Coquille Valley Elks Golf Course

General Course Description

Coquille Valley Elks Golf Course is a 9-hole course, about 18 miles inland from Bandon, that is only open to members of the Elks Club and their guests.  Situated on the side and bottom of a valley, Coquille Valley Elks is a short and open course with some water.  The primary challenges are the elevation changes and the small, generally raised, slanted greens. A dual-tee system allows playing of 18 holes with slightly different 9s.  Compact with a few hills, it is easily walkable.

Course History

Opened in 1938 as the Coquille Valley Golf and Country Club, it was built by a local farmer. In 1960, the course was purchased by the Elks, and the clubhouse burned down that year. The Elks then built a new clubhouse that serves as a gathering place for its members.

Why It Is There

Back in 1938, there were few golf courses in the area (the closest back then being the private Coos Country Club), so a local wanted a place to play golf.  The course has continued as a benefit for members of the Elks Club.

I Wish I Would Have Known Before I Played

The greens are generally small and firm, so they are hard to hold with an approach shot. Best to hit it a touch short and allow the ball to bounce on (except for the first hole that is very soft in front — there, you hit and hope).

Did You Know

The origin of the word “Coquille” is unknown. Two of many theories are that it was either from French trappers (meaning “shell”), or the French pronunciation of the name the Chetco Tribe gave to the local Native American Tribe. For further discussion, see Oregon Geographic Names by Lewis A. McArthur.

Good For Them

The Elks are a very generous and giving organization. Funds from members as well as annual tournaments are used to support local veterans groups and senior centers as well as scholarships for local students.

Why Play This Course

Although you do have to be a member or guest to play, I found members to be very hospitable and friendly (I sat in front of the pro shop for about 20 minutes and the first member who walked by asked me if I wanted to play; we then had a great time). Very laid-back, it is a short, open and yet challenging (because of the hills and greens) course that should be fun for a wide variety of players.

General

• • Type: 9-hole private course
  • Price: $$
  • Phone/webpage: (541)572-1935/no website
  • Address: 54942 Maple Heights Road, Coquille, Oregon 97423
  • Owner: Coquille Valley Lodge #1935, BPOE
  • Designer: Clarence Sutton
  • Pros: None
  • Practice Facilities: Practice green and short driving range (in season)
  • Pro Shop: Minimal, balls and tees
  • Food: Full-service restaurant for members and guests; open mid-day
  • Bathrooms: Improved in clubhouse, and improved outhouse on the course
  • Yardage Markers: 150 and 75 yard poles; no pin-placement information
  • Clothing: Be dressed
  • Walkable: Very walkable
  • Spikes: Metal OK
  • Shoe Cleaning: Air hose and brush
  • Rentals: All
  • Open all year, but can flood in winter