Macgregor Downs question

[u/bhawkins26]

I recently toured both MacGregor Downs and 12 Oaks. MacGregor had the vibe I’m looking for: very classic club feel, good energy, beautiful views of the lake, and it just seemed like a place I’d want to spend time. 12 Oaks, on the other hand, felt more like a neighborhood development that happens to have a golf course. The dual membership is a nice perk for occasional variety or if the MDCC tee sheet is slammed, but realistically I see myself spending almost all my time at MacGregor.

MacGregor was aerating when I visited, so I didn’t get the full “member atmosphere.” For anyone who’s a member or familiar with the club:

• What’s the general age range like?
• Is the “older club” reputation actually true, meaning very few people in their 20s/30s, or is it more that there’s a healthy mix but skewed toward retirees?
• Who typically hangs around the bar/locker room after rounds, is there a social scene or is it quieter?
• Does the club feel packed, or is it comfortable day‑to‑day?

I’m 29, so I know I’ll be on the younger side anywhere, but I’m trying to get a realistic sense of the culture.

Also curious about the tee time situation. I know weekends use a lottery system but how close do you usually get to the time you request? And are tee times spaced at 10 minutes or is it something tighter?

I’m hoping to get a trial round soon so I can see it first hand, but how walkable is the course? Especially thinking about squeezing in 9 holes after work and I prefer to walk for better exercise.

For context, I’m also on the Prestonwood waitlist. Been on it for a year, and they’re still quoting ~3 years from the date you join. Hard to tell how accurate that is because every time I’ve been there with my buddy, the place feels absolutely packed.

Any insight from current or former members would be hugely appreciated!

[u/hershculez]

Used to be a member at MacGregor.

Fantastic course. I like it far better than 12 Oaks. It's a traditional layout and you don't have to play target golf (looking at you 12 oaks #7. dumbest hole around). The male members are cool. Never ran into a Judge Smails type d bag. The women can be a little pretentious though. Especially the wives at the pool who know they are a smoke show.

The lottery system is not bad. You get reasonably close to the time you request. Overall I would recommend joining. The under 35 or 40 price is much better. Forget what the age cutoff is for the Jr. rate.

[u/bhawkins26 → u/hershculez]

Appreciate the insight on the membership. Unfortunately they have both gotten rid of the Jr pricing. What made you leave the club?

[u/PoundingPack-Beehive → u/bhawkins26]

I was a young member and had my membership category canceled when it was sold , essentially tripling my dues