State Directory for public golf courses

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Alabama is a golfer’s paradise, best known for the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, a collection of world-class public courses featuring dramatic elevation changes, pristine fairways, and challenging layouts. Iconic courses like Ross Bridge, Kiva Dunes, and Capitol Hill’s Judge Course offer a mix of parkland, links, and lakeside styles, with Bermuda and Bentgrass surfaces ensuring top playing conditions year-round. Designed by legends like Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jerry Pate, these courses have hosted major tournaments, including PGA TOUR Champions and LPGA events. Alabama’s golf history is rich, from its role in desegregating the sport to producing stars like Justin Thomas. With its affordability, scenic beauty, and top-tier design, Alabama is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking a championship-level experience without the hefty price tag.

Golf in Alaska offers a truly unique experience, with midnight sun tee times, rugged landscapes, and wildlife encounters on the course. The state’s most famous public courses include Moose Run Golf Course (Anchorage), the northernmost 36-hole facility in the U.S., featuring a military-built, forest-lined layout with stunning mountain views. Anchorage Golf Course is another standout, known for its breathtaking views of Denali and moose sightings along the fairways. Given Alaska’s harsh winters, courses often feature cold-resistant Bentgrass and Bluegrass, and many operate with temporary greens in the colder months. Golfing here is a seasonal sport, but in the summer, players can tee off at midnight under 24-hour daylight, making for a bucket-list experience. While Alaska isn’t a golf powerhouse, it does boast a dedicated community, and its wild, untamed courses provide a one-of-a-kind adventure that no other state can offer.

Arizona is a premier golf destination, famous for its desert-style courses, year-round sunshine, and stunning mountain backdrops. Home to over 300 public courses, the state features iconic layouts like TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course), host of the raucous PGA Tour Waste Management Phoenix Open, where Hole 16's stadium-style par 3 is one of the most electric atmospheres in golf. Other must-plays include Troon North (Pinnacle Course) with its cactus-lined fairways and dramatic elevation changes, and We-Ko-Pa (Saguaro Course), a pristine layout with no homes, just pure desert beauty. Designed by legends like Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, and Robert Trent Jones Jr., Arizona courses often feature Bermuda or Ryegrass fairways with Bentgrass or Bermuda greens, adapted for the hot, dry climate. Golf here is deeply embedded in pop culture, with Arizona serving as the backdrop for movies like Tin Cup and a winter escape for golf-loving celebrities. With breathtaking scenery, world-class design, and the ability to play 12 months a year, Arizona is a golfer’s dream.

Arkansas offers a mix of mountain, lake, and parkland courses, making it an underrated but rewarding golf destination. The state’s standout public course is Mystic Creek Golf Club (El Dorado), often ranked among the best in the South, featuring towering pines, deep bunkers, and Augusta-like beauty. Big Creek Golf & Country Club (Mountain Home) is another must-play, known for its immaculate Zoysia fairways and smooth Bentgrass greens. The Natural State Golf Trail, inspired by Alabama’s RTJ Trail, highlights courses like The Ridges at Village Creek, a rolling, tree-lined challenge designed by Andy Dye. Arkansas golf is shaped by its diverse landscapes, from the Ouachita Mountains to the Ozarks, with courses featuring Bermuda, Bentgrass, and Zoysia to handle the state's humid summers and mild winters. The state has produced PGA stars like John Daly, known for his bold style and powerful drives. Whether playing near Hot Springs’ historic courses or alongside the Arkansas River, golf in Arkansas is scenic, affordable, and full of hidden gems.

California is a golfer’s paradise, offering a diverse mix of coastal, desert, and mountain courses, many of which rank among the best in the world. The most iconic public course is Pebble Beach Golf Links, home to multiple U.S. Opens and featuring the legendary par-3 7th hole perched above the Pacific Ocean. Other must-plays include Torrey Pines (San Diego), where Tiger Woods won the 2008 U.S. Open, and Pasatiempo (Santa Cruz), a classic Alister MacKenzie design known for its strategic layout. In the desert, PGA West (Stadium Course in La Quinta) is a Pete Dye masterpiece, famous for the island-green 17th hole, "Alcatraz." California’s courses feature Bentgrass, Poa annua, and Bermuda greens, depending on location, and have been designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Robert Trent Jones Jr. The state is deeply tied to golf history, producing legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, and serving as the setting for golf movies like The Legend of Bagger Vance and Happy Gilmore. With its stunning landscapes, elite course designs, and year-round playability, California is one of the greatest golf states in the world.

Colorado offers high-altitude golf with breathtaking mountain views, dramatic elevation changes, and a mix of parkland and links-style courses. The most iconic public course is Red Sky Golf Club (Norman Course) in Vail, a Greg Norman design with rolling fairways set against the Rockies. Another standout is The Broadmoor (East Course) in Colorado Springs, a classic Donald Ross layout that has hosted multiple U.S. Senior Opens and the U.S. Women's Open. CommonGround Golf Course (Denver), designed by Tom Doak, is a top-notch public course with a Scottish links influence. Given the state's dry climate and high elevation, courses often use Bentgrass greens and Kentucky Bluegrass fairways, with thinner air allowing the ball to travel 10% farther than at sea level. Colorado has produced PGA Tour players like Hale Irwin, a three-time U.S. Open champion. Golf here is also tied to pop culture—movies like Tin Cup have filmed scenes in the state, and ski resorts like Aspen transform into summer golf destinations. With stunning scenery and unique playing conditions, Colorado is a bucket-list stop for golfers.

Connecticut blends classic New England charm with championship golf, featuring courses designed by legends like Pete Dye and Donald Ross. The most famous public course is Lake of Isles (North Course) in North Stonington, a Rees Jones masterpiece with fairways weaving through forests and water hazards. Keney Park Golf Course (Hartford), a historic 1927 Devereux Emmet design, offers a Golden Age parkland layout with modern renovations. Wintonbury Hills (Bloomfield), a Pete Dye links-style course, is one of the best value courses in the region. Connecticut courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, with rolling terrain and tree-lined layouts common in the Northeast. The state has hosted multiple PGA Tour Travelers Championships at TPC River Highlands, where Jim Furyk shot a record-breaking 58 in 2016. Golf in Connecticut offers a mix of history, beauty, and challenge, making it a must-play destination for golfers in the Northeast.

Although Delaware is the second-smallest state, it boasts some scenic coastal golf courses. Bayside Resort Golf Club (Selbyville), designed by Jack Nicklaus, features marshland holes and coastal winds that challenge even low handicappers. Deerfield Golf Club (Newark) is a classic tree-lined course with pristine Bentgrass fairways and an old-school country club feel. White Clay Creek (Wilmington) offers a strategic, water-heavy layout designed by Arthur Hills, demanding precision off the tee. Delaware’s public courses mostly follow a parkland or coastal style, with Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens to handle the summer heat. Golfers often visit the state as part of a larger Mid-Atlantic golf trip, pairing Delaware courses with those in Maryland and New Jersey.

Florida is one of the greatest golf states in the U.S., boasting over 1,000 courses, many of which are open to the public. TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra Beach) is the crown jewel, home to The Players Championship and the infamous island-green 17th hole. Streamsong Resort (Red, Blue, and Black Courses) offers links-style golf unlike anything else in the state, while PGA National (Palm Beach Gardens) hosts the Honda Classic on its Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear Trap stretch. Florida courses are often flat, water-heavy, and feature Bermuda grass, making them fast and firm year-round. The state has produced legends like Tiger Woods and Brooks Koepka and serves as a hub for professional golf, with many PGA Tour players living there. Florida has also been featured in golf movies like "Caddyshack," filmed at the Rolling Hills Golf Club. With year-round play, championship venues, and resort golf, Florida is a top golf destination.

Although Augusta National is private, Georgia still has some must-play public courses. Sea Island Resort (Seaside Course) offers coastal links golf that has hosted multiple PGA Tour events. The McLemore Club (Lookout Mountain) features a jaw-dropping cliffside 18th hole overlooking the valley below. Stone Mountain Golf Club (Atlanta) provides a parkland layout set against the famous Stone Mountain rock formation. Georgia’s courses are known for their Southern-style hospitality, rolling fairways, and strategic bunkering, often featuring Bermuda grass greens and fairways to handle the humid climate. The state has produced stars like Bobby Jones, Davis Love III, and Patrick Reed, and its courses frequently appear in golf history and pop culture.

Hawaii is a golfer’s paradise, offering volcanic landscapes, ocean views, and world-class resort courses. Kapalua (Plantation Course, Maui) is the most famous public course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and the iconic downhill par-5 18th hole, where Tiger Woods and Ernie Els battled in the 2000 Mercedes Championship. Waialae Country Club (Oahu), though private, hosts the Sony Open, but golfers can experience Turtle Bay Resort (Palmer Course) on the North Shore for a links-meets-tropical experience. Hawaii’s courses feature Bermuda and Paspalum grasses, suited for humid and salty conditions. The state has produced talents like Michelle Wie and Tadd Fujikawa, and its golf courses have been featured in movies like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Hawaii Five-0. With breathtaking scenery and year-round tropical golf, Hawaii is a bucket-list destination.

Idaho offers rugged mountain golf with stunning views, river canyons, and pristine fairways. Circling Raven Golf Club (Worley), a Gene Bates design, is the most famous public course, featuring rolling hills and forested fairways on Native American land. Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course is legendary for its floating island green on the 14th hole, a one-of-a-kind challenge requiring a boat ride to the putting surface. Sun Valley Resort provides alpine golf, with elevation changes and tree-lined fairways. Idaho courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, with some high-altitude locations transitioning to Fescue for hardier conditions. The state’s golf history includes PGA Tour player Troy Merritt, and while not a golf mecca, its scenic and secluded courses offer an unforgettable experience.

Illinois blends historic championship golf with top-tier public courses, many of which feature classic parkland designs. The best-known public course is Cog Hill (No. 4 - Dubsdread), a tough-as-nails course that hosted multiple PGA Tour BMW Championships. Harborside International (Chicago) brings a links-style challenge to the Windy City, while The General at Eagle Ridge (Galena) offers dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views. Illinois has a rich golf history, with Chicago Golf Club being one of the five founding USGA clubs and producing stars like Luke Donald and Gary Hallberg. Courses here feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, designed for the hot summers and cold winters. With its strong championship pedigree and affordable yet elite public golf, Illinois is a must-play for serious golfers.

Indiana is home to underrated, high-quality public golf, blending rolling hills, links-style courses, and championship designs. The standout is The Pete Dye Course at French Lick, a brutal yet beautiful layout set atop the state’s highest point, offering stunning views and deep, punishing bunkers. Purgatory Golf Club (Noblesville) is another must-play, featuring more bunkers than fairways and one of the longest layouts in the U.S. Indiana’s courses often feature Bentgrass fairways and greens, suited to the humid summers and cool fall weather. The state is home to golf greats like Fuzzy Zoeller, and its courses have played host to LPGA and senior tour events. While it may not be the first state golfers think of, Indiana’s affordable, challenging, and well-designed courses make it a hidden gem.

Iowa may not be a household name in golf, but it boasts rolling farmland courses, tree-lined fairways, and hidden gems. The standout public course is The Harvester (Rhodes), a Keith Foster design known for its pristine Bentgrass fairways, deep bunkers, and strategic water hazards. Spirit Hollow (Burlington) is another top-rated course, featuring natural elevation changes and challenging approach shots. Iowa courses primarily use Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, ideal for handling the harsh winters and humid summers. The state has produced PGA Tour talent like Zach Johnson, a Masters and Open Champion, and hosts the Principal Charity Classic, a Champions Tour event. While golf here flies under the radar, its scenic rural layouts and affordability make it a great stop for Midwest golfers.

Kansas is known for wide-open prairie courses, strong winds, and firm fairways, creating a links-style experience in the heart of America. The best-known public course is Firekeeper Golf Course (Mayetta), a Native American-owned championship layout blending seamlessly with the rolling Kansas landscape. Colbert Hills (Manhattan), designed by Jim Colbert, is a long and challenging university course with native grasses and vast fairways. Kansas courses often feature Zoysia or Bermuda fairways with Bentgrass greens, adapted for the state’s hot summers and cold winters. The state has a strong golf tradition, producing legends like Tom Watson, one of the greatest links players of all time. While Kansas may not have ocean winds, its open landscapes and firm ground create a true test of shot-making.

Kentucky blends mountainous terrain, rolling hills, and river valley golf, offering a variety of course styles. The most famous public course is Kearney Hill Golf Links (Lexington), a Scottish-style links layout with deep bunkers and fescue-lined fairways. Gibson Bay Golf Course (Richmond) is another standout, offering a challenging but fair parkland experience. Kentucky courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways, ideal for the state’s humid summers and mild winters. The state has a deep golf history, producing stars like J.B. Holmes and Kenny Perry, and it hosts the Barbasol Championship, a PGA Tour event. With affordable courses, scenic landscapes, and a growing golf culture, Kentucky is a hidden gem for golfers in the Southeast.

Louisiana offers swampy, bayou-lined courses with a unique Southern charm, blending coastal, parkland, and marshland golf. The best-known public course is TPC Louisiana (Avondale), a Pete Dye design that hosts the PGA Tour’s Zurich Classic and features deep bunkers, cypress trees, and risk-reward water hazards. The Bluffs at Thompson Creek (St. Francisville) is a rolling, forested Arnold Palmer design, offering a great mix of playability and challenge. Louisiana courses often use Bermuda grass greens and fairways, handling the state’s humid and subtropical climate. Golf is deeply tied to New Orleans culture, and the state’s golf courses have hosted numerous celebrity events and Pro-Ams. With great food, rich history, and fun courses, Louisiana offers a golf experience unlike any other.

Maine offers rugged, scenic golf with ocean views, dense forests, and mountainous backdrops, making it a hidden gem for golfers. The most famous public course is Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, a Clive Clark design featuring elevated tees, stunning lake views, and natural rock formations. Sugarloaf Golf Club, set in the Carrabassett Valley, is a mountainous course with dramatic elevation changes and tight, tree-lined fairways. Maine’s courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, thriving in the cool summers and harsh winters. The state’s secluded golf atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it a perfect summer golf destination. While not known for professional golf, Maine’s classic New England charm and natural beauty create a one-of-a-kind golf experience.

Maryland blends coastal, parkland, and links-style courses, making it one of the most diverse golf states. Bulle Rock (Havre de Grace), a Pete Dye masterpiece, is the state’s most famous public course and former LPGA Championship host, featuring deep bunkers and demanding tee shots. Links at Lighthouse Sound (Ocean City) offers stunning Chesapeake Bay views and the longest cart bridge in America. Maryland courses use Bentgrass greens and fairways, with some coastal courses incorporating Fescue and Paspalum for salt resistance. The state is home to Congressional Country Club, a historic major championship venue, and has produced golfers like Fred Funk. With its proximity to D.C., championship courses, and scenic coastal layouts, Maryland offers a high-end golf experience for all skill levels.

Massachusetts is steeped in golf history, featuring Golden Age designs, coastal links, and tree-lined parkland courses. The Ranch Golf Club (Southwick) is one of the best public courses, offering rolling fairways and classic New England beauty. Crumpin-Fox Club (Bernardston), a challenging Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, is known for its tight fairways and undulating greens. Granite Links (Quincy), overlooking Boston’s skyline, provides a modern links-style experience. Massachusetts courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, built for cooler temperatures and unpredictable coastal winds. The state has a rich golf history, producing Francis Ouimet, the 1913 U.S. Open champion who helped popularize golf in America. With storied courses and breathtaking landscapes, Massachusetts remains a top golf destination in the Northeast.

Michigan is one of the best public golf states in the U.S., featuring lakefront courses, forested layouts, and championship resort golf. The most famous public course is Arcadia Bluffs (Arcadia), a links-style masterpiece on Lake Michigan, often compared to Whistling Straits. Forest Dunes (Roscommon) features a Tom Doak reversible course, changing routing daily for two unique experiences. Tullymore Golf Resort is another must-play, known for its undulating greens and challenging shot selections. Michigan courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, thriving in cool summers and snowy winters. The state has produced PGA legends like Walter Hagen and Jack Nicklaus’ course designs have a strong presence here. With over 650 public courses and world-class golf resorts, Michigan is a must-visit for any serious golfer.

Minnesota is a hidden gem for golf, offering lush parkland courses, lakefront views, and some of the best public golf in the Midwest. The standout is The Quarry at Giants Ridge (Biwabik), a dramatic course built on an old mining site, featuring deep hazards and rugged rock formations. The Classic at Madden’s (Brainerd) is another highly rated course, offering pristine Bentgrass fairways and a true Northwoods golf experience. Minnesota courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, thriving in cool summers and long winters. The state has a rich golf history, hosting multiple U.S. Opens at Hazeltine National and producing pros like Tom Lehman. With its affordable public courses and scenic landscapes, Minnesota is a must-visit for summer golf trips.

Mississippi blends bayou golf, coastal resort courses, and deep Southern traditions, making it a unique golf destination. The best-known public course is Fallen Oak (Saucier), a Tom Fazio masterpiece with towering pines, pristine fairways, and exclusive casino-resort access. Dancing Rabbit Golf Club (Philadelphia) offers two stunning courses, featuring rolling hills and classic Southern charm. Mississippi courses typically use Bermuda grass greens and fairways, perfect for the hot, humid summers. The state is home to The Sanderson Farms Championship, a PGA Tour event, and has produced notable players like Jim Gallagher Jr. With its affordable green fees, casino resorts, and year-round golf, Mississippi is a growing destination for golf travelers.

Missouri is home to Ozark Mountain golf, championship resort courses, and historic links. The most famous public course is Payne’s Valley (Hollister), a Tiger Woods-designed course featuring dramatic elevation changes and a jaw-dropping 19th-hole island green. Buffalo Ridge Springs (Branson) is another top-ranked course, blending rolling fairways with scenic rock formations. Missouri courses often feature Zoysia fairways and Bentgrass greens, perfect for the humid summers and cooler fall conditions. The state has a strong golf tradition, producing Hale Irwin, one of the greatest U.S. Open champions. Branson has become a golf mecca, with world-class resorts and championship courses, making Missouri a top destination in the Midwest.

Montana offers mountain golf at its finest, featuring dramatic elevation changes, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. The most famous public course is Old Works (Anaconda), a Jack Nicklaus design built on an old copper mining site, with black slag bunkers and wide fairways. The Wilderness Club (Eureka) is another stunning mountain course, offering panoramic views and pristine conditioning. Montana’s courses primarily feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, built for cool summers and harsh winters. The state’s rugged terrain and remote courses create a peaceful, bucket-list golf experience. While Montana isn’t known for professional golf, its high-end resort courses and breathtaking scenery make it a top summer golf destination.

Nebraska is home to some of the most stunning links-style golf in the country, with rolling sand dunes, firm fairways, and wide-open prairie landscapes. The most famous public course is Wild Horse Golf Club (Gothenburg), often compared to Scottish links courses, with firm fairways, deep bunkers, and strong prairie winds. Awarii Dunes (Axtell) and Tatanka Golf Club (Niobrara) continue the sandhills tradition, blending rugged terrain with strategic shot-making. The courses in Nebraska often feature Fescue fairways and Bentgrass greens, ideal for the firm and fast playing conditions. Nebraska is also home to Sand Hills Golf Club, a top private course that has influenced minimalist golf course design worldwide. While the state lacks PGA Tour history, it has become a destination for purist golfers seeking the truest links-style golf experience in America.

Nevada is a state of golf extremes, featuring desert landscapes, casino golf resorts, and mountain-backed courses. The most famous public course is Shadow Creek (Las Vegas), a Tom Fazio masterpiece that feels like an oasis in the desert, with lush fairways, waterfalls, and VIP exclusivity. Wolf Creek (Mesquite) is another iconic course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and canyon-style holes that feel straight out of a video game. Paiute Golf Resort (Las Vegas) offers three world-class Pete Dye courses, known for challenging desert winds and fast greens. Nevada courses primarily feature Bermuda or Rye fairways with Bentgrass or Paspalum greens, built for the hot, dry climate. Las Vegas has hosted countless celebrity tournaments, high-stakes matches, and PGA Tour events like The Shriners Open, making it one of the most exciting golf destinations in the country.

New Hampshire offers classic New England golf, with mountain courses, tree-lined fairways, and stunning autumn foliage. The most famous public course is Bald Peak Colony Club (Melvin Village), a historic course with stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains. Owl’s Nest Golf Resort (Thornton) is another top-ranked public course, featuring rolling terrain and challenging elevation changes. New Hampshire courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, perfect for the cooler summers and harsh winters. While the state isn’t a major golf hub, it’s known for its quaint, scenic courses and affordable green fees. Golf here is all about peaceful rounds, fall colors, and mountain vistas, making it a perfect golf getaway.

New Jersey is home to championship golf, historic courses, and Atlantic coastal layouts. The most famous public course is Ballyowen Golf Club (Hamburg), a true links-style course with rolling dunes and fescue-lined fairways. Twisted Dune (Egg Harbor Township) offers another authentic links experience, with wide-open fairways and deep bunkers. Atlantic City Country Club, while semi-private, is a historic gem where the term "birdie" was first coined. New Jersey courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Rye fairways, built for the humid summers and snowy winters. The state has a deep golf history, producing legends like Byron Nelson and Johnny Farrell, and is home to iconic courses like Pine Valley and Baltusrol. With its strong golf pedigree and world-class public courses, New Jersey is an underrated powerhouse in the golf world.

New Mexico offers high-desert golf with stunning red rock formations, rolling terrain, and a unique Southwestern feel. The most famous public course is Black Mesa Golf Club (Espanola), a rugged course carved into the desert landscape with natural elevation changes and deep arroyos. Paa-Ko Ridge Golf Club (Sandia Park) is another highly ranked course, featuring breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and fast, undulating greens. Twin Warriors Golf Club (Santa Ana Pueblo) is a Champions Tour host course, featuring desert canyons and native vegetation. New Mexico courses often use Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens, suited for the dry, high-altitude climate. The state has a deep connection to Native American golf heritage, with many courses built on tribal lands. With dramatic scenery and championship-level designs, New Mexico is a bucket-list destination for desert golf.

New York is home to some of the most historic, challenging, and diverse golf courses in the country, from coastal links to upstate mountain layouts. The most famous public course is Bethpage Black (Farmingdale), a U.S. Open host and one of the most difficult public courses in the world, known for its brutal rough and iconic warning sign at the first tee. Atunyote Golf Club (Verona), part of Turning Stone Resort, offers a pristine, parkland-style experience and has hosted PGA Tour events. Leatherstocking Golf Course (Cooperstown) is a classic course with stunning lake views and a timeless Golden Age design. New York courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, built for the humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The state has a rich golf history, producing legends like Gene Sarazen and Walter Hagen. With its world-class courses, major championships, and deep golf culture, New York is a bucket-list state for any golfer.

North Carolina is one of the best golf destinations in the U.S., featuring championship resort courses, mountain layouts, and historic designs. The most famous public course is Pinehurst No. 2 (Pinehurst), a Donald Ross masterpiece that has hosted multiple U.S. Opens, known for its turtleback greens and strategic shot-making. Tobacco Road (Sanford) offers a wild, dramatic design with enormous bunkers and risk-reward holes. Linville Golf Club (Linville) is a classic mountain course with stunning Blue Ridge scenery and rich history. The state’s courses often feature Bermuda fairways with Bentgrass greens in the mountains and Champion Bermuda greens in the warmer regions. North Carolina has produced legends like Davis Love III and is home to the Wyndham Championship and the Wells Fargo Championship. With its golfing heritage, year-round play, and stunning landscapes, North Carolina is a must-visit for any golfer.

North Dakota is an underrated golf state, offering prairie links-style courses, rugged landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere. The best public course is Hawktree Golf Club (Bismarck), known for its black coal slag bunkers, open fairways, and rolling hills. Bully Pulpit Golf Course (Medora) is another stunning course, set against the backdrop of the Badlands, featuring dramatic elevation changes and scenic canyon holes. North Dakota’s courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, thriving in the cool summers and long winters. While the state doesn’t have PGA Tour ties, it is known for its quiet, affordable, and scenic courses. For golfers looking for wide-open spaces, natural beauty, and a unique golf experience, North Dakota delivers.

Ohio has a rich golf tradition, featuring parkland-style championship courses, Golden Age designs, and top public golf destinations. The most famous public course is Firestone Country Club (Akron), a former WGC-Bridgestone Invitational host, known for its long fairways and challenging greens. Virtues Golf Club (Nashport) is another top-ranked public course, featuring rolling terrain and pristine conditions. Manakiki Golf Course (Willoughby) is a Donald Ross design that showcases classic architecture and strategic bunkering. Ohio courses often feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, built for the mild summers and cold winters. The state has produced golf greats like Jack Nicklaus, one of the greatest players of all time. With its championship-level courses, historic designs, and deep golf roots, Ohio is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

Oklahoma offers prairie-style golf, championship resort courses, and historic tournament venues, making it an exciting golf destination. The best public course is Karsten Creek Golf Club (Stillwater), home to Oklahoma State’s powerhouse golf program, featuring tall native grasses, rolling hills, and a challenging layout. Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club (Norman) is another high-level course, hosting numerous amateur and collegiate championships. Forest Ridge Golf Club (Broken Arrow) is a classic parkland course with tree-lined fairways and a country club feel. Oklahoma courses often feature Zoysia fairways and Bentgrass or Bermuda greens, designed for hot summers and windy conditions. The state has produced top players like Rickie Fowler and Scott Verplank, and is home to major championship venues like Southern Hills Country Club. With its affordable golf, challenging layouts, and passionate golf culture, Oklahoma is a rising destination for golfers.

Oregon is one of the best public golf states in America, offering coastal links, mountain courses, and stunning Pacific Northwest scenery. The crown jewel is Bandon Dunes Golf Resort (Bandon), a world-famous links golf destination featuring five courses, firm fescue fairways, and breathtaking ocean views. Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club (North Plains) has hosted major championships, including Tiger Woods’ famous U.S. Amateur victory. Crosswater Club (Sunriver) blends riverfront views with championship-caliber shot-making. Oregon courses often feature Fescue fairways and Bentgrass greens, thriving in the mild, rainy climate. The state is a golf mecca, attracting purists and resort-goers alike, and has become a bucket-list destination for anyone who loves links-style golf.

Pennsylvania is a golf-rich state with historic courses, parkland layouts, and legendary designers. The best public course is Omni Bedford Springs (Bedford), a classic Golden Age course designed by Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast, featuring pristine fairways and challenging greens. Olde Stonewall (Ellwood City) is another top-ranked public course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and medieval castle-style clubhouse. Nemacolin Resort (Farmington) offers high-end golf with stunning mountain views. Pennsylvania courses often feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, thriving in the mild summers and snowy winters. The state has produced legends like Arnold Palmer, and its private clubs—such as Oakmont and Merion—have hosted multiple U.S. Opens. With its rich history, top-tier public courses, and scenic landscapes, Pennsylvania is a must-visit golf state.

Rhode Island, despite being the smallest state, has a strong golf culture, historic courses, and coastal layouts. The best public course is Newport National Golf Club (Middletown), a stunning links-style course with ocean breezes and firm, fast fairways. Triggs Memorial Golf Course (Providence), a Donald Ross design, offers a classic challenge with deep bunkers and strategic greens. Meadow Brook Golf Course (Richmond) provides a modern championship experience with pristine conditioning. Rhode Island courses often feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, built for the humid summers and cool coastal winds. The state has a deep golf tradition, having hosted the first U.S. Open in 1895 at Newport Country Club. With its New England charm, rich golf history, and oceanfront scenery, Rhode Island offers a unique golf experience.

South Carolina is one of the most popular golf states in America, featuring coastal resort courses, championship links, and historic tournament venues. The most famous public course is Harbour Town Golf Links (Hilton Head), a Pete Dye masterpiece known for its tight fairways, small greens, and iconic lighthouse backdrop. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is a PGA Championship host and one of the toughest courses in the country, featuring ocean winds and deep bunkers. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club (Pawleys Island) offers a scenic Lowcountry experience with massive live oaks and stunning marsh views. South Carolina courses often feature Bermuda greens and fairways, thriving in the warm coastal climate. The state has produced PGA stars like Dustin Johnson and hosts the RBC Heritage every year. With Myrtle Beach being the “Golf Capital of the World,” South Carolina is a dream destination for any golfer.

South Dakota offers scenic prairie golf, Badlands landscapes, and underrated hidden gems. The best public course is The Golf Club at Red Rock (Rapid City), featuring rolling fairways, elevation changes, and dramatic rock formations. Hart Ranch Golf Club (Rapid City) is another highly-rated course, known for its well-maintained fairways and peaceful setting. Southern Hills Golf Course (Hot Springs) blends natural beauty with challenging holes. South Dakota courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, thriving in the short but pleasant golf season. While the state doesn’t have a deep PGA Tour history, it provides affordable, scenic, and peaceful golf experiences in a unique setting.

Tennessee features mountain golf, riverfront courses, and historic Southern layouts, making it a golf-rich destination. The best public course is Sweetens Cove Golf Club (South Pittsburg), a nine-hole cult favorite with creative design, wild greens, and a minimalist feel. Bear Trace at Harrison Bay (Harrison) is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course with beautiful lake views and challenging risk-reward holes. The Course at Sewanee (Sewanee) offers classic Golden Age design elements in a scenic mountain setting. Tennessee courses often feature Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens, thriving in the humid summers and mild winters. The state has produced legendary golfers like Lou Graham and has hosted PGA Tour stops in Memphis, home of the WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational. With its diverse landscapes, affordable courses, and Southern hospitality, Tennessee is an exciting golf destination.

Texas is a golf powerhouse, offering desert layouts, championship resort courses, and historic tournament venues. The best public course is Omni Barton Creek (Austin), a luxury golf destination featuring multiple top-tier courses in the Texas Hill Country. Memorial Park Golf Course (Houston), host of the PGA Tour’s Houston Open, is a top-rated public track known for its challenging layout and fast greens. TPC San Antonio (San Antonio) features two championship courses that have hosted PGA Tour events, with rolling terrain and native Texas landscapes. Texas courses often feature Bermuda greens and fairways, designed to handle the hot, dry summers. The state has produced major champions like Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson, and Jordan Spieth, and is home to some of the most passionate golf fans in the country. With its big landscapes, championship courses, and year-round play, Texas is one of the best states for golf.

Utah is a hidden gem for golf, featuring mountain courses, desert landscapes, and some of the most unique scenery in the country. The best public course is Sand Hollow Resort (Hurricane), a stunning red rock course that looks like it belongs in a postcard. Soldier Hollow (Midway) is another top-ranked course, offering breathtaking Wasatch Mountain views and pristine conditions. Thanksgiving Point Golf Club (Lehi) provides championship-caliber golf with dramatic elevation changes and deep bunkers. Utah courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, built for the high-altitude conditions and dry climate. While Utah isn’t a PGA Tour hub, it has hosted major amateur events and Korn Ferry Tour stops. With its unique landscapes and high-quality public courses, Utah is a dream destination for adventurous golfers.

Vermont offers mountain golf, peaceful landscapes, and classic New England charm, making it an underrated golf destination. The best public course is Green Mountain National Golf Course (Killington), featuring rolling fairways, tree-lined holes, and stunning fall foliage. Stratton Mountain Golf Club (Stratton) offers a championship-caliber experience with sweeping mountain views. The Golf Club at Equinox (Manchester) is a historic course dating back to 1927, known for its timeless design and challenging greens. Vermont courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, built for the cool summers and snowy winters. The state has hosted major amateur events and is known for its scenic, laid-back golf experience. If you’re looking for peaceful golf surrounded by nature, Vermont is the place to be.

Virginia has a rich golf history, championship-level courses, and coastal resort layouts, making it a top golf state on the East Coast. The best public course is The Omni Homestead (Cascades Course) in Hot Springs, a classic William Flynn design that blends strategic play with breathtaking mountain scenery. Golden Horseshoe Golf Club (Williamsburg) offers a Robert Trent Jones masterpiece with deep bunkers and immaculate conditioning. Potomac Shores Golf Club (Dumfries) is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course known for its challenging greens and Potomac River views. Virginia courses often feature Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens, built for the humid summers and mild winters. The state has a deep PGA Tour and USGA history, hosting events like the Presidents Cup at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. With its golfing tradition, historic courses, and year-round play, Virginia is a must-visit for golfers.

Washington is home to stunning coastal and mountain golf courses, championship layouts, and lush Pacific Northwest scenery. The best public course is Chambers Bay (University Place), a true links-style course that hosted the 2015 U.S. Open, known for its rolling dunes and fescue fairways. Gamble Sands (Brewster) is another top-ranked course, featuring wide fairways, firm-and-fast conditions, and jaw-dropping Columbia River views. Salish Cliffs Golf Club (Shelton) provides a pristine Pacific Northwest golf experience with towering trees and challenging shot-making. Washington courses often feature Fescue fairways and Bentgrass greens, thriving in the cool, rainy climate. The state has produced PGA stars like Fred Couples and is home to a strong amateur and collegiate golf scene. With its world-class public courses and breathtaking landscapes, Washington is a bucket-list destination for golf enthusiasts.

West Virginia offers mountain golf, resort courses, and peaceful, scenic layouts. The best public course is The Greenbrier (Old White TPC), a PGA Tour stop with deep history, challenging greens, and beautiful mountain scenery. Pikewood National Golf Club (Morgantown) is an elite, pure golf experience with a rugged, natural setting and championship-caliber conditions. Stonewall Resort (Roanoke) provides a picturesque lakefront golf experience with rolling fairways and a peaceful setting. West Virginia courses often feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, built for the cool mountain climate. The state has a deep golf history, with legends like Sam Snead calling The Greenbrier home. With its affordable golf, incredible scenery, and high-quality resort courses, West Virginia is a hidden gem for golfers.

Wisconsin is a golf powerhouse, featuring major championship venues, top-tier public courses, and scenic lakeside layouts. The best public course is Whistling Straits (Straits Course, Kohler), a Pete Dye masterpiece that has hosted PGA Championships and the Ryder Cup, featuring dramatic bunkering and Lake Michigan views. Erin Hills (Hartford) is another top-ranked championship course, known for its rolling hills and firm fairways. Lawsonia Links (Green Lake) is a classic Golden Age design that provides a pure links experience in the Midwest. Wisconsin courses often feature Bentgrass greens and fairways, thriving in the cool summer and long winter seasons. The state has produced golf stars like Steve Stricker and is home to some of the best public golf courses in the country. If you’re looking for world-class golf with Midwest hospitality, Wisconsin is a must-visit.

Wyoming is an underrated golf state, featuring wide-open prairie courses, mountain layouts, and breathtaking scenery. The best public course is Teton Pines Country Club (Jackson), offering stunning views of the Teton Mountains and a championship-caliber layout. Snake River Sporting Club (Jackson) is another top-tier course, blending rugged landscapes with pristine fairways and strategic design. Three Crowns Golf Club (Casper) offers a fun and challenging experience with rolling terrain and water hazards. Wyoming courses typically feature Bentgrass greens and Bluegrass fairways, built for the short golf season and dry climate. While the state doesn’t have PGA Tour ties, it provides a peaceful, scenic, and affordable golf experience. For golfers who love the great outdoors and wide-open fairways, Wyoming delivers a one-of-a-kind experience.