The 6 Best Private Country Clubs in Houston Texas

For Houston homeowners, there is no shortage of cultural, recreational, and social activities that can contribute to a robust and enriching lifestyle. One outlet that combines all three elements is the wealth of high-end country clubs within the Houston area.  After you’ve moved into your custom luxury home in Houston, a membership to one of these clubs can enrich your and your family’s lives and provide a home away from home. 

1. River Oaks Country Club 

River Oaks, an affluent and exclusive neighborhood in the heart of Houston, houses a country club that has developed a reputation as one of the best private golf clubs in the Houston area, if not the entire region. The course is as beautiful as it is challenging, with fairways lined with dogwood, azalea, and magnolias. The famous course architect, Donald Ross, was careful to design the River Oaks golf course around the ancient oak and pine trees.

The River Oaks Country Club, built in 1923 and one of the most exclusive country clubs in the nation, also offers swimming, clay tennis courts, and general fitness facilities. The club also hosts a number of golf and tennis tournaments.

The friendly staff, outstanding menu, and elegant atmosphere are what keep the waitlist for this high-end country club fairly long. River Oaks Country Club hosts many ticketed events, giving you an opportunity to see the prestigious facility firsthand.

2. Lakeside Country Club

Founded in 1951, with 1,000 members and 209 acres, this is one of the finest clubs in Houston. Lakeside has 18 holes of golf (currently under renovation), tennis, exercise studios, Pilates, locker rooms, massage rooms, steam rooms, and swimming pools—all the things you'd expect from a good country club and more.

The club also has a few important policies to keep in mind when visiting that are intended to keep the facility clean, safe, and comfortable for all members.

3. Houston Country Club

Houston Country Club is ranked in the top 20 American country clubs by Forbes for the 2021-2022 year. This top Houston country club was built in 1908 and designed by famed course architect Tom McNamara, with the new location designed by Robert Jones in 1956. The Houston Country Club is highly exclusive, often having a robust waiting list for membership. With very few water hazards and lots of trees, this course is a favorite of elite golf enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The club also boasts high-end dining, card rooms, and a cocktail bar. Like many other clubs, the Houston Country Club also offers swimming, tennis, and a fitness center. Although the club is highly desired and incredibly high-end, the members reveal that it's comfortable and welcoming. The club's latest $8.7 million remodel will refresh the entire clubhouse, result in an addition, and add amenities to the tennis courts.

The Houston Country Club is member-exclusive and restricts cellphone and laptop use. Dress codes are expected to be followed by members. How much does membership at the Houston Country Club cost? You'll have to contact the club for specific pricing details, but expect the fees to be on the higher end.

4. The Briar Club

The Briar Club, located in the River Oaks area of Houston, is touted as a "beautiful sanctuary from the city." It's the only country club on this list that doesn't include a golf course but instead focuses on its other offerings. As a member, you have access to both heated and chilled outdoor pools that range from resort-style to lap pools, fitness and wellness centers that include classes and massage therapy, nine tennis courts, and several youth facilities for different ages.

The Briar Club is also well known for its selection of dining options. In The Lounge, for example, you can enjoy libations and fine dining in an upscale environment. There are also more casual gathering places where you can enjoy a burger and a margarita or just catch the game.

Something that sets The Briar Club apart is that this sophisticated and state-of-the-art club also puts a big emphasis on providing fun and recreation for the whole family, such as special events and themed nights for the entire family.

5. Northgate Country Club 

The Northgate Country Club is a well-rounded club that tends to excel in every offering, making it one of Houston's top private country clubs. The 18-hole Championship golf course and Fast Five golf course are both suitable for many skill levels. They were designed by renowned course architects Von Hagge, Smelek, and Baril to be challenging, compelling, and beautiful. The course hosts tournaments, junior programs, professional lessons, themed social events, and of course, friendly games among peers.

The team at the Northgate Country Club prides themselves on providing a first-class experience with services, amenities, and social events that cultivate community. The club also has three pools, eight tennis courts, and a clubhouse with multiple excellent dining options.

The grounds of the club are so pristine and scenic that many have chosen the club as the site for their wedding and other important occasions. The clubhouse itself was rebuilt only a few years ago, and although it appears very upscale-traditional in style, it boasts many modern amenities.

6. BraeBurn Country Club 

Originally founded under a different name in 1926, BraeBurn Country Club is one of the oldest and most elite clubs in Houston. The original course was designed by famed architect John Bredemus, redesigned in 1991, and again just last year to restore the original parkland layout.

The club also offers casual and fine dining, tennis courts, fitness facilities, and an aquatic center. With a grand ballroom and a variety of smaller meeting rooms, BraeBurn is also a popular site for hosting private events, such as retirement parties, birthday parties, and weddings. BraeBurn also hosts plenty of events and programs for members of all ages.

BraeBurn limits its membership to ensure that the clubhouse and golf course are never crowded. Membership to BraeBurn is incredibly exclusive and by invitation only. To learn how much membership costs, as well as the different levels, contact the club directly.

Building Your New Life in Houston

Country clubs, golf and other social and recreational activities are only part of what defines a luxurious Texas lifestyle. The Houston area also offers a thriving job market, a diverse food scene, activities for all ages, and vibrant education options. Additionally, there are several opportunities to purchase land and build your dream home, and that’s where Southern Green Builders can help. 

Our team has years of experience building luxury custom homes in neighborhoods across Houston, from Piney Point Village and Hedwig Village to The Heights and Southside Place. Contact Southern Green Builders to schedule a consultation and start living in Texas luxury.