Franklin Canyon Golf Course

Designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Muir Graves and opened in 1968, the course winds through mature oaks and towering gum trees, offering scenic Bay Area golf that rewards accuracy off the tee. At 6,761 yards and a par of 72, it presents an enjoyable but honest test for players of all skill levels.

Course History

Franklin Canyon Golf Course opened in 1968, taking its name from the surrounding canyon terrain of the East Bay hills. For more than half a century it served as a favorite of local golfers in the greater Hercules, Rodeo and Martinez area, earning a reputation as an accessible and scenic public course a short drive north of San Francisco.

Over the decades the property has been operated as a daily-fee public facility, welcoming everyone from beginners and families to seasoned players looking for a relaxed round in the Bay Area.

The Design & Architecture

The course was designed by legendary golf course architect Robert Muir Graves, who routed the 18 holes through gently rolling hillsides dotted with mature oaks and majestic gum trees. Graves shaped a layout defined by two ponds, several tight doglegs and large, undulating greens that reward precise, well-placed tee shots. The natural canyon topography gives the course its character, with elevation changes and framing hills adding both challenge and scenery.

Playing the Course

Playing to 6,761 yards with a par of 72, Franklin Canyon offers a fair but engaging test, reflected in its course rating of 71.8 and slope of 132. Accuracy is at a premium given the doglegs and water hazards, while the undulating greens place a premium on the short game. The rolling terrain and tree-lined corridors make for a picturesque round suitable for a wide range of skill levels.

Know Before You Go

• This is a public golf course open to all players, located at CA-4, Hercules, CA 94547.

• A practice facility, including a driving range, is available to warm up before your round.

• Call ahead at (510) 799-6191 to confirm current hours, rates and tee time availability.

• Expect rolling, hilly terrain and tree-lined fairways typical of this East Bay canyon setting.