Best Public Golf Courses in North Carolina

Pinehurst, North Carolina · Mike Strantz (1998) · 18 holes · Par 71 · 6,554 yards

The most polarizing course in the Sandhills, Tobacco Road is a Mike Strantz creation that defies convention. Massive dunes, blind shots, and creative green complexes create a golf experience unlike anything else in America.

Pinehurst, North Carolina · Mike Strantz (2000) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,614 yards

The second of Mike Strantz's two legendary Sandhills designs (alongside Tobacco Road), Tot Hill Farm is a dramatic, artistic golf experience through extreme elevation changes. The course features quarry holes, 200-foot elevation drops, and Strantz's signature visual drama.

Charlotte, North Carolina · Dan Maples (2000) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,900 yards

A Dan Maples design in Concord, Rocky River is a strong public option for Charlotte-area golfers. The course features a varied routing through meadows, hardwoods, and along Rocky River, offering diversity and value.

Charlotte, North Carolina · John Cassell (1996) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,803 yards

A well-regarded public course in south Charlotte, The Tradition offers a mature, tree-lined layout with good conditioning and fair pricing. It's become a reliable staple for Charlotte's public golf scene.