What is MLK Recreation Complex like?
MLK Recreation Complex is one of 55 PDGA-listed courses in New Mexico, and one of 1 in Artesia itself. The layout runs 6 holes to a par of 18 over 1,602 ft, averaging roughly 267 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is wooded/hilly — wooded fairways with real elevation change, which puts the emphasis on shot shaping in three dimensions. Elevation compounds every mistake: an uphill approach plays longer than the sign says, and a downhill tee shot carries much further than expected.
ThrowSpot rates the course moderately demanding overall, making it players who have their form mostly sorted. Expect a genuine test without being punished for every miss. This is the level most recreational players score best on. 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 MLK Recreation Complex?
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 MLK Recreation Complex
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 MLK Recreation Complex
Artesia, NM — free parking is listed for this course.
Other disc golf courses near MLK Recreation Complex
More disc golf near Artesia
MLK Recreation Complex is the only PDGA-listed course in Artesia, but New Mexico has 55 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in New Mexico.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is MLK Recreation Complex?
MLK Recreation Complex has 6 holes with a total par of 18. The course measures 1,602 ft, averaging about 267 feet per hole.
Is MLK Recreation Complex free to play?
Yes. MLK Recreation Complex is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is MLK Recreation Complex good for beginners?
It is rated intermediate difficulty, so newer players should expect a challenging round. Expect a genuine test without being punished for every miss. This is the level most recreational players score best on.
How long does it take to play MLK Recreation Complex?
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 MLK Recreation Complex located?
MLK Recreation Complex is in Artesia, New Mexico, at coordinates 32.85113, -104.41156. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to MLK Recreation Complex?
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.