North Carolina is home to a rich variety of public golf courses, each steeped in its unique history and offering distinct challenges. From classic, time-honored layouts to modern designs that blend scenic beauty with top-notch playability, our guide presents an eclectic mix of must-play venues in the Tar Heel State. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, get ready to explore courses that promise both affordable green fees and unforgettable rounds.
Below, you’ll find our reimagined list of North Carolina public golf courses—shuffled into a refreshed order to highlight hidden gems alongside recognized classics.
1. Oyster Bay Golf Links – Sunset Beach
Established in 1983 and crafted by Dan Maples, Oyster Bay Golf Links is a distinctive 18-hole, par-70 layout featuring Tifeagle greens and Bermuda fairways. With an abundance of bunkers—70 in total—this course challenges you from the first tee at 6:30 AM. At a rate of $102 per round, golfers also benefit from an online tee time reservation system and the option to play in fivesomes.
- Phone: (910) 579-3528
- Address: 614 Lakeshore Dr, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
- Slope: Men's 134
- USGA Rating: Men's 71.6
2. Reynolds Park Golf Course – Winston-Salem
A charming course designed by Ellis Maples in 1930, Reynolds Park Golf Course offers a historical touch with 18 holes at par-71. Its Bent Grass greens and Bermuda fairways are home to 40 bunkers that add just the right amount of challenge. Open from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, this affordable gem charges only $21 and welcomes fivesome groups.
- Phone: (336) 650-7660
- Address: 2391 Reynolds Park Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
- Slope: Men's 118
- USGA Rating: Men's 70.0
3. Twin Oaks Golf Club – Statesville
Twin Oaks Golf Club, a long-standing favorite in Statesville, features a traditional 18-hole, par-72 layout. With tight, well-manicured Bent Grass greens and only 20 bunkers peppered across the course, Twin Oaks offers a relaxed yet engaging round at an unbeatable flat rate of $15.
- Phone: (704) 872-3979
- Address: 320 Twin Oaks Rd, Statesville, NC 28625
- Slope: Men's 112
- USGA Rating: Men's 69.2
4. Laurel Ridge Country Club – Waynesville
In the scenic town of Waynesville, Laurel Ridge Country Club delivers a refined golfing experience. Established in 1986 by Bob Cupp, this 18-hole course (par 72) boasts beautifully maintained Bent Grass greens and fairways. With 30 well-placed bunkers and a green fee of $62, this venue combines charm with challenge—albeit with no accommodations for fivesome groups.
- Phone: (828) 452-0545
- Address: 49 Cupp Ln, Waynesville, NC 28786
5. Wilmington Municipal Golf Course – Wilmington
A true Donald Ross design dating back to 1926, Wilmington Municipal Golf Course offers an 18-hole, par-71 layout that embodies classic golf. With meticulously groomed Bent Grass greens and Bermuda fairways plus an impressive 80 bunkers, this course offers plenty of challenge at a modest fee of $17—though fivesomes are not permitted.
- Phone: (910) 791-0558
- Address: 311 Donald Ross Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409
- Slope: Men's 118
- USGA Rating: Men's 70.5
6. Wedgewood Country Club – Wilson
For an affordable yet classic golfing excursion, Wedgewood Country Club in Wilson stands out. Built in 1969, this par-72 course features Bermuda grass greens and fairways, 50 bunkers for strategic challenge, and an unbeatable rate of just $12 per round. Note that fivesomes are not allowed.
- Phone: (252) 237-4761
- Address: Old Stantonburg Rd, Wilson, NC 27893
- Slope: Men's 119
- USGA Rating: Men's 68.2
7. Wolf Creek Golf Course – Reidsville
Established in 1956 and designed by John Johnson, Wolf Creek Golf Course is a par-70, 18-hole layout notable for its simplicity—offering no bunkers at all. Its Bent Grass greens and Bermuda fairways create a consistent playing surface. With a green fee of only $11, Wolf Creek is ideal for budget-minded golfers and permits metal spikes for added traction.
- Phone: (336) 349-7660
- Address: 722 Wolf Island Rd, Reidsville, NC 27320
8. Hedingham Golf Club – Raleigh
Located in central Raleigh and crafted by David Postlethwait in 1991, Hedingham Golf Club offers a well-balanced 18-hole, par-72 layout. With over 30 bunkers testing your skills and a modest green fee of $39, this course delivers both challenge and value. Note that fivesomes are not allowed.
- Phone: (919) 250-3030
- Address: 4801 Harbour Towne Dr, Raleigh, NC 27604
- Slope: Men's 139
- USGA Rating: Men's 74.4
9. Whispering Woods Golf Course – Whispering Pines
Designed by Dan & Ellis Maples in 1974, Whispering Woods Golf Course boasts a challenging par-70 layout surrounded by nature. With well-groomed Bent Grass greens, Bermuda fairways, and 40 bunkers, this course offers a spirited test for every player. Operating from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it welcomes fivesome groups in a friendly setting.
- Phone: (910) 949-4653
- Address: 26 Sandpiper Dr, Whispering Pines, NC 28327
- Slope: Men's 122
- USGA Rating: Men's 70.5
10. Founders Club at St. James – Southport
A prestigious challenge designed by P. B. Dye in 1991, Founders Club at St. James is not for the faint of heart. With an 18-hole, par-72 layout peppered with nearly 1000 bunkers, this course delivers a truly unique and demanding round. Although it does not permit fivesomes, its flat rate of $72 makes it a coveted choice for experienced golfers.
- Phone: (910) 253-3008
- Address: 3021 Beaver Creek Dr, Southport, NC 28461
- Slope: Men's 151
- USGA Rating: Men's 76.2
11. Pine Grove Golf Club – Shelby
A municipal favorite in Shelby, Pine Grove Golf Club is known for its affordability and friendly atmosphere. This 18-hole, par-70 course is maintained with Bermuda grass throughout and is an ideal spot for family outings or casual rounds. With a green fee of only $14 and open tee times beginning at 6:00 AM, it delivers quality golf without breaking the bank.
- Phone: (704) 487-0455
- Address: 1108 Costner Rd, Shelby, NC 28150
- Slope: Men's 110
- USGA Rating: Men's 67.9
12. Sanford Golf Course – Sanford
A Donald Ross classic built in 1934, Sanford Golf Course offers an 18-hole, par-71 layout that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern playability. The Bermuda greens and fairways are immaculate, while 20 well-placed bunkers offer a strategic challenge. With a flat fee of only $12 and flexible tee times, Sanford is a beloved destination that even welcomes fivesome play.
- Phone: (919) 777-1901
- Address: 600 Golf Course Rd, Sanford, NC 27330
- Slope: Men's 120
- USGA Rating: Men's 69.9
13. Sapphire Mountain Golf Club – Sapphire
Designed by Ron Garl in 1982, Sapphire Mountain Golf Club offers a visually striking and challenging 18-hole, par-70 layout in scenic Sapphire. With 40 bunkers and well-maintained Bent Grass greens, it provides an excellent test of strategy. Operating from 7:00 AM with tee times at 7:30 AM, its green fee of $87 and online reservation availability make it a modern favorite.
- Phone: (828) 743-1174
- Address: 50 Slicers Ave, Sapphire, NC 28774
- Slope: Men's 119
- USGA Rating: Men's 69.3
14. McCanless Golf Club – Salisbury
Since 1951, McCanless Golf Club in Salisbury has provided a unique experience with its lovingly maintained 18-hole, par-72 layout. Designed by Ken Monroe and set on lush Bermuda grass, its simple yet engaging course is offered at a bargain rate of $13 per round and welcomes fivesomes.
- Phone: (704) 637-1235
- Address: 3515 Stokes Ferry Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146
15. Cleghorn Plantation Golf & Country Club – Rutherfordton
A beautifully restored layout originally conceived by George Cobb in 1972, Cleghorn Plantation offers an 18-hole, par-72 challenge amid rugged terrain and 40 strategic bunkers. With a green fee of $32 and excellent course conditions maintained year-round, it’s a must-play for those seeking a taste of classic North Carolina golf.
- Phone: (828) 286-9117
- Address: 183 Golf Cir, Rutherfordton, NC 28139
- Slope: Men's 134
- USGA Rating: Men's 74.6
16. Wake Forest Golf & Country Club – Wake Forest
This classic course, designed by Donald Ross and updated over the years, offers a polished 18-hole, par-72 layout that challenges golfers with its fast Bent Grass greens and Bermuda fairways. Operating from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a fee of $45, Wake Forest remains a perennial favorite—though fivesomes are not permitted.
- Slope: Men's 139
- USGA Rating: Men's 74.4
17. Olde Beau Golf Club – Roaring Gap
In the tranquil setting of Roaring Gap, Olde Beau Golf Club delivers an exquisitely designed 18-hole, par-72 course by Bruce Satterfield (1990). With over 60 bunkers, a distinctly picturesque Bluegrass fairway, and tee times starting at 8:00 AM, Olde Beau promises a premium experience for $60 per round—though fivesomes are not allowed.
- Phone: (336) 363-3333
- Address: 729 Olde Beau Blvd, Roaring Gap, NC 28668
- Slope: Men's 139
- USGA Rating: Men's 72.0
18. Hyland Hills Country Club – Southern Pines
A must-play in Southern Pines, Hyland Hills Country Club offers a challenging 18-hole, par-72 layout designed by Tom Jackson in 1965. With 80 intricately placed bunkers, pristine Bent Grass greens, and Bermuda fairways, this course delights at a green fee of $38. Fivesome groups are welcome, making it ideal for a day outing.
- Phone: (910) 692-6400
- Address: 115 Fairway Ave, Southern Pines, NC 28387
- Slope: Men's 128
- USGA Rating: Men's 71.5
Final Thoughts
North Carolina’s public courses showcase the best of both tradition and innovation, guaranteeing a round for every style of golfer. Whether you’re drawn to the historic fairways of Reynolds Park or the contemporary challenges at Oyster Bay, each venue offers its own unique slice of North Carolina golf. So pick a course (or several!) and get ready for a memorable day on the greens.