Overview
What makes a golf course worth playing when you're surrounded by dozens of championship options? Camelback Golf Club offers 36 holes of contrasting experiences at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort - a parkland classic and a modern environmental masterpiece, both with Camelback Mountain views you won't forget.
Located at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Camelback Golf Club features two distinct courses: the Padre Course (Arthur Hills redesign, 1999) and the Ambiente Course (Fry/Straka design, 2013). This semi-private facility welcomes both resort guests and public players, delivering resort-quality conditioning and amenities at rates typically 30-50% below nearby resort courses.
The Two Courses: Padre vs Ambiente
The Padre Course - Parkland Classic
Arthur Hills transformed the original 1966 course in 1999, creating something rare in Scottsdale: a parkland-style layout with towering trees, multiple lakes, and subtle landforms. At 6,903 yards from the tips, the Padre Course rewards accuracy over distance.
The Padre features 50 unique bunkers, strategic water hazards on several holes, and fast, undulating greens with subtle breaks. The 18th hole, voted best water hole in Arizona by Arizona Golf Magazine, provides a memorable closing test with water placement that demands precise approach shots.
Best For: Golfers seeking a traditional parkland challenge, players who prefer tree-lined fairways to wide-open desert, and anyone wanting strategic risk-reward opportunities.
The Ambiente Course - Environmental Design
The Ambiente Course opened in 2013 following a complete renovation of the former Indian Bend Course. Designed by Jason Straka and Dana Fry, this 7,225-yard layout showcases modern environmental golf design with dramatic elevation changes and five sets of tees.
The course name means "environment" in Spanish, reflecting its eco-sensitive design philosophy. A naturalized wash (lowered flood control channel) winds through the property, creating rolling fairways with significant drops and natural desert framing.
With easier approach angles from forward tees and no forced carries for beginners, the Ambiente accommodates mid-to-high handicappers while challenging scratch golfers from the championship tees (slope rating: 138).
Best For: Mid-handicappers wanting championship golf without extreme difficulty, players who appreciate modern course architecture, and anyone seeking spectacular elevation changes with mountain views.
Pros
- Two championship courses with contrasting design styles at one facility
- Resort-quality conditioning at public course pricing (30-50% below nearby resorts)
- Iconic Camelback Mountain views throughout both courses
- JW Marriott resort amenities without requiring resort stay
- Exceptional summer twilight value (60-70% off peak rates)
- Fast, true greens comparable to high-end resort courses
- Both courses ranked among best public golf in Scottsdale
- GPS-equipped carts included with green fees
- Practice facilities and Tavern 37 restaurant on-site
Cons
- Padre Course can be punishing for higher handicappers
- Desert terrain means lost balls if missing fairways
- Peak season pricing (January-March) reaches upper range
- Summer heat limits playable hours to early morning or twilight
- Can be crowded during peak winter months
Green Fees & Pricing
Camelback Golf Club uses seasonal pricing ranging from $49 to $179 per round (18 holes, cart included). Peak season (October-April) commands premium rates, while summer offers exceptional value.
Pricing by Season:
- Peak Winter (January-March): $140-$179
- Spring/Fall (April-May, October-November): $90-$140
- Summer (June-September): $49-$90
Resort Unlimited Golf Package: Starting at $349 per night, including room, breakfast, and unlimited golf on both Padre and Ambiente courses.
Booking: Call (480) 905-7902 or visit camelbackgolf.com for current rates and tee time availability.
JW Marriott Resort Connection
Camelback Golf Club operates as part of the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, providing resort-level service and amenities with public access.
Resort Amenities Available to Golfers:
- Tavern 37 Restaurant: Craft beers, wines, artisanal cocktails, and quality dining with mountain views
- Practice Facilities: Driving range and short game area
- Pro Shop: Professional retail shop with quality equipment and apparel
- Camelback Golf School/Academy: Instruction and clinics available
Public vs Resort Guest Access:
- Public Players: Can book tee times up to 60 days in advance
- Resort Guests: Can book up to 120 days in advance
- Cancellation Policy: 48-hour cancellation required
- Dress Code: Collared shirts and Bermuda length shorts for men, appropriate golf attire for women
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (January-March): Perfect golf weather (70-80°F), ideal course conditions, low humidity. Highest rates but best conditions. Book 1-2 weeks ahead minimum.
Spring (April-May): Warm but pleasant (80-95°F), excellent course conditioning. Moderate rates offering good value.
Summer (June-September): Extreme heat (105-115°F midday), lowest rates with exceptional value for twilight rounds. Only play early morning or twilight.
Fall (October-November): Weather improving (85-75°F), courses recovering from summer. Rates rising toward winter levels but still moderate.