115 Most Popular Public Golf Courses in Maryland
Maryland’s golf courses epitomize the state’s unique beauty, blending intricate designs with landscapes that echo the richness of both the Chesapeake and Appalachia. From the bustling waterfront of Baltimore, the historic ambience of Annapolis, to the mountainous backdrop of Frederick, and the coastal vibes of Ocean City, Maryland’s golfing grounds reflect diversity and allure. I have distinct memories of a round with the Chesapeake Bay glistening in the distance, while another was framed by the rolling peaks of the Catoctin Mountains, their silhouettes stretching across the horizon. In this article, I’ll dive into these treasured golfing moments, emphasizing the finest public courses Maryland has generously showcased to me. Whether you’re attracted to a course with views of the bay’s iconic waterways, or one surrounded by Maryland’s lush hills and valleys, my curated collection conveys the depth and beauty of golfing in Maryland.
Bear Creek Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Westminster
Bear Creek Golf Club in Westminster, Maryland is a hidden gem built in 1989 that offers a challenging yet rewarding round of golf with 18 holes and a par of 71. The course opens as early as 7:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, giving golfers ample time to enjoy the well-maintained Bent Grass greens and Winter Rye fairways. The course is moderately challenging with 30 strategically placed bunkers that add an element of excitement to your game. The greens are typically aerated in May, ensuring optimal playing conditions throughout the season. The cost to play is quite reasonable, at $40 regardless of whether it's a weekday or weekend. However, do note that fivesome golf groups are not allowed, so plan your golf outing accordingly.
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Longview Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Timonium
Longview Golf Course, nestled in Timonium, Maryland, is a well-established course designed by Ed Ault in 1964. This 18-hole course has a par of 70 and is beautifully manicured with Bermuda Grass greens and Winter Rye fairways. With an affordable rate of $17, you can enjoy a round of golf any day of the week, from as early as 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Be prepared for a bit of a challenge as the course boasts 40 bunkers. However, keep in mind that groups of five are not permitted. The greens are typically aerated in April and September, ensuring optimal playing conditions for most of the year.
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Hampshire Greens Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Silver Spring
Hampshire Greens Golf Course, nestled in the heart of Silver Spring, Maryland, offers golfers a meticulously designed 18-hole course by Lisa Maki. Built in 1999, this course features a par of 72 and is adorned with 90 strategically placed bunkers that add a challenging yet enjoyable twist to your game. The course is beautifully maintained with Bent Grass greens that typically get aerated in April and September. The earliest tee time is at 7:00 AM and the course remains open until 5:00 PM. Unfortunately, fivesome golf groups are not permitted. With a flat rate of $51, whether on weekdays or weekends, Hampshire Greens offers a competitive and affordable golfing experience.
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Chesapeake Bay Golf Club Rising Sun - Best Public Golf Course in Rising Sun
If you're a golfer looking for a classic course with a rich history, Chesapeake Bay Golf Club Rising Sun is a must-visit. Built in 1965 by Russell Roberts, this 18-hole course boasts a par of 71 and is beautifully adorned with bent grass greens and fairways. The course opens at dawn with the earliest tee time at 6:00 AM and remains open until dusk, providing plenty of time to enjoy the 30 strategically placed bunkers that add an exciting challenge. Green fees are a reasonable $49, whether you play on a weekday or weekend. Be mindful that the greens are typically aerated in August and fivesomes are not allowed. With its unique blend of history, challenge, and affordability, Chesapeake Bay Golf Club Rising Sun offers a fulfilling golfing experience.
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Worthington Valley Country Club - Best Public Golf Course in Owings Mills
Worthington Valley Country Club, nestled in Owings Mills, Maryland, is a classic golf course that has been challenging golfers since its establishment in 1954 by James W. Duke. This 18-hole course, with a par of 70, is beautifully maintained with Bent Grass greens and Bermuda Grass fairways, promising a great golfing experience. The course is peppered with 20 strategically placed bunkers to test your skills. The club offers tee times as early as 7:00 AM, and with green fees at a reasonable $20, both on weekdays and weekends, it's an affordable choice for golf enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that fivesome groups are not allowed. The course is open until 5:00 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy a full day of golf.
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Lake Arbor Country Club - Best Public Golf Course in Mitchellville
Lake Arbor Country Club in Mitchellville, Maryland is a classic golf course with a rich history dating back to its inception in 1968 by designer Bob Roberts. With a modest price of $45, you can enjoy a round of golf any day of the week, starting as early as 7:00 AM. The course offers a challenging 18 holes with a par of 71 and is well-known for its Bent Grass greens and fairways, which are aerated in March and October for optimal playing conditions. However, be prepared to navigate through 40 strategically placed bunkers that add an extra layer of difficulty to your game. Please note, the course operates under a strict policy of not allowing fivesome golf groups. With operating hours from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Lake Arbor provides ample time for golfers to enjoy a rewarding day on the greens.
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Laytonsville Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Laytonsville
Laytonsville Golf Club in Maryland is a classic course that's been challenging golfers since 1973. This 18-hole course has a par of 70 and is beautifully maintained with Bent Grass greens and Winter Rye fairways. The course opens early at 7:00 AM, and with a reasonable $35 fee for both weekdays and weekends, it's a great option for budget-conscious golfers. However, be aware that fivesomes are not allowed, so plan your group accordingly. The course features 50 strategically placed bunkers, adding a level of complexity to your game. Keep in mind that the greens are typically aerated in April, so you might want to schedule your visit around that time.
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P.B. Dye Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Ijamsville
If you're a golfer who appreciates a well-designed course, then P.B. Dye Golf Club in Ijamsville, Maryland, should be on your list. Opened in 1999, this 18-hole course was crafted by P.B. Dye and boasts a par of 72. You'll navigate through a challenging landscape featuring 90 bunkers, all set on beautiful Bent Grass greens and fairways. Tee times start bright and early at 7:00 AM, with the course staying open until 5:00 PM, and you can expect to pay $89 whether you're swinging on a weekday or weekend. Just keep in mind, they don't allow fivesomes and they typically aerate the greens in September.
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Black Rock Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Hagerstown
Black Rock Golf Course in Hagerstown, Maryland is a charming course built in 1989, designed by Robert Elder. This 18-hole course is a par 72, with a fairway of Bluegrass and a Bent Grass green that is typically aerated in May and August, ensuring a well-maintained playing field. With a very reasonable green fee of $27, regardless of whether you play on a weekday or weekend, it's a great value for the quality of the course. Keep in mind that the earliest tee time is 7:30 AM, and the course stays open until 5:00 PM. It's worth noting that the course houses up to 60 bunkers, adding a bit of a challenge to your game. However, if you're planning on bringing a large group, remember that fivesomes are not allowed.
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Easton Club - Best Public Golf Course in Easton
Easton Club in Easton, Maryland is a well-established golf course, having been designed by Robert D. Rauch in 1994. The course offers a fairly priced experience at $49, whether you choose to play on a weekday or weekend. It's an 18-hole course with a par of 72, featuring Bent Grass greens and fairways, providing a consistent playing surface. The course is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the earliest tee time also at 7:00 AM. It's worth noting that the course has around 50 bunkers adding a level of challenge, however, fivesome golf groups are not allowed. The aeration schedule for the greens varies, so it might be worth checking in advance.
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Eagles Landing - Best Public Golf Course in Berlin
Eagles Landing, located in Berlin, Maryland, is a stunning golf course that was designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and built in 1991. This 18-hole course, with a par of 72, features Bent Grass greens and fairways, and is known for its strategic placement of 50 bunkers. The course is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the earliest tee time at 6:00 AM, and it's worth noting that they typically aerate the greens in March, May, and September. The cost to play is $59, regardless of whether you choose to play on a weekday or the weekend. However, keep in mind that fivesome golf groups aren't permitted here. With its meticulously maintained course and reasonable pricing, Eagles Landing offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
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Mount Pleasant Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Baltimore
Mount Pleasant Golf Course, established in 1934, is a charming 18-hole course nestled in Baltimore, Maryland. With a par of 71, it offers an affordable golf experience at just $13, whether you're playing on a weekday or the weekend. The course opens at 6:00 AM, providing an early start for those who prefer the tranquility of morning golf. The Bent Grass greens and Winter Rye fairways are well-maintained, with aeration typically occurring in the fall months of September and October. However, be prepared to navigate around 50 strategically placed bunkers, adding a layer of challenge to your game. Please note, fivesomes are not permitted, making this course ideal for smaller groups.
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United States Naval Academy Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Annapolis
The United States Naval Academy Golf Club in Annapolis, Maryland is a historic course, designed by William S. Flynn and established in 1940. This 18-hole course offers a par of 71, with its fairways and greens beautifully maintained with Bermuda Grass. The course opens at 7:00 AM, with the earliest tee time also at 7:00 AM, and closes at 5:00 PM. It's quite affordable, costing only $22 for a round, whether you play on a weekday or weekend. However, keep in mind that fivesome groups are not permitted and the course features up to 40 bunkers, adding an extra challenge. Also, the greens are typically aerated in April and September, so plan your visit accordingly.
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