Frequently Asked Questions About Disc Golf
Everything you need to know about disc golf, finding courses, and using ThrowSpot.
What is disc golf?
Disc golf is a sport where players throw specialized flying discs toward a series of metal baskets (targets) in as few throws as possible. It follows the same basic rules as traditional golf — lowest score wins — but uses discs instead of balls and clubs, and baskets instead of holes. Courses are typically set in parks and wooded areas, and most are free to play.
How do I find disc golf courses near me?
Use ThrowSpot's search feature to find courses by city, state, or zip code. You can filter results by difficulty level (beginner, intermediate, advanced), terrain type (wooded, open, hilly), and whether the course is free or has fees. Each course page includes directions, amenities, hole count, and community reviews.
Is disc golf free to play?
The majority of disc golf courses in the United States are free to play. They're typically located in public parks maintained by local municipalities. Some courses, especially private or championship-level courses, charge fees ranging from $3 to $15 per round. A few courses charge a parking fee instead of a playing fee.
What equipment do I need to start playing disc golf?
All you need to start is a single disc — a mid-range disc is the most versatile choice for beginners. As you progress, most players carry a bag with 8 to 20 discs in three categories: drivers (for distance), mid-ranges (for approach shots), and putters (for short throws near the basket). A starter set of 3 discs typically costs $25 to $40.
How many holes are on a disc golf course?
Most full-length disc golf courses have 18 holes, similar to traditional golf. However, many courses feature 9 holes (great for quick rounds or beginners), and some championship-level courses offer 24 or 27 holes. A typical 18-hole round takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the course length and your pace of play.
What do difficulty ratings mean on ThrowSpot?
ThrowSpot categorizes courses into three difficulty levels. Beginner courses feature flat, open terrain with shorter holes and wide fairways — perfect for new players. Intermediate courses add more obstacles like trees, elevation changes, and longer distances. Advanced courses feature tight wooded fairways, significant elevation, technical shot shapes, and longer holes that challenge even experienced players.
What does course terrain type mean?
Terrain type describes the physical landscape of a course. Wooded courses play through trees with tight fairways. Open courses have wide, treeless fairways where distance matters. Hilly courses have significant elevation changes. Mixed courses combine different terrain types. Coastal courses near the ocean often feature persistent wind. Each terrain type rewards different skills and disc selections.
How is the rating calculated?
Course ratings on ThrowSpot are calculated from community reviews submitted by players who've completed a round. Ratings use a 5-star scale covering course design, maintenance, signage, amenities, and overall experience. We require a minimum number of reviews before displaying a rating to ensure accuracy.
Can I add a course that's missing from ThrowSpot?
Yes! If you know of a disc golf course that isn't in our directory, you can submit it through our course submission form. We'll verify the information and add it to our database. This is especially helpful for newer courses that may not yet appear in official databases.
What is the PDGA?
The PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) is the governing body of disc golf worldwide. Founded in 1976, the PDGA manages professional and amateur tournaments, maintains player ratings, certifies courses, and promotes the growth of the sport. ThrowSpot's course data is sourced in part from the PDGA course directory.