Colwood Golf Center in Portland​: Everything You Need to Know in 2026 

Whether you are planning your first visit or simply looking for a new place to play golf in Portland, Colwood Golf Center is a destination worth exploring. With its beginner-friendly 9-hole course, award-winning practice facilities, golf lessons, footgolf, and convenient location near Portland International Airport, it offers something for golfers of every skill level. 

In this guide, you’ll learn about the course’s history, layout, green fees, lessons, junior programs, tournaments, visitor reviews, and practical tips to help you plan your visit. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Colwood Golf Center in Portland in 2026. 

What Is Colwood Golf Center? 

Colwood Golf Center is a public golf facility located in Northeast Portland, Oregon. It offers a 9-hole par-3 course, a driving range, a footgolf course, practice areas, and event spaces, all managed by Portland Parks & Recreation. Whether you are picking up a club for the first time or looking for a quick round near the airport, Colwood is built to welcome golfers of all skill levels.

A Brief History

The story of Colwood goes back nearly a century. The land was originally home to Colwood National Golf Club, an 18-hole course that opened in 1929 and was designed by A. Vernon Macan. 

The property changed hands after decades of private operation. Beginning in 2012, the Trust for Public Land negotiated the purchase of the privately-owned 120-acre Colwood Golf Course. As part of that process, the northern 35 acres were rezoned for industrial use in 2013, while the remaining 85 acres were purchased with the intent to hand them over to the City of Portland as open space. 

That transfer happened in 2014. Portland Parks & Recreation and the Bureau of Environmental Services jointly purchased the 85 acres, and the course was reopened as Colwood Golf Center, transformed from an 18-hole layout into a 9-hole par-3 course with added amenities including an event room, footgolf, a practice area, and a driving range. 

Location and How to Get There

Colwood Golf Center is located in Northeast Portland, just minutes from PDX International Airport, downtown Portland, and Vancouver, WA. This central spot makes it easy to reach whether you live in the city or are passing through. 

The full address is 7313 NE Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97218. You can find it along NE Columbia Boulevard, which is a straightforward drive from most parts of the metro area. 

Google Map Location:

Parking

The facility has on-site parking available, so driving is the most convenient option for most visitors, especially if you are bringing clubs or gear. The lot is free to use during your visit.

By Public Transit

If you prefer not to drive, TriMet serves the NE Columbia Boulevard corridor with bus routes running through the area. You can plan your trip using the TriMet Trip Planner at trimet.org, which will show you the closest stop and walking distance to the course. The MAX Red Line also runs nearby, connecting the airport area and downtown Portland, making it a practical option for visitors flying into PDX.

By Car from Key Points

• From PDX Airport: under 5 minutes
• From downtown Portland: roughly 20 minutes
• From Vancouver, WA: approximately 20 to 25 minutes 

Course Layout and Features

Colwood Golf Center is built around a 9-hole, par-3 course that is designed to be fun and accessible for everyone. The course spans up to 1,200 yards, with holes ranging from 76 to 200 yards, offering a balanced and engaging golf experience. 

One of the things that makes this course stand out is the way each hole is set up. Each hole features two separate teeing grounds and large bent grass greens with two pin locations, giving players four different combinations per hole. This means you can play the same course multiple times and get a different experience each visit. 

The greens are the best part of the course. During the conversion from the 18-hole layout to the 9-hole par-3, the designers added bumps and swales to the greens, making putting a real challenge despite the short distances. 

Furthermore, the course sits on 44 acres and plays on 100% bent grass greens, which are well maintained throughout the year. Beginners will feel comfortable on the shorter holes, while experienced players will find the contoured greens and varied tee options enough to keep things interesting.

A typical round at Colwood plays to a maximum distance of 1,200 yards, with a par of 27. Most golfers can complete a round in around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a great option when you want a quick but satisfying game without blocking out a full afternoon. 

What Are the Facilities and Services Available At Colwood Golf Center

Colwood Golf Center is more than just a golf course. The facility offers a full range of amenities that make it worth visiting even on days when you are not playing a full round.

1. Driving Range

The driving range features 25 stalls, including 12 covered ones, and is equipped with stadium lighting, making it a solid year-round option regardless of the weather. You can hit off grass during the summer months, which is a feature many golfers appreciate. The range has been ranked a Top 50 Public Facility by the Golf Range Association of America in both 2019 and 2020. 

2. Practice Course

For those looking to sharpen their short game, the facility includes a 6-hole practice course where players can work on chipping and putting, or play it as a pitch and putt course. It is a great way to warm up before a round or focus on the parts of your game that need the most work. 

3. FootGolf Course

Colwood also features an 18-hole footgolf course, which combines soccer and golf into one fun activity. It is a great option for families or groups who want something a little different from a traditional round of golf. 

4. Clubhouse and Event Space

The clubhouse includes a Bar and Grill, event space, pro shop, and club rentals. The event space can accommodate golf outings, corporate gatherings, birthday parties, and private events. The clubhouse also offers scenic views of the driving range, making it a comfortable spot to relax after your round. On-site parking is available and free for all visitors. 

Who Can Play at Colwood Golf Center? 

One of the best things about Colwood Golf Center is that it genuinely works for almost anyone. The course and facilities are set up to welcome a wide range of visitors, not just experienced golfers.

Beginners

If you have never picked up a club before, Colwood is one of the most beginner-friendly courses in Portland. The par-3 layout keeps distances short, and the two tee options on each hole mean you can start from a comfortable range without feeling overwhelmed. The staff are known for being approachable and helpful, which makes the experience far less intimidating for first-timers.

Families

Colwood is a great spot for a family outing. The footgolf course gives younger kids something fun to do while parents play, and the shorter course means children do not have to walk far between holes. The relaxed atmosphere and affordable pricing make it easy to turn a visit into a regular family activity rather than a one-time trip.

Junior Golfers

The driving range includes all-grass hitting stations with multiple flags and targets designed for juniors to test their accuracy, and there is also a large putting green where young golfers can work on their short game. With PGA-led junior programs and camps running throughout the year, Colwood is one of the best places in Portland for kids to learn the game properly. 

Experienced Golfers

Seasoned players will find plenty to work with here too. The contoured greens with bumps and swales keep putting challenging, and the four different tee and pin combinations on each hole give experienced golfers a reason to keep coming back. The driving range and practice course also make it a strong option for golfers who want focused practice sessions.  

Green Fees, Driving Range Rates, and How to Book a Tee Time

Before you head out to Colwood Golf Center, here is a full breakdown of what it costs and how to get your tee time booked.

1. 2026 Green Fees: Colwood keeps its pricing simple and consistent across the week. A 9-hole round costs $22 for regular players, $20 for seniors (Monday through Thursday only), and $10 for juniors. If you want to play 18 holes, the regular rate is $32, with a junior rate of $20. Senior discounts on 18-hole rounds are available Monday through Thursday only and are not offered on Fridays, weekends, or holidays.
2. Multi-Play Cards: If you plan to play regularly, the multi-play cards offer good value. A 5-round card costs $85, while a 10-round card is $160. Cards are valid for 9-hole rounds, are non-transferable, can only be used by the cardholder, are not valid for tournament, club, or league play, and are valid for one year from the purchase date.
3. Carts, Range Balls, and Rentals: A ride-on cart costs $12 for 9 holes and $16 for 18 holes. Pull carts are $5 for 9 holes and $9 for 18 holes. Range balls are priced at $6 for a small bucket, $10 for medium, and $13 for large. Rental clubs, which include clubs, a bag, and a sleeve of three balls, are $15 for 9 holes and $20 for 18 holes.

[Source: Portland Parks Golf]

How to Book a Tee Time

You can check availability and book directly through portlandparksgolf.com, or use third-party platforms like GolfNow and Chronogolf. Shirts are required, and dogs are not allowed on the course. 

Does Colwood Golf Center in Portland Offer Golf Lessons and Player Development Programs? 

Yes, Colwood Golf Center has one of the strongest player development programs of any public golf facility in Portland. Whether you are brand new to the game or looking to sharpen specific skills, there is a program here that fits.

What Programs Are Available?

Programs at Colwood include private one-on-one lessons, group lessons, junior golf camps, clinics for women, and introductory golf classes. This range means you do not have to be a serious golfer to benefit. Beginners can start with an intro class, while more committed players can work on their game through private sessions or structured camps. 

Who Are the Instructors?

The instruction at Colwood is led by two experienced PGA professionals. 

• Jake Bader serves as PGA Director of Instruction and has received the 2022 NGCOA Player Development Award, the 2020 Oregon PGA Player Development Award, and the 2019 Oregon PGA Youth Player Development Award. PGA Magazine’s GRAA has also named him one of the Top 100 Growth of the Game Instructors in America in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.  
• PGA Teaching Professional Tom Mueller brings additional expertise to the team, having received the 2022 Oregon PGA Professional Development Award and the 2019 Oregon PGA Player Development Award.  

[Source: https://portlandparksgolf.com/colwood-meet-the-pros/]

Award-Winning Program

The quality of instruction at Colwood has been recognized at a national level. The center’s efforts to make the game more accessible through inclusivity and excellence in player development led to it receiving the 2022 NGCOA National Player Development Award. This is a strong signal that the programs here are not just local favorites but are recognized among the best in the country.  

What are the Junior Golf Programs Available at Colwood

Colwood Golf Center puts a lot of focus on getting younger players into the game. The junior programs here are well structured, run by experienced PGA professionals, and designed to work for kids at every level.

Program Partners

Colwood partners with a number of respected junior golf organizations, including The First Tee of Greater Portland, Oregon Junior Golf, and the PGA of America, to provide a variety of clinics and events for junior golfers throughout the year. These partnerships give young players access to programs that go beyond just hitting balls on a range.

PGA Jr. League

PGA Jr. League registration is currently open for the May to July 2026 season, with a cost of $299 per player. The league is built around team play, which makes it a great way for kids to enjoy golf in a social setting alongside friends rather than as a solo pursuit. Spots are limited, so registering early is recommended. 

[Source: https://portlandparksgolf.com/colwood-junior-programming/] 

PGA Junior Golf Camps

The PGA Junior Golf Camps at Colwood welcome boys and girls ages 7 to 16 of all athletic abilities and golf experience levels. Camp curriculum covers golf fundamentals including full swing, short game, rules, and etiquette, while keeping the experience fun and engaging through games and activities. 

Half-day camps are aimed at beginners and intermediate players, while full-day camps are available for kids aged 9 and up who want more time on the course and deeper instruction. The student to instructor ratio is kept at approximately 6 to 1, creating a safe, fun, and educational environment focused on each child’s development. 

[Source: Pgajuniorgolfcamps] 

What are Tournaments Hosts at Colwood Golf Center?  

Colwood Golf Center is not just a place to play a casual round. It also serves as an active tournament and competition venue, hosting events for golfers of all ages and skill levels throughout the year.

1. Green Friday Tournament: Colwood hosts an annual Black Friday golf tournament called Green Friday, featuring a 9am shotgun start. The event has grown to include a Taco Bar after the round and draws golfers looking for a fun, competitive outing over the holiday weekend. Spots are limited, so early registration is recommended each year.  
2. Drive, Chip and Putt Qualifier: Colwood Golf Center serves as a local qualifying site for the Drive, Chip and Putt competition, where junior participants compete across three skills: driving, chipping, and putting. Players who advance through the local qualifier move on to sub-regional and regional stages, with the path ultimately leading to the national finals. 
3. Oregon Golf Association Events: Colwood is also part of the Oregon Golf Association’s junior event calendar, hosting EJ Play Day competitions that give young golfers structured competitive experience in a supportive environment. 
4. Wednesday Ladies Group: Colwood hosts a Wednesday Ladies Group, giving women golfers a regular weekly opportunity to play together in a social and welcoming setting.  
5. Private and Corporate Golf Outings: Beyond organized tournaments, Colwood is a popular venue for private golf outings and corporate events. The spacious clubhouse, event space, and on-site catering options make it easy to organize a group outing without having to look elsewhere for facilities. 

What Golfers Say: Reviews and Ratings

Colwood Golf Center has built a solid reputation among Portland golfers, and the feedback across review platforms paints a pretty consistent picture. Here is what real visitors have to say.

What Golfers Love

Colwood receives consistently positive feedback, particularly for its friendly staff and suitability for beginners. Many reviewers highlight the course’s excellent condition, noting that it is beautifully landscaped and well maintained. 

Affordable pricing comes up repeatedly as a highlight, especially when combined with the quality of the facilities. The driving range and short game area are frequently praised, with several reviewers calling it one of the largest and best practice setups around. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere is another common theme, with many golfers saying it is the kind of place where you never feel out of place regardless of your skill level. 

Common Concerns

No course is without its drawbacks, and a few consistent issues do show up in reviews. Slow pace of play is the most frequently mentioned concern, particularly during peak hours on weekends, with less experienced players often cited as the main reason for delays. Some reviewers have also noted that the course can get wet and have drainage issues during the rainier months, so early spring visits may come with softer conditions underfoot. 

Tips From Reviewers

A common suggestion from experienced visitors is to book weekday mornings or twilight hours to avoid the slowest rounds and get the most out of your visit. 

Overall Rating

Across reviews on Facebook, Colwood holds an 80% recommendation rate from over 624 reviews, which is a strong result for a public facility. Feedback on Yelp, TripAdvisor, and GolfPass tells a similar story, making it one of the better-rated public golf options in Northeast Portland.   

Tips for Your Visit to Colwood Golf Center

A little planning goes a long way when visiting Colwood Golf Center. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your time there.

1. Book Your Tee Time in Advance: Walk-ins are sometimes possible, but booking ahead through portlandparksgolf.com or GolfNow saves you from showing up and waiting. Weekend mornings in particular fill up fast, so reserving your spot ahead of time is always the safer move.
2. Go on a Weekday if You Can: As many reviewers point out, weekday mornings offer the smoothest experience at Colwood. You will likely move through the course at a comfortable pace without the delays that can come with weekend crowds. If a weekday does not work, twilight hours on any day tend to be less busy as well.
3. Arrive a Few Minutes Early: Give yourself at least 10 to 15 minutes before your tee time to check in, grab range balls if you want to warm up, and get to the first tee without feeling rushed. The practice putting green is a good spot to loosen up before your round.
4. Dress for the Weather: Portland weather can be unpredictable, especially earlier in the year. The covered stalls at the driving range help on rainy days, but if you are playing the course, bring a waterproof layer just in case. The course can also be soft and wet in early spring, so waterproof shoes are worth considering.
5. Know the Rules Before You Go: Shirts are required on the course at all times. Dogs are not permitted on any Portland Parks Golf courses, so leave your pets at home. If you need rental clubs, they are available on site for $15 for 9 holes and $20 for 18 holes.
6. Take Advantage of the Full Facility: Do not limit yourself to just the golf course. The driving range, practice course, and footgolf course are all worth trying, especially if you are visiting with family or a mixed group where not everyone plays golf. 

Hours, Contact Info, and Quick Facts

Here is everything you need to know before heading out to Colwood Golf Center.

Hours of Operation

• Driving Range: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Note: the range closes two hours early on Mondays and opens two hours late on Tuesdays for maintenance)
• Golf Course: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Cully’s Corner Bar and Grill: Currently closed

Hours may vary on holidays, so it is worth calling ahead or checking the website before your visit to avoid any surprises.

Contact Information

• Phone: (503) 254-5515
• Email: Jgomez@kempersports.com
• Website: https://portlandparksgolf.com/colwood-golf-center-course-info/
• Address: 7313 NE Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97218

Find Them on Social Media

Colwood Golf Center is active on Facebook at facebook.com/colwoodgolfcenter, where they post course updates, event announcements, and seasonal news. It is a good page to follow if you want to stay up to date on conditions, special events, or program openings.

Quick Facts 

Detail	Info
Course Type	9-hole, par-3 public course
Par	27
Course Length	Up to 1,223 yards
Greens	100% bent grass
Managed By	KemperSports on behalf of Portland Parks & Recreation
Driving Range	Top 50 Public Facility (GRAA 2019, 2020)
FootGolf	18-hole certified course
Awards	2022 NGCOA National Player Development Award
Rental Clubs	Yes
Carts	Yes
Dogs Allowed	No

Conclusion

Colwood Golf Center in Portland is a great choice for golfers who want a relaxed, affordable, and easy-to-access place to play. With its 9-hole par-3 course, driving range, practice areas, footgolf course, lessons, junior programs, and event spaces, it offers much more than a quick round of golf. Beginners can learn the game in a comfortable setting, families can enjoy a fun day out, and experienced golfers can use the course and practice facilities to sharpen their short game. 

If you are looking for a public golf facility near PDX Airport that welcomes all skill levels, Colwood Golf Center is well worth adding to your 2026 golf plans. 

Key Takeaways

• Colwood Golf Center is a public golf facility in Northeast Portland that welcomes golfers of all skill levels.
• The facility features a 9-hole par-3 course, a driving range, a practice course, an 18-hole footgolf course, and event spaces.
• Originally opened as an 18-hole course in 1929, Colwood was redeveloped into its current layout in 2014.
• The course offers multiple tee and pin combinations on every hole, providing a different playing experience each visit.
• Green fees are affordable, with discounted rates available for juniors, seniors, and frequent players through multi-play cards.
• Colwood offers private lessons, group classes, junior camps, and PGA Jr. League programs led by experienced PGA professionals.
• The golf center regularly hosts tournaments, junior competitions, corporate outings, and community golf events throughout the year.
• Golfers consistently praise Colwood for its friendly staff, well-maintained facilities, excellent practice areas, and beginner-friendly atmosphere.
• Booking your tee time in advance and visiting during weekday mornings can help you avoid crowds and enjoy a faster round.
• Whether you want to practice, learn golf, play a quick round, or spend time with family, Colwood Golf Center is one of Portland’s top public golf destinations. 

FAQs