Dakota Creek Golf Course

Dakota Creek Golf Course: A Walk With Nature in Whatcom County

Tucked just five minutes from the Canadian border, Dakota Creek Golf Course in Custer, Washington, is more than just a round of golf—it’s a walk through Northwest history, wildlife, and sweeping views. Originally founded as a 9-hole course in 1988, Dakota Creek expanded in 1998 to its current 18-hole layout. Locally owned and operated, the course delivers a casual, welcoming atmosphere without the hustle of residential development.

As you make your way through the layout, you’re just as likely to spot a bald eagle overhead or deer crossing the fairway as you are to sink a long putt. The course climbs 250 feet in elevation along the back nine, offering incredible views of Mt. Baker, the San Juan Islands, and even the distant Gulf Islands on clear days.

Let’s take a closer look at this one-of-a-kind Whatcom County course, one hole at a time:

Front 9 (Par 34 – 2,291 yards)

Hole 1 – Par 5 – 415 yards

An uphill opener that cuts through the original farmland. A strategic par-5 that sets the tone early.

Hole 2 – Par 3 – 78 yards

Short, but not easy. This tiny par-3 demands accuracy over distance.

Hole 3 – Par 4 – 319 yards

Moderate dogleg with a generous landing area. Your approach needs to find a well-protected green.

Hole 4 – Par 4 – 336 yards

Another subtle dogleg with room to play—bunkers and sloping greens add challenge.

Hole 5 – Par 3 – 209 yards

A mid-length par-3 that drops into a ravine and crosses Dakota Creek. Club selection is critical.

Hole 6 – Par 4 – 286 yards

Playable for most—this is a good birdie opportunity with careful shot shaping.

Hole 7 – Par 4 – 276 yards

A short, downhill par-4 that invites risk-reward play. Keep it tight.

Hole 8 – Par 3 – 142 yards

A balanced mid-range par-3, often influenced by wind direction.

Hole 9 – Par 4 – 230 yards

A quaint closing hole for the front nine. Short and sweet—but don’t sleep on the green.

Back 9 (Par 37 – 2,894 yards)

Hole 10 – Par 4 – 312 yards

Narrow and straight. Focus off the tee, because the green is deceptively tricky.

Hole 11 – Par 4 – 221 yards

Short and sloping—play it smart to avoid trouble.

Hole 12 – Par 4 – 368 yards

A ridge-climber. This hole starts to show off the elevation Dakota Creek is known for.

Hole 13 – Par 5 – 475 yards

The longest hole on the course. A true climb to the sky with big reward at the top.

Hole 14 – Par 4 – 312 yards

Position is everything. Fairway bunkers shape the strategy.

Hole 15 – Par 4 – 246 yards

Another short hole with sloping terrain—small mistakes add up quickly here.

Hole 16 – Par 4 – 286 yards

A slight dogleg where a controlled tee shot is key. Watch for the creek.

Hole 17 – Par 4 – 353 yards

A challenge with an uphill approach. Get your legs ready.

Hole 18 – Par 4 – 321 yards

A downhill finish with a forgiving fairway—one last chance to card a par.

What To Expect at Dakota Creek Golf

• Wildlife Everywhere – Spot bald eagles, deer, and maybe even salmon in Dakota Creek.

• A True Northwest Walk – No residential noise, just birdsong and panoramic views.

• Local Vibe – Friendly staff, casual pace, and a sense that you’re part of something local and lasting.

Dakota Creek isn’t your typical course. It’s rooted in the land, tuned to the rhythms of the Pacific Northwest, and perfect for golfers who prefer a round that’s as rewarding for the soul as it is for the scorecard.

This course is one of many featured in the Washington Golf Directory. Your guide to Washington State public golf courses, local driving ranges, and weekend-worthy golf getaways. Whether you’re playing nine before work or planning a road trip across the state, we’re here to help you explore more golf, one course at a time.