Royal Oaks Country Club in Vancouver, Washington, established in 1945, is a premier 18-hole championship golf course renowned for its challenging, tree-lined layout and rich history, having hosted notable tournaments like the PNGA Amateur, where Tiger Woods won in 1994. Designed by Fred Federspiel, Ted Robinson Sr., and John Harbottle III, the par-72 course stretches to 7,034 yards, featuring tight fairways, fast greens, and strategic hazards like Burnt Bridge Creek, which comes into play on several holes. Key holes include the 160-yard par-3 5th (“Waterloo”) with a water-protected green, the 555-yard par-5 13th (“The Monster”), demanding precision due to its length and narrowness, and the 415-yard par-4 18th (“Headin’ Home”), where bunkers nearly encircle the green, testing approach shots. Rated the 7th best course in Washington by Golf Digest, Royal Oaks is celebrated for its excellent year-round conditions, first-rate drainage, and demanding design that rewards accurate tee shots and strategic play, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced golfers.

The course at Royal Oaks plays as a tough but fair test, requiring precision and course management due to its tight, tree-lined fairways and challenging green complexes. Accurate tee shots are critical, as straying into the trees or rough can lead to difficult approaches, especially on holes like the 13th, where length and narrowness demand careful club selection. The greens are fast and well-maintained, often requiring players to avoid short-siding themselves or being above the hole to manage tricky putts, as noted by reviewers who praise the course’s pristine conditions and strategic angles. With five sets of tees, it accommodates all skill levels, but its reputation as a “hidden gem” in the Pacific Northwest comes from its ability to challenge even skilled golfers while remaining enjoyable for amateurs, enhanced by top-notch practice facilities including a driving range, putting greens, and short-game areas.