What are the worst golf courses in each state (Illinois)

Here’s a look at three Illinois golf courses that – according to reviews and regular players – end up at the bottom of the playlist. Keep in mind that “worst” is subjective, and even these rounds can (with the right attitude) still provide a good time.

1. Edgebrook Golf Course (Chicago)

Why it ends up here:

Located in the north woods area of ​​Chicago, Edgebrook is often mentioned for its modest layout, inconsistent maintenance, and slow pace of play. On rating platforms this averages around ~3.7/5. (Golf pass)

One Redditor put it bluntly:

“Edgebrook… It’s constantly flooded, greens are rubbish, fairways are rubbish, layout is rubbish, tee boxes are turf.” (Reddit)

What to pay attention to:

Many tee boxes are mats instead of grass tees, which some players dislike. (18 Birds)

The course is short and relatively forgiving: good for beginners, but for a seasoned golfer it can feel boring or unchallenging.

Pace of play and court condition are recurring complaints.

When it might still work:
– If you are looking for a very affordable, walkable tour of the city.
– For beginners or casual golfers who don’t mind modest surroundings.

Jackson Park

2. Jackson Park Golf Club (Chicago)

Why it’s on the list:

Being the only 18-hole course located entirely in Chicago (on the South Side), Jackson Park is convenient, but the reviews show it has problems. For example:

One reviewer:

“The bunkers are trash, it’s not even sand, it’s fucking dirty.” (wander)

Others complain about the pace, shopping cart costs and distractions.

What to pay attention to:

The conditions of lawns and bunkers may not meet what suburban residents expect.

Some issues with the pace of play have been reported.

The environment is urban, so if your mood calls for manicured parkland, it may feel rough.

When it might still work:
– You play in the city, want something affordable and accept a less than resort environment.
– You have no problem with the ‘fixer-upper’ feeling and are just looking for a few clubs.

Columbus Park

3. Columbus Park Golf Course (Chicago)

Why it’s on the “worst” list:

Although Columbus Park has a respectable rating of ~3.8/5. (Golf pass)

It appears here because of recurring comments about the simplicity of the layout, lack of amenities and general ‘meh’ factor from experienced golfers:

“Columbus Park…grass that is dry and trampled…yes…Columbus Park is bad!” (Reddit)

What to pay attention to:

It is a short 9 hole course (par 35, 2,787 yards) so you may not get a full 18 hole round experience. (Golf pass)

Facilities and finishes may be minimal.

When it might still work:
– For beginners, fast rounds or someone looking for a lower pressure game.
– As a value game in the city.

Final thoughts

These three courses have some common themes: modest conditions and amenities, a slower pace of play, simplicity of layout, or just the “you know what you’re getting into” atmosphere. If you go in with the right expectations—and perhaps lower your birdie ambitions—they can still provide value and fun.

If you want a top 10 worst list (with rankings, photos, and details) instead of just three, I can do further research and offer more courses throughout Illinois.