8.31

The Harvester Club

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
2000
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
125
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
13
City
Rhodes

Score

8.31
Design
40%
8.3
Conditions
25%
9.2
Desirability
15%
7.6
Scenery
10%
7.6
Fun
5%
8.3
Uniqueness
5%
7.6

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 128

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 13

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
120
$
125
$
130
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The Harvester integrates local agricultural history into its design, prominently featuring a windmill by the putting green and barn-board-clad restrooms.

About

The Harvester Club, designed by Keith Foster, is set on gently undulating terrain amid Iowa’s scenic countryside and lakeside views. Known for its expansive fairways, large and exceptionally fast greens, and open parkland character, the course has been ranked the top course in Iowa and consistently listed among the top 50 modern courses in the USA.

Caddie Tip

Bring your best short game and a steady putting stroke: the greens are among the fastest you’ll find anywhere, and fairway firmness demands precise approach spins. Play smart off the tee and be wary of lakes and elevation changes that can punish aggressive shots.

The Main Challenge

The primary challenge is the rapid, undulating greens that test putting nerves even for low handicappers. Fairways are firm and play fast, but water hazards and elevation changes demand well-strategized tee shots and approaches—sloppy club selection is heavily punished.

The Good

Golfers rave about the pristine conditions, lightning-fast and true greens, and the tranquil setting amid open countryside with beautiful lakeside views. The thoughtful design rewards bold strategy while remaining enjoyable and playable for golfers of all skill levels.

The Not So Good

Some golfers find the course a bit overpriced for the region and note a lack of highway signs or clear directions. Occasional complaints mention the course’s exclusivity since membership conversion limited public play, and the rural location makes access challenging without GPS.

Signature Hole:

#

16

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No. 16 is a par 4 that plays at 518 yards, renowned for its visual drama and strategic options. The hole flows downhill with a continuous fairway surrounded by natural hazards and subtle elevation changes, forcing players to make bold tee shot choices and a precise approach to a well-guarded green.

Clubhouse

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Elegantly simple clubhouse with references to Iowa farm life, including an antique ice chest, windmill, and barn-board accents. Offers a relaxed lounge, open patio overlooking the 9th hole, beverage service, and all standard locker and pro shop amenities.

Practice Facilities

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Features an expansive driving range, short game area, multiple putting greens, and a pitch-and-putt course for practice. Facilities are maintained to a high standard, allowing players to hone every aspect of their game in conditions mirroring the main course.

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.

Iowa
U.S.A.