Gamble Sands: David McLay Kidd’s Expansive Links Above the Columbia River
Gamble Sands rises above the Columbia River Valley on a broad sandy plateau, where David McLay Kidd’s design uses expansive fescue fairways, huge greens and natural contours to create an inviting but strategic links experience.
Gamble Sands opened in 2014 and was designed by David McLay Kidd. The course sits on a sandy plateau above the Columbia River Valley, where wide fescue corridors and large greens create a links-inspired experience far from the coast. The landscape is open and expansive, but its contours and angles still reward golfers who think about where the next shot should be played from.
A links landscape in Washington’s inland sand country
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Gamble Sands is defined by its open horizon and rolling sandy ground. The fairways are broad, the fescue is part of the visual identity and the greens offer large targets with internal movement. The result is a course that looks welcoming from the tee yet still asks players to choose the right angle and distance for the approach.
The Columbia River Valley setting adds another layer to the experience. The plateau can be exposed to wind, and the ball may release across firm ground. Good course management means using the width rather than simply trying to overpower every hole.
Friendly contours still require a plan
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The course is often praised for contours that help keep a ball moving toward a playable area. That does not mean every miss is harmless. A ball that rolls too far or finishes on the wrong side of a ridge can leave a difficult approach, so players should consider the slope and the next angle before choosing a target.
With several tee options, golfers can choose a distance that suits their regular game. The aim is to experience the full design—wide landing areas, rolling ground and large greens—without turning the round into a contest against the longest tee.
A destination golf stay above the river valley
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Gamble Sands combines the main Sands course with lodging and additional golf experiences, making it a destination rather than a quick stop. Visitors can plan a longer stay around the course, the resort facilities and the surrounding landscape of central Washington.
Use the official resort booking channels to confirm current tee times, day-guest availability, lodging options and rates. The course is exposed to the region’s weather, so check the forecast and any maintenance notices close to your travel date.
The fairways are wide; the choices are not automatic.
Gamble Sands gives golfers room to play, but the best position still depends on the contours, wind and approach angle. The right tee and the right side of the fairway make the round more enjoyable.
Book through Gamble Sands
The resort publishes tee-time, lodging and golf-experience information on its official website. Confirm the current rates, day-guest rules and stay options before travelling to Brewster.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Who designed Gamble Sands?
David McLay Kidd designed Gamble Sands.
When did it open?
Gamble Sands opened in 2014.
What are the course’s par and length?
The Sands course is par 72 and measures about 7,227 yards from the back tees.
Can visitors play Gamble Sands?
The resort publishes tee-time and stay information; confirm current day-guest availability and booking terms directly.
