What is Franklin Park like?
Set in Ottumwa, Franklin Park has been on the PDGA course list since 2018. It plays 6 holes, par 18, across 1,842 ft — an average of about 307 feet a hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
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 Franklin 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 Franklin 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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near Franklin Park
More disc golf in Ottumwa
Ottumwa has 4 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memorial Park | 19 | Intermediate | $5 |
| Indian Hills Community College | 18 | Intermediate | Free |
| Wildwood Park | 18 | Intermediate | Free |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Franklin Park?
Franklin Park has 6 holes with a total par of 18. The course measures 1,842 ft, averaging about 307 feet per hole.
Is Franklin Park free to play?
Yes. Franklin Park is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Franklin Park 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 Franklin Park?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 6 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Franklin Park located?
Franklin Park is in Ottumwa, Iowa, at coordinates 41.05755, -92.41557. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Franklin 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.