You’ve probably experienced this frustration: You’re ready for a round of golf, but every course you consider feels like a compromise. Either it’s too easy and boring, ridiculously overpriced, or lacks the natural beauty that makes golf truly enjoyable. Many Sacramento-area golfers find themselves driving hours just to find a course that delivers on all fronts.
What Makes Ancil Hoffman Golf Course Special?
Ancil Hoffman Golf Course in Carmichael offers golfers a legendary William Francis Bell-designed layout from 1965, nestled along the American River Parkway with five sets of tee boxes, mature oak trees, and challenging but fair play for all skill levels.
This isn’t just another municipal golf course. When legendary architect William Francis Bell designed Ancil Hoffman in 1965, he created something truly special for Sacramento County. Bell, who designed nearly 200 courses during his lifetime including the famous Torrey Pines in La Jolla, understood how to blend challenging golf with natural beauty.
A Course That Adapts to Every Golfer
The beauty of Ancil Hoffman lies in its thoughtful design. With five different sets of tee boxes, the course transforms itself based on your skill level. Beginners can enjoy a confidence-building round from the forward tees, while seasoned players face a legitimate challenge from the championship tees.
The course’s signature feature is its integration with the American River Parkway ecosystem. Ancient oak trees don’t just provide shade—they’re strategic elements that demand precise shot-making. Miss the fairway here, and you’ll find yourself “in jail” among the towering timber, as locals like to say.
More Than Just Golf
What sets Ancil Hoffman apart from typical golf courses is its connection to the broader American River Parkway experience. The park setting, dotted with ancient oaks and bordered by the American River, creates an atmosphere that feels more like a nature retreat than a typical golf outing.
The facility also features a grass driving range and extensive practice areas for chipping and putting. Plus, their pro shop has earned a reputation as “Sacramento’s Favorite Discount Golf Shop,” making quality golf equipment accessible to everyone.
Overcoming Current Challenges
Right now, Ancil Hoffman is navigating a temporary parking situation due to the park repaving project, expected to complete by mid-August 2025. While this might seem like an inconvenience, smart golfers are using this as an opportunity. Arriving early and carpooling not only secures your parking spot but often leads to meeting fellow golf enthusiasts and potentially finding regular playing partners.
Local Expert Endorsement
“Ancil Hoffman Golf Course represents everything that makes Sacramento special – natural beauty, rich history, and accessibility for everyone. It’s not just a golf course; it’s a Sacramento treasure that connects our community with the stunning American River Parkway.”
— Julie Gallaher, SacramentoTop10.com
The Legacy Continues
When you play Ancil Hoffman, you’re not just playing golf—you’re experiencing a piece of Sacramento history. The course is named after Ancil Hoffman, a significant figure in Sacramento politics and culture, and continues to serve the community as it has for nearly 60 years.
The combination of Bell’s masterful design, the natural American River setting, and the course’s commitment to accessibility creates something unique in the Sacramento golf landscape. Whether you’re a scratch golfer looking for a legitimate challenge or a weekend warrior wanting to enjoy golf in a beautiful setting, Ancil Hoffman delivers.
Ready to Experience Sacramento’s Hidden Golf Gem?
Don’t let another weekend pass wishing you had a better place to play golf. Ancil Hoffman Golf Course offers everything you’ve been looking for: challenging design, natural beauty, fair pricing, and a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels.
Book your tee time today by calling (916) 482-3813 or visiting them at 6700 Tarshes Dr, Carmichael, CA 95608. With the course open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to discover why this William Francis Bell masterpiece has been a Sacramento favorite for nearly six decades.
Experience the difference that legendary design and natural beauty make. Your best round of golf might be just one phone call away.
Ancil Hoffman Golf Course
6700 Tarshes Dr
Carmichael, CA 95608
