What is The Bear at Compass Lake like?
The Bear at Compass Lake is one of 182 PDGA-listed courses in Florida, and one of 1 in Alford itself. Across 5,562 ft the course fits 18 holes at par 54, which works out to around 309 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 demanding overall, making it experienced players who want a real challenge. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist. Most groups finish in about 110 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to The Bear at Compass Lake?
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
The Bear at Compass Lake charges $3 to play. Pay-to-play courses are the minority in disc golf, and the fee usually reflects better maintenance, dedicated staff, or private land. Check the course signage or the local club for how payment is collected. 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 The Bear at Compass Lake
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 The Bear at Compass Lake
More disc golf near Alford
The Bear at Compass Lake is the only PDGA-listed course in Alford, but Florida has 182 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is The Bear at Compass Lake?
The Bear at Compass Lake has 18 holes with a total par of 54. The course measures 5,562 ft, averaging about 309 feet per hole.
Is The Bear at Compass Lake free to play?
No. The Bear at Compass Lake charges $3 to play. Check course signage or the local club for how the fee is collected.
Is The Bear at Compass Lake good for beginners?
It is rated advanced difficulty, so newer players should expect a challenging round. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist.
How long does it take to play The Bear at Compass Lake?
About 110 minutes for a typical group on 18 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is The Bear at Compass Lake located?
The Bear at Compass Lake is in Alford, Florida, at coordinates 30.60866, -85.38484. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to The Bear at Compass Lake?
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.