Charlotte, North Carolina is one of the most popular golfing destinations in the United States. With its mild temperatures and lush landscape, it’s no wonder why many flock to the area for a day or weekend on the green. Here is our comprehensive guide to some of best golf courses in the city of Charlotte – from championship-level courses to more casual options, you’re sure to find something that will fit your golfing needs
Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club
Verdict Ridge is undeniably one of the most visually stunning courses in the region. This semi private gem plays like a mountain course, complete with steep hills and picturesque valleys throughout. The course is impeccably maintained year-round with fast Champion Bermuda greens, ensuring an enjoyable round for all who play it. The 347-yard par-4 9th is one of the most beautiful holes in all of Charlotte. The water that runs along the right side adds an element of challenge to the hole.
It is recommended to play an iron from the tee off the left slope. A short iron approach is then required into a green guarded on the left by a small creek. Furthermore, on the right, lies a pond adorned by a waterfall, adding a scenic backdrop to the experience. As of April 1, however, the course is closed to the public on weekends to accommodate club members. Nevertheless, this course’s awe-inspiring beauty ensures that it remains a must-play for all golfing enthusiasts.
Address: 7332 Kidville Rd, Denver, NC 28037, United States
Rocky River Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Dan Maples designed course offers unique challenges to golfers of all levels. With Bermuda grass greens, renovated in 2012, this public course stretches to 6970 yards and boasts a par of 72. While the open fairways might deceive a novice player, the thick Bermuda rough, water hazards, wetlands, thick pines and elevation changes make this course difficult to score on.
One challenge that stands out is the humongous boulder, “Gragg’s Rock,” on the par-5 3rd hole. Named in honor of Floyd Gragg, one of the area’s longest-serving golf professionals who oversaw the opening of the course in 1997, the rock adds a unique touch to the course. From the first few holes, one can hear drivers making practice runs at the racetrack adding to the excitement of the game. Properly placed tee shots and taking advantage of the easier holes, like the short downhill dogleg right par-4 14th hole, are key to scoring well on this challenging course.
Address: 6900 Bruton Smith Blvd, Concord, NC 28027, United States
Carolina Lakes Golf Club
Carolina Lakes stands out as one of the top public courses in the Charlotte area, with its sprawling 7024-yard layout. Golfers will immediately take notice of the impressive bentgrass greens – a rare sight in this part of the country. Accurate approach shots are absolutely critical on this course due to the size of the greens and the numerous natural hazards that dot the landscape. Additionally, the presence of residential homes lining most of the holes means that out-of-bounds is a major factor to contend with.
But perhaps the most notable feature of Carolina Lakes is its impressive bunkering. Golfers will need to possess a solid sand game in order to navigate the course successfully. The layout is diverse, with doglegs, elevation changes, risk-reward par 4s, and reachable par 5s. However, the true test comes on the par-3 16th hole, which features a formidable 175-plus-yard carry over water and bunkers from the back two tees. Golfers who underestimate this sneaky-tough hole will definitely pay the price. With such a challenging yet rewarding design, it’s no wonder that Carolina Lakes has become a favorite among golfers since it was built by Timothy Freeland in 2006.
Address: 23012 Kingfisher Dr, Indian Land, SC 29707, United States
Skybrook Golf Club
Skybrook Golf Club has undergone an impressive renewal since its opening in 2000, with new ownership and strong support from the community. Boasting a distinct mountain course feel reminiscent of Verdict Ridge, golfers will appreciate the large elevation changes tee to green, sloped fairways, and undulating greens. In 2019, Skybrook made the switch from bentgrass to mini-verde Bermuda grass, reflecting the course’s commitment to providing optimal playing conditions.
Its closing four-hole stretch is hailed as one of the best in Charlotte public golf, and includes a well-bunkered par-4 15th, a challenging long par-3 16th over water, a pond-guarded par-4 17th, and a signature S-shaped par-5 18th. With a par of 72 and a length of 6,998 yards, Skybrook is the perfect destination for golf enthusiasts looking to challenge their skills on a semi-private course.
Address: 14720 Northgreen Dr, Huntersville, NC 28078, United States
Rock Barn Golf & Spa
Rock Barn Golf & Spa is one of the premier golf and spa destinations in Charlotte, NC. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this semi-private golfing oasis features two world-class courses with stunning views.
The Tom Jackson Course stands out as a semi-private course that is not to be missed. Boasting a Par 71 with a length of 6427 yards, the course presents golfers with a range of risk-reward scoring opportunities that are sure to get the heart racing. The five Par 3s, in particular, are a highlight of the course, as they all require carries over water. However, it is the 10th hole that separates this course from others with its visually stunning elevated tee shot. This par-5 hole can be played in a number of ways, including challenging the large pond between the fairway and the green or playing it safely down the right side of the pond. It is not surprising that this course has been awarded Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” multiple times annually.
The Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Course is a private golf course that is both challenging and enjoyable for players of all skill levels. The layout of the course expertly incorporates the natural landscape, including Lyle Creek, which flows throughout the course, giving a scenic backdrop to the play. With a length of 7169 yards, the course presents a challenge for even the most seasoned golfer. Recognized for excellence in course design, the Jones Course has won several accolades, including “Best New Course in the State” by North Carolina Magazine in 2003. As recently as 2023, the North Carolina Golf Panel ranked this course as the 25th best in the state and the 5th best in the western region.
And you should notice that with memberships that give you full access to not only the Jones Course, but also the Jackson Course, the spa, and Champ’s Bistro, you’ll have everything you need to perfect your swing and relax after a day on the greens. And if you’re looking to make the most of your weekends, the Jackson Course is a must-play, offering the perfect challenge for both casual and competitive golfers alike.
Address: 3791 Club House Drive Northeast, Conover, NC 28613, United States
Eagle Chase Golf Club
Situated among the sprawling farms of Union County, Eagle Chase Golf Club stands out as a beacon of exceptional golfing experience that is both challenging and enjoyable. This semi-private gem is renowned for its immaculate Diamond Zoysia grass greens, which were installed in 2013. The course boasts a layout that remains free of the intrusion of any houses or other forms of civilization, providing golfers with a peaceful and natural setting to perfect their swing.
Among the challenging holes on the course is the par-4 2nd hole, which is widely regarded as one of the toughest in the area. On the flip side, the par-4 13th hole offers a great birdie opportunity and comes with a view – making it a delight for golf enthusiasts. It’s no surprise that this 1994 Tom Jackson design has been consistently ranked among the top courses in the Tar Heel State on the last six editions of Golfers’ Choice rankings.
Address: 3215 Brantley Rd, Marshville, NC 28103, United States
Warrior Golf Club
Located just north of Charlotte and easily accessible from both I-77 and I-85, the semiprivate Warrior Golf Club offers golf enthusiasts the chance to play on a course built around the stunning 52-acre Lake Wright. Designed by architect Stan Gentry in 1999, the course underwent a renovation in 2018 where the greens were replaced with Champion Ultra Dwarf Bermuda. With almost 2,000 trees removed during the renovation, improved sunlight and airflow make for an even better golfing experience.
The layout is challenging, with few flat holes and the lake coming into play several times. However, the course offers scoring opportunities with reachable par 5s and mid-iron approaches on three of the five par-3 holes. A highlight is the short downhill par-4 15th hole, where players must avoid strategically placed pot bunkers in the fairway. If successfully navigated, a great view and a short approach shot into the green, which backs up to the lake, awaits. Overall, the Warrior Golf Club offers a professional and challenging golfing experience with breathtaking views.
Address: 1300 Lake Wright Rd, China Grove, NC 28023, United States
Edgewater Golf Club
Edgewater Golf Club, positioned amongst the serene and stunning pines of the South Carolina countryside, offers a captivating golfing experience. Built within a retirement community and developed slowly, the course boasts a quaint and natural setting with minimal interruptions from civilization. As you make your way through the course, you’ll be serenaded by the tranquil chirps of birds, the sounds of fish jumping and the occasional gobbling of turkeys.
Strategically placed bunkers add to the course’s challenges, but also offer stunning views of the abundance of wildlife that call the area home. Be prepared to see deer and turkeys roaming about. One of their most memorable holes is the par-4 seventh, a tricky downhill dogleg left that forces you to drive right-center of the fairway, followed by a difficult approach to a green that sits on the bank above Fishing Lake Creek. The encounter on this challenging hole is sure to leave an indelible impression on any golfer.
Address: 2380 Catawba Ridge Blvd., Lancaster, SC 29720, United States
Springfield Golf Club
Springfield Golf Club is a semi-private club designed by renowned architect Clyde Johnston. This well-designed course provides a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. With a par of 72 and a length of 6906 yards, the course features many interesting par 4s that require precision and strategy. One of its unique features is its use of the hilly terrain to create elevated greens, making approach shots more challenging.
The course also offers fantastic views, with four holes flanking Sugar Creek and 13 holes that play across and along perennial streams that feed into the Catawba River. Though it takes its inspiration from traditional golf architecture of the 1920s, the course was updated in 2010 with ultradwarf MiniVerde greens. Springfield Golf Club remains a popular choice among Charlotte golfers, and its combination of challenge and stunning scenery makes it a must-play.
Address: 639 Hambley House Ln, Fort Mill, SC 29715, United States
Monroe Country Club
Monroe Country Club’s 18-hole course is truly a gem among public courses. With a par 72 and measuring 6,725 yards, the course is challenging for both good golfers and higher handicappers alike. The condition of the course is impeccable, and the greens are both small and fast.
However, despite the challenge, they roll true, offering golfers an advantage when making difficult putts. What sets this course apart is that it was created by two talented golf course designers – Donald Ross and Tom Jackson. Donald Ross designed the front 9 in 1936, and Tom Jackson completed the back in 1982. It’s a unique aspect that speaks to the care and dedication that has gone into ensuring this course remains in great shape since the day it opened over 80 years ago.
Address: 1680 Pageland Hwy, Monroe, NC 28112, United States
Charles T Myers Golf Course
Charles T. Myers is a golf course that has a rich history and offers a unique experience to golfers of all skill levels. Its layout is reminiscent of the courses where golf originated, making it an ideal spot for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a game of golf. The course, designed by Bill Love in 1986, has bent-grass greens that offer stunning views of the surrounding wildlife, making it one of Charlotte’s hidden gems.
Even with its fascinating location on a former Harrisburg Road landfill, the facility has been transformed into a public golf course that is a testament to the dedication of Charles T. Myers, who led the initiative to make the final use of this land a public golf course during his tenure as a County Commissioner in 1969-1970. With 18 holes spread across 6,783 yards, the course offers a challenging round of golf for experienced players and is also friendly for less-skilled golfers playing from the forward tees.
Address: 7817 Harrisburg Rd, Charlotte, NC 28215, United States
Red Bridge Golf Club
Red Bridge Golf Club is a spectacular course that opened its doors in 2009. The architect behind this stunning design was David Postlethwait, who had previously worked with the legendary Pete Dye. He masterfully incorporated the natural terrain of the land, creating a seamless blend between the course and its surroundings that perfectly complements its challenging layout.
The velvety MiniVerde greens are surrounded by 28 immaculately placed bunkers, giving players a challenging experience at every hole. The finishing 650-yard par-5 18th hole, with its meandering streams and small ponds, adds to the excitement of the round. The Bermuda grass fairways will lead players on a journey through 6735 yards of brilliantly crafted holes, making Red Bridge a must-visit destination for any serious golfer.
Address: 6801 Gatehouse Rd, Locust, NC 28097, United States
Waterford Golf Club
Waterford Golf Club is a remarkable course located in a peaceful setting. This course was thoughtfully crafted by Mother Nature and skillfully refined by Senior PGA star Hale Irwin. This classic design has captured the attention of local and national media, along with golfers from across the Southeast. The course is situated among dense hardwoods on rolling terrain, providing an exceptional golfing experience for players of all levels.
The practice complex includes a range of facilities to perfect your game, including a driving range, putting green, short game and bunker area. The clubhouse is a comfortable space to unwind after a game, with dining facilities and a pro shop to accommodate your needs. The course measures 6942 yards from the longest tees and has a slope rating of 137 and a 72.9 USGA rating. The course also features 4 sets of tees for different skill levels, making it a flexible and engaging course to play on.
Address: 1900 Clubhouse Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730, United States
Mooresville Golf Course
Mooresville Golf Club boasts a rich history that stretches back to the 1940s when Donald Ross originally laid out the course as a nine-hole layout. Today, under the guidance of leading Ross expert Kris Spence, the course has undergone a fantastic transformation as it has become an outpost of the “Renaissance” by knitting all 18 holes thematically together according to Ross’ principles.
The course is moderately priced and easily walkable, and its 17,000-plus square foot clubhouse enhances the golfing experience. Golfers will be challenged on the course’s slick TifEagle Bermuda greens, with the highlight being the dramatic elevation drop on the par-4 9th hole with a long, difficult approach shot over a creek to the green, with the clubhouse serving as a beautiful backdrop. The course’s length of 6803 yards with eighteen holes ensures an enjoyable golfing experience, perfect for a day on the greens.
Address: 205 Golf Course Dr, Mooresville, NC 28115, United States
Stonebridge Golf Club
Positioned within the tranquil forests of Monroe, North Carolina, Stonebridge Golf Club boasts an impressive 18-Hole Championship Golf Course. Designed by the esteemed Richard Osbourne, the course was built on over 650 acres of untouched land, allowing for a truly authentic golfing experience. Among the highlights of Stonebridge are the practice areas and golf clinics, which are considered some of the finest in the region.
In fact, the course’s reputation is so esteemed that it has attracted PGA Master Professional Nick Jacob to call it home. With its challenging Par 72 layout and impressive length of 6897 yards, this semi-private course is sure to delight and challenge golfers of all skill levels. For those living south of Charlotte, Stonebridge Golf Club is undoubtedly a great choice for a day on the greens.
Address: 2721 Swilcan Burns Drive, Monroe, NC 28112, United States
Conclusion
With its rich history, immaculate landscapes and challenging layouts, the Charlotte area offers a plethora of golfing options to suit all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day out on the fairways or an intense round with friends, there are plenty of courses that can offer both an enjoyable game and stunning scenery. From Charles T. Myers to Donald Ross and beyond, the courses in Charlotte offer something for everyone. So don’t miss out on a chance to hit the greens at one of these amazing golf courses!
