider Americans with Disabilities (ADA) golf carts are available for golfers with physical disabilities or limited mobility. Some carts feature a swivel seat that moves to a standing position and also pivots left and right for maximum range of motion during play.
Reserve tee time today!
Oakland County Parks golf courses are conveniently located throughout Oakland County:
- Glen Oaks Golf Course – 30500 13 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, 248-851-8356
- Lyon Oaks Golf Course – 52221 Pontiac Trail, Lyon Township, 248-437-1488
- Red Oaks Golf Course – 29600 John R Road, Madison Heights, 248-541-5030
- Springfield Oaks Golf Course – 12450 Andersonville Road, Davisburg, 248-634-2261
- White Lake Oaks Golf Course – 991 Williams Lake Road, White Lake, 248-698-2700
Online tee times will be accepted seven days before play at OaklandCountyParks.com. Golfers can also call the pro shops starting at 7 a.m. to reserve a tee time seven days in advance.
For information on other events, visit OaklandCountyParks.com. Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and X.
Oakland County offers residents quality, affordable housing in welcoming neighborhoods with access to parks and recreation, public transportation, and healthy food as part of the Livable Neighborhoods goal in our five-year road map. Follow the Oakland County Executive Office on Facebook and Twitter for updates and visit our dashboard to see the progress being made to ensure Oakland County is All Ways, Moving Forward. Follow along with Oakland County on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube using #OaklandCounty, or visit our website for news and services year-round.