Course Details
- Course Type: Private
- Architect(s): Arnold Palmer & Ed Seay (2006)
- Par: 72
- Yardage: 7,091
- Rating: 74.5
- Slope: 140
Course Score
- Course Conditions: 8
- Green Complexes: 8
- Amenities: 8
- Practice Facilities: 7
- Service: 7
- Course Design: 7
- Value: 6
Total Score: 7.30
Course Review
The Good: Hawthorn Woods CC is one of the last collaborations between Arnold Palmer & Ed Seay, a beautifully conditioned, playable northwestern Chicago suburban private club. Cut through a large residential community, the design is fairly open with huge Palmer signature sand traps & large, interesting green complexes. Solid Par-4 variety, good group of Par-3’s, and several “go for it” Par-5’s. Course conditions were lush despite flooding with a month drought prior. Greens are some of quickest I’ve played in the entire Chicago area. Very nice clubhouse and locker room area, as well as well-equipped practice facility. On-site service was very accommodating for a Friday afternoon.
The Bad: Very little to complain about, but the design doesn’t necessarily have any “wow” holes and the houses seem to engulf the course on some holes. The course can get very wet quickly as several holes don’t drain well. The driving range adjacent to the 18th fairway can be a distraction.
The Verdict: HWCC is another solid, enjoyable private club experience in the Chicagoland area. While it lacks the signature holes of nearby Kemper Lakes, it’s certainly a course I could play every day. Very similar to The Bog in Milwaukee area.
Best Hole: The Par-5 13th requires a precise drive to avoid a large bunker complex on right and then a layout to a well-guarded fairway. A little Deacon’s Lodge feel.
Midwest Golf Tripper 