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Course Report
Wakonda Club hosted the U.S. Amateur Championship in 1963 and annually hosts the Principal Charity Classic, a Champions Tour event since 2013.
About
Wakonda Club is a classic, private 18-hole course in Des Moines designed by William Langford in 1922. Known for contoured greens, deep bunkers, and mature, rolling parkland terrain, Wakonda is widely regarded as one of Iowa's top courses. The layout was fully restored by Tyler Rae in 2023 and hosts the Principal Charity Classic on the PGA Tour Champions.
Caddie Tip
The undulating greens and strategic bunkering demand disciplined approach shots and conservative play off the tee. Pay close attention to pin positions, as hidden runoffs and collection areas can leave tricky up-and-downs if missed in the wrong spot. The course rewards patience and careful club selection throughout.
The Main Challenge
The biggest challenge at Wakonda is the combination of deep, strategically placed bunkers and heavily contoured, elevated greens. Approaches must be precise to avoid awkward lies and collection areas. Errant drives can bring tree trouble or tough recovery shots, making accuracy and smart play essential for scoring.
The Good
Members praise the classic Langford design, restored greens, and conditioning. The rolling fairways and mature oak trees create a beautiful setting, while regular hosting of the Principal Charity Classic ensures tournament-quality conditions and provides inspiration for everyday play. The friendly club culture and modernized practice facilities are additional highlights.
The Not So Good
Some members have noted that the routing, constructed on a limited parcel of land, can feel a bit constricted on busy days. A few holes run close together, and errant shots can sometimes end up in adjacent fairways. The club has worked to mitigate this with tree management and wider corridors, but crowding at peak times remains a minor concern.
Signature Hole:
#
18
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Clubhouse
Wakonda Club’s clubhouse offers multiple dining spaces from formal to al fresco, plus private event rooms, locker facilities, and full-service staff. The amenities reflect the club’s century-long prestige with updated interiors, attentive service, and a welcoming family-friendly environment.
Practice Facilities
The club features year-round indoor practice with four heated hitting bays, modern short game and putting greens, and a full-service pro shop. Lessons, clinics, and a robust fitting program are available to members, ensuring top-class instruction and gear support throughout the season.
Dress Code:
Strict
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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