What is Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary like?
Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary is one of 472 PDGA-listed courses in Texas, and one of 2 in Huntsville itself. The layout runs 23 holes to a par of 69 over 6,693 ft, averaging roughly 291 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is open/rolling — open fairways across rolling ground, which puts the emphasis on distance control and wind reading. With few trees to block it, wind becomes the main hazard, and the rolling ground means discs run out unpredictably after landing.
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 150 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary?
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
Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary charges $5 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 Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary
More disc golf in Huntsville
Huntsville has 2 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastham-Thomason Park | 9 | Beginner | $5 |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary?
Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary has 23 holes with a total par of 69. The course measures 6,693 ft, averaging about 291 feet per hole.
Is Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary free to play?
No. Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary charges $5 to play. Check course signage or the local club for how the fee is collected.
Is Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with open fairways across rolling ground and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary?
About 150 minutes for a typical group on 23 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary located?
Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary is in Huntsville, Texas, at coordinates 30.63825, -95.42336. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Shawshank Disc Golf Penitentiary?
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.