Kentucky, known for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, offers some of the finest golf courses in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the Bluegrass State boasts a variety of courses that cater to all skill levels.
These courses provide an unforgettable golfing experience, from lush fairways to challenging greens.
Golf enthusiasts will find Kentucky’s courses not only visually stunning but also rich in history and tradition. Each course has its unique charm and challenges, making it a must-visit destination for golfers.
In this article, we’ll explore the 13 best golf courses in Kentucky, highlighting what makes each one special and why they deserve a spot on your golfing bucket list.
So, get your clubs ready and prepare to discover the premier golf destinations in the heart of the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re interested in public courses, exclusive clubs, or hidden gems, you’ll find something to suit your preferences and elevate your game.
The Ultimate List: 13 Must-Play Golf Courses in Kentucky
Kentucky is home to stunning golf courses that cater to every skill level. Discover the ultimate list of 13 must-play courses in the Bluegrass State for unforgettable golfing experiences.
1. Gibson Bay Golf Course
Gibson Bay Golf Course in Richmond, Kentucky stands out as a premier public golfing destination. Designed by the esteemed Dr. Michael Hurdzan, the course boasts some of the finest conditions in the state. Golfers praise its well-maintained greens and challenging layout.
With a green fee of only $30, it offers exceptional value for its quality. Visitors frequently highlight its scenic beauty and top-notch facilities. Reviews, like one from user hornedwoodchuck, describe it as “one of the best in Ky.”
This course is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast seeking an outstanding golfing experience in Kentucky.
2. Mineral Mound Golf Course
Mineral Mound Golf Course in Eddyville, Kentucky, is celebrated for its excellent condition and tight fairways, making it ideal for straight hitters. With a $19 green fee, it’s a municipal treasure.
Although the site lacks a driving range, one is available 3 miles away for $5 small buckets. The friendly and professional staff further elevate the course’s reputation.
User reviews emphasize the need for extra balls for those who veer off course and commend the course’s quality and appeal to both locals and visitors.
Other amenities include a pro shop stocked with essential gear and a comfortable clubhouse where players can relax post-game. Additionally, the scenic views along the course provide a peaceful backdrop.
3. Park Mammoth Golf Club
Nestled in Park City, Kentucky, Park Mammoth Golf Club offers a memorable golfing experience. With a green fee of $60, this resort course provides excellent value.
Known for its friendly staff and continually improving facilities, the club has gained praise from golfers like dmac66, who highlighted the ongoing clubhouse upgrades.
Golfers appreciate the well-maintained greens and fairways. Players find the course layout challenging yet enjoyable, offering a variety of holes that test their skills. The scenic views and natural beauty of the surroundings add to the appeal.
As the new clubhouse nears completion, Park Mammoth Golf Club promises to enhance its reputation as one of Kentucky’s top golf destinations.
4. Hickory Sticks Golf Club
Hickory Sticks Golf Club, nestled in California, Kentucky, offers a serene golfing experience. This public course charges a green fee of $42, making it an attractive option for golfers.
Players appreciate the well-maintained grounds and challenging holes that cater to high-handicap golfers too. The fairways provide a tranquil environment with minimal road noise, enhancing the overall experience.
Many golfers, such as user u314160467097, have praised the course for its thoughtful layout and accessibility. The peace and quiet found here make Hickory Sticks a standout destination among Kentucky’s golf offerings.
With positive feedback highlighting its balanced difficulty and serene settings, it’s easy to see why golfers return.
5. Dale Hollow Lake Golf Course
Located in Burkesville, Kentucky, Dale Hollow Lake Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience for a $50 green fee.
This municipal and resort course provides accessibility and quality, with stunning vistas of Dale Hollow Lake, a challenging and enjoyable layout, and well-maintained fairways and greens.
Customer reviews praise the course’s remote location and describe it as a fun, good-value destination for golfers. Another standout is the University of Louisville Golf Club in Simpsonville.
This premier course features a meticulously designed layout that challenges even seasoned players while offering top-notch facilities and exceptional service.
Whether you’re a local or visiting golfer, it’s worth considering for its competitive rates and impressive reputation.
6. A. J. Jolly Golf Course
Located in Alexandria, Kentucky, the A. J. Jolly Golf Course stands out as a public/municipal gem. Green fees are only $50, making it both affordable and accessible.
Many golfers have praised the prompt and efficient scheduling by the course starters, ensuring a seamless process even during busy times.
Players frequently commend the course for its well-kept fairways and greens. Reviewers, such as those from Golf Advisor, mention the enjoyment of the layout, which offers challenges without being overly difficult.
The scenic views provide a relaxing backdrop, enhancing the overall experience. A. J. Jolly Golf Course clearly ranks among Kentucky’s best, known for its quality and value.
7. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park in Gilbertsville offers an engaging and affordable golf experience with a $35 green fee.
The course demands precision with its tight tree lines and small, well-rolling greens, making it enjoyable for those who love a mental challenge and even aging players. Known for its beautiful scenery and decades of positive reviews, it is a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville is renowned for hosting major PGA tournaments, featuring meticulously maintained fairways and greens, and a modern design by Jack Nicklaus, offering a challenging experience for seasoned golfers.
8. Silos Country Club
Situated in Kevil, Kentucky, Silos Country Club is a public course offering an inviting experience for golfers of all levels.
The green fee is $35. Golfers appreciate the course’s back nine greens, recently converted to TifEagle, which offer superior playing conditions. The rest of the course maintains a high standard, making it an enjoyable day on the links.
Golfjunkie60 highlights, “They have the back nine greens converted to TifEagle and they are very good the rest of the course was very good. Great day of golf (so I’m) coming back in 2 weeks.”
This testament speaks volumes about the consistent quality and appeal of Silos Country Club.
9. General Burnside State Park
General Burnside State Park in Burnside, Kentucky, ranks among the best golf courses in the state.
This public course charges a $36 green fee, offering an affordable and enjoyable experience for golfers. The course is known for its player-friendly layout, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Despite some occasional issues with sand traps and fairway spots, many players find the overall experience satisfying. Reviewer davidhuff highlights the course’s enjoyable nature, affirming that a day on this course is well spent.
Its scenic surroundings and well-maintained greens add to the charm, making General Burnside State Park a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
10. Madisonville Country Club
Located in Madisonville, Kentucky, the Madisonville Country Club offers golfers a semi-private experience at a green fee of $40. This course features a design that’s both challenging and forgiving, catering to a wide range of skill levels.
Reviewers often praise the course’s condition, noting that while it can be a bit wet at times, the greens remain fast and true.
One review highlights the “pretty good shape” of the course and commends the layout for providing some challenging holes alongside more forgiving ones, ensuring an enjoyable round of golf.
With its well-maintained fairways and welcoming ambiance, it’s a great spot for golfers looking for a balanced test of skill and relaxation.
11. Twin Oaks Golf Course
Twin Oaks Golf Course in Covington, Kentucky, is a public course known for its inviting layout and challenging greens, with a green fee of $42. The predominantly flat course is ideal for those who enjoy powerful swings, though the greens require precision.
In fall, players might find it tough to locate balls among the fallen leaves. A reviewer from GolfPass praised the course, noting the journey across the river was worth it and expressing eagerness to return, reflecting the overall positive reception from golfers.
Another standout is the University Club of Kentucky, featuring 36 holes across two challenging courses. This semi-private facility is lauded for its well-maintained fairways and expertly designed holes.
12. Eagle Trace Golf Course
Located in Morehead, Kentucky, Eagle Trace Golf Course is a semi-private, affordably priced gem with a green fee of $30. Known for its excellent value and quality, it is consistently praised as the best course in the area.
Golfers appreciate its well-maintained fairways and greens, challenging yet enjoyable layout, and scenic views. Eagle Trace offers a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned players, making it a must-visit among Kentucky’s top golf courses.
Its convenient location and top-notch facilities, including a full-service pro shop and practice areas, enhance its appeal. For those looking to improve their game, professional lessons are also available.
13. Hidden Cove Golf Course at Grayson Lake State Park
Hidden Cove Golf Course at Grayson Lake State Park in Olive Hill, Kentucky, offers a picturesque and challenging golfing experience within a municipal/resort layout.
Featuring many signature holes over undulating terrain, the course is praised for its stunning setting and meticulous maintenance. With a green fee of $40, it offers great value.
One reviewer, hornedwoodchuck, highlighted it as “one of the best Kentucky public courses” and a must-play for state park fans. Hidden Cove’s natural beauty and well-crafted design make it a standout for golf enthusiasts visiting Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top golf courses in Kentucky?
Kentucky boasts several top golf courses, including Silos Country Club, General Burnside State Park, Madisonville Country Club, Twin Oaks Golf Course, Eagle Trace Golf Course, and Hidden Cove Golf Course at Grayson Lake State Park.
Are these golf courses beginner-friendly?
Yes, these courses cater to golfers of all skill levels, ensuring enjoyable rounds for both seasoned players and novices.
Which courses are known for their scenic beauty?
Hidden Cove Golf Course at Grayson Lake State Park and Eagle Trace Golf Course are noted for their picturesque landscapes.
Is Madisonville Country Club a private course?
Madisonville Country Club is semi-private, offering a charming golfing experience without the full exclusivity of a private course.
What sets Twin Oaks Golf Course apart?
Twin Oaks Golf Course impresses with its precise greens, despite its flat terrain, making it a favorite for many golfers.
Conclusion
Kentucky boasts a remarkable array of golf courses, each offering unique experiences that cater to various skill levels.
From the player-friendly Silos Country Club to the scenic Hidden Cove at Grayson Lake State Park, these courses provide both challenging play and stunning landscapes.
Madisonville Country Club’s semi-private charm and Eagle Trace’s affordability make them standout options. Twin Oaks in Covington impresses with its precise greens despite flat terrain.
Golf enthusiasts will find Kentucky’s top courses not only well-maintained but also diverse, ensuring enjoyable rounds time and again. Whether seasoned or novice, there’s a perfect course waiting in the Bluegrass State.
Cherokee Park’s historic layout and challenging fairways add a unique touch to Louisville’s golfing scene. Meanwhile, Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park offers breathtaking views and a top-notch championship course.
Colin McCarthy