Imagine owning a piece of paradise that combines your passion, pride, and legacy. For golf legends like Tiger Woods, that dream is a reality—he’s got a stunning golf course right in the backyard of his $40 million Florida mansion! But what about John Daly, the charismatic champion who has won our hearts with his fearless playing style and infectious personality?

As it turns out, Daly’s impressive wealth and success have brought him full circle to a very special investment that will warm every golf fan’s heart. And that investment is none other than his very own golf course! That’s right, John Daly is a proud golf course owner, and his Lion’s Den Golf Club in Arkansas is a testament to his love for the game and his roots. 

The 18-hole golf course has a rich history dating back to 1969. This par-72 course was designed by Jerry O’Neill and has been thrilling golfers for generations. But what makes this course truly special is the transformation that has taken place under Daly’s ownership. It’s a reunion of sorts, as the course was one of Daly’s earliest playing tracks—he used to play on the same course during his Dardanelle days.

Originally called the Bay Ridge Country Club, the course was in trouble until Daly came to the rescue in 2005. He saw the potential in this hidden gem and decided to invest in its future. As he recalled, “It was just the right thing to do. The members were struggling, they had bent greens and they didn’t have the money to spend on it. They had a little eighty thousand dollar note over there on the back side they needed to pay off.”  

With love and care, Daly turned the struggling nine-hole track into the thriving Lion’s Den Golf Club we know today. It’s a testament to the power of passion and community spirit. As the owner of a golf design company, he not only preserved a beloved local landmark but also gave back to the game that has given him so much. 

But Daly’s impact goes beyond just renovation—he’s also made the course more accessible to everyone.

John Daly’s den is now open to all

After 13 years of ownership, he removed the exclusive membership model and opened the doors to golfers of all levels by making it public. By removing the membership model, the 58-year-old ensured that his course would be a welcoming space for local golf enthusiasts, tourists, and families alike.

He also refurbished the course to world-class facilities, and it now boasts 6036 yards, with a rating of 70 per Golf Pass. Moreover, he made his course a hub for golf development, hosting university practices and welcoming golfers of all skill levels. It’s a true haven for anyone who loves the game—and that’s the Daly way!

His Lion’s Den Golf Club is more than just a financial venture—it’s a testament to John Daly’s dedication to giving back. He shares his passion and leaves a lasting legacy beyond the links. What do you think of his Den? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.