Bootlegger Golf Course at Forest Dunes

The Bootlegger is a refreshingly unconventional short course that proves golf doesn't always need to be serious business. Named after the Purple Gang's Prohibition-era bootlegging operations at the South Branch Ranch on this very property, the course captures that spirit of rule-breaking fun: shoes are optional, music fills the air from strategically placed speakers, and the vibe is distinctly irreverent. Sitting atop peaceful, rolling terrain positioned perfectly between Forest Dunes and The Loop, this 10-hole par-30 course features creative holes ranging from 50 to 140 yards, each with imaginatively crafted greens full of humps, twists, and slopes that reward creativity and precision in equal measure.

Designed by Keith Rhebb and Riley Johns—the visionary architects behind Winter Park's acclaimed 9-hole course in Florida—the Bootlegger demands strategic thinking on every shot while maintaining an unintimidating atmosphere perfect for golfers of all skill levels. The fast, receptive greens and strategic bunkering require genuine course management, but the short distances and emphasis on fun keep things light and energetic. Walking is the only option, and groups move quickly through the relatively compact layout.

What makes the Bootlegger truly special for group travel is its flexibility and atmosphere. The $49 daily rate lets you play unlimited golf after 1:00 PM, making it perfect for mixing into a 36 or 54-hole destination day. The adjacent Bootlegger Bar becomes an instant social hub for post-round drinks and bites, while the Hilltop 18-hole putting course sits nearby for settling bets. The course sits within the larger Forest Dunes Golf Resort ecosystem, meaning your group can experience three world-class tracks (Forest Dunes, The Loop, and Bootlegger) in one location—a rare opportunity for genuine golf variety.