Looking for great public golf courses in Georgia in 2025? Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual golfer, the Peach State delivers — from coastal marshes to mountain‑flanked fairways. Here are ten top‑rated public (or largely accessible) courses that stand out this year for layout, scenery, challenge, and overall experience.
1. Achasta Golf Club – Dahlonega, GA
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Achasta Golf Club combines challenging play with breathtaking scenery. Located in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, the course is carved along the Chestatee River, with natural elevation changes, rolling fairways, and strategic water hazards.
Front 9: Open fairways with multiple river views; challenging par 5s and tricky par 3s.
Back 9: Features more elevation changes, forest-lined fairways, and scenic mountain vistas.
Greens: Bentgrass, smooth and fast, rewarding precise approach shots.
Facilities & Amenities
Full-service pro shop with equipment rentals.
Practice range and putting green for warm-ups.
Clubhouse restaurant with casual dining and scenic terrace views.
Tips for Golfers
Play early morning for cooler temperatures and river views.
Watch the wind on elevated back-9 holes — it can affect club selection.
Ideal for golfers seeking a mix of strategy and scenic photography opportunities.
- Website: Achasta Golf Club
- Address: 639 Birch River Dr, Dahlonega, GA 30533
- Phone: +1 706-867-1660
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.5/5
2. The Club at Savannah Harbor – Savannah, GA
This coastal course designed by Bob Cupp and Sam Snead provides a world-class experience along tidal marshlands. It’s part of a luxury resort but welcomes public players.
Elevated tees overlooking the marsh, with water hazards on 10+ holes.
Smooth greens with subtle breaks, rewarding accurate putts.
Coastal breezes add challenge and variety to every round.
Facilities & Amenities
Resort-style clubhouse with fine dining and golf shop.
Driving range, putting greens, and short game area.
Offers lessons and clinics for beginners to advanced golfers.
Tips for Golfers
Coastal wind can be strong; adjust club selection carefully.
Perfect for combining golf with a Savannah visit — nearby hotels and historic sites.
Ideal for those looking for scenic photography and resort-style amenities.
- Website: The Club at Savannah Harbor
- Address: 2 Resort Dr, Savannah, GA 31421
- Phone: +1 912-201-2240
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.4/5
3. Bartram Trail Golf Club – Evans, GA
A public course near Augusta, Bartram Trail is perfect for golfers seeking a mix of value and playability. The course utilizes natural wetlands, creeks, and mature pine forests to create a strategic yet accessible layout.
Front 9: Forest-lined fairways with water hazards and doglegs.
Back 9: Longer holes with elevated tees and challenging greens.
Five par-5s and five par-3s for variety.
Facilities & Amenities
Driving range and practice facilities.
Clubhouse with dining options.
Instructional programs available for juniors and adults.
Tips for Golfers
Play during weekdays for lower green fees (~$42 midweek).
Ideal for families or beginners due to friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.
Great option for those visiting Augusta outside of the Masters Tournament rush.
- Website: Bartram Trail Golf Club
- Address: 470 Bartram Trail Club Dr, Evans, GA 30809
- Phone: +1 706-210-4681
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.5/5
4. Stone Mountain Golf Club – Stone Mountain, GA
Located within Stone Mountain Park, this public club features 36 holes spread across two courses — Stonemont and Lakemont. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Stonemont offers championship-level challenges.
Stonemont Course: Long fairways, strategic bunkering, and elevated greens.
Lakemont Course: Slightly shorter but still challenging with rolling terrain and water hazards.
Facilities & Amenities
Full practice range, short game area, and putting greens.
Clubhouse with rental services, snack bar, and dining.
Scenic walking paths and views of Stone Mountain.
Tips for Golfers
Ideal for day trips from Atlanta.
Two courses allow for variety and longer stay options.
Book tee times early on weekends — very popular among locals.
- Website: Stone Mountain Golf Club
- Address: 1145 Stonewall Jackson Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
- Phone: +1 770-465-3278
- Par: 72 | Holes: 36 | Rating: 3.8/5
5. Charlie Yates Golf Course – Atlanta, GA
A short, 9-hole executive course located in Atlanta’s historic East Lake Golf Club grounds. Perfect for beginners, quick rounds, or practice.
9 holes ranging from 100–200 yards.
Well-maintained greens and wide fairways.
Focus on short game and approach shots.
Facilities & Amenities
Practice putting green and chipping area.
Clubhouse with pro shop and snack bar.
Affordable green fees, perfect for daily play or beginners.
Tips for Golfers
Excellent for quick practice sessions or short rounds after work.
Combine with a visit to nearby Atlanta attractions.
Learn and improve your short game in a friendly environment.
- Website: Charlie Yates Golf Course
- Address: 10 Lakeside Village Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30317
- Phone: +1 404-373-4655
- Par: 27 | Holes: 9 | Rating: 4.4/5
6. Stonebridge Golf Club – Rome, GA
Stonebridge Golf Club is a public 18-hole course designed by Arthur L. Davis. Set in the scenic foothills of the Appalachians, it offers rolling fairways, mature pine trees, and multiple water hazards. Its natural setting provides both a challenging and relaxing round.
Front 9: Long fairways with gentle doglegs and small bunkers to challenge tee shots.
Back 9: Features elevation changes and a 27-acre lake hazard influencing multiple holes.
Greens: Champion Bermuda, smooth and well-maintained, rewarding accuracy and approach shots.
Facilities & Amenities
Full-service pro shop with equipment rentals.
Driving range and short-game practice area.
Clubhouse restaurant serving casual meals and beverages.
Tips for Golfers
Play early morning for cooler conditions and peaceful wildlife sightings.
Ideal for golfers seeking a scenic, moderately challenging course in northwest Georgia.
- Website: Stonebridge Golf Club
- Address: 585 Stonebridge Dr, Rome, GA 30165
- Phone: +1 706-236-5046
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.4/5
7. Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course – Lake Richard B. Russell, GA
Located on a peninsula inside a state park, this course offers a natural, unspoiled setting with 10 holes alongside the lake. Designed by Bob Walker, it’s a public-access course known for its challenging water hazards and scenic layout.
Front 9: Mix of tree-lined fairways and open lakeside holes.
Back 9: Incorporates doglegs, strategic bunkering, and lake-adjacent holes requiring precision.
Greens: Bermuda grass, fast but forgiving with smooth surfaces.
Facilities & Amenities
Practice putting and chipping greens.
Rental carts available; walking allowed on select days.
Nearby cabins and campsites for multi-day golf trips.
Tips for Golfers
Great for golfers who enjoy nature and water-based strategy.
Ideal for combining a golf round with fishing, hiking, or camping.
- Address: Lake Richard B. Russell State Park, GA
- Phone: +1 706-557-3000
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.3/5
8. Legacy Golf Course at Lanier Islands Resort – Buford, GA
Nestled along Lake Lanier, the Legacy Course blends natural beauty with resort-style amenities. This 18-hole public course offers a challenging but enjoyable round for all skill levels.
Wooded fairways with strategically placed lakeside holes.
Moderate elevation changes that test club selection.
Large, smooth greens rewarding accurate iron play.
Facilities & Amenities
Full-service pro shop, driving range, and putting greens.
Nearby resort accommodations, restaurants, and spa services.
Option for packages including cart, range balls, and drinks.
Tips for Golfers
Great for vacationers combining golf with a lakeside resort stay.
Play early or late in the day to enjoy lake views during sunrise or sunset.
- Website: Lanier Islands Golf
- Address: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
- Phone: +1 770-945-8787
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.5/5
9. The Frog at The Georgian – Villa Rica, GA
“The Frog” is a well-regarded public course near Atlanta. Known for challenging greens and strategic fairways, it provides a semi-private feel at public-access prices.
Multiple water hazards and strategically placed bunkers.
Fast, undulating greens rewarding precise putting.
Mix of long par-4s and approachable par-3s.
Facilities & Amenities
Clubhouse with restaurant and full pro shop.
Driving range and short-game practice areas.
Golf lessons and clinics for all ages.
Tips for Golfers
Ideal for intermediate to advanced golfers seeking a challenge near Atlanta.
Book tee times ahead, as it’s popular with local players.
- Website: The Frog
- Address: 400 Park Dr, Villa Rica, GA 30180
- Phone: +1 770-459-5555
- Par: 72 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.2/5
10. University of Georgia Golf Course – Athens, GA
Located near the University of Georgia, this course offers public-access rounds while maintaining collegiate-level standards. It’s known for well-kept greens and a layout suitable for both casual and competitive golfers.
Front 9: Tree-lined fairways, multiple bunkers, and moderate elevation changes.
Back 9: Slightly longer holes with strategic doglegs and water hazards.
Greens: Bermuda grass, smooth, fast, and consistent.
Facilities & Amenities
Practice range, putting greens, and short-game areas.
Clubhouse with pro shop, locker rooms, and casual dining.
Golf instruction programs and junior clinics.
Tips for Golfers
Best for visitors to Athens or University of Georgia fans wanting a convenient round.
Tee time reservations recommended during weekends and school breaks.
- Website: UGA Golf Course
- Address: 2600 Riverbend Rd, Athens, GA 30602
- Phone: +1 706-369-5739
- Par: 71 | Holes: 18 | Rating: 4.1/5
Final Thoughts
Georgia offers some of the best public golf experiences in the Southeast. From mountain courses like Achasta to lakeside gems like Lanier Islands, coastal challenges at Savannah Harbor, and city-accessible options like Charlie Yates, there’s a course for every golfer — beginner or pro.
When planning your golf trip in 2025, consider:
Variety: Try courses in different regions — mountains, lakes, and urban areas — to experience Georgia’s full diversity.
Timing: Weekdays and off-peak hours can save money and reduce wait times.
Preparation: Check course websites for green fees, tee times, and seasonal updates.
Skill level: Choose a course that matches your ability — some are more beginner-friendly, while others are designed to challenge low handicaps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best public golf courses in Georgia for beginners?
Courses like Charlie Yates Golf Course, Bartram Trail, and Arrowhead Pointe are beginner-friendly. They offer shorter layouts, forgiving fairways, and a relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for learning and improving your game.
2. How much do public golf courses in Georgia usually cost?
Green fees vary by course, season, and day of the week. Expect rates from $30–$50 for budget-friendly courses like Bartram Trail or Arrowhead Pointe, and $100–$120 for premium courses like Achasta or Savannah Harbor. Check each course website for up-to-date pricing.
3. Can I play these courses without a membership?
Yes! All courses listed in this guide are public-access or allow non-members to play. Some “semi-private” courses like Achasta may require booking in advance but still welcome public players.
4. When is the best time to play golf in Georgia?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather, with mild temperatures and minimal rain. Summer can be hot and humid, especially in coastal areas, while winter is cooler but some courses may have limited hours.
5. Are carts available at public golf courses in Georgia?
Most courses provide electric or gas carts, but walking is usually allowed on most public courses. Some smaller or municipal courses may offer limited carts, so it’s best to check with the course before you play.
