What is YMCA Camp Oakes like?
YMCA Camp Oakes is one of 333 PDGA-listed courses in California, and one of 2 in Big Bear Lake itself. Across 3,051 ft the course fits 9 holes at par 27, which works out to around 339 feet per hole. That is long enough that you will want a driver you can actually control off the tee.
The terrain is mixed/varied — a mix of wooded and open holes, which puts the emphasis on a complete game. The variety is the test: you will need a tunnel shot on one hole and a full-power drive on the next, often back to back.
ThrowSpot rates the course forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to YMCA Camp Oakes?
For a course like this, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers the majority of shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. It is also worth reading the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at YMCA Camp Oakes
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near YMCA Camp Oakes
More disc golf in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake has 2 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Summit Camp Disc Golf | 9 | Beginner | $3 |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is YMCA Camp Oakes?
YMCA Camp Oakes has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 3,051 ft, averaging about 339 feet per hole.
Is YMCA Camp Oakes free to play?
Yes. YMCA Camp Oakes is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is YMCA Camp Oakes good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with a mix of wooded and open holes and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play YMCA Camp Oakes?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is YMCA Camp Oakes located?
YMCA Camp Oakes is in Big Bear Lake, California, at coordinates 34.23035, -116.75414. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to YMCA Camp Oakes?
For this layout, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers most shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.