Gardner Golf Course

Gardner Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course located just outside Marion, Iowa, adjacent to Wanatee Park. Designed by Herman Thompson and opened in spring 1968, the course features rolling terrain with wide fairways and large, gently undulating greens that provide an enjoyable shot-making experience in a beautiful country setting.

The course offers multiple tee options with varying difficulty levels. From the blue tees, it plays to a 72.5 rating with a 118 slope, while the red tees measure 71.3/113, accommodating golfers of different skill levels. The layout presents a good balance—challenging for advanced players with length, hazards, and tree-lined holes, yet still enjoyable for average golfers.

Notable characteristics include the scenic wildlife setting where golfers frequently observe white-tailed deer, foxes, possums, and other wildlife throughout their round. The course is suitable for tournaments, outings, and family events. Originally named Squaw Creek Golf Course, it was renamed in 1999 to honor Donald K. Gardner, a former Parks and Public Property Commissioner who served Cedar Rapids from 1944 to 1969.