Hidden Creek Golf Club

Hidden Creek, located in Lima, Ohio, is an incredible golf course that is open for public play. It is not overly long, and with a slope rating in the mid to high 120s for men, it offers both a challenge and a good time.

The Course is owned and operated by the Floyd Young family in Bluffton, OH; a family that has etched its name in golf history, at least in this part of the country. Family patriarch Floyd Young has been in the golf business since 1969. He worked at several golf courses in Germany and Japan from 1967 to 1969. When he returned to the States, he went to work at PGA National, where he remained until 1975.

In 1971, the PGA Championship was being held at his home course, and Floyd caddied for Jack Nicklaus. He must have been Nicklaus’ good luck charm because he went on to win the tournament! Floyd turned professional in 1972 and headed north to Firestone Country Club in Akron, OH, where he served as an assistant under Bobby Nickels for 7 years. He left Firestone to become the Head Golf Professional at Cambridge Country Club, serving in that capacity for fourteen years. In 2014, Floyd Alan Young was inducted into the Lima/Allen County Golf Hall of Fame. In 1989, the family took a leap of faith and purchased Bluffton Golf Club; Hidden Creek Golf Club in Lima was added to the portfolio in 2008.

What they have is truly a family affair. The lush, green course conditioning can be attributed to Floyd’s son Luke, who oversees maintenance at both courses. Luke may have a “managerial” title, but you’ll often see him on the course trimming the grass around one of the many ponds, running a mower, raking a bunker, or doing whatever it takes to keep the facility as lush as it is. Luke takes great pride in the courses and is very hands-on.

Luke has been the superintendent at Hidden Creek Golf Club since 2009 and at Bluffton Golf Club for the past 5 years. With his wife Drue’s recent retirement, Floyd’s daughter Wendy Young has taken on the daily operations at both clubs. If you’re looking to host a tournament or catered event, give Wendy a call! She’ll see to it that everything runs smoothly!

In 2009, the Young family took another leap of faith and purchased Golf at Sugar Creek in Lima and changed the name to Hidden Creek Golf Club. After several years of neglect, it was heading in the same direction that Bluffton was when they purchased it. Luke accepted the challenge of resurrecting a once mighty golf course, and today’s finished product is a testament to his hard work. The course is carpeted in Bentgrass from tee to green and is pretty wide open, making it a favorite of seniors and beginners in the area. Water comes into play on at least 10 holes – more if you spray it. The fairways are lush; the greens roll true and are full of subtle undulations.

Hidden Creek plays 6,852 yards from the Back Tees, not being masochistic, I found the White Tees (6,312 yards) provided a fitting challenge and kept my interest. Five sets of tees provide a suitable yardage for all players, regardless of their ability and enjoyment for all skill levels.

The course has several holes that will test your skills, especially a couple of the par 3s. Number 2 is a 200-yard par 3 that requires a lengthy carry over water into a small green that slopes back to front towards the water.

I love courses that end with a par 3, especially ones as challenging as the 18th hole at Hidden Creek. It plays 199 yards from the White Tees and is heavily tree-lined on both sides, creating an “all-or-nothing” scenario off the tee. The 10th hole is an interesting par 5. It’s a big dogleg left that plays 490 yards. At the corner of the dogleg is a large boomerang-shaped pond that catches a lot of balls from unsuspecting – or in my case, unknowing – players. Once you navigate the pond, the hole plays uphill into a small green protected by the hills that surround it. It’s a hole that takes thought and patience to play.

Hidden Creek has a driving range and practice putting green, so you can loosen up before your round or just spend the day honing your skills. The clubhouse serves great food, and beverages are available; the pro shop is stocked with everything you’ll need for your round, including logoed apparel that you can take home as a memory.

Hidden Creek is a favorite venue for local charity and fundraising golf events. Hidden Creek’s large outdoor pavilion can accommodate golf events of any size and can seat up to 225 guests. The sides of the pavilion can be let down in inclement weather. The large charcoal grill and full-service kitchen allow them to serve buffet-style meals for all outings and events. Give Wendy Young a call at Hidden Creek a call if you’re interested in learning more.


The goal of the Young family is to create an excellent experience for members and guests in an environment where all players can play, practice, and enjoy the spirit of the game, all at a reasonable price. The Youngs and their entire staff are dedicated to providing you, your family, and friends with top-notch service to ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable round of golf.


Hidden Creek’s sister course, Bluffton Golf Club, is just 6 miles away. Each one provides a unique and diverse golfing experience. If you find yourself wanting to go back and play the courses over and over, consider an annual pass. It gives you access to both courses and includes a golf cart; range balls can be included in your membership for one low price. This annual pass is one of the best golf values in the area. For those visiting the area, find a local hotel and play a couple of great local golf courses run by a golf legend!