West Virginia offers some of the most scenic and challenging public golf courses in the country, blending natural beauty with expertly designed layouts.
The top five are The Greenbrier – Old White Course, Raven Golf Club at Snowshoe Mountain, Stonewall Resort – Arnold Palmer Signature Course, The Resort at Glade Springs – Stonehaven Course, and Cacapon Resort State Park Golf Course.
Keep reading to discover what makes each course a standout destination for golfers of all skill levels.
The Greenbrier – Old White Course
Nestled in the historic town of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier’s Old White Course has been a cornerstone of American golf since 1914.
With its timeless design and rich history, this course offers golfers an opportunity to experience a blend of strategic play and breathtaking surroundings.
Overview
Located at The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, the Old White Course holds a special place in golf history.
Established in 1914, it was the first course designed by C.B. Macdonald, often considered the father of American golf course architecture.
The course takes its name from the Old White Hotel, a prominent fixture in the area during the 19th century, and has since become an iconic venue that attracts both casual golfers and seasoned players.
Design & Layout
The Old White Course is renowned for its use of template holes, a hallmark of C.B. Macdonald's design philosophy.
These templates are inspired by famous holes from courses in the United Kingdom and Europe, reimagined to fit the natural terrain of West Virginia.
For example, the “Redan” hole challenges players with its angled green and strategic bunkering, while the “Biarritz” hole features a deep swale that tests precision putting.
Every hole is a lesson in strategy, demanding thoughtful club selection and accurate execution.
Golfers can expect a mix of wide fairways that encourage aggressive drives and well-guarded greens that punish poor approach shots.
The course's par-70 layout spans 7,292 yards from the championship tees, but multiple tee options make it accessible to players of all skill levels.
Historical Integrity
Recent restorations have ensured that the Old White Course remains true to Macdonald's original vision.
Under the guidance of noted architects and historians, efforts have focused on restoring bunker placements, green contours, and fairway widths to their original configurations.
These updates preserve the course's historical authenticity while accommodating modern golfing standards, ensuring it remains a challenging yet enjoyable experience for today’s players.
Reputation
The Old White Course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s Greenbrier Classic (later renamed A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier).
These events have cemented its reputation as one of the top public courses in the United States.
Players frequently praise its combination of historical significance, strategic challenge, and aesthetic appeal, making it a bucket-list destination for golf enthusiasts.
Play Experience
When you step onto the Old White Course, you’re greeted with stunning mountain views and immaculately maintained fairways.
The serenity of the surrounding landscape adds to the allure, creating a playing environment that feels both luxurious and accessible.
The course's smooth greens are fast but fair, rewarding careful planning and execution.
Weather conditions in White Sulphur Springs can vary, so it’s wise to check the forecast and dress in layers.
Golfers will find the staff attentive and knowledgeable, offering tips to navigate the course’s unique challenges.
The resort also provides top-notch practice facilities, making it easy to warm up before your round.
Afterward, many players enjoy exploring the resort’s amenities, which include fine dining, a world-class spa, and other recreational activities.
Raven Golf Club at Snowshoe Mountain
Perched high in the Allegheny Mountains, the Raven Golf Club at Snowshoe Mountain offers a golf experience as thrilling as the views are breathtaking.
Designed by Gary Player, this course is a showcase of dramatic elevation changes and strategic challenges, making it a must-play destination for anyone visiting West Virginia.
Overview
The Raven Golf Club is nestled in the heart of Snowshoe Mountain, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
The course sits at 4,800 feet above sea level, providing a unique setting that combines crisp mountain air with lush, rolling landscapes.
This remote yet accessible location allows players to escape the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in a serene, picturesque environment.
Design Features
Gary Player’s design philosophy is on full display at the Raven Golf Club, where every hole presents a unique challenge.
The layout emphasizes precision and shot-making over brute strength, rewarding players who can strategically navigate its narrow fairways and carefully placed hazards.
The course stretches to 7,045 yards from the championship tees, but multiple tee options ensure it remains accessible to golfers of varying skill levels.
Features like elevated tee boxes, natural water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers are woven seamlessly into the mountain terrain, creating a layout that is both challenging and fair.
Vistas and Terrain
The Raven Golf Club's location in the Allegheny Mountains offers unparalleled vistas that are as much a part of the experience as the golf itself.
From elevated tee boxes, players can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, which change dramatically with the seasons.
In the fall, vibrant foliage adds a stunning backdrop to every hole, while summer rounds are made comfortable by the mountain breezes.
The terrain itself is an integral part of the challenge, with dramatic elevation changes influencing club selection and shot trajectory.
Fairways often slope gently toward natural hazards, requiring thoughtful planning to keep the ball in play.
Greens are typically perched on higher ground, demanding accurate approaches and precise putting.
Course Conditions
Raven Golf Club is known for its exceptional maintenance, with smooth, fast greens and well-manicured fairways that rival those of top-tier private courses.
The course staff takes great care to ensure that even the most rugged natural features of the mountain setting are playable and enjoyable.
Golfers will appreciate the attention to detail, from the consistent bunker sand to the pristine condition of tee boxes.
These high standards of upkeep enhance the overall experience, making every round memorable.
Why Visit
This course is more than just a place to play golf—it's a destination in itself.
The combination of Player's innovative design, challenging elevation changes, and breathtaking views makes the Raven Golf Club a standout.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking a new challenge or a casual player looking to enjoy a day surrounded by nature, this course has something to offer.
Snowshoe Mountain also offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fine dining, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway.
The Raven Golf Club’s remote location ensures a peaceful, distraction-free round, while its top-tier amenities cater to players looking for a premium experience.
Stonewall Resort – Arnold Palmer Signature Course
Set along the tranquil shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake, the Arnold Palmer Signature Course at Stonewall Resort is a stunning example of golf harmonizing with nature.
This course offers an unforgettable experience for players, combining exceptional design with the beauty of West Virginia's rolling hills and lakeside views.
Overview
The Stonewall Resort Golf Course is situated within the serene surroundings of Stonewall Resort State Park, where pristine natural beauty sets the stage for a world-class golfing experience.
The course wraps around the scenic Stonewall Jackson Lake, creating a sense of peace and seclusion that allows golfers to focus on their game while enjoying breathtaking views.
The tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by the absence of residential development, making this a truly immersive outdoor experience.
Arnold Palmer’s Influence
Arnold Palmer's design philosophy is evident throughout the course, where he skillfully blended challenge with accessibility.
Known for creating courses that appeal to golfers of all skill levels, Palmer designed the layout to reward thoughtful play without being overly punitive.
Generous landing areas and open sightlines encourage confident swings, while strategic bunkering and water hazards demand precision and planning.
This balance ensures a round that is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Key Features
The course features rolling fairways that follow the natural contours of the landscape, providing a seamless integration with its surroundings.
Bunkers are strategically placed to challenge approach shots, and water hazards on several holes add an extra layer of complexity without overwhelming the player.
Each hole offers its own unique character, but highlights include the par-4 11th, where players face a scenic but daunting tee shot over water, and the par-5 18th, which provides a dramatic finishing challenge with a well-protected green.
The greens themselves are smooth and fast, requiring a careful read and steady hand to score well.
The lack of intrusive development around the course enhances the play experience, with nothing to distract from the views of the lake, forests, and surrounding hills.
The natural setting not only adds to the beauty but also contributes to the course's reputation as a peaceful retreat for golf enthusiasts.
Resort Amenities
One of the major draws of the Stonewall Resort Golf Course is its connection to the resort's extensive amenities.
After a round of golf, players can unwind with fine dining options, a lakeside lodge, or a visit to the spa.
Boating, hiking, and fishing are also available, making it an ideal destination for families or groups with diverse interests.
For those looking to sharpen their game, the course offers a practice facility with a driving range and putting green.
On-site golf professionals are available for lessons, providing opportunities to improve skills in a supportive environment.
Ideal for Visitors
The Arnold Palmer Signature Course at Stonewall Resort is a perfect choice for golfers seeking a complete experience that goes beyond the game itself.
Whether you're planning a solo getaway, a family vacation, or a golf outing with friends, this destination caters to all.
The combination of thoughtful design, natural beauty, and luxurious amenities makes it a standout option for anyone looking to enjoy both golf and relaxation.
The course's peaceful location, challenging yet forgiving layout, and access to top-tier resort facilities make it a must-visit for players of all levels.
Whether you're here to tackle the fairways or simply soak in the views, Stonewall Resort offers a golfing experience that will linger in your memory long after the final putt.
The Resort at Glade Springs – Stonehaven Course
Located in Daniels, WV, the Stonehaven Course at The Resort at Glade Springs is a modern marvel in the golfing world.
Opened in 2003, it has quickly gained a reputation as one of West Virginia’s premier public golf courses, offering a combination of challenging design, stunning scenery, and top-tier maintenance.
Overview
As one of the newer additions to West Virginia’s golfing scene, the Stonehaven Course is a testament to the evolution of course design.
Situated within the expansive Resort at Glade Springs, the course takes full advantage of its picturesque Appalachian setting.
Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes, the Stonehaven Course provides a serene yet invigorating environment for golfers.
Course Design
Tom Clark, the architect behind Stonehaven, crafted a course that demands both strategy and skill.
The layout features significant elevation changes, which not only add visual interest but also challenge players to adjust their club selection and shot execution.
The undulating greens are another standout feature, requiring precision putting and careful reads to score well.
The course spans over 7,200 yards from the championship tees, offering a test for even the most experienced golfers.
However, with multiple tee options, players of all abilities can enjoy the course without feeling overwhelmed.
Clark’s design strikes a balance between risk and reward, with some holes encouraging aggressive play while others require a more conservative approach.
Scenic Views
The natural beauty of the surrounding mountains is integral to the Stonehaven experience.
Towering trees frame many of the fairways, and the rolling terrain provides stunning vistas from elevated tee boxes.
Several holes are set alongside shimmering lakes, adding both aesthetic appeal and strategic challenges.
The course is particularly breathtaking in the fall, when the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Maintenance & Playability
The Stonehaven Course is renowned for its meticulous upkeep.
The fairways are lush and well-defined, while the greens are consistently smooth and fast.
Bunkers are maintained to a high standard, ensuring fair play and consistent performance.
The course’s exceptional condition enhances the overall experience, making each round feel like a special occasion.
Despite its challenging design, the Stonehaven Course remains highly playable for golfers of all skill levels.
Wide fairways on some holes offer forgiveness for less-than-perfect drives, while strategically placed hazards keep experienced players on their toes.
Player Experience
Golfers consistently rave about the Stonehaven Course for its combination of challenge, beauty, and accessibility.
The staff at Glade Springs goes above and beyond to ensure every player feels welcome, from offering detailed course tips to maintaining a well-stocked pro shop.
The pace of play is generally excellent, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the experience without feeling rushed.
After a round, visitors can enjoy the resort’s amenities, which include fine dining, a spa, and comfortable accommodations.
For those looking to refine their skills, the resort also offers practice facilities and professional instruction.
Cacapon Resort State Park Golf Course
Nestled in the scenic town of Berkeley Springs, the Cacapon Resort State Park Golf Course offers a classic golfing experience that combines timeless design with a tranquil setting.
Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course is a testament to thoughtful craftsmanship and remains a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Overview
Located within the expansive Cacapon Resort State Park, this 18-hole course is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Opened in 1974, it has retained its charm through the years, offering a relaxing yet engaging round of golf.
The course exemplifies Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s philosophy of “a hard par but an easy bogey,” making it both accessible and rewarding for golfers of all skill levels.
Classic Design
The course features rolling fairways that flow seamlessly with the natural contours of the land.
True to Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s style, strategically placed bunkers challenge players to think carefully about each shot, while the greens are large and subtly contoured, demanding precision in approach shots and putting.
At 6,827 yards from the championship tees, the course provides ample challenge for experienced players, while the multiple tee options ensure that it remains enjoyable for beginners and casual golfers.
The design encourages thoughtful play, rewarding strategy and accuracy over sheer power.
Serenity
One of the most appealing aspects of the Cacapon Resort Golf Course is its peaceful setting.
Nestled within the state park, the course is free from the distractions of residential developments or urban noise.
The surrounding forest, combined with the gentle sounds of nature, creates a calming atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of the game.
For golfers seeking a break from the bustle of daily life, this course offers the perfect retreat.
The park’s well-preserved environment makes every round feel like an escape into nature.
Balance of Challenge
The course’s design strikes an excellent balance between challenge and playability.
For seasoned golfers, the variety of hole layouts and strategically placed hazards provide an engaging test of skill.
Casual players will appreciate the wide fairways and forgiving rough, which keep the game enjoyable even on tougher holes.
Notable holes include the par-3 8th, where a well-guarded green demands accuracy, and the par-5 15th, which tempts risk-takers with an opportunity to reach the green in two.
Each hole presents unique opportunities for players to showcase their creativity and decision-making.
Why It Stands Out
Cacapon Resort State Park Golf Course stands out not only for its classic design but also for the overall experience it offers.
The course is meticulously maintained, with smooth greens and well-kept fairways that enhance playability.
The friendly and accommodating staff add to the welcoming atmosphere, making every visit enjoyable.
Beyond golf, the state park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding, making it an excellent destination for families or groups with diverse interests.
The park’s lodging options and on-site dining facilities make it easy to plan a multi-day getaway.
Conclusion
West Virginia’s public golf courses offer a diverse mix of history, challenge, and natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for golfers of all skill levels.
From the timeless charm of The Greenbrier to the scenic tranquility of Cacapon Resort, each course delivers a unique experience worth exploring.
Plan your visit to these top-rated courses and discover the best of golf in the Mountain State.
