Perched 300 feet above the Columbia River on a sandy mesa in central Washington, Gamble Sands is a true links course designed by legendary Scottish architect David McLay Kidd. Built in 2014 on the historic Gebbers family orchard land, the original Sands Course was immediately christened Golf Digest's Best New Public Course. The resort now features two championship 18-hole courses—the playable, fun-forward Sands Course and the more aggressive Scarecrow Course—plus a 14-hole par-3 short course and a striking 18-hole putting course. What makes Gamble Sands transcendent for groups is the setting itself: panoramic vistas sweep across the Columbia River Valley framed by snow-capped Cascade peaks, with basalt ridges and desert scrub painting an almost otherworldly backdrop. The course plays exclusively on firm fescue fairways built on sandy soil, creating that authentic Scottish links feel where the ball bounces and runs, rewarding creativity and shot-making. Oversized fairways and massive greens make the layout surprisingly accessible for all skill levels, while undulating terrain and strategic bunkering challenge low handicappers. Pair that with world-class lodging at The Inn at Gamble Sands—just steps from the greens with sweeping river views—and on-site dining at Danny Boy restaurant and The Barn, and you have a complete destination resort that functions as the perfect golf escape for groups seeking both golf and genuine resort amenities.
The original David McLay Kidd design built in 2014 on firm fescue fairways, featuring massive greens, wide fairways, and a playable layout designed for fun.
Kidd's second course opened in 2024, featuring more aggressive bunkering, smaller greens, and pitchy fairways on the property's preferred scenic parcel.
A par-3 short course with holes ranging from 80 to 150 yards, designed for fun group play and evening rounds with up to eight players per group.
An 18-hole putting course with dramatic undulations inspired by St Andrews' famous Himalayas, offering sunset views of the Columbia River.
The Inn at Gamble Sands is rated the best golf resort in Washington, featuring 77 luxury rooms with fireplaces, private balconies, and sweeping views of the Columbia River Valley. Rooms offer free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, free continental breakfast, and come in various configurations including Single King, Double Queen, King Suites, and Golf View Double King rooms overlooking Scarecrow. The inn features an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, Danny Boy Bar and Grill, The Barn restaurant, and direct access to the golf courses.