What is Denning Conservation Area like?
Set in Donnellson, Denning Conservation Area has been on the PDGA course list since 2001. Across 2,016 ft the course fits 9 holes at par 27, which works out to around 224 feet per hole. That is short enough that a putter and a mid-range will cover most of the round.
The terrain is prairie/open — wide open prairie fairways, which puts the emphasis on big arms and wind management. Exposed prairie layouts let you throw everything you have, but a crosswind will move a disc thirty feet off line before it lands.
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 Denning Conservation Area?
For a course like this, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers the majority of shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.
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
Denning Conservation Area 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 Denning Conservation Area
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 Denning Conservation Area
More disc golf in Donnellson
Donnellson has 2 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Westview Disc Golf Course | 9 | Beginner | $3 |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Denning Conservation Area?
Denning Conservation Area has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 2,016 ft, averaging about 224 feet per hole.
Is Denning Conservation Area free to play?
No. Denning Conservation Area charges $3 to play. Check course signage or the local club for how the fee is collected.
Is Denning Conservation Area good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with wide open prairie fairways and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Denning Conservation Area?
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 Denning Conservation Area located?
Denning Conservation Area is in Donnellson, Iowa, at coordinates 40.76506, -91.59415. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Denning Conservation Area?
For this layout, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers most shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.