Whitney Oaks Golf Club in Rocklin, California is one of the premier public-access courses in the Sacramento area. When you have a tee time to play this tough Johnny Miller creation you will see how your game measures up on a beautiful championship course designed to challenge the most skilled golfers. The playing field of Whitney Oaks Golf Club expands across a 250-acre site in a canyon-like valley that was formerly covered by vineyards and orchards of a massive old ranch. Although an upscale housing development surrounds the golf grounds, the houses don't intrude on the action and many holes enjoy their own secluded golf realm. Johnny Miller laid out this stunning course on rolling hills. Mature oaks and rock outcroppings populate the golf grounds. While Miller's original design has been softened to make the game more enjoyable for everyday golfers, Whitney Oaks Golf Club still has a well-earned reputation for being a hard golf course. Thankfully, five sets of tee markers on every hole (plus two additional hybrid teeing options listed on the scorecard) help make the challenge manageable for moderately skilled golfers. Over the years the fairways have been widened, some bunkers have been grassed over, and a few hazards have been removed or made less intimidating. While the front nine, the more open side of Whitney Oaks Golf Club, weaves its way amidst wetlands, canyon terrain and rocky outcroppings lend a different character to the back nine. The course provides plenty of awkward lies and stances, and water and wetlands factor into play on every hole. Many of the holes require forced carries over hazards, and on those holes that don't have a forced carry the runout on the layout's tight, firm fairways sends even slightly mishit golf balls into peril. Whitney Oaks Golf Club is known for its undulating, tiered and challenging greens that roll true. The club prides itself on being a daily-fee facility that delivers the standards of a top-notch private club. Practice facilities include a driving range, chipping area and putting green. The gorgeous clubhouse, adorned with stonework and rich woods, features a well-stocked golf shop and an elegant but comfortable restaurant that serves very good food. Many golfers opt to stay for lunch or dinner as they soak in the views of the 9th and 19th holes backdropped by the hilly countryside. Whitney Oaks Golf Club is a wonderful spot for golf and a choice tee time in Sacramento, but be sure to bring your "A" game.