A metal basket encircled by rows of hanging chains. Maybe not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about recreation in New York State Parks, but disc golf is a friendly activity that has been offered at our facilities for years. In fact, there are currently 17 state parks in the Empire State that offer disc golf courses, and it’s about time we demystify the sport.

What is Disc Golf?

Also known as Frisbee golf, the rules of the sport are very similar to traditional golf. Play­ers use specially designed discs or frisbees to throw from a tee area with the goal of getting the disc into the disc golf basket in the least amount of throws possible. Score is kept over 18 holes and the person or team with the lowest score wins.

Much like traditional golf, each course offers its own unique set of challenges. The Angry Apple Disc Golf Course at Darien Lakes State Park has players navigate through an old apple orchard. The Blue Course at Lakeside Beach State Park, aka “The Beast” provides panoramic views of Lake Ontario and is meant to test your skill. Throw too far and you may see your disc end up in the Lake.

Give it a Throw!

Disc golf is a low impact form of exercise and great way to spend time outside with family and friends. Playing might even allow you to explore a new side of a park! The sport offers an easy learning curve — and even better, there are no greens fees. An entire family can get started for a very low cost and can use their discs all season long.

Currently there are 17 New York State Parks that have disc golf courses:

• Beaver Island State Park
• Bowman Lake State Park
• Darien Lakes State Park
• Evangola State Park
• FDR State Park
• Gilbert Lake State Park
• Golden Hill State Park
• Heckscher State Park
• Joseph Davis State Park
• Lake Erie State Park
• Lakeside State Park
• Mine Kill State Park
• Oquaga Creek State Park
  • Saratoga Spa State Park
• Thacher State Park
• Wilson-Tuscarora State Park

Course maps can be obtained from park offices. Most state parks with courses have discs for sale at their main office or camp store with a good selection of discs for both beginners and the experienced pro. To confirm availability of items, it’s best to contact the park directly.

Now that you a have a better sense of disc golf, we invite you to disc-over this activity at one of our state parks sometime this year, and let us know how it goes!