Rocky River Golf Club

Charlotte, North Carolina

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 6,900 yds · $35–$65 · 4.2

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.

History & Heritage

Rocky River Golf Club opened in 1997 in Concord, North Carolina, designed by Dan Maples — one of the Carolinas' most prolific and respected golf course architects, known for designs including Pinehurst No. 9. The course is routed through rocky hills and natural wetlands adjacent to Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Maples utilized the rolling, rocky terrain to create a course of genuine character with diverse hole types flowing through forests, wetlands, and open meadows. At 6,970 yards from the tips (rating 73.5, slope 137), Rocky River offers a genuine championship challenge. Sports Illustrated gave it an 8.5 review score, praising the design's use of natural features.

Signature Holes

Hole 3 Par 5 · 555 yards

The signature hole at Rocky River winds through the rocky terrain with a demanding two-shot corridor. Natural rock outcroppings and diverse hazards make it one of the most memorable par 5s in North Carolina.

Hole 14 Par 4 · 430 yards

A strong mid-round test that plays through a narrow tree-lined corridor to a well-protected green. The back nine is more demanding, and the 14th exemplifies Maples's ability to create difficulty through strategic placement.

What to Expect

Rocky River is one of the better values in the Charlotte golf market — a genuine championship test by a respected Carolina architect at public-access pricing. Dan Maples's routing through rocky terrain, wetlands, and hardwood forest creates a course that feels completely different from the typical suburban track.

Playing Tips

Rocky River's rocky terrain creates some uneven lies uncommon in Charlotte. The back nine is considered more demanding; build a cushion on the more forgiving front nine. Wide fairways are deceptively generous off the tee — approach shot placement and accuracy matter more than driving distance.

Highlights

✓ Strong Charlotte public option
✓ Dan Maples design
✓ Varied terrain and routing

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rocky River Golf Club located?

Rocky River Golf Club is located in Concord, North Carolina, adjacent to Charlotte Motor Speedway — approximately 15 miles northeast of downtown Charlotte.

Who designed Rocky River Golf Club?

Dan Maples, one of the Carolinas' most accomplished golf course architects, designed Rocky River Golf Club, which opened in 1997. Maples also designed Pinehurst No. 9.