Bartholomew Park Disc Golf Course

Tucked into the large Bartholomew District Park in East Austin, this free 18-hole course holds a special place in local lore: it's widely considered the oldest continuously operating disc golf course in Texas, first laid out by area players back in 1982. A 2022 renovation modernized it with new DISCatcher baskets, turf tee pads and extra tee positions, making it friendlier to newer players while keeping its old-school character.

At a par of 54 over roughly 4,256 feet, it's on the shorter side — which, combined with multiple tee options, makes it a comfortable place to learn. But it's far from flat or dull: a creek winds through the property and there's real elevation to work with. The standout is hole 3, thrown from the highest point in the park out over a tree canopy toward a basket set well below.

The terrain mixes open, exposed shots with tighter, tree-lined creek corridors, so wind is a factor on the open holes. Because it shares the park with a pool, splash pad, playgrounds and sports courts, expect general foot traffic on weekends. Bring your own water — there's none at the course — and be ready for informal creek crossings between a few holes.