OCL RNL Golf Guide 2026

GOLF GUIDE

Fairways, Skare Park gearing up for season

ROCHELLE — Fairways Golf Course is now open for the 2026 season. Fairways is a unique par-66 course designed by Perry Maxwell of the AS-GCA. The 18-hole course has been open since 1929 and offers mature tree-lined fairways with country club course conditioning and an average round time of three-and-a-half hours. To book a tee time, call 815-562-6666 or visit online at http://www. fair-waysgolfcourse.com.

Owned by the City of Rochelle and the Rochelle Flagg-Rochelle Park District, Fairways Golf Course is a historic public gem designed by legendary architect Perry Maxwell, whose work includes renowned venues such as Southern Hills Country Club, Prairie Dunes Country Club, and consultation work at Augusta National Golf Club. Showcasing Maxwell’s signature strategic green complexes and natural land contours, Fairways delivers classic architecture and timeless shot values in an affordable, community-

https://www.fairwaysgolfcourse.com/golf/photo-gallery/ centered setting.

Season pass rates in-clude $500 for adults, $300 for college students, $100 for high-schoolers and $50 for middle-schoolers. Grade-schoolers golf for free when accompanied by an adult.

For more information, contact Fairways Golf Course on Facebook, visit online, or call the pro shop. Open daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Skare Park range fees include $5 (one token) for a small bucket of balls and $10 (three tokens) for a large bucket. Bulk tokens are available are available for purchase at The REC Center at the following rates: seven tokens for $20, 10 tokens for $30 and 15 tokens for $40. Don’t forget All-Inclusive REC members receive 50 percent off driving range tokens.

There are plenty of op-portunities to get involved with golf this year through the Rochelle Park District and Fairways Golf Course. Call 815-562-7813 for more information.

PrairieView, PrairieFire offer premier golf experiences

BYRON — A premier golf destination on a scenic stretch of land that overlooks the Rock River in Byron.

Owned and operated by the Byron Forest Preserve, PrairieView Golf Club is regarded as one of the best public golf facilities in the state and is also home to PrairieFire Golf & Grill, Toptracer Range® that offers year-round golf entertainment set on a driving range with scenic course views. Throughout the years many Chicago-area golfers have come to enjoy this gem of a course with many commenting PrairieView is “well worth the drive”.

PrairieView Golf Club Designed by renowned golf course architect James Spear, PrairieView is a scenic and well-conditioned par 72 bentgrass layout that treats golfers to a mix of tight treelined holes and open links-style holes. With four sets of tees, stretching to over 7,000 yards, the course design takes advantage of a natural, rolling terrain. PrairieView also features added touches including electric GPS golf carts and large practice areas.

Well-known for excellent course conditioning, PrairieView features large, undulating greens and rolling fairways that are rigorously maintained to ensure ideal course conditions. “We take a lot of pride in maintaining our course at a high-level from both an aesthetics and playability

standpoint” says Scott deOliveira, General Manager. “Given our rural setting, our exceptional course conditions and scenic views are what draws golfers from both Rockford and Chicago areas.”

To complete the golf experience, PrairieView also features the PrairieGrass Pub for great post-round food and drink options and a scenic deck and patio overlooking the 18th green. The Pro Shop in the clubhouse is also fully stocked with equipment and apparel.

Come experience why so many golfers consider PrairieView a premier golf destination. Tee times can be booked up to 7 days in advance at prairieviewgolf.com.

PrairieFire Golf & Grill

Gone are the days of putting the clubs away for the winter at PrairieView. In 2020, PrairieFire Golf & Grill opened its doors on the driving range at PrairieView with great reviews from both golfers and non-golfers. PrairieFire is a yearround driving range with eight hitting bays featuring Toptracer® technology.

The Toptracer system includes a variety of fun, interactive game modes using high-tech cameras to track and trace the ball down range. From “Go Fish” and “Points Game” to 20 different virtual courses, the Top-tracer system provides golf entertainment for any skill level. Each hitting bay can accommodate up to eight players and is equipped with heaters, fire tables, and lounge furniture making it a year-round destination for golf entertainment. The LED lit range targets provide a warm glow on the range for golf well into the night.

PrairieFire has come to be known as a fun and inviting setting for both golfers and non-golfers alike. With great food and drink selections, PrairieFire hosts many birthday parties, family gatherings, date nights, and corporate events throughout the year. There are many sharable items on the menu and the bar has 10 beers on tap, many of which are locally sourced.

Emerald Hill Golf Course ready for 2026 season

STERLING — Emerald Hill Golf Course offers an entertaining experience for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, you’ll find our course both challenging and enjoyable, set against a relaxing, picturesque backdrop. Our meticulously maintained fairways and greens will test your accuracy and precision. Strategically placed water hazards add an

extra layer of challenge to your game, requiring thoughtful play. Navigate our sand traps to hone your skills and improve your strategic approach to the course.

Our Pro Shop is your first stop before and after your round of golf. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to assist you with tee time reservations, golf club rentals, and memberships. We offer a selection of golf balls, hats, and accessories.

Enhance your skills at our top-notch practice facilities. Whether you’re working on your short game or driving skills, we have you covered. Perfect your precision and control on our practice greens or on our chipping and putting areas, or practice your swing and increase your distance with our self-service driving range.

After a long day on the course, unwind at the NEW Clubhouse Grill. Refresh with a cold alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage.

Satisfy your hunger with our delicious snack options or enjoy a full meal. If the Clubhouse Grill is closed, don’t worry! The Pro Shop offers drinks and snacks to keep you energized as well.

Join us at Emerald Hill Golf Course for a day of fun, challenge, and relaxation at 16802 Prairieville Rd in Sterling. Visit us on Facebook or visit our website at www. emerald-hillgolf.com. There, you can book tee times, contact us, or purchase a gift card. We look forward to welcoming you, helping you improve your game, and having some fun out on the course or in the clubhouse.

For more information, please contact: Emerald Hill Golf Course, 815.622.6204, 16802 Prairieville Road, Sterling, IL. 61081, info@sterling-parks.org.

Rockford Park District offers four unique courses

ROCKFORD — At the Rockford Park District, we’ve been growing the game of golf for more than 100 years. Come experience our five exceptional courses, and you’ll see why we’ve earned a national reputation for having high quality courses at a great value.

ALDEEN

Ranked as one of the “Thrifty 50” by Golf Magazine, Aldeen is considered one of the 50 best courses in the U.S. with greens fees under $50. Aldeen Golf Club has received multiple 4-1/2 star ratings by Golf Digest’s Places to Play Guide, and has hosted five state championship competitions.

INGERSOLL

Ingersoll Golf Course was designed by Thomas Bendelow, and named in honor of Lt. Clayton C. Ingersoll, an Army Air Corps pilot who died in a training exercise over France. Lt. Ingersoll’s family donated money to purchase the land, and later to build the striking brick clubhouse. Ingersoll is known for its narrow, tree-lined fairways, and gently undulating terrain.

SANDY HOLLOW

Sandy Hollow Golf Course features sand bunkers, swales, and a water hazard. The slate-roofed, ivy-covered brick clubhouse is one of Sandy Hollow’s most defining elements. Sandy Hollow

received a three-star rating from Golf Digest. Sandy Hollow has been a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2000.

SINNISSIPPI

Sinnissippi Golf Course, Rockford’s first public course does not have sand bunkers or water hazards, but uses natural elements such as large trees and rolling hills to make it challenging. Sinnissippi has been a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2011.

Shady Oaks Country Club is one of Lee County’s true hidden gems

SUBLETTE — Originally opened in 1961 as a 9-hole course and eventually converted to 18 holes in 1996, Shady Oaks lies nestled into the Lee County, Illinois countryside. What was once kept as a cow pasture is now a quiet, peaceful course without a home in sight. It’s easy to become lost in its beauty as you find yourself amongst the trees, native prairie grasses and wildlife while enjoying your round. We are open to the public but private events and outings are

also welcomed. After your round, be sure to stick around the clubhouse where we feature a large selection of apparel and merchandise as well as a full bar offering up pizza, burgers, hot dogs, brats, Polish sausages, snacks and beverages.

We also invite you to enjoy your food and drink on our outdoor patio while taking in the spectacular views overlooking our course and surrounding property. If you have children that would like to play, we offer free Junior Clubs for their use while on property. Children 13 and un-der play free with paying adults or members. Shady Oaks may not appear difficult on paper, and at 6,200 yards from the tips it doesn’t quite measure up to themon sters being built today. What Shady Oaks lacks in length, it makes up for in character. Its tree lined fairways and small sloped greens can take a toll on even the most experienced golfers and make scoring very difficult. A driver off the tee is certainly not a given and accurate short irons along with a hot putter are a must to conquer this beautiful layout.

Recently ranked #14 on the GolfPass list of top 25 public courses in Illinois

Dekalb Park District offers two courses in Buena Vista, River Heights

DEKALB – An affordable yet challenging golf experience is closer than you think.

The DeKalb Park District is proud to offer two excellent golf courses for golfers of all skill levels. River Heights Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course and Buena Vista Golf Course is a 9-hole, par 32 golf course with a driving range and 9-hole pitch n’ putt short course.

Both facilities have seen significant recent improvements. River Heights completed a full irrigation system replacement in 2024, while Buena Vista’s system is scheduled for completion in spring 2026. In 2025, both courses introduced brand new golf cart fleets equipped with GPS technology, enhancing the pace of play and overall golfer experience. Bunker renovations were completed at River Heights in 2025, while bunker renovations are ongoing at Buena Vista. In addition, driving range renovations at Buena Vista are currently underway and are expected to be completed by mid-2026.

Enjoy golf as it should be at River Heights Golf

Course in DeKalb. River Heights offers 18 holes of scenic golf along the Kishwaukee River, located on the south side of DeKalb off Annie Glidden Road - a mix of traditional and links-style holes that challenge weekend golfers and more serious players alike. The friendly, professional staff provides first-rate golf and

excellent service for an enjoyable golfing experience.

Refreshments on the clubhouse deck with scenic golf views are a must. River Heights is also home to a wide variety of 2026 specialty golf outings and events, including the Golf Fore the Kids Scholarship Outing, Red, White, and Blue Scramble, and a very fun and popular Co-Ed Golf League, along with many more throughout the season.

Located off North First Street in DeKalb, Buena Vista is a 9-hole, par 32 golf course with practice areas including a driving range and practice greens. With these amenities, Buena Vista is an excellent place for golfers of all ages, genders, and skill levels to play.

Buena Vista continues to grow its event offerings, including tournaments such as the 3-Club Challenge and Senior Open, along with additional special outings throughout the season.

For more information about the DeKalb Park District golf facilities and to book a tee time at either course, visit golfdekalb.com.

Wolf Hollow Golf Course providing quality experience since 1928

LENA — Founded in 1928, the Wolf Hollow Golf Course has prided itself in offering a quality golf experience for everyone.

The Wolf Hollow 18-Hole Championship course provides just the variety of course layouts to suit every level of golfer. Set among the rolling hills of Northwest Illinois, just 3 1/2 miles North of Route 20, near the Village of Lena our course is easy to get to and ready for your enjoyment.

A demanding challenge awaits you at the 6,408 yard Wolf Hollow Championship course. It’s just what the doctor ordered if you like beautiful elevation, large bent grass greens, and multiple teeing areas. Wolf Hollow will test your shot making skills with a fantastic risk-reward design that will often entice you.

When your round is over you can relax in our comfortable lounge and take advantage of our short-order menu while watching television from virtually any seating location. Our banquet hall is available for wedding parties, reunions, lunch meetings, dances, and more.

Simply contact the Wolf Hollow Clubhouse at 815-3695513 to book your event.

Park Hills Golf Club: A Premier Destination in Northern Illinois

FREEPORT — As the Midwest golf season returns in full swing, there’s no better time to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and rediscover the game. With longer days and greener landscapes ahead, golfers across the region are searching for that perfect place to tee it up — and Park Hills Golf Club in Freeport continues to stand out as a destination worth the drive.

For decades, Park Hills has been a cornerstone of the northwestern Illinois golf community, welcoming players of all skill levels with a reputation built on quality, hospitality, and memorable rounds. Set across 300 acres of rolling countryside, the facility combines scenic beauty with a rich tradition of the game, offering an experience that keeps golfers coming back year after year.

One of the defining features of Park Hills is its unique 36-hole layout. Designed by C.D. Wagstaff in the 1950s, both the East and West courses carry a legacy of thoughtful design that still challenges and rewards players today. The East Course provides a

more strategic, approachable round, featuring tree-lined fairways, classic doglegs, and a layout that emphasizes precision and course management. It’s an ideal choice for golfers looking to sharpen their skills while enjoying a relaxed pace.

The West Course, on the other hand, delivers a more demanding test. With added length and risk-reward opportunities, it pushes players to bring their full game to every hole. It’s a course where smart decisions and confident shot-making can make all the difference — and where every round feels like a new challenge.

While the two courses offer distinct playing

Come drive with us!

experiences, they are united by the same commitment to excellence. From well-maintained fairways to smooth greens and inviting landscapes, Park Hills continues to deliver the kind of conditions and atmosphere golfers expect from a premier facility.

Beyond the fairways, the experience continues with a full range of amenities. A spacious driving range and practice greens help golfers prepare before teeing off, while the pro shop offers everything needed to play your best. After the round, the Legacy Pub provides a welcoming place to relax, grab a meal, and share stories from the day.

It’s this combination of tradition, quality, and community that has made Park Hills more than just a golf course — it’s a place where golfers improve, connect, and enjoy the game.

Make this the season you experience it for yourself. Book your tee time online at www. parkhillsgolfcourse.com or call 815.235.3611 and see why Park Hills remains home to two of the finest public tracks in Illinois.

Silver Ridge presents one-of-a-kind course layout

OREGON — Located just off of Illinois Route 2 between Byron and Oregon, Silver Ridge Golf Course is a one-of-a-kind layout designed to test all abilities.

The course is a unique mixture of hills and trees that makes you feel completely disconnected from reality. Come play Silver Ridge today so you can relax and block the world out for at least a few hours.

There are 18 holes, a practice facility includ-ing range to sharpen your skills, a professional ready to teach any skill level from beginner to expert, multiple banquet rooms for parties and get-togethers for all different sizes and occasions, a fully stocked pro shop, and a family friend staff that is experienced and ready to make sure your golf outing or event exceeds your expectations. Even if you’ve been playing in the fairway but venture out to experience this diamond in the rough. Silver Ridge is the diamond you’ve been searching for. The course is located at 3069 N. Hill Road, Oregon. For more information, go to http://www. silverridgegolf.com.

Sycamore Golf Club presents blend of challenge, playability

SYCAMORE — Set against the serene back-drop of the Kishwaukee River, Sycamore Golf Club stretches just under 6,000 yards, offering a unique blend of challenge and playability.

Tree-lined bentgrass fairways and expansive bentgrass greens create an inviting yet competitive environment—perfect for seasoned golfers seeking a true test of skill, while still welcoming novices with the chance to score and enjoy the game. Where tradition meets nature on every fairway. A facility of the Sycamore Park District. Play is fair for novice and intermediate players alike while remaining a true test of golf for the advanced golfer. The friendly and attentive staff go above and beyond to ensure you have a good round and great day on the course.

Among the many ame-nities are: 18 Holes | Walk-ing or Riding | 3 Sets of Tee Boxes | Solo-Rider Accessible Golf Cart | Fully stocked Pro Shop | Rental Clubs | Cad-dyshack Grill on site.

For more information about Sycamore Golf Club or to book a tee time, visit online at http://www. playgolfsycamore.com or call 815-895-3884.

2026 GOLF GUIDE

TIPS TO STAY SAFE WHILE GOLFING

A round of golf on a warm, sunny day can be the perfect way to spend a few hours with friends, and more and more people are recognizing that. The National Golf Foundation says more than one-third of the United States population over the age of five played golf; followed golf on television or online; read about the game; or listened to a golf-related podcast in 2023. That marked a 30 percent jump since 2016.

Golf is a relatively safe sport, but accidents and injuries can happen on the course. Golfers can follow these guidelines to ensure their next round of golf is as safe as possible.

• BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS. It is important when you are preparing to swing to keep track of those around you. Never swing a golf club if a fellow golfer is close to you, and exercise caution when practicing your swing away from the area of play.

• WARM UP YOUR BODY. Any exercise requires warming up to get muscles and joints ready for action. Spend between five and 10 minutes warming up before tee time. Walk briskly and rotate your arms and torso to prepare for movements involved in golf.

• APPLY SUN PROTECTION. According to a study commissioned by the United States Golf

Association, an 18-hole round of golf averages four hours on weekdays and 4.5 hours on weekends. Players spend roughly four hours exposed to the sun. Always wear sunscreen before heading outdoors, and consider wearing a visor or hat to further protect the skin on your face and your eyes from UV exposure.

• WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR. Nemours Teen Health suggests using a golf glove or two to keep the golf club from slipping out of your hands. Gloves also can help prevent blisters. In addition, get a pair of golf shoes with plastic spikes for good traction.

• YELL “FORE!” Calling out “Fore!” is a warning to everyone on the course that a ball has been hit and is heading in their direction rather than the intended area, says Yatta Golf. It’s a

“heads up” for a poor shot that has the potential to hit someone, and it is proper etiquette to yell “Fore!” when this occurs.

• USE A GOLF CART. Carrying a heavy golf club bag for hours on end can lead to achy shoulders and lower back strain. Rather than risking injury, take advantage of a golf cart, if available. Also, caddies may help lessen the load of a golf bag.

• BEWARE OF LIGHTNING. Lightning strikes can be quite dangerous in any location, but particularly so on an open course when you’re holding a metal club. Always end the game promptly and take cover when thunder is heard, as it means that lightning is occurring.

• STAY HYDRATED. Bring along plenty of fresh water or an electrolyte sports drink to replenish fluids on hot days.

• BE CAUTIOUS OF HAZARDS. Hazards on a golf course provide difficult obstacles to make play more challenging. Hazards include bunkers (sand traps) and water. Keep in mind that wildlife linger in golf hazards and caution should be used when trying to play balls that fall in a hazard. Golf has inspired millions to hit the links and play a round. While golf is typically a safe sport, there are ways to make it even safer.