Ocala Greenway Disc Golf Course

Historic Ocala Greenway Disc Golf Course Established in 2003 by Michael Pierannunzi (#17111) and Butch Zimmerman (#14158), this 24 hole course is built on an abandoned barge canal property that was transformed into a 3,500 acre preserve. Proposals for this canal reach as far back as 1967 until the ultimate dismemberment of the idea in 1991, providing visitors a glimpse into central Florida’s past. The United States National Scenic Trail, aka: The Florida Trail, goes thru the preserve, and follows along most of the backside of the disc golf course before heading off into the Marshall Swamp. The Florida trail and paved greenway provides miles and miles of mountain biking trails, and designated walking trails . Lots to do for the non disc golfing family member. The Greenway was originally an 18 hole course, that was increased to 24 holes in 2010 to accommodate the PDGA National Tour. The event utilized The Greenway and the former Pine Oaks DGC. The 2010 National Tour Event was won by Ken Climo, 12X PDGA Open World Champion. In 2024/2025 the course was redeveloped to include elevation within the property that was not previously utilized. Efforts also focused on alleviating the redundancy of having 24 holes, all of which were a par 3. The endeavor was completed by neighborhood resident and PDGA 100 win club member, Craig PP (Polish Power) Wesnofske (#23673). The course is a technical masterpiece of shorter original holes combined with newer unique fairways and greens with elevation changes that are just not found in Florida. Combine this with the manicured shrubbery and even a unique bonzai tree, and you have about the most naturally stunning environment to play disc golf. The longer buckets provide a significant level of difficulty, with major drop offs on greens, and adds an additional twelve strokes to the original short and long tee layouts. The Green Monster par 84, is 10,083 feet of gorgeous and challenging terrain (long tees to long buckets). The elevation gain is over three stories! Fenway is the current short pads to long layout. It comes in just under 9,650 feet and comes with 8 par 4's and 2 par 5's, as well as the three plus stories of elevation rise. An important factor to consider, is that although the course has substantial length, it was designed to reward the shorter more accurate thrower. Stories are already spreading how the older folks are benefitting from a level ballfield, and putting up better numbers than the bomber folks. Good stuff! Another great feature of the greenway courses, is that all rainfall absorbs into the sandy earth almost immediately. You will never have puddles or mud in the fairways. Sand however, will try to come home with you, like you went to the beach for the day. Pro-Tip: wipe off your zucca wheels before putting back in your vehicle! Bring plenty of water, as there is no water fountain or brick and mortar bathroom. There is a portable toilet at the parking area that is thoroughly cleaned several times each week. Be on the lookout for the many animals that occupy the course. Deer, fox squirrels, gopher tortoises, countless species of snakes (poisonous and non), tons of native and migratory birds, coyotes, wild boars and even black bears. There have even been sightings of Rhesus monkeys, the rare red wolf, and florida panther within the preserve. You will often find photographers throughout the preserve and the course. More recently, the course in particular has been used for photoshoot opportunities for several businesses and clubs within the Ocala community. The Ocala Greenway Disc Golf Course is a disc golfers dream. When you are done with your time at the course, stop by The Dugout Sports Bar and Grille down the road. Long time supporters of the Ocala Disc Golf Club. Great food and beverages before heading home. Silver Springs State Park is 4 miles away for camping. Santos trailhead camping and mountain biking is 6 miles from the course. The FL trail goes from the course to Santos and much farther beyond.