Washington, D.C. isn’t just about politics and monuments — it’s also a fantastic city for golf lovers. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy round or an experienced golfer searching for a challenge, the D.C. area offers a variety of public golf courses that combine natural beauty, accessibility, and great value. Here’s a complete 2025 guide to the top 10 public golf courses in Washington, D.C. that you can actually play — no membership required.
East Potomac Golf Links, also known as Hains Point, is one of the most scenic public golf courses in D.C. Located between the Potomac River and Washington Channel, it offers stunning views of the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial.
The course has three options — a full 18-hole course and two 9-hole courses — perfect for players of any skill level. It’s also home to a large driving range, putting greens, and even the country’s oldest miniature golf course.
Flat, beginner-friendly layout
Great for walking rounds
Perfect for sightseeing golfers
Affordable rates and easy online booking
- Location: 972 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: East Potomac Golf Links - Tip: Try playing during sunset for a truly picture-perfect view of the monuments.
2. Langston Golf Course
Langston Golf Course is a D.C. landmark and a symbol of history. Established in 1939, it was one of the first courses in the U.S. built for African American golfers during segregation. Today, it remains one of the most welcoming and community-centered courses in the area.
The course layout is simple but fun — wide fairways, mature trees, and a few challenging water hazards keep things interesting for all skill levels.
Rich cultural and historical significance
Great location near downtown D.C.
Open to all with easy public access
Friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff
- Location: 2600 Benning Rd NE, Washington, DC 20002
- Website: Langston Golf Course
- Tip: Stop by the clubhouse to check out photos and memorabilia from the course’s long and proud history.
3. Rock Creek Park Golf Course
If you’re looking for a golf course surrounded by nature, Rock Creek Park Golf Course is the place. Nestled within the beautiful Rock Creek Park, this course offers a unique blend of peaceful woodland scenery and challenging holes.
The fairways roll through dense trees and hills, so it’s perfect for players who enjoy strategy and precision. Some holes have been redesigned in recent years to improve playability while keeping the natural setting intact.
Beautiful, forested setting inside a national park
A great test of accuracy and course management
Relaxed and uncrowded atmosphere
Perfect for intermediate and experienced golfers
- Location: 6100 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20011
Website: Rock Creek Park Golf Course - Tip: Morning tee times here are magical — the light through the trees makes it feel like you’re golfing in a national forest.
4. Pinecrest Golf Course (Alexandria, VA)
Just 20 minutes from downtown D.C., Pinecrest Golf Course is a well-maintained executive 9-hole course that’s ideal for quick rounds. It’s shorter than a full course, but still offers a mix of par-3s and par-4s, making it great for improving your short game.
The course also features a modern practice area with a covered driving range, putting green, and indoor simulators for year-round play.
Fast, affordable rounds (great for busy players)
Excellent practice and learning facilities
Friendly for beginners and families
Clean, well-managed course conditions
- Location: 6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
- Website: Pinecrest Golf Course
- Tip: Try the indoor golf simulators during winter to keep your swing sharp all year long.
5. University of Maryland Golf Course (College Park, MD)
Located just outside of D.C., this 18-hole championship course is a hidden gem open to the public. It’s beautifully maintained and offers a balanced mix of challenging holes, elevation changes, and wide greens.
Since it’s part of the university, the facility is also home to one of the best practice complexes in the region, making it great for serious golfers.
Championship-level layout
Excellent conditions and practice area
Welcoming to public players
Affordable for its quality
- Location: 3800 Golf Course Rd, College Park, MD 20742
- Website: University of Maryland Golf Course
- Tip: Book your tee time early during the spring and fall seasons — this course fills up fast with students and locals alike.
6. Greendale Golf Course
Greendale is a hidden gem for golfers who want a peaceful, moderately challenging course. It has 18 holes with wide fairways, some water hazards, and a mix of flat and rolling terrain. The course is beginner-friendly but still offers strategic challenges for mid-level golfers.
Quiet, scenic layout
Affordable green fees
Great practice area with a driving range and putting green
- Location: 7300 Greendale Golf Ln, College Park, MD 20740
- Tip: Weekday mornings are ideal — fewer crowds and peaceful surroundings.
7. Northwest Golf Course
Northwest Golf Course is a classic public course with 18 holes that appeal to a variety of players. Located just outside D.C., it’s known for well-maintained greens, smooth fairways, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Full 18-hole course open to all
Affordable and convenient for city residents
Friendly staff and easy online booking
- Location: 1100 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202
- Tip: The back nine has some challenging holes that will test your accuracy.
8. Blue Mash Golf Course
Blue Mash is a championship-style public course about 30 minutes from D.C. It’s longer and more challenging than most city courses, with water hazards and well-placed bunkers. Perfect for players seeking a serious test.
Championship layout with challenging holes
Excellent course conditions
Clubhouse amenities for post-round relaxation
- Location: 1401 Emmorton Rd, Rockville, MD 20850
- Tip: Ideal for advanced golfers or those practicing tournament-level play
9. Loudoun Golf & Country Club (Public Tee Options)
While traditionally a private club, Loudoun Golf allows public play on certain days or through special bookings. The course is beautiful, with rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and scenic water views.
Access to private-club quality as a public player
Rolling, hilly terrain for a challenge
Gorgeous natural scenery
- Location: 20550 Cascades Pkwy, Potomac Falls, VA 20165
- Tip: Check the website in advance for public tee time availability — these are limited.
10. Forest Greens Golf Course
Forest Greens is a compact but well-kept 9-hole course with a welcoming environment. It’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a casual round near the city.
Short, manageable course for quick rounds
Affordable green fees
Practice facilities for lessons and warm-ups
- Location: 1715 Forest Greens Ln, Silver Spring, MD 20903
- Tip: Combine your round with a driving-range session — great for improving your short game.
Final Thoughts
Washington, D.C. and its surrounding areas offer a surprising variety of high-quality public golf courses. From the flat, scenic fairways of East Potomac to the championship-level challenge at Blue Mash, there’s something for every type of golfer — beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
Playing public courses in D.C. not only gives you the flexibility to book tee times easily but also lets you experience the rich history, natural beauty, and community atmosphere of the city and nearby Maryland and Virginia courses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1 — Which public golf course in D.C. is best for beginners?
A: East Potomac Golf Links is the most beginner-friendly due to its flat layout, short courses, and wide fairways. Pinecrest is also excellent for quick, easy rounds.
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Q2 — Which courses offer the most scenic views?
A: East Potomac provides iconic city and monument views, while Rock Creek Park and Loudoun Golf offer peaceful woodland and water vistas.
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Q3 — Can I rent golf clubs at these courses?
A: Yes, all courses listed offer rental clubs and golf carts. It’s recommended to check their official booking pages for availability and fees.
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Q4 — Are lessons or practice facilities available?
A: Yes, East Potomac, Rock Creek Park, Pinecrest, and the University of Maryland Golf Course have practice areas and teaching programs for beginners and experienced players alike.
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Q5 — Do I need a membership to play these courses?
A: No — all courses listed are public or allow limited public play. Some courses like Loudoun Golf may require checking availability for public tee times in advance.
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Q6 — When is the best time to play in Washington D.C.?
A: Spring and fall offer mild weather and well-maintained course conditions. Weekday mornings are usually less crowded, while sunset rounds at East Potomac provide spectacular views.
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Q7 — Are these courses suitable for families?
A: Yes — East Potomac has miniature golf, and many courses have short executive holes suitable for children or casual family play.
