What is Bob Gardner Park like?
Set in Lakewood Ranch, Bob Gardner Park has been on the PDGA course list since 2013. The layout runs 9 holes to a par of 27 over 2,124 ft, averaging roughly 236 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is flat/open — flat, open fairways, which puts the emphasis on pure distance and accuracy. Flat ground makes distances honest and landing zones predictable, which makes this a good place to learn what your discs actually do.
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 Bob Gardner Park?
For a course like this, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers the majority of shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.
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. Because the fairways are open here, it is also worth checking 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 Bob Gardner Park
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Getting to Bob Gardner Park
Lakewood Ranch, FL — free parking is listed for this course.
Other disc golf courses near Bob Gardner Park
More disc golf near Lakewood Ranch
Bob Gardner Park is the only PDGA-listed course in Lakewood Ranch, but Florida has 182 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Bob Gardner Park?
Bob Gardner Park has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 2,124 ft, averaging about 236 feet per hole.
Is Bob Gardner Park free to play?
Yes. Bob Gardner Park is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Bob Gardner Park good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with flat, open fairways and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Bob Gardner Park?
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 Bob Gardner Park located?
Bob Gardner Park is in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, at coordinates 27.47465, -82.41766. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Bob Gardner Park?
For this layout, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers most shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.