If you’re looking for the best public golf courses near Atlanta, you can’t go wrong with Cobblestone Golf Course, Stone Mountain Golf Club (Stonemont Course), The Frog Golf Club, Chateau Elan Golf Club (Chateau Course), and Echelon Golf Club.
These courses stand out for their stunning scenery, expert designs, and accessibility. Keep reading to discover what makes each of these courses a must-play destination.
Cobblestone Golf Course, Acworth, GA
Nestled on the banks of Lake Acworth, Cobblestone Golf Course is a stunning destination that offers both beauty and challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
This Ken Dye-designed course, located just 30 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, combines scenic views with thoughtful design, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Unique Features
Cobblestone’s layout takes full advantage of its lakeside setting, offering several picturesque holes along the water.
These lakefront views create a relaxing yet invigorating atmosphere for your round.
The greens feature Champion Bermuda grass, known for its smooth, consistent roll, and the bunkers are crafted with pristine white sand, enhancing both playability and aesthetics.
Whether you’re there for the golf or the scenery, Cobblestone provides a visually striking experience.
Challenges and Playability
This course is designed to appeal to players of all abilities.
Beginners will appreciate the generous fairways and manageable greens, while more seasoned golfers can test their skills on strategically placed hazards and contoured greens.
The course layout encourages smart shot selection, rewarding accuracy and precision over sheer power.
With a good mix of forgiving holes and those that require more finesse, Cobblestone ensures a fun and engaging round for everyone.
Proximity to Atlanta
One of Cobblestone’s key advantages is its convenient location.
Situated about 30 miles northwest of Atlanta, the course is easily accessible for city residents and visitors.
The drive to Acworth is straightforward, and the course’s proximity makes it perfect for a quick golf outing or a day trip with friends or family.
Renovations
In 2010, Cobblestone underwent a comprehensive renovation, elevating its quality to match its beautiful setting.
These updates included enhancements to the greens, bunkers, and overall infrastructure, ensuring the course remains in excellent condition year-round.
The renovations also improved drainage and landscaping, making the course more enjoyable to play in any season.
Cobblestone Golf Course combines accessibility, thoughtful design, and stunning views, making it a standout option for public golf near Atlanta.
Whether you’re a casual golfer or a seasoned player, this course offers a rewarding experience you won’t want to miss.
Stone Mountain Golf Club (Stonemont Course), Stone Mountain, GA
The Stonemont Course at Stone Mountain Golf Club is a timeless classic that offers a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Stone Mountain.
Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course combines strategic elements with natural beauty, making it a must-play for golfers near Atlanta.
Signature Elements
The Stonemont Course is characterized by its narrow, tree-lined fairways, which demand precision off the tee.
Wayward shots can easily find themselves in the thick woods, making accuracy paramount.
Strategically placed bunkers further challenge your decision-making and execution, ensuring that each hole feels like a unique test of skill.
As you navigate the course, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Stone Mountain, a dramatic granite monolith that provides a striking and memorable backdrop for your round.
Design Pedigree
Designed in 1969 by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the Stonemont Course embodies his philosophy of creating layouts that challenge golfers without being unfair.
True to Jones’s style, the course emphasizes thoughtful shot placement and rewards strategic play.
Long hitters will need to temper their power with precision, while approach shots demand careful attention to green contours and pin placement.
This classic design ensures that the course remains engaging for players of all levels, from recreational golfers to serious competitors.
Location Benefits
Located just 20 miles east of Atlanta, the Stonemont Course is an easy day trip for anyone in the metro area.
Its proximity makes it an excellent choice for a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
In addition to the golf course, the surrounding Stone Mountain Park offers a range of recreational activities, making it a great destination for families or groups with varied interests.
Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of its layout, the beauty of its surroundings, or its accessibility from Atlanta, the Stonemont Course delivers a top-tier golfing experience.
For those seeking a mix of history, strategy, and scenery, this course is an unbeatable option.
The Frog Golf Club, Villa Rica, GA
The Frog Golf Club is a serene retreat located about 40 miles west of Atlanta in Villa Rica.
Designed by the renowned Tom Fazio, this course offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and challenging play, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful golfing experience.
Environmental Harmony
The Frog is not just a golf course; it’s a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
This prestigious designation reflects the club’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
The course is meticulously maintained to preserve its natural habitats, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy golf in an eco-conscious setting.
Golfers will appreciate the untouched beauty of the surrounding landscape, which features native plants, wildlife, and water features that integrate seamlessly into the course design.
Playing Experience
The course itself is a testament to Tom Fazio’s talent for creating layouts that are both visually appealing and enjoyable to play.
The rolling fairways provide a smooth and consistent surface, while the greens are well-maintained and known for their true roll.
Golfers can expect a variety of holes that require thoughtful strategy and precision, from long par-fours to shorter, risk-reward opportunities.
The serene environment enhances the overall experience, allowing players to focus on their game in a tranquil setting.
Popularity
The Frog Golf Club has earned a loyal following among golfers in the region.
Its reputation for high-quality maintenance, fair but challenging design, and peaceful ambiance makes it a standout choice.
Visitors often praise the course for being playable yet rewarding, offering something for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. The commitment to exceptional service and hospitality further solidifies its appeal.
Distance from Atlanta
Conveniently located approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta, The Frog is an ideal destination for a day trip.
The drive is straightforward, and the course’s proximity to the city makes it a great option for those looking to escape the urban bustle without venturing too far.
The Frog Golf Club delivers a well-rounded golfing experience that blends environmental respect, strategic design, and serene beauty.
Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, this course is a worthy addition to your list of must-play destinations.
Chateau Elan Golf Club (Chateau Course), Braselton, GA
Located in Braselton, just 45 minutes north of Atlanta, the Chateau Course at Chateau Elan Golf Club is a premier destination for golfers seeking a resort-style experience.
With its picturesque design, expertly crafted layout, and luxurious setting, this course provides an exceptional round of golf in a stunning environment.
Picturesque Layout
The Chateau Course is a visual delight, featuring contoured fairways that wind through rolling hills, creating a dynamic and engaging landscape.
The course incorporates three sparkling lakes and two meandering streams, which not only add to its beauty but also introduce strategic challenges.
Golfers will find water hazards in play on several holes, requiring thoughtful shot placement and precise execution.
The natural elements and careful landscaping work together to make every hole a unique experience.
Architectural Details
Designed by Denis Griffiths, the Chateau Course strikes an ideal balance between aesthetic appeal and challenging play.
Griffiths’ attention to detail is evident in the layout, which caters to golfers of all skill levels.
The greens are large and undulating, demanding careful reading, while the bunkers are strategically placed to test both long and short games.
The course’s thoughtful design ensures that every round is as engaging as it is enjoyable.
Convenience
Chateau Elan’s location, just 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta, makes it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip.
Its proximity to the city allows golfers to escape the urban pace without investing a significant amount of travel time.
The course is part of the larger Chateau Elan resort, providing access to dining, spa services, and accommodations, making it an ideal spot for a full-day or overnight golfing retreat.
Why It’s Special
What sets the Chateau Course apart is its resort-style atmosphere.
Beyond the golf itself, the course is part of a larger luxury experience that includes access to world-class amenities.
From its well-manicured grounds to its warm hospitality, the Chateau Course offers more than just a round of golf—it provides an immersive, high-end experience.
Golfers can enjoy the challenge of a beautifully designed course while relaxing in a setting that feels both elegant and inviting.
For those seeking a destination that combines scenic beauty, challenging play, and resort-level luxury, the Chateau Course at Chateau Elan Golf Club is a top choice.
Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking to enjoy a round in an upscale environment, this course delivers on every front.
Echelon Golf Club, Alpharetta, GA
Located 45 minutes north of downtown Atlanta, Echelon Golf Club offers a premier golfing experience for players who crave a challenge in a spectacular natural setting.
This Rees Jones-designed course is known for its dramatic topography and panoramic views, making it a standout destination for avid golfers in the Atlanta area.
Topography and Views
Echelon Golf Club is set across a stunning landscape of rolling hills, with dramatic elevation changes that not only challenge your game but also offer breathtaking vistas.
The panoramic views from various points on the course create a sense of immersion in nature, adding a unique element to the golfing experience.
The elevated tees and greens enhance shot variety, as you’ll need to account for the terrain in your club selection and strategy.
Challenging Play
Designed by renowned architect Rees Jones, Echelon Golf Club is crafted for golfers who enjoy a true test of skill.
The layout emphasizes precision and strategy, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast, undulating greens.
Water hazards and significant elevation shifts further elevate the complexity of the course.
Golfers who take on Echelon can expect a rewarding round that requires careful planning and execution.
Setting
Spanning over 600 acres, Echelon provides an expansive and serene environment that feels far removed from the hustle of everyday life.
The course’s design integrates seamlessly with the natural surroundings, giving it an organic flow that complements its rural charm.
The spacious layout ensures a private and unhurried experience, with each hole feeling distinct and thoughtfully placed within the rolling hills.
Accessibility
Despite its tranquil and remote atmosphere, Echelon is conveniently located just 45 minutes north of Atlanta.
Its easy accessibility makes it an attractive option for a day trip or a weekend round, whether you’re a local or visiting the area.
The proximity to Alpharetta also means you’re close to great dining and entertainment options to round out your day.
Echelon Golf Club combines challenging play, stunning scenery, and a peaceful setting to offer one of the most engaging golf experiences near Atlanta.
For players seeking a course that demands focus and precision in a beautiful, expansive environment, Echelon is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
Atlanta offers some of the best public golf courses, each with its own unique features, challenges, and scenic beauty.
From lakeside views at Cobblestone to the dramatic elevation changes at Echelon, these courses cater to golfers of all skill levels.
Plan your visit to any of these exceptional destinations for an unforgettable round of golf.
