ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Honey Creek is regarded as one of central Iowa’s hidden golf gems, praised for elevation changes, value, and surprisingly dramatic holes for the Midwest.
About
Honey Creek Golf Club, designed by Karl L. Litten, is a scenic 18-hole public course in Boone, Iowa. The course features bentgrass fairways, rolling hills, prairie rough, and is framed by mature trees with greens built to USGA specs. Honey Creek is known for its tranquil setting neighboring Ledges State Park and its welcoming playability for all skill levels.
Caddie Tip
Score on the front nine while you can, as the back nine features elevation changes and visually intimidating holes, especially from holes 12–16. Adjust your club selection for downhill approaches and stay conservative off the tee where trouble lurks in the valleys and trees. Pay attention to wind, which can swirl in the hills.
The Main Challenge
The toughest stretch of the course runs from holes 12 through 16, where significant elevation changes and target golf dominate. Narrow fairways lined with trees and tricky approaches make this back-nine valley section a real test of both accuracy and course management under pressure.
The Good
Golfers love Honey Creek’s scenic, wooded back nine with dramatic elevation changes and strong shot variety. The quality greens, reasonable fees, and quiet, natural setting near Ledges State Park make it a popular value destination just outside Des Moines. Locals appreciate that it’s playable for all skill levels, yet the back nine offers some of Iowa’s most memorable holes.
The Not So Good
Some players have commented on areas of erosion or course repairs, especially on the back nine. Though the staff repairs issues quickly, drainage and renovation of a couple of tough slopes or retaining walls could further enhance playability. The clubhouse amenities are modest and may not match the expectations set by the excellent course layout.
Signature Hole:
#
12
The par-4 12th hole at Honey Creek Golf Club stands out for its significant elevation drop and challenging tee shot over a wooded valley. Players must carry the ball downhill towards a narrow fairway lined with trees on both sides, making accuracy key to set up a manageable approach to a well-guarded green.
Clubhouse
Expect essential amenities including a small clubhouse with snack bar, pro shop, and locker areas. The facility is clean with friendly staff, although it may lack some of the upscale features of larger clubs. Upgrades like paved paths and restrooms have been added recently.
Practice Facilities
The club provides a driving range and a short game area for warm-up. While the main focus is on the golf course, practice facilities are sufficient for players aiming to tune up their swing or short game before a round.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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