What are the Worst Golf Courses in Each State (Illinois)

Edgebrook

Here’s a rundown of three Illinois golf courses that—according to reviews and everyday players—land near the bottom of the play-list. Keep in mind: “worst” is subjective, and even these rounds might still offer a fun time (with the right attitude).

1. Edgebrook Golf Course (Chicago)

Why it lands here:

Located in the northern Chicago forest-preserve area, Edgebrook is often cited for its modest layout, inconsistent maintenance, and slow pace of play. On review-platforms it averages around ~3.7/5. (GolfPass)

A redditor put it bluntly:

“Edgebrook … It floods constantly, greens are shit, fairways are shit, layout is shit, tee boxes are turf mats.” (Reddit)

What to watch out for:

Many tee boxes are mats rather than grassed tees, which some players dislike. (18Birdies)

The course is short and relatively forgiving—good for beginners, but for a seasoned golfer it may feel bland or under-challenging.

Pace of play and course condition are recurrent complaints.

When it might still work:
- If you’re looking for a very affordable, walkable round in 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:

As the only 18-hole course fully inside Chicago (on the south side), Jackson Park is convenient—but reviews highlight issues. For example:

One reviewer:

“The bunkers are trash, it’s not even sand, it’s freakin’ dirt.” (Wanderlog)

Others complain about pace, cart fees, and distractions.

What to watch out for:

Turf and bunker conditions may not meet what suburbaners expect.

Some pace of play issues reported.

The setting is urban—so if your mood demands manicured parkland, this may feel rough.

When it might still work:
- You’re playing within the city, want something affordable, and accept less-than-resort surroundings.
- You’re okay with a “fixer-upper” feel and just out to hit a few clubs.

Columbus Park

3. Columbus Park Golf Course (Chicago)

Why it makes the “worst” list:

Although Columbus Park holds a respectable ~3.8/5 rating. (GolfPass)

 It appears here because of recurring comments about layout simplicity, amenities lacking, and general “meh” factor from experienced golfers:

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

What to watch out for:

It’s a short, 9-hole style course (par 35, 2,787 yards) so may not give a full 18-hole round experience. (GolfPass)

Amenities and finish might be minimal.

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

Final Thoughts

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

If you’d like a top-10 worst list (with rankings, photos, and details) rather than just three, I can research further and pull in more courses across Illinois.