Angola Prison Golf: A Unique Challenge

Prison View Golf Course is a public 9-hole golf course located in Angola, Louisiana. It is set within the grounds of the Louisiana State Penitentiary, a maximum-security prison farm. The course was designed by the prison dentist, Dr. John Ory, and built with prison labour and funds generated from the annual prison rodeo. Prison View offers a challenging round of golf, a practice facility, and a clubhouse. The course is open to the public, but all guests must pass a background check before playing.

How to book a tee time at Prison View Golf Course

Prison View Golf Course is located on the grounds of Louisiana State Penitentiary, Angola, LA, and is the only golf course in the country situated on the grounds of a maximum-security prison. It offers a challenging round of golf, a practice facility, and a Clubhouse. The course is open to the public, but there are some important rules to be aware of before booking a tee time.

Firstly, all guests must provide personal information (date of birth, driver's license number, social security number, etc.) at least 48 hours in advance of their desired tee time so that the prison authorities can conduct a complete background check. This is a requirement for all individuals wishing to play, and no tee times will be scheduled prior to the completion of this background check. Convicted felons and individuals listed on any inmates' visiting lists will not be granted access to the course.

Once you have passed the background check, you can book a tee time. Tee times must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and cost $20. You can do this by calling the golf course on (225) 655-2978 or by visiting their website: http://www.prisonviewgolf.com.

It is important to note that play may be suspended at any time due to institutional need or at the Warden's discretion, and tee times may be canceled without notice. Therefore, it is recommended to call ahead and confirm your booking on the day of your tee time.

Finally, some items are prohibited on the premises, including firearms, drugs, alcohol, cameras, knives, and other contraband items. Persons entering Louisiana State Penitentiary must consent to a search of their vehicle, belongings, and/or person at any time while on institutional grounds.

Rules and regulations for playing Prison View Golf Course

Prison View Golf Course is a unique golf course located within the grounds of the Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola. The course is open to the public, but due to its location, there are strict rules and regulations that must be followed. Here are the key rules and regulations for playing at Prison View Golf Course:

• Background Checks: All guests must undergo a background check before being allowed to play. This is a standard security measure for visitors to the penitentiary. Personal information, including date of birth, driver's license number, and social security number, must be provided at least 48 hours in advance for the background check to be completed. Only after a successful background check will tee times be scheduled.
• Restricted Access: Convicted felons and individuals listed on any inmate visiting lists are strictly prohibited from accessing the golf course. This restriction is in place to maintain the security and integrity of the facility.
• Identification Requirements: Upon arrival, all golfers must present valid, state-issued identification. This is to ensure that the identities of all visitors match those cleared through the background check process.
• Warden's Discretion: Play may be suspended at any time due to institutional needs or at the Warden's discretion. This rule acknowledges the unique nature of the golf course's location and the priority of prison operations.
• Cancellation Policy: Tee times may be cancelled without notice. This is an important consideration for golfers planning their visit, as last-minute cancellations may occur due to unforeseen circumstances within the penitentiary.
• Prohibited Items: Absolutely no firearms, drugs, alcohol, or other contraband items are allowed on the premises. This includes, but is not limited to, cameras, knives, and other similar items. All persons and their belongings are subject to search at any time while on institutional grounds. This rule is strictly enforced to maintain the security of the facility and the safety of all individuals.
• Code of Conduct: All guests must adhere to a code of conduct while on the premises. This includes respecting the rules of the golf course, as well as general behaviour expectations within the penitentiary grounds. Any disruptive or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
• Dress Code: Golfers are expected to adhere to a standard dress code appropriate for the sport. This includes wearing appropriate golf attire, such as collared shirts and golf shoes. The dress code ensures a consistent standard for all players and maintains the professionalism of the course.
• Pace of Play: Golfers are expected to maintain a reasonable pace of play to ensure that all players can enjoy their round. Slow play may result in course marshals asking players to speed up their game. This rule is in place to ensure that all guests have an enjoyable experience and to manage the flow of players on the course.
• Golf Cart Usage: The use of golf carts is permitted, but golfers are expected to follow the designated cart paths and adhere to any posted signage regarding cart usage. Golfers are responsible for returning the carts to the clubhouse in the same condition as they were received.
• Course Etiquette: Proper course etiquette is expected from all players. This includes repairing divots, raking bunkers, and respecting the course by not causing any unnecessary damage. Additionally, golfers should be mindful of other players and avoid slow play, excessive noise, or any behaviour that may disrupt others' enjoyment of the course.
• Food and Beverage: Food and beverage services are available at the Clubhouse, offering a variety of options for golfers. Outside food and drinks are typically not permitted on the course, and guests are expected to dispose of their trash appropriately.
• Guest Behaviour: Guests are expected to conduct themselves appropriately at all times. This includes respecting the rules of the golf course, as well as the broader rules and regulations of the penitentiary. Any behaviour that is deemed disruptive, disrespectful, or unsafe will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the premises.
• Emergency Procedures: In the event of an emergency, guests should follow the instructions of penitentiary staff and golf course personnel. The golf course has emergency procedures in place, and it is important for guests to remain calm and follow directions.
• Feedback and Complaints: Prison View Golf Course values guest feedback and has a process in place for handling complaints or suggestions. Guests are encouraged to provide constructive feedback, which can be used to improve the course and overall guest experience.

By following these rules and regulations, golfers can enjoy a challenging round of golf at Prison View Golf Course while also respecting the unique nature and security requirements of the Louisiana State Penitentiary. It is important for all guests to remember that they are visiting an active maximum-security prison and to conduct themselves accordingly.

The history of Prison View Golf Course

The Prison View Golf Course, also known as the Angola Prison Golf Course, is located on the grounds of Louisiana State Penitentiary, the once "bloodiest prison in America". It is perhaps the only golf course of its kind in America, located inside prison walls. The warden, Burl Cain, had the course built in 2001 or 2004 to keep the guards around on weekends and, "in case of an emergency".

Prison View is a 9-hole, par 72 course measuring approximately 6000 yards, with the front and back nine never using the same tee boxes. It features 37 sand bunkers and water hazards on 16 holes. The course was designed by Dr. John Ory, the prison dentist, who taught himself how to create a golf course from scratch based on a book he bought at Barnes & Noble. Ory recruited veteran prisoners with a history of good behaviour to help build the course on a former bull pasture.

The tee markers are in the shape of white handcuffs and guard towers are in plain view. The course is open to the public, but players must pass a background check first. Play may be suspended for institutional purposes at any time. The course offers a challenging round of golf, a practice facility, and a clubhouse. It also has a restaurant serving po'boys, fried seafood, hotdogs, cold drinks, and other assorted snacks.

Facilities at Prison View Golf Course

Prison View Golf Course is a unique golf course located inside the walls of Louisiana State Penitentiary, in Angola, Louisiana, USA. It is the only golf course in the nation situated within a maximum-security prison. The course offers a range of facilities for golfers, making it a challenging and interesting golf destination.

The golf course itself is a 9-hole, par 36 course, measuring approximately 3000 yards. It features two tee boxes, allowing golfers to play 18 holes if desired. The front and back nine never use the same tee boxes, providing variety for golfers. The course is well-maintained, with Tif-dwarf Grass greens and 419 Bermuda Grass fairways. There are 37 sand bunkers and water hazards on 16 holes, adding to the challenge. The number 1 tee box is particularly notable, as it is elevated approximately 75 yards into the Tunica Hills, offering a spectacular view of the prison and the surrounding area.

In addition to the course, Prison View Golf Course has a practice facility, including a pitching/chipping area, for golfers to warm up or work on their game. The course also features a clubhouse, providing a space for golfers to relax and socialize. For those looking for refreshments, there is a restaurant that serves a variety of options, including po-boys, fried seafood, hot dogs, cold drinks, and other snacks.

Prison View Golf Course is open to the public, but there are some unique considerations due to its location. Tee times must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance, and a background check is required for all players. The cost to play is only $20, making it an affordable option for golfers.

How to get to Prison View Golf Course

Prison View Golf Course is located on the grounds of the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, Louisiana. It is the only golf course in the US that is situated on the property of a prison.

To get to Prison View Golf Course, you will need to travel to Angola, Louisiana. The golf course is about 22 miles (35 km) northwest of St. Francisville, about 50 miles (80 km) northwest of Baton Rouge, and 135 miles (217 km) northwest of New Orleans. The closest major airport is Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, about 55 miles (88.5 km) away.

Once you have arrived in Angola, you will need to provide personal information, including your date of birth, driver's license number, and social security number, at least 48 hours in advance of your desired tee time. This information is required for a complete background check, and no one will be allowed to play without prior clearance. In addition, convicted felons and individuals listed on any inmate visiting lists will not be granted access to the golf course. All golfers must also present valid, state-issued identification upon arrival.

It is important to note that play may be suspended at any time due to institutional needs or at the warden's discretion. Tee times may also be cancelled without notice. It is also essential to comply with the strict rules regarding prohibited items. Absolutely no firearms, drugs, alcohol, or other contraband items, such as cameras and knives, are allowed on the premises. Persons entering the Louisiana State Penitentiary must consent to a search of their vehicle, belongings, and/or person at any time while on the institutional grounds.

Frequently asked questions