Freestone Lake & Golf Club

Freestone Lake & Golf Club occupies a unique position in Texas golf, situated on what represents the largest privately owned lake in the United States. Set upon 5,000 acres of open water, rolling hills and Savannah Post Oaks, Freestone provides a generational retreat for family and friends halfway between Dallas and Houston. The development represents a significant investment in luxury golf and lake living, with the course designed by Beau Welling and positioned as a premier private resort.

History of Freestone Lake & Golf Club

Todd Interests has purchased the Fairfield Lake State Park and surrounding land, a site encompassing 5,000 acres and the 2,400-acre Fairfield Lake. The transformation from state park to luxury golf development marks a significant chapter in Texas golf history. The lake was built in the 1960s by utility companies that previously used the water to cool a power-generating plant that closed in 2018.

The vision for Freestone Club emerged as a billion-dollar development project, with Todd Interests recognising the exceptional potential of the lakeside location. The state park had served the public since 1976, but the closing of the power plant in 2018 created an opportunity for private development that would preserve the natural beauty while creating a world-class golf destination.

Course Layout & Playing Experience

Beau Welling has designed what promises to be one of Texas's most distinctive golf experiences. Located on the largest privately owned lake in the state, Welling says it's one of the most unique sites he's seen, with 14 holes routed on an island separated from the mainland by a long canal originally constructed as a cooling trough for a nearby power plant.

The routing takes advantage of the remarkable topography and water features throughout the property. The significant topography, much of it provided by old spoils from the plant, provides views of the water from nearly every hole, and 13 of them play along either the canal or on the shore of the lake (as do four holes of an additional short course).

The design philosophy centres on maximising the dramatic lakeside setting whilst creating strategic golf that appeals to players of varying abilities. The course routing creates a unique island golf experience, with the majority of holes providing water views and incorporating the natural elevation changes created by the former power plant operations.

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Travel & Planning

Practical Planning

Freestone operates as a private luxury resort with membership and real estate components. The development phase means that access arrangements and membership details require direct inquiry with the club. The resort concept encompasses golf, fishing, boating, and residential elements, positioning it as a comprehensive lifestyle destination rather than purely a golf facility.

The property's scale and amenities suggest that advance planning is essential for visits. The breathtaking property provides waterfront golf at a championship level, trophy bass fishing, boating without public access, and all of the activities and amenities a family should expect from a world-class, private resort.

Transport Information ✈️

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Approximately 160km (100 miles) northwest, 1 hour 45 minutes driving time via I-45 South and local roads. DFW provides comprehensive international and domestic connections with major airlines.

Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Approximately 290km (180 miles) southeast, 3 hours driving time via I-45 North and connecting routes. IAH offers extensive international service and domestic connections.

Car Rental: Essential for accessing Freestone Lake & Golf Club, with major rental agencies available at both airports. The location between major metropolitan areas makes rental cars the preferred transport option for golf travel.

Local Transport: Limited public transport options to the Fairfield area, making private vehicle transport necessary for accessing the resort and exploring regional golf options.

Seasonal Timing

Spring (March-May): Ideal conditions for golf with mild temperatures and emerging wildflower displays characteristic of East Texas. Course conditions are typically excellent as the Bermuda grass emerges from winter dormancy.

Summer (June-August): Hot and humid conditions typical of Texas summers, with early morning and late afternoon golf preferable. Lake activities provide cooling options between golf rounds, and the resort amenities offer climate-controlled alternatives.

Autumn (September-November): Outstanding golf weather with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Fall colours enhance the already scenic lakeside setting, making this an exceptional time for golf holidays.

Winter (December-February): Mild winter conditions allow year-round golf, though bermuda grass dormancy may affect course aesthetics. Lake activities remain available, and reduced demand may provide better availability for visits.

Freestone Lake & Golf Club: The Verdict

Freestone Lake & Golf Club represents an ambitious vision for luxury golf in Texas, combining Beau Welling's architectural expertise with one of the state's most spectacular natural settings.

The island routing concept and comprehensive water integration create a unique golf experience that distinguishes it from traditional Texas golf developments.

As the course develops and matures, it promises to offer a distinctive destination that combines championship golf with comprehensive resort amenities in a setting unmatched in Texas golf.