Caldera Links in Sunriver, Oregon: A Fun Short Course

First I have to make a confession, this review may be slightly biased.

You see, I’ve been going to Sunriver, Oregon for as long as I can remember.  We used to have a house there growing up, so it has a special place in my heart.

This past weekend I got the opportunity to play the newest course in the Sunriver arsenal for the first time: Caldera Links.

Caldera Springs is a separate sub-division across the way from Sunriver that is more exclusive and more pricey.  It’s also home to the par 3 Caldera Links and Golf Park that I can’t really say I had high expectations for.

Well after 32 holes of golf this weekend, I can say that Caldera links is one of the best short-game practice courses I’ve had the pleasure of playing.

What is Caldera Links and the Golf Park?

Caldera Links at Sunriver is the 9 hole par 3 course within the Caldera Springs community. Residents of the community are able to play the course as part of their HOAs and guests of Sunriver Resort can play for a daily fee or as part of a Stay and Play deal.

The 3 hole “Golf Park” was designed by Bob Cupp and consists of a par 5, a par 3, and a par 5. It’s available solely for Caldera Springs residents and guests.

It’s one of the coolest features I’ve seen in a residential community. There are 3 holes, but a variety of tee boxes you can play from to vary the length of the holes.

Being able to go out and play whenever you want, without booking a tee time, is a pretty cool value add for residents here.

To make it even better the course is maintained by the same crew from next door Crosswater, which is among the best (and most beautifully maintained) courses in Oregon.

The Par 3 Course

The 9 hole, par 3 Caldera Links course itself, like the practice holes, were extremely well maintained.  The holes ranged from about 110 to 172 from the back tees, and each offered challenges suitable for all skill levels.

There was a healthy assortment of pot bunkers and water to keep you on your toes, and the greens had a surprising amount of undulation, to make for a great short game practice course for those looking to improve their games.

The greens were quick and very true, just like their Crosswater counterparts. 

The nicest part about playing Caldera however wasn’t the manicured greens or beautiful views of Mount Bachelor, rather it was the peacefulness of it all.  Throughout the weekend the course wasn’t crowded, and if you played before noon the course was yours to do as you see fit.

While it’s a private course, it’s not to be overlooked if you’re a Sunriver Resort guest – especially those with families.

In all honesty, the price is a little steep at $60 per round, but hey, that’s resort golf for you.

Also be on the lookout, because Sunriver often has some of the best fall and spring deals in Oregon for unlimited rounds and lodging on their Meadows, Woodlands, and for a little bit more, their Crosswater and Caldera Links courses.

If this is interesting, then you’ll enjoy my full review of Sunriver, Resort.

This also gives you an idea of just how good this place is:

This post was updated in October 2023 to add new photos and a video of Crosswater after visiting both courses again this Summer.